Picture this: You’ve just boarded your dream MSC cruise, luggage stowed, and that exciting sense of adventure is bubbling up. You’ve got your deck plan in hand, maybe a fancy cocktail, and you’re mapping out your route to the pool deck, then dinner, then perhaps the casino. As you trace your finger up the various deck numbers – 14, 15, 16 – you suddenly pause. Wait a minute. Where’s Deck 17? Your eyes scan the plan again, then dart to the nearest elevator panel. Sure enough, the numbers jump straight from 16 to 18. What gives? This isn’t some printing error or a design oversight, my friend. The reason why there is no deck 17 on MSC ships is rooted deep in the company’s rich Italian heritage and a fascinating cultural superstition.
In a nutshell, MSC ships, by and large, intentionally omit Deck 17 due to a widespread cultural belief in Italy that the number 17 is unlucky. This isn’t just a quirky design choice; it’s a thoughtful nod to tradition and a strategic decision by a company that prides itself on its Mediterranean roots.
Unpacking the Unlucky 17: An Italian Perspective
For those of us from the United States, our unlucky number is typically 13. We see it reflected in hotel floors, airplane rows, and even in some cruise ship deck numbering, where 13 might be skipped or re-numbered. But in Italy, and several other Latin cultures, the number 17 carries a similar, if not stronger, negative connotation. This isn’t just some random quirk; it has historical and linguistic roots that are quite compelling.
The superstition surrounding the number 17 stems from its representation in Roman numerals: XVII. Here’s where it gets interesting. If you rearrange the letters of XVII, you can form VIXI. And what does VIXI mean? In Latin, it translates to “I have lived.” Now, at first glance, that might sound rather philosophical or even positive, right? However, in ancient Rome, the phrase “VIXI” was commonly found inscribed on gravestones, serving as an epitaph, a declaration that one’s life had ended. Therefore, the number 17 became inexorably linked with death and misfortune, an ominous symbol that many Italians understandably prefer to avoid.
Imagine, if you will, the subtle yet pervasive unease this could cause. For a company like MSC, deeply embedded in Italian culture, ignoring such a significant superstition would be not only insensitive but also potentially bad for business. It’s a bit like building a skyscraper in America and labeling the 13th floor “Death Row.” It just wouldn’t fly.
MSC’s Deep Italian Roots and Cultural Sensitivity
MSC Cruises, as part of the larger Mediterranean Shipping Company, is fundamentally Italian. Founded by Gianluigi Aponte in Naples, Italy, the company’s headquarters might be in Geneva, Switzerland, but its heart and soul remain firmly in its Mediterranean origins. This heritage isn’t just a marketing slogan; it’s woven into the very fabric of their operations, from the design aesthetics of their ships to the culinary offerings and, yes, even the deck numbering.
When a company operates on a global scale but maintains such a strong connection to its founding culture, these nuances become incredibly important. While MSC welcomes passengers from all corners of the globe, they also understand the value of appealing to their core clientele and respecting the traditions of their predominantly Italian and European staff. By omitting Deck 17, MSC isn’t just indulging a quaint superstition; they are demonstrating a profound respect for a cultural belief that resonates with many of their employees and a significant portion of their passenger base.
From my own experiences on MSC ships, this cultural thread is palpable. The service, the food, the vibrant atmosphere – it all carries a distinct Italian flair. Skipping Deck 17 is just another testament to this authenticity. It’s a subtle yet powerful statement that says, “We understand our heritage, and we honor it.” This, in my opinion, adds a layer of genuine charm and character to the MSC cruising experience that sets it apart from some of its more homogenized competitors.
Beyond Deck 17: Superstitions in Maritime and Travel
While the number 17 might be particularly potent in Italy, superstitions are far from unique to Italian culture or MSC Cruises. In fact, the maritime industry, steeped in centuries of tradition and facing the unpredictable forces of nature, is arguably one of the most superstitious sectors there is. Sailors, historically, would cling to any belief that might offer a glimmer of control or protection against the unknown.
