We were very excited to sail on the new Divina after really enjoying a cruise on the Poesia in the Caribbean in March 2012. We loved the Poesia's understated elegant colors and materials, very unlike Carnival with its over the top bright colors that require sunglasses 24/7. Well, the Divina is even nicer. The nicest area of the ship is the Aurea Spa, whose walls are made with real slate stone. Stunning to look at.
Embarkation: definitely a weak point in Venice. The lines were insane and moved very slowly. After schlepping my suitcases from the people mover to the ship in 100 degree + temperatures, the last thing I wanted to do was wait in line outside. Thankfully we were travelling with an infant so we were able to get in the priority line but even this line was long. The problem is that MSC never sent us luggage tags. When we finally got the the front of the line, we were asked our cabin number and then was presented with our cruise booklet (which should have been mailed in advance)in which there are luggage tags. What MSC should do is have lines by deck number and have there booklet distribution tables set up at each line. There is only one table with all the booklets and numerous employees are trying to access the box at the same time. A bit chaotic. AS we were waiting for the booklet with luggage tags, someone else told us we cannot use the priority line. When the guy came back with our tags, the two of them starting arguing in Italian as to who can actually use the priority line. Quite amusing to see two Italians argue. It looks like ballet!
Dropping off our luggage was quite easy then we proceeded inside to check in. This was quick and easy.