Size
Based on gross tonnage and length
Capacity
Based on passengers and crew
Modernity
Based on year built
Service
Based on passenger-to-crew ratio (lower is better)
Spaciousness
Based on gross tonnage per passenger (higher is better)
EXPLORA I
MSC Musica
Gross Tonnage
EXPLORA I
64,000 GT
MSC Musica
92,409 GT
Length
EXPLORA I
248 m
MSC Musica
293 m
Beam
EXPLORA I
32 m
MSC Musica
32 m
Passengers
EXPLORA I
922
MSC Musica
2,550
Crew
EXPLORA I
680
MSC Musica
987
Decks
EXPLORA I
—
MSC Musica
—
Year Built
EXPLORA I
2,023
MSC Musica
2,006
Space Ratio
EXPLORA I
69.4 GT/pax
MSC Musica
36.2 GT/pax
Passenger:Crew Ratio
EXPLORA I
1.36 :1
MSC Musica
2.58 :1
| Specification | EXPLORA I | MSC Musica |
|---|---|---|
| Overview | ||
| Cruise Line | Explora Journeys | MSC Cruises |
| Class | Explora Class | Musica Class |
| Status | active | active |
| Year Built | 2,023Winner | 2,006 |
| Dimensions | ||
| Gross Tonnage | 64,000 GT | 92,409 GTWinner |
| Length | 248 m | 293 mWinner |
| Beam | 32 m | 32 m |
| Draft | ||
| Capacity | ||
| Passengers | 922 | 2,550Winner |
| Crew | 680 | 987Winner |
| Key Ratios | ||
| Space Ratio | 69.4 GT/paxWinner | 36.2 GT/pax |
| Passenger:Crew Ratio | 1.36:1Winner | 2.58:1 |
| Build | ||
| Builder | Fincantieri | Aker Yards |
| Flag | Malta | Panama |
| IMO Number | 9855293 | 9304399 |
MSC Musica is the significantly larger vessel at 92,409 GT — 44% more than EXPLORA I's 64,000 GT. EXPLORA I offers more personal space with a space ratio of 69.4 GT per passenger versus 36.2. Built in 2023, EXPLORA I is 17 years newer — an advantage for travellers seeking modern amenities and design.
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Size | MSC Musica |
| Capacity | MSC Musica |
| Modernity | EXPLORA I |
| Service | EXPLORA I |
| Spaciousness | EXPLORA I |
Bottom line: EXPLORA I wins more categories (3 vs 2), making it the stronger all-round choice based on current data.
EXPLORA I
69 GT/pax means plenty of quiet space
1.4:1 passenger-crew ratio means exceptional service
Built in 2023 with modern facilities — great for a first cruise
Good range of onboard options
MSC Musica
Well-suited for cruise newcomers
Comfortable atmosphere for two
Good value for money
Good range of onboard options
Free cancellation on most rooms
Bundle & save on your cruise trip
Medical, trip cancellation & luggage cover
We may earn a commission from partner bookings at no extra cost to you.
7.8 mWinner |
| Decks | — | — |
.jpg%26w%3D400&w=3840&q=75)
.jpg%26w%3D400&w=3840&q=75)
.jpg%26w%3D400&w=3840&q=75)
_in_Lisbon.jpg%26w%3D400&w=3840&q=75)
.jpg%26w%3D400&w=3840&q=75)
.jpg%26w%3D400&w=3840&q=75)