Consider the number 13. As mentioned, it’s widely considered unlucky in many Western cultures. You’ll find numerous hotels in the US and other countries that skip the 13th floor. Similarly, many cruise lines, particularly those with a strong North American or British passenger base, will omit Deck 13. Some go from Deck 12 directly to 14. This is a practice aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and avoiding any potential unease. It’s a common commercial decision, not unlike how some airlines avoid the number 4 in their seat rows for flights to Asian countries, where ‘four’ sounds similar to ‘death’ in some languages.
Then there are the broader maritime superstitions, many of which have faded but some linger. Whistling on a ship, for instance, was once believed to whistle up a storm. Bananas were considered extremely bad luck, thought to bring illness and misfortune – a belief that persists in some fishing communities even today. Women on ships were once a contentious topic, with many old salts believing they brought bad luck, though thankfully, that particular superstition has largely sailed into the sunset.
The point is, the decision to skip Deck 17 on MSC ships isn’t an isolated oddity. It’s part of a much larger tapestry of cultural and professional practices designed to ensure a positive, comfortable, and, perhaps, even “lucky” experience for everyone on board. It reflects a company’s deep understanding of its own cultural roots and the sensitivities of its diverse clientele.
The Practical Implications for Ship Design and Passenger Wayfinding
So, what are the practical consequences of skipping a deck number? For passengers, honestly, not much. When you’re looking at a deck plan or pressing an elevator button, you simply notice that the sequence goes from 16 to 18. There’s no missing physical deck; the numbering simply jumps. The space that would logically be Deck 17 is still there, it just carries the number 18 (or sometimes a higher number, depending on how many decks are above it). It’s a numbering convention, not a structural void.
For example, if an MSC ship has 20 passenger decks, instead of being numbered 1 through 20, they might be numbered 1 through 16, then 18 through 21. The total number of decks remains the same, but the numerical labels are adjusted. This maintains a logical, sequential flow for navigation, ensuring passengers aren’t confused by a completely arbitrary name in the middle of a numbered sequence.
If MSC were to include Deck 17, they might face subtle, or even not-so-subtle, resistance from some passengers and a good number of their staff. Imagine working day in and day out on a deck considered unlucky in your culture. It could affect morale, and for superstitious guests, it might create an unnecessary sense of unease or even lead them to avoid booking cabins on that particular deck. From a business perspective, it’s a simple, elegant solution to avoid potential issues for a significant segment of their market.
Consistency Across the MSC Fleet
Is this “no Deck 17” policy consistent across all MSC ships? Generally, yes. It’s a standard practice that has been adopted across their diverse fleet, from the older, more intimate vessels to the newest, mega-ships like the MSC World Europa or the Meraviglia-class ships. This consistency reinforces the brand’s identity and its commitment to its cultural heritage.
While specific deck layouts and amenities vary greatly from ship to ship, the numbering convention, particularly the omission of 17, remains a defining characteristic. This means that if you’ve sailed on one MSC ship and noticed the missing Deck 17, you can expect the same on virtually any other vessel in their fleet. It becomes a subtle, recognizable trait of the MSC experience.
Comparing with Other Cruise Lines: A Broader Perspective
As we’ve touched upon, MSC isn’t alone in adjusting deck numbering due to cultural or superstitious beliefs, but their specific focus on 17 is what makes them unique. Let’s look at how some other major cruise lines handle similar situations:
- Carnival Cruise Line: Being largely American-focused, Carnival ships often skip Deck 13. You’ll commonly see the deck numbering go from 12 straight to 14.
- Royal Caribbean International: Another major player targeting a global, but heavily North American, market. Royal Caribbean also frequently omits Deck 13 on many of its ships for the same reason.
- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL): Similar to Carnival and Royal Caribbean, NCL ships will often skip Deck 13.
- Disney Cruise Line: Even the magical world of Disney often bows to superstition, with many of their ships skipping Deck 13.
- Asian Cruise Lines: While not a specific number like 13 or 17, some cruise lines catering heavily to Asian markets might avoid the number 4 or combinations that include 4 (like 14, 24) due to its association with death in some East Asian languages (e.g., in Cantonese, ‘four’ sounds like ‘death’).
