We have just returned from a short cruise sailing from Rome to Genoa, Ajaccio (Corsica) and back to Rome on the MSC Fantasia. We were a group of 4 and we all thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I have sailed with MSC many times and know what to expect, however one of the group was a little anxious because she had read some negative reviews and spoken to a work colleague who had told her the food would be awful! Of course I had tried to reassure her however she remained worried. Not for long! After an easy embarkation we quickly unpacked and went to lunch and she was amazed at the choice, quality and quantity of food available - as indeed we all were. The food was excellent both in the buffet and also in the Red Velvet restaurant. In fact previous reviews have often stated that the food in the buffet is not hot which actually is fine for me as I always wait for it to cool down anyway, but noticed this time that the food was hotter than previous MSC cruises so maybe they have acted on the criticisms they have received which is a positive step.
We received excellent service from most bar staff and our cabin attendants, and we didn't experience any poor service from anyone. In the Red Velvet restaurant our waiters Abi and Pastika provided exemplary service and a huge thank you to them. They are both a credit to MSC (and to their homeland Bali, Indonesia).
The ship is stunningly beautiful and the décor is very tasteful. It is kept spotlessly clean and the pools emptied and cleaned every night it seems. We thought the entertainment was great - plenty to do for everyone and the Michael Jackson tribute show was excellent. The whole audience were on their feet at the end and everyone seemed to thoroughly enjoy it.
Good sized inside cabin with lots of mirrors and storage. Very comfortable bed and quiet.