One of the best cruises we have taken. Staff was overly friendly. The atmosphere made it very relaxing. The ship had a great layout. Everyone on our cruise appeared to be having a great time.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Embarkation was surprisingly efficient. We had a 10:30 embarkation time. We arrived around 10:00 in preparation for long lines but there were none. There were many people but they had a smooth and organized process.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Food is definitely a matter of opinion and expectation. This was our second MSC cruise and I would say for both the food is equal in quality to NCL, Royal, and Carnival. Every meal was not spectacular, but it was always warm and the staff was more than friendly to accommodate if the meal was not to your liking. Their choices are more chicken and fish based. On elegant night they do serve steak without an upcharge. I think the main opportunity is some of the meals were not presented well. Same meal on NCL would look better simply by presentation and garnishes.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The cruise is very relaxing. If you are expecting a pool party scene this cruise is not for you. We enjoyed the ability to truly relax by the pool without non stop games and noise like on Carnival. The cruise has plenty of other activities like the ropes course and 3 waterslides. I had read elsewhere they were charging for these. That is NOT true. They are free but you have to get a wristband after signing a waiver. I think some get confused thinking the wristband is a paid extra attraction.
Entertainment
3 out of 5
We found the entertainment on the Divina several years ago to be better. Not sure if this is a post pandemic thing but every night we're the same singers and dancers just with a different theme of music. They were well produced but just didn't have variety. There are also no comedians on this ship.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
By far the best overall staff of any of our cruises. They truly were a great ship staff. Everyone was smiling and also said hello. They really appeared genuine and set this cruise apart from others.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Very clean and very nice ship to navigate. The promenade and atrium are spectacular and makes the ship really nice to walk through. The ship was constantly being cleaned. Yes there were parts such as some carpeting in areas that already looked worn but the ship overall is in great condition.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Cabin did feel smaller than others we have been on but was still very nice. Storage is lacking compared to every other ship we've been on. No shoe rack in the closet and fewer storage drawers.
Ship tip
Come with an open mind. MSC cannot be fairly compared to the other mainline cruises in the US. They truly are a distant brand and style. The best way I could describe it is relaxed elegance that is still family friendly (Princess and NCL combined).
Thank you for your review, we are planning to cruise MSC next year, and have read such mixed reviews.
While I personally don't know how you cannot help but have a GREAT cruise on any line, it's nice to hear a good review
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