Mediterranean Shipping Company, a privately owned company with a longstanding history on the seas headed by captain Gianluigi Aponte, entered the cruise industry in 1988. After acquiring the Starlauro, a prestigious shipping company, and executing a total renewal and re-launch, MSC Cruises was officially born.

MSC Cruises combines a deep heritage at sea with an enthusiastic, young and motivated management team to present a company philosophy of "Innovation = Tradition". MSC Cruises uniquely blends maritime traditions, culture and famous Mediterranean cuisine to deliver the ultimate cruise experience while displaying a real commitment to the finest hospitality afloat. In essence, MSC Cruises has made true Italian service the heart of its business and its key point of differentiation in the cruise industry.