If you’ve ever dreamed of cruising through the Mediterranean while solving murders in between karaoke sets, The Good Ship Murder is the TV show you didn’t know you needed. This Channel 5 (UK) series combines all the sun-drenched fun of a cruise holiday with the cosy crime vibes of Death in Paradise – and the best part? It was filmed aboard the MSC Virtuosa, one of the largest and most glamorous ships ever to sail from UK shores.
As a cruiser myself, the first episode instantly had me hooked – and not much after that tbh. While the plotlines are a touch dramatic (murders seem to follow the ship like a sea breeze), there’s something wildly entertaining about watching a whodunnit play out against the backdrop of lido decks, Aperol Spritzes, and themed nights at sea.
Filmed on the Real-Life MSC Virtuosa
Unlike many shows that rely on studio sets or generic backdrops, The Good Ship Murder was filmed on location aboard the actual MSC Virtuosa during real sailings. That means most* (*I’m sure they greenscreened one or two) sweeping shot of the sun setting over the Mediterranean, every bit of lido-side gossip, and every glitzy performance in the lounge was filmed with real passengers and crew just out of frame. Scenes were also filmed in Malta, cleverly doubling as a range of fictional or renamed ports.
For cruise lovers, it adds an extra layer of excitement: this isn’t a fictionalised idea of a cruise – it’s mostly, the real deal.
All Aboard the MSC Virtuosa
So what’s MSC Virtuosa like in real life? In short: it’s a floating city of sleek design, indulgent food, and seriously impressive tech. One of MSC’s flagships, she carries up to 6,300 guests and boasts a jaw-dropping 19 decks of entertainment, shopping, dining, and relaxation.
The heart of the ship is the Galleria Virtuosa, a glittering indoor promenade with a digital LED dome overhead that changes throughout the day — think starry skies, painted ceilings, or even a virtual fireworks display. You’ll spot this area frequently in the show, as it makes the perfect setting for dramatic walk-and-talks and moody glances between suspects.
There’s also the Carousel Lounge, where live performances (and in the show, the murder-solving crooner Jack Grayling’s nightly sets) take place. The real-life venue often hosts Cirque-style acrobatics and immersive musical acts. For guests wanting the VIP experience, the MSC Yacht Club offers butler service, a private pool deck, and exclusive dining – though, hopefully, fewer dead bodies than in the show.
A Ship Fit for the Spotlight
MSC Virtuosa was a savvy choice for filming: it sails round-trip from Southampton, making it accessible for British production crews, while still offering classic Mediterranean ports like Lisbon, Valencia, and Barcelona. Its sleek, modern interiors provide a polished and photogenic setting, and with so many lounges, restaurants, and venues onboard, there’s no shortage of dramatic corners to frame a mystery.
And yes – the murder rate onboard is thankfully much lower in real life. But the ship’s elegance, scale, and sunlit ambiance lend the show an irresistible, escapist vibe that has plenty of cruise fans (myself included) tuning in week after week.
Final Thoughts
The Good Ship Murder might not win awards for realism – but it’s a wonderfully camp, sun-drenched series that delivers everything I love about cruising: the ports, the people-watching, and the idea that anything could happen between dinner and dessert. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or just dreaming of your next escape, it’s a fun, sea-sprayed slice of TV that captures the magic (and mischief) of life at sea.
Have you sailed on MSC Virtuosa – or seen it on the show? I’d love to know if you spotted any familiar venues or ports. And if you haven’t seen it yet, it’s the perfect watch while counting down to your next cruise!
