COVID precautions make the cruise experience a little less carefree than before, but they're well implemented. And despite the small things mentioned above, and generally feeling a bit less pampered than on other lines, we're still open to cruising with MSC again--especially with the kids.
Embarkation
3 out of 5
Surprisingly long wait for our group's rapid COVID test results to come back so we could board.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Bar service was notably slow, and we had to call guest services several times to have charges reversed for items that were included in our package (or, on two occasions, that we didn't even order!).
Food selection was a bit less varied than on other lines, but quality was good. (In particular, very nice charcuterie on the buffet. And probably the best cruise line desserts we've had--very European, and not overly sugary.) Others have reported slow restaurant service, but that wasn't our experience (except as to bar items ordered during dinner)--relaxed, maybe, but not slow.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The pools/hot tubs had surprisingly short hours--generally not available about 9pm. The Aqua Park was nice, and even though we didn't get the chance to try them, the F1 and flight simulators looked like a blast. We also got a day pass to the thermal suite, which was excellent (and the couples day pass is a good value).
Entertainment
4 out of 5
The magic show was excellent, and we heard from other guests that the Brazil trio was fantastic. But most other entertainment felt a bit slapped-together (which in fairness, it might've been; who knows how long they had to get a cast and run rehearsals before sailing post-pandemic). The one-man guitarist/singer (a great guitarist and okay singer) was better in the more intimate Brass Anchor venue; the Carousel Theatre was too big a room for an unplugged-style show.
Children's Programs
4 out of 5
Full disclosure: We didn't sail with our kids. BUT--we were so impressed by what we saw secondhand that we're strongly considering taking them with us on another Meraviglia cruise in the next few months. Unlike other lines, you can see what they're doing in the gym and other rec areas, and they appeared to have really good, active group activities.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
The slow bar service (and a general sense of a little less "pampering" than on other lines) keeps me from giving 5 stars. But service was still very good.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
It's a beautiful ship, and clean and well-maintained. And even though all the COVID precautions made it feel less carefree than we're used to, they were well thought-out and we appreciated their caution. (That counts as "cleanliness" for this category too, right?)
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
On par with other balcony cabins we've had on other lines. Housekeeping was on the ball and very friendly.
Ship tip
Be sure to catch at least one of the 5-minute "dome shows"--their active LCD dome is impressive.
We did a self-guided walking tour. Compared to our last visit, it felt deserted (though that was also kind of nice). It's clear how much they've been hurting with the loss of tourism--we were warmly greeted by just about everyone, and it seemed like genuine gratitude and not just to try to make a sale.
Bring a mask and snorkel--the water is beautiful and there's great views underwater. The lighthouse show (available on overnight itineraries) was fun. As we expected, only "Easy package" drinks are available on the island (in hindsight, we probably wouldn't have bothered going "Premium"). And we appreciated the "preserve" nature of the island.
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