We had a great cruise. Even though we didn't take advantage of the spa, we are sold on the Aurea level with its priority boarding, anytime dining in a separate dining room (less crowded meaning more personalized service), and little extras like robes, slippers, and other treats in the cabin. Anything that we didn't take advantage of was our decision; we just ran out of time!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
My wife used a walker and they were very accommodating. We only had to wait until 11:30 for the elevator to be open for boarding the ship. Once on board we were able to go to our cabin to drop off our carry-ons even though they were not finished with preparing the cabin for us.
There was a mixup as we were assigned the wrong dining time and dining room but it was quickly corrected.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
As an Aurea guest we had anytime dining in the Skyline restaurant. This gave us a less crowded dining experience. The service was excellent, the food selection allowed a variety of choices usually with a theme (one night Italian, one French, etc.) plus a variety of dishes served every night. The portions were just right, and you could order additional servings or half servings. There were no dishes that disappointed. Our favorites were the filet mignon and the osso bucco.
The buffet offered a wide range of dishes including some selections not common on cruise ships like Italian cold cuts and cheeses. The pizza is the best we have had. Selection is not as much on port days as fewer people are on board.
The buffet can get crowded especially during breakfast but if you take the time to check out the entire buffet you can usually minimize the lines (except for the omelet station which always seems to have a line). Similarly, finding a table is not a problem if you go to the ends of the buffet or outside, rather than the center.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
The pools are not large but with three, not counting Yacht Club, plus numerous hot tubs (including two large infinity hot tubs) they were not usually over crowded. The Marina Pool in the center of the ship had a stair entry which was great for those who may have difficulty with the ladders. The Jungle Pool had only ladder entry but did have a retractable roof for rain days, though it did tend to get humid.
The fitness center was quite large with a range of machines.
Not having children, we did not use that area but it was well used with a variety water features including slides and tubes, not for just kids.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The shows in Chora Theater were about 45 minutes long which is good for us. Rather than the Broadway like shows that have a plot, these had a theme that highlighted the singers, dancers, and acrobatic performers.
The Cabaret Rouge offered a variety of performers from musicians to singers to magicians and more on a continuous program starting at around 8 pm that you can come and go.
The various bars offered a variety of entertainment as does the Atrium.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Dining room service from everyone was excellent, remembering who you are and what you like, greeting you with a smile, and conversing with you not only at dinner but also seeing you in other venues.
Room stewards were friendly and attentive without being intrusive.
All staff were friendly and attentive.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Staff is continually cleaning and maintaining.
Ship is not layed out like other large ships. Rather than a large center "mall" that most amenities line, the Seascape has a center atrium but most shops, bars, and specialty restaurants are located on various decks and areas. While some may find this inconvenient, I think it makes a large ship feel smaller and less crowded.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The cabin was very large with a porthole window facing forward and door to balcony facing starboard.
The bathroom was standard cruiseship size with sufficient shelves and storage for two passengers. The shower was typically tight for larger people.
The cabin had plenty of shelves, storage, and closet space.
Lack of electric outlets at the bed is inconvenient but we knew about that and brought extension cords. Since there are both U.S. and European outlets at the desk, we brought conversion adapters to increase outlets available.
The balcony is L shaped, wraps around the cabin, and is extremely large. The portion by the door is about the size of a typical balcony and has two chairs and a table. The portion facing forward is large and has two lounge chairs.
Since the cabin is at the front of the ship, the only disadvantage is that when the ship is moving into the wind you can't go out on the balcony. If at port or traveling with the wind there is no problem.
Ship tip
Relax and go with an open mind to enjoy the diverse experience, trying different foods and experiences.
The island is beautiful. Traveling on the island if disabled or having limited mobility can be difficult. Communicating this to passengers could be better as could all communications with regard to what to expect on the island.
For those that can do it, the lighthouse climb is recommended.
Disembarking was no better or worse than others cruises and this is often more a factor of the port rather than the cruise line. The most difficult part is getting to and on the shuttle or other transportation from the port.
Looks like your itinerary was the same as ours on Seascape. I would agree with your comments as we totally enjoyed our cruise. My only complaint has nothing to do with MSC but the folks in the adjoining cabin. Never had any neighbors who were as loud as these were! They could not exit or enter the cabin without slamming the door! 🤬
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