For us the ship was too big. While it was a great cruise and the ship is beautiful it was too large for our taste. We may travel again with MSC but it will depend on the Itinerary. The flow of the ship was a different experience as the size is a factor. The market will decide as MSC makes it's way into the newer market away from the European style of cruising. Not an overall 5 star but close in many aspects. Compared to our experience with Princess, there is a different demographic at play here. It would take a bit to get used to. However, the Grand daughters loved it and that is the best part.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We arrived at our designated time for a whole group of 10 bodies. 3 of them ages 1, 5 and 7. The process for MSC is really fast and effective. We were given a number for the group and assembled in the designated area. 20 minutes later we boarded to a nice group of welcomers.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
We did not do the specialty places. With a group of ten, it would be problematic and expensive. We had a large table in the Green Wave. As expected and mention before the food was the usual fare for cruises. The service from Noel, Randy and the staff was 5 star. The youngest grand daugher at 0ne year old makes strange with many people, she was blowing little kisses to Noel after the second visit. Noel went out of his way to ensure a Gluten Free selection for my Daughter in Law. This was the first trip she has ever taken where she did not get ill due to her allergies. Grand Daughter 1 at 7 years old asked Randy if they could make a cheese pizza, no sauce. As the dinners were arriving, out comes a staff member if chefs garb and present her a perfect cheese pizza. Made her day. Buffet is standard fare for all ships. Lay-out could use some work especially at choke points.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The kids loved the kids club, Due to the size of the group, we did not get to see a lot of events.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Quite entertaining shows and acts trough out the ship. Volume a bit high at times but a good time was had by all.
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
The girls loved it. The did the Master Chef thing and the Mystery event.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Staff was exceptional. except some of the bar staff in the loft. Not knowing what Scotch is kind of make you wonder.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Beautiful ship, clean. Layout could use some work. Hard sometime to get from point a to point b
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Nice cabin. 1st balcony we ever had. Steward was great and was not a other.
Ship tip
Be prepared for a large ship. It takes a bit to get used to the elevators.
*Cruiseline.com is not a booking agent or travel agency,
and does not charge any service fees to users of our site. Our partners
(travel agencies and cruise lines) provide prices, which we list for our
users' convenience. Cruiseline.com does not guarantee any specific rates or
prices. While prices are updated daily, please check with the booking site
for the exact amount. Cruiseline.com is not responsible for content on
external web sites.
Contact us
Submitting...
Need help from a personal vacation planner?
Loading...
Find the perfect cruise with weekly tips and cruise deals for as little as $30/night!
Sign up for weekly cruise deals
Join other subscribers and get the best
cruise deals of the week in your inbox every Thursday.
