If you’ve built up loyalty status with another cruise line or hotel, you might be wondering if you can use it elsewhere. Well, with MSC Cruises’ Status Match Programme, you can! This free and worldwide programme lets you transfer your existing loyalty status from another cruise line, hotel group, or tour operator to MSC Voyagers Club, unlocking a whole host of perks and discounts.
In this post, we’ll break down exactly how it works, the benefits you can get, and whether it’s actually worth doing. Spoiler alert: it’s a no-brainer if you’re planning to sail with MSC!
What Is MSC Status Match?
MSC’s Status Match Programme allows you to match your loyalty status from over 70 cruise lines, hotel chains, and travel brands. If you’ve already earned perks elsewhere, MSC will grant you a comparable status in their Voyagers Club loyalty scheme - completely free of charge!
This means you don’t have to start from scratch when cruising with MSC. Instead, you’ll get access to discounts, priority services, and onboard perks right from your first sailing.
How to Apply for MSC Status Match
1. Check Your Eligibility
MSC matches loyalty status from various brands, including:
✅ Cruise lines – Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, P&O, Cunard, Princess, Carnival, Celebrity, Disney, and more.
✅ Hotels – Hilton, Marriott, Hyatt, Ritz Carlton, Best Western, and others.
✅ Other travel brands – Expedia, Club Med, MGM Resorts, Air China, and more.
Important: MSC only allows one status match per person - so apply using the highest-tier loyalty status you hold!
2. Submit Your Application
Head to MSC’s Status Match webpage for your country.
Fill out the form with your personal details (make sure they match your passport).
Upload proof of your loyalty status, such as a screenshot of your account or a past cruise card.
Submit your request at least 14 days before your cruise (earlier is better!).
3. Wait for Confirmation
MSC will review your application and notify you of your new Voyagers Club status. Processing times vary, but most matches are confirmed within a few weeks.
Once approved, you’ll immediately receive your perks, including a 5% discount on all future MSC cruises.
What Perks Do You Get With MSC Status Match?
MSC’s Voyagers Club has five membership tiers: Classic, Silver, Gold, and Diamond. Your status match will place you in the equivalent level based on the loyalty scheme you applied with.
Here’s a look at some of the best perks you can get:
✅ Perks for All Matched Statuses
✔ 5% discount on future MSC cruises
✔ Priority embarkation & disembarkation
✔ Welcome gifts (e.g. chocolate strawberries or a cruise bag)
✨ Extra Perks for Gold & Diamond Members
⭐ Free meal in a speciality restaurant
⭐ 1-hour thermal spa pass
⭐ Bottle of Spumante (Italian sparkling wine)
⭐ Invitation to the Diamond Party (with free drinks & canapés!)
⭐ Priority seating at theatre shows
Learn more about the MSC Voyager's Club here.
Note: MSC won’t match every single perk from your original loyalty scheme. For example, if another cruise line offers free laundry, MSC may not include this.
Is MSC Status Match Worth It?
Absolutely! If you already have loyalty status elsewhere, matching it to MSC is a no-brainer. It’s completely free, quick to apply for, and unlocks a range of valuable benefits.
Even if you don’t plan to cruise with MSC straight away, it’s worth applying now because your matched status will stay valid for up to 3 years - as long as you take at least one MSC cruise in that time.
Things to Keep in Mind
⚠ You can only match once, so choose your highest-tier loyalty status!
⚠ Your MSC status expires after 3 years if you don’t cruise with them.
⚠ Processing times vary, so apply well in advance of your sailing.
If you’re even considering an MSC cruise, it’s worth doing the status match now - just for the 5% discount alone! 🚢
FAQs About MSC Status Match
How long does it take for MSC to approve a status match?
Processing times vary, but most matches are approved within a few weeks. Apply at least 14 days before your cruise to be safe.
Can I match my status more than once?
No, MSC only allows one status match per person. Make sure you apply using the highest loyalty status you have.
Does MSC match airline frequent flyer programmes?
No, MSC does not match airline loyalty programmes like British Airways Executive Club or Delta SkyMiles.
Can I use my 5% discount on an MSC cruise I’ve already booked?
Typically, the 5% discount applies to future bookings only. Some travel agents may be able to backdate it, so it’s worth asking!
What happens if I don’t cruise with MSC within 3 years?
Your Voyagers Club status will expire, and you’ll have to start over. You won’t be able to reapply for another status match, so make sure you take at least one cruise within three years to keep your perks.
MSC’s Status Match Programme is one of the easiest ways to gain instant perks with a new cruise line. It’s free, quick to apply for, and can save you money on future MSC cruises.
If you have loyalty status with another cruise line, apply today and enjoy MSC’s benefits on your next sailing! 🚢✨
Got questions about MSC Status Match? Drop a comment below! We’d love to hear your experiences.