17 Nights MSC Grand Voyage from Rotterdam Cruise

Wonderful MSC Virtuosa

This was our second cruise to the Fjords on MSC Virtuosa, and we loved it as much as the first. Being in our 70s we didn't join in the activities, although we liked watching the dance lessons in The Virtuosa Lounge. We both have mobility issues and I booked wheelchair assistance for both embarkation and disembarkation. We parked in the disabled section of ABP parking which is right next to the ship. Just a very short walk to the terminal building. Our suitcases were taken off us as we joined the line. We didn't have to wait very long for a man with a wheelchair to assist me through security and up to check in, I was then handed over to one of the crew to take me onto the ship, he was very helpful, and took us up to deck 11 and to our cabin. The whole process was very quick. Our cabin was as expected with a king size bed and a sofa near the window. There is a lot of storage space, but the hanging space is quite small. There is a safe, fridge (mini bar - we asked our steward to remove all the drinks so that we could use it as a fridge), hairdryer, flat screen tv which has some British Channels. In the shower room, there is shower gel and conditioner, there are shelves, shaving mirror and hand wash. There is a small cupboard under the sink which contains a waste bin and spare toilet rolls. We had a balcony which is furnished with 2 chairs and a table. There are USB sockets under the bed side lamps, and European and American sockets. The USB sockets are the older type. We found the bed to be very comfortable. A big shout out to Carolyn our cabin steward who was always happy and helpful. Breakfast can be taken in the buffet which is on deck 15 or the Minuetto on desk 5. The minuetto is open for Breakfast and lunch for everyone. There is a huge amount of choice in the buffet, but it can get very busy. The food in the buffet was often lukewarm or cold. Our dining room for dinner was the Opera, and we ate there every night. There is a good choice of food, and there is a section on the menu which is always available, the cream of tomato soup is really good. Our waiters, Kajal and Lindo were excellent and looked after us really well. We chose to sit in the Virtuosa Lounge every evening, where a group: Royal Flush, played every evening. They were excellent playing songs from the 50s to present day. The first couple of nights there was a Sax player also, and later in the cruise there was a duo from Trinidad, both were again excellent. There is a huge selection of both alcoholic and non alcoholic drinks available. My favourite was the Hennessy Brandy, which was included in our drinks package. The Virtuosa is a big ship with many bars and restaurants, and some shops. We visited the Jean Phillipe chocolate cafe and shop to buy some chocolates to bring home for gifts, and we also tried out the hot chocolate drinks a couple of times. They are really very, very good. We didn't go on any of the MSC excursions, but did get off the ship on three occasions. Our favourite being Flam, where we got on the Road Train for a ride to Flam Village and back. The scenery was amazing. We had a lovely time on the Virtuosa, it is a ship where you can do lots and join in activities, watch the shows etc, or like us just have a relaxing time. They are very relaxed about clothing on this ship, for Gala night you can get really dressed up or just wear jeans and a shirt and anything in between, wear what you are comfortable in. We will hopefully be cruising on her in the near future.

My first cruise experience

Just got back from an unforgettable week with MSC Cruises (June 7–14) and wow – what an experience! My mum and I had the most amazing time on board. The staff were incredibly kind, the food was delicious and plentiful, and the entertainment? Honestly better than the West End! Huge shoutout to our amazing waiters at Table 743 (8:30 pm seating) in the Symphony Restaurant, as well as to Mbaki Joy at reception and Alexis Diaz, our lovely housekeeper. You are all truly special – MSC is lucky to have you, and thank you to many others who I don’t get their names. If I had to make one tiny suggestion, it would be to offer a wider variety of movie genres on board. Otherwise, it was a 10/10 experience – would absolutely recommend to anyone considering a cruise. And quick tip for first-time cruisers: get travel health insurance beforehand. A consultation on board starts at £90, so it’s better to be covered just in case! Already dreaming of the next one…

Yacht Club delights

Absolutely first class from start to finish. Have read other reviews but this is mine. We were in Yacht Club with a duplex suite. Arrived in car park at 1120 in lounge on ship by 1145. You are treated as a VIP throughout. The ship is beautiful and well maintained. The suite was just as expected. A minor issue with the jacuzzi on balcony soon sorted. Our butler looked after us very well. Anything we needed, phoned him or left a note. Everywhere on the ship staff eager to please, had been trained very well. We had an electrical issue all over ship leaving one port, kept informed and was soon sorted. RESTAURANTS Top Lounge excellent. Menu changed every day, staff big smiles always. Nothing too much trouble. Good variety of food. Butchers Cut Great steaks, well cooked. Fish dishes also excellent. Can sit out in galleria people watching or inside. Indochine best for speciality restaurants we think. French/Vietnamese style. Awesome Saw the ABBA tribute show, well worth seeing. The comedian was very very funny. Will mostly appeal to British audiences. Music act “Christo” was so so good. Lots of genres. Very entertaining A brilliant cruise throughout