What this comparison highlights is that MSC’s decision regarding Deck 17 is part of a broader industry trend of being sensitive to cultural beliefs. However, MSC stands out because of the specific number and its direct link to Italian history and culture. It’s a testament to how global businesses adapt and personalize their offerings to resonate with their diverse stakeholders, whether they be passengers or crew members.
My Personal Take and Observations
When I first encountered the missing Deck 17 on an MSC ship, I admit, I chuckled a bit. It seemed almost quaint in our modern, data-driven world. But the more I learned about the “VIXI” connection and MSC’s proud Italian heritage, the more I came to appreciate it. It’s not just a trivial detail; it’s a narrative thread that adds character to the brand.
In an era where many large corporations strive for a homogenous, universally palatable identity, MSC’s embrace of its roots, even down to something as seemingly minor as deck numbering, is refreshing. It tells me that the company values its identity and its employees, and understands the power of cultural nuances. It’s a conversation starter, a unique quirk that differentiates them. It sparks curiosity and offers a little insight into the rich tapestry of Mediterranean culture that MSC so skillfully weaves into its cruise experience.
It’s a subtle reminder that travel is not just about visiting new places, but also about encountering different perspectives and traditions. Even within the seemingly standardized environment of a modern cruise ship, these cultural fingerprints can be found, offering a deeper, more authentic experience for those who notice them.
The “Why Not Just Rename It?” Argument
A common question that might pop into your head is, “Why don’t they just rename it? Call it the ‘Sunshine Deck’ or ‘Amore Deck’ instead of skipping a number altogether?” It’s a valid thought, but there’s a practical reason why simply omitting the number is often preferred for numerical sequences like deck numbers.
Imagine a ship with 20 decks. If you suddenly inserted a non-numbered deck (“Amore Deck”) between Deck 16 and 18, it could potentially make wayfinding more confusing. Passengers are generally accustomed to sequential numbering for vertical navigation. Introducing an arbitrarily named deck within that sequence might break the logical flow and make it harder for people to quickly orient themselves, especially first-time cruisers or those who aren’t familiar with the ship’s layout.
By simply skipping 17 and going from 16 to 18, the numerical progression remains intact and intuitive. You understand that “18” is simply the next deck up from “16,” regardless of the missing number. It’s a clean skip, maintaining the logic of ascending numbers, which is crucial for efficient and stress-free navigation around a large vessel.
Checklist for Passengers: Navigating MSC Decks with Ease
For first-time MSC cruisers or those who might still find the missing Deck 17 a little disorienting, here’s a quick checklist to ensure smooth sailing:
- Don’t search for Deck 17: It simply isn’t there in the numbering sequence. Save yourself the confusion!
- Utilize the deck plans: Every cabin, elevator bank, and public area will have detailed deck plans. These are your best friend for orientation.
- Understand the numerical jump: Remember that after Deck 16, the next deck up will be Deck 18. The amenities and cabins that would logically be on the 17th level are simply labeled with the next available number.
- Ask a crew member: If you’re ever lost or unsure, MSC crew members are always happy to help you find your way.
- Embrace the uniqueness: Think of the missing Deck 17 as a unique, charming quirk of your MSC experience, a little piece of Italian culture you get to discover.
Frequently Asked Questions About MSC’s Missing Deck 17
Why is the number 17 considered unlucky in Italian culture?
The superstition surrounding the number 17 in Italy is deeply rooted in historical and linguistic connections to ancient Rome. When written in Roman numerals, 17 is XVII. A powerful and widely understood reason for its unlucky status comes from rearranging these Roman numerals to form the Latin word VIXI. “VIXI” translates to “I have lived” and was a common inscription found on Roman gravestones, essentially serving as an epitaph signifying that one’s life had ended. This association with death and the end of life has imbued the number 17 with an ominous and negative connotation in Italian culture.
Furthermore, some interpretations also link it to historical events or even biblical references, though the VIXI explanation remains the most prevalent and widely accepted. For centuries, this belief has permeated various aspects of Italian life, from avoiding the number in lotteries to its omission in building and transportation numbering schemes, demonstrating its profound impact on cultural practices.
