I took a one-night cruise, Barcelona to Genoa, to get a quick feel both for MSC and for a ship this size. I was very happy with both and would definitely consider MSC in the future. Having sailed on 4 other lines for multiple cruises and usually on smaller ships than the Orchestra, this one was definitely plush and pleasant. Except for disembarkation, it was a perfect and flawless experience.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
I was at the pier and on board within minutes, perhaps because this was a mid-itinerary join. This is also the first time I've had a check-in that was physically on board the ship. Friendly and fast. And I didn't have to wait hours for cabin access
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
dinner was superior as was the service. And the buffet was very good, especially the pizzas and the desserts. The desserts were the best I've had on any cruise, more flavourful, and the pizzas would, in my opinion, rival any high-street pizza restaurant
the buffet was never so crowded that finding a place to sit was a problem. I mention this because, given the size of the ship and number of passengers, I was pleasantly surprised.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
the fitness centre was a bit sparse but modern and attractive
Entertainment
5 out of 5
piano / coffee bar in the main atrium... and pleasant, civilised place to lounge and people-watch
Children's Programs
no children in tow
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
outstanding dinner staff and cabin steward
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
of the four other cruise lines I've been on, this ship is the most plush
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
the cabin was a little hard to find as only one of the three sets of lifts and stairs accessed the forward mini-deck. Once that was figured out, a great quiet location steps from the pool .. literally steps. atypical, pleasant inside cabin. Bit of a small shower but not bad. Best water pressure of any cruise line I've been on... and the hot water was consistent.
There were no general announcements for colour-coded departure times. And once in the mass of people to disembark, no queue / line management. It was unnecessarily a scrum
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