As 1st time cruisers, we were very hessitant, knowing that the majority of North American cruisers are more interested on the ships amenities rather than the ports of call and the cultures that await beyond the ship.

We were totally amazed with this cruiseline, MSC, five different languages were spoken and everyone was European and were so friendly and interested in the ports of call. We ate in the restaurant, buffets are not a novelty unless in a hurry, and we enjoyed being waited on by pleasant staff. Language was not a problem and the food was amazing. Loved the small portions and the local Italian flavors of the day.

The ship was in a different port every day ( we did not want a day at sea, no cultural experence there) We didn't use the ships travel excursions as we enjoyed going into each town and finding our own small tour escort for 10 euros. The ship was so organized and we experienced no lineups getting off or on ship. The evening shows were fun, we did not want an American broadway performance, so quite enjoyed the local talent. We did not partake in the ships drink package, as we figured we would have to have approximately 7 drinks a day to justify it, and we would rather have local drink in taverna in towns daily and order a special drink or glass of wine with evening show was less expensive. Read more