Enjoyed Immensely

I was initially concerned reading so many negative reviews on MSC. Turned out great. The itinerary was an exquisite escape into the Norwegian fiords, cooler temperatures than the Mediterranean and a chance to engage in a truly European experience as we encountered few fellow Americans. The shows in the main theatre were varied and more interesting, engaging than the ships geared to US audiences, that serve up clichéd shows (that if you’ve seen one you’ve seen them all). The productions were more edgy, more sexy and more nuanced. The shows in the carousel lounge with the big band were outstanding. The two lead singers are world-class. That lounge (7 aft) during the day serves as a nice place to read a book, share a tea or coffee or work on your laptop. Both venues offered multiple nightly performances to suit one’s dining and cruising rhythms. Nice. The Kids’ program is outstanding and like a language camp with kids from several countries. Music, sports, games…and they incorporate parents to join in so that acquaintances are made. On the culinary side, the reviews are spot on. If you’re up for a Mediterranean diet and a steady supply of quality, pizza, pasta, mozzarella, and extra-virgin olive oil then you’ll be happy. If you’re after a continental cuisine, I would rate food quality as okay. With comfortable floor to ceiling windows looking at the sea. The dance classes offered were a definite highlight. There are several each day some on the outside pool deck, which really raises the moods to fever pitch, while later ones take place inside a lounge. The dance instructors are superb and effortlessly seem to juggle several languages while teaching. Every night on dinner and the shows, they were big dance parties on the sixth floor atrium, which feels like the main square of an Italian city, and the ceilings Graphic seemed to support this with an almost Florentine images. We sailed with the ship at nearly full occupancy, so there are moments in which you feel like you’re walking through Times Square, the generally it’s a blessing experience if you visit the buffet early or late. We had a great time and would definitely do another MSC trip on one of their newer ships not too distant future. You’re an American, looking for a comfortable American experience. It’s not a cruise line for you. But if you are open to new mentalities, new approaches and new experiences you will enjoy yourself immensely!

Super

This was our first cruise experience, and the ship exceeded our expectations. We were particularly impressed by theprofessionalism and attentiveness of certain staff members. The service at "Virgilio" on Deck 8 was outstanding — the team was consistently courteous,observant, and guest-focused. Our cabin steward, Tarek, also provided excellent service. We are truly grateful to all of them... The food and drinks were excellent we enjoyed every meal! The entertainment was also a lot of fun and really added to the overall experience. Big thanks to all of them for making our trip so special!... From live music to dance shows and themed nights, there was always something exciting happening. We also appreciated how clean and well-organized everything was. The atmosphere on board felt warm and welcoming.

A magical week on a river cruise.

We had never done a cruise, river or sea before & were both excited & apprehensive about what may lie in store. After our 7 day trip I can only say that it was fabulous. The ship & cabin layout, dining room, lounges were spotless. Every single member of the crew from cabin stewards to galley staff were so friendly & helpful. The food, especially the evening dinners, in terms of quality, variety, preparation & presentation would be the envy of any top class restaurant anywhere in the world. Entertainment - music, quizzes, repartee by Noel each evening was brilliant. On shore highlights were the guided tour of the Abbey at Melk by a past pupil of the school there, she was so interesting & informative in a gentle, knowledgeable, humorous way. Our tour guide in Budapest…Kinga Tittel was simply the best tour guide anywhere in the world I have ever met….her 1.5hr tour of the city was memorable, giving us an insight into the past history of the city & her own childhood & upbringing within the confines of the Communist state. If you have never done a river cruise or are a veteran of many & the opportunity arises for a special trip, this is it.