7 Nights Mediterranean from Genoa (Portofino) Cruise

Taste of Brazil on MSC Orchestra

Thoroughly enjoyed our Brazil cruise. Boarding and disembarkation were a breeze. We booked cabin which was partially obstructed but the obstruction was negligible. Our balcony was larger and we were able to enjoy our breakfasts and lunches there. Our cabin steward was friendly and kept our cabin spotless and brought wash cloths promptly when I requested them. Buffet had wide selection of options for breakfast and lunch, always plenty of fresh fruit especially bananas and pawpaw (papaya). We had dinner in MDR at 7:30 which was the 1st sitting (2nd sitting 22:00) and found service was exceptional, friendly and professional. and wide selection of options. Fruit juices were only available at breakfast but coffee and water were available 24/7. Pizza was available until 2:00 am and was very good. We had a couple of minor issues which Guest Services resolved promptly eg shower curtain. Bar service was speedy considering the ship was full. Live entertainment was very good especially the piano players and the live band. We booked an excursion in Salvador and found it very informative. I would definately choose MSC again.

Wonderful cruise, definitely recommend.

I must admit that I was very apprehensive after reading reviews on here, but was very pleasantly surprised. I can only conclude that some people only look for the worst in anything, rather than just enjoying the experience. We have cruised before with P&O and told myself that I should not try to compare as MSC were a cheaper end of the market, but we had a great time. Embarking: Málaga, no problems, minimum waiting time, cabin was ready so could leave our small bags and the suitcases arrived during the afternoon. Our cabin person was superb, nothing was too much trouble, cabin cleaned twice a day. Meals: we had first sitting (1900) for our evening meal, table was allocated and we shared with some lovely people, all our table were English speaking. We tried the buffet and the restaurant for lunches and breakfast, but preferred the restaurant as the buffet was a bit frantic! The food was good, not brilliant (what do you expect for catering for so many?), but plenty of choices and well cooked. I saw complaints that the food was just warm, but living in Spain, this is the norm. Those complaints that the portions were very small must be really greedy. No, not huge portions, but 3 courses twice a day plus whatever you want for breakfast, really!!! Entertainment: Ample choice of entertainment, plenty of bars each with their own music as well as the theatre giving a different show every night. Not everything maybe your style, but plenty of variety and very professionally performed. Cleanliness: superb, plenty of hand gel dispensers around and staff to administer when you go into the buffet. All public areas continually being cleaned. Staff: lovely, friendly, chatty, helpful. No waiting to be served, plenty of waiters and bar staff. What have I forgotten? Didn't go on any excursions as preferred to do our own thing, but everyone we spoke to enjoyed them. We thought they were pricey, so chose not to, but everyone has a choice. Hard sell: yes, there was always something to promote to get you to buy, but we didn't and felt no need to buy extras. All in all we had a fabulous holiday and a well deserved rest, and would recommend to anyone and we will be going again next year.

Low Expectations Far Exceeded

OK I have read all the reviews about this ship and had very low expectations. We are an Irish couple who have cruised with Royal, NCL and mostly Princess and a few MSC. The price was good and we thought well it can’t be that bad. It was a great cruise. Food excellent good variety and quality. Tip avoid the buffet it is a bit manic. Go to the dining room for breakfast lunch and dinner and you won’t be disappointed. Avoid school holidays we forgot it was mid term in Europe. Staff were outstanding. Shows were as good as can be when trying to cater for multiple languages. Make singer was so bad it became funny but it’s easy to be an armchair critic. The gym is too small so best off peak. To be fair the time limit on machine was enforced well. There were very few announcements and no constant selling which we liked. Go enjoy and do not worry.