My cruise was great… again! Definitely a different experience than traveling during COVID. But not in a bad way. More things were open and happening on the ship this time. Did I miss the reduced capacity? Yes! But did it impede my experience? Not at all.
Embarkation
2 out of 5
Embarkation was long and hot. Arrived at the port by 1150. Did not get onboard until almost 2pm. People on back to backs did not get off the ship so the ship was never cleared. Then it was a mad rush of people to all get on at once.
Try to get on later.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Central Park Restaurant
4 out of 5
Waiters were Sonny and Archie. Archie was amazing and funny.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
The Aft Infinity Pool
4 out of 5
Great views. Get out there early for a seaT!
MSC Signature Casino
3 out of 5
Slots didn’t seem to pay anything until the last 2 days. They have added more table games since Covid restrictions have eased, and they were always crowded.
Long Island Pool
4 out of 5
It gets HOT up here! Luckily there is plenty of shade. You just need to find it.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
Le Cabaret Rouge
4 out of 5
I was disappointed that they had changed the shows. Most night it was a cover rock band. They were good but the lady singer was so loud!! We sat in the back and it was tolerable.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
All of the staff were amazing! I have read several people complain the staff are rude, this was not the case at all!
Waiters Sonny and Archie were great! Archie will be going to the Seascape.
Room steward Sudrahara, folded my pajamas! Never in 15 cruises has someone folded my pajamas!
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Always cleaning.
Cabin / Stateroom
3 out of 5
Overall comfort was fine as expected. If you are a light sleeper or go to bed early I do not recommend this room. As you can see from the picture the balcony is directly over the adult hot tubs on the 8th floor. It makes it very difficult to sit on your balcony during the day as they are always packed with people. The hot tubs close at 9, so if you go to bed after you will have no issue.
Also it is a connecting room but I was not traveling with the people next door.
Ship tip
Please remember it is a large ship with people from over 70 different countries. Be patient and remember you are on vacation what’s the rush?
Booked Bamboo beach break through MSC. It was worth the money. As most things In Jamaica, they do try to upsell you for a better package. Beach was nice, there was shade and the water was warm. Drinks and food available for purchase. You could also purchase the VIP package which includes food and drink. For the amount of time you are at the beach I didn’t feel it was worth it.
Chose to do express walk off. Was a little crowded and disorganized. Once the line started moving I was off within 10 minutes. Was a little congested because they also had excursions leaving at the same time.
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