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MSC Lirica Cruise Review to Europe - Eastern Mediterranean

fgallope

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 7+ cruises

Reviews: 2

Helpful Votes: 114

Overall rating:

4.7 out of 5

7 Night Eastern Mediterranean (Venice Roundtrip)

Sail date: May 18, 2018

Ship: MSC Lirica

Cabin type: Suite

Cabin number: 10003

Traveled as: Family (older children)

Reviewed: 6 years ago

Review summary

I've cruised on many sizes of ships with Norwegian and Carnival in the Caribbean and Central America. This is my first cruise in the Med with MSC. I loved it! The size of the ship was not overwhelming (about 2,000 passenger capacity). The ports of call were just outstanding, The ship's European sophistication of the decor was mature and refreshing. The cabin price for what we received was hard to beat. Be warned however - this is not a typical Caribbean cruise experience. The passengers were mostly mature Italians and Italian families with children. English speakers and people in their 20s and 30s were a tiny minority. But language was NEVER an issue as every ship staffer we interacted with knew enough English to communicate effectively! If you are looking for the typical boozing, reveling and gluttony found on Stateside cruises stay in the Caribbean with Carnival and the like. But if you want to try a more refined , family-friendly (kids sail free!) experience with an eye-opening Western cultural and historical experience then go for it!

Embarkation

5 out of 5

No issues. Went reasonably fast and smooth.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

4 out of 5

Food was excellent in restaurants and just the right size portions to keep that waist line in check. Buffet was par for the course however selection of free beverages was poor (basically water). Buffet size (actual square footage and seating availability) was too small to accommodate days and times when most passengers would use buffet prior going to or returning from shore excursions. Pizza was great! Room service continental breakfast was so-so.

Onboard Activities

4 out of 5

Typical activities for size of cruise ship, e.g. pools, on deck entertainment, miniature golf, ping pong.

Entertainment

5 out of 5

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Cabin steward and restaurant waiter were great. Bar tenders were OK (not overly friendly - probably overworked).

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

Cabin / Stateroom

5 out of 5

Ship tip

Make sure to register a credit card for on-board purchases and mandatory tipping charges while on board to avoid being denied disembarkation for balance due. Also, make sure your cell phone is in airplane mode to avoid $5..99 per minute charge for calls from on-board cell service!!

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