This was my 3rd cruise with MSC. I truly don't understand the bad ratings some people give. The food is all-inclusive good. If they are looking for 5 star quality they should try the Ritz Carlton Cruise line, Seven Seas, etc. but they should expect to pay 3x more per person. The service is very European (not the fastest). They allow you to enjoy/digest your food before bringing you the next course. I highly recommend MSC Cruises and have already booked my next 2024 New Years cruise with them.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Long lines which are expected but moved very quickly. From line outside to inside ship probably 35 minutes tops.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Food and drinks are hit and miss as in any all inclusive. Specialty restaurants (Steakhouse, Sushi and Tepenyaki) were excellent.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
We did use the fitness center and spa. The fitness center is not very big but machines were state of the art and it never felt crowded. Plenty of individual classes (spinning, personal training, etc) available. Great views of the ocean if using stepper or cycling machines.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The entertainment is fabulous. The music at the different venues was great. The nightly shows were outstanding as they always are. Ive cruised Royal, NCL and Carnival but MSC has the best nightly shows hands down. Three different seatings made it easy to dine and not have to rush to grab a seat even though the ship was fully booked (5000+ passengers).
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our room steward was always around the hallways eager and ready to help with anything we asked of him. Everyone around the ship we ever asked a question was very helpful.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The ship is beautiful and very clean. The design and decor is elegant. Public bathrooms were for the most part very clean but they are hard to find. I believe they are trying to keep signage to a minimal to not take away from the decor but it does make them hard to find.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
We had a premium Aurea rear facing cabin and it was awesome. The balcony wraps around the side of the ship and has plenty of chairs/loungers to relax at night or day at sea and have a peaceful moment enjoying the ocean or reading your favorite book.
Ship tip
If planning on getting and spa treatments book prior to boarding. They are less expensive. Also once onboard book your times asap too you can get your desired times.
We've been here many times. Did the jeep tour with a stop at a Mayan Indian demo and at a local tequila factory. Overall a great time. Lots to do in the town.
Nothing much here to do. We went to HayHu Beach Club and had an excellent time. Super relaxing and the food and drinks were spot on. The beach is so-so but useable. Sand is excellent. Transportation to the club is included in their charge.
By far the biggest of the private islands. Lots of areas to lounge. Water is beautiful. If you want to be alone plenty of spots around the island to "get lost" or plenty to do if you are an active person. They even have trolleys (golf carts) you can catch to transport you around the island.
The only complain I could have is you have to be out of your cabin by 7:00 and disembarkation doesn't start until 8:00 but that is th only way they can get the cabins ready for the next guests. I was able to access my cabin as soon as I boarded at 12:10. Other ships Ive cruised Ive had to wait till 1:00 or 2:00pm so take the good with the bad.
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