Overall, it was an excellent cruise; very relaxing. Having been on the sister ship, the Seascape, last year with the same ports, we went with the intention of exploring the ship rather than excursions.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Quick and easy. Arrived at the port at noon; scheduled boarding at 2. Some backup dropping off the wife and luggage. At 2 there was no backup. Parking was easy at the port. We were allowed to board right away, dropped off our carry-ons in our cabin, and explored the ship, and had lunch at the buffet.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Never have been disappointed in MSC food. Have we tried everything? No. We usually take the opportunity to try dishes that we don't make ourselves or have regularly in restaurants, unless it's something that we really love. There is always enough variety in the dining room and the buffet usually has both the typical and some unique selections.
The anytime dining in a separate dining room that is included with the Aurea experience allows for more personalized service.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
While the hottubs are not very hot (probably for liability issues), they are numerous and therefore not very crowded and a good substitute for the more crowded pools.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The stage shows are only 35 minutes long, but the entertainers are on stage the entire time except for quick costume changes, and very talented and energetic.
The other musicians throughout the ship were all very good. Only venue missing was more intimate lounges.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
All were friendly and tried to be helpful; always smiling.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Ship is spotless; staff is constantly cleaning and polishing.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
This is a fantastic cabin, resolving many issues that people have with cruise ships. The cabin is very spacious. There is more than enough closet space for two people for seven days. The bathroom itself has room to move around and the shower is twice the size of other cabins. The balcony wraps around the rear of the ship and has two chairs, a table, and two lounges.
Ship tip
Check out the entire buffet before making choices. There is a wide selection of dishes. Toward the rear of the ship is usually less crowded both at the food and seating.
Disembarkation at the end of the cruise was relatively quick. Only area of improvement would be to remove some of the clutter in the area where people with wheelchairs and walkers wait to relieve congestion.
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