The main reason we chose this cruise was price. MSC has excellent pricing on cruises, plus the fact that kids under age 11 cruise free. I have only cruised once before, as a teenager, so am basically a first-time cruiser. HOWEVER please do not dismiss my opinion as I'm still an experienced traveler.

I found the entire experience wonderful, with a few annoyances. The ship is gorgeous, and is kept immaculately clean. Service is excellent - the housekeeping staff in particular is extremely friendly and courteous. Wait staff in the restaurant was exactly as attentive as I would like - dinner was paced perfectly, they were there when we needed them, and our staff was very sweet. My only complaint with service is that we needed to ask to have water glasses refilled, which I would have preferred to have been done automatically after long days on hot excursions.

The pool areas are lovely (not big enough and crowded on sea days, but this is not unique to MSC). The evening shows were great, and in particular my kids loved the Treasure Island show. I loved the Michael Jackson tribute. Read more