We are experienced cruisers (15+), and this overall was the best cruise we've taken. We paid a little more for the Aurea Experience, which was well worth it given access to a private lounging area and dining room. Food quality was superior to what we've experienced, even in the wild and crazy buffet area. Service was wonderful, but quantity of staff was insufficient for a ship with 5200 people on board. Entertainment was excellent- but could have used some more intimate options. Brand new ship was sparkly and very well maintained throughout. Cruise director by far the funniest we've experienced. Encourage you to give MSC a shot!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Very smooth. We took a Lyft from the MIA airport and after dropping luggage we were on the ship within 10 minutes.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Overall, food quality exceeded all other cruises we've taken (15). Particular shout out to Butcher's Cut for amazing steak and seafood options! Due limited alternative options, one is stuck using the buffet for lunch which can become an absolute mad house. Encourage at least one main dining room every day!
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
Most activities focused on families- fewer options for adults; Fitness center had inadequate quantity of equipment for a 5200 person ship, but quality was superb.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
It was wonderful how MSC utilized the center area for entertainment that could be enjoyed from four levels; Overall quality was excellent; Could have used more intimate performances.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Quality of service was excellent- with particular shout outs to our favorite bartender/waiter Mark Oraiz; Dining Services manager Alden Alvarez; and Specialty Waiter John Dumandan, all of whom hail from the Phillipines. Only issue was there just weren't enough staff for a 5200 person ship, creating much longer wait times at bars, etc.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Seascape is a BIG ship- navigating it took some getting used to. Elevator concept works, but sometimes long wait times. Ship was impeccably maintained top to bottom.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
George maintained our cabin very nicely and was very attentive. We had an extended balcony with room for two chaise lounge chairs (due to Aurea experince), which was a real game changer.
Ship tip
Highly encourage the Aurea (or higher) option if you can afford it as it gives access to a private outdoor lounging space, as well as access to a exclusive dining room, for not much more $$. It made huge difference for us. I'd also recommend using the Express Walk-off (if you can manage your luggage) as it is smooth and efficient.
All of the advance material indicated a disembarkation beginning at 9am, when in fact it turned out to be 7am. We were off the ship and through customs by 7:45am, meaning we could have taken an earlier flight home if we had known.
Aurea Experience is the 2nd top notch of MSC the first is Yatch Club
Aurea gives you welcome package, bathrobe, Slippers, Pillow access menu, private sundeck, Thermal spa pass included, Priority boarding, Discounts.
Its worth the money
I was contemplating upgrading to Aurea but debating if it was worth it or not....would be upgrading 2 rooms. What exactly is included in that experience?
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