Do all MSC ships skip Deck 17?
Yes, as a general rule, the omission of Deck 17 is a consistent practice across the vast majority of MSC Cruises’ fleet. This policy is a deliberate choice by the company, reflecting its strong Italian heritage and its commitment to respecting cultural superstitions that resonate with a significant portion of its passenger base and crew members. You will find this numbering convention, where the decks jump directly from 16 to 18, on older vessels as well as MSC’s newest and most modern ships. It is considered a hallmark of the MSC brand’s identity.
While minor variations in deck layouts and specific amenities exist between different classes of ships within the MSC fleet, this particular numbering standard remains a unifying characteristic. This consistency helps reinforce the brand’s cultural identity and ensures that passengers who are familiar with MSC’s practices will encounter the same thoughtful approach to deck numbering, regardless of which MSC ship they choose to sail on.
Does skipping Deck 17 affect the total number of decks or available amenities?
No, the omission of the number 17 from the deck numbering sequence does not reduce the total number of physical decks on an MSC ship, nor does it impact the array of amenities available to passengers. When MSC skips Deck 17, it’s purely a re-labeling or re-sequencing of the deck numbers, not the removal of an entire physical floor. The space that would conceptually be the 17th deck simply carries the next sequential number, which is Deck 18.
For example, a ship that might ordinarily have 20 decks labeled 1 through 20 will, on an MSC vessel, have its decks numbered 1 through 16, then 18 through 21. All the planned facilities, cabins, restaurants, and public spaces are still present; they are simply assigned to a deck with an adjusted number. The full complement of passenger services and experiences remains entirely unaffected by this cultural consideration in deck numbering.
Is skipping deck numbers a common practice in the cruise industry?
Yes, the practice of skipping deck numbers is quite common within the cruise industry, though the specific numbers omitted often vary depending on the cruise line’s primary market and cultural background. The most widely skipped deck number globally is 13, due to its association with bad luck in many Western cultures. Cruise lines catering heavily to North American and European markets frequently omit Deck 13, jumping directly from 12 to 14.
In addition to 13, some cruise lines with a strong presence in Asian markets might also avoid numbers like 4 (or combinations like 14, 24) because the pronunciation of ‘four’ in certain East Asian languages is similar to the word for ‘death’. MSC’s decision to omit Deck 17 is unique to its Italian heritage, demonstrating how companies adapt to specific cultural sensitivities. This practice reflects a broader industry understanding that passenger comfort and cultural respect are paramount, even in seemingly minor details like deck numbering.
What about Deck 13 on MSC ships? Is it also skipped?
While the primary and most consistent omission on MSC ships is Deck 17 due to Italian superstition, many MSC vessels, particularly newer ones and those catering to a broader international audience, also choose to skip Deck 13. This is a common practice across a wide range of global cruise lines and reflects the widespread Western superstition surrounding the number 13. So, it’s not uncommon to find MSC ships where the deck numbering progresses from 12 directly to 14, and then later skips from 16 to 18.
This dual omission (13 and 17) on some MSC ships showcases the company’s dual approach: maintaining its specific Italian cultural identity while also acknowledging more general international superstitions to ensure maximum comfort and appeal for its diverse passenger base. It’s an example of how a company can honor its roots while also being globally sensitive.
In Conclusion: A Nod to Heritage on the High Seas
The absence of Deck 17 on MSC ships isn’t an oversight or a mistake; it’s a deliberate and culturally significant choice. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the deep respect MSC Cruises holds for its Italian heritage and the traditions that have shaped its identity. For Italians, the number 17, with its historical connection to “VIXI” and the finality of life, carries a weight that many would prefer to avoid.
By simply skipping this number in their deck sequence, MSC demonstrates a thoughtful consideration for its cultural roots, its staff, and a significant portion of its passenger demographic. It’s a small detail that speaks volumes, adding a unique and authentic flavor to the MSC cruising experience. So, the next time you step aboard an MSC ship and notice the jump from Deck 16 to Deck 18, you’ll know you’re not just on a cruise; you’re on a journey that subtly acknowledges centuries of Italian history and tradition.