After reading some of the negative comments we (experienced cruisers including HAL, RCCL and Celebrity) prepared for the worst on our first MSC cruise. But we found our 7-day cruise with the MSC Lirica fantastic!

Our balcony suite was spacious, comfortable and had plenty of storage. We had breakfast in our cabin every day(3 or 5 euro supplement when you want more than the regular continental breakfast). Also: tasty coffee/cappuccino/tea (I guess that's the Italian influence). Good wines and cocktails (similar prices to other cruise lines). Fresh orange juice in the coffee bar (a must for me). Very friendly staff. Compliments to our cabin steward Komang Agus and his assistant (who kept our cabin super clean) and to hairdresser Mileidy Hernandez from Cuba. She did an excellent job on my hair for both formal nights. The ship also has nice shops with ample choice.

There are certainly improvements to be recommended. The (musical) entertainment was kinda boring and boarding after excursions was too slow. Also the food in the main restaurant could be better and the buffet restaurant should be open on both sides in busy times (like after excursions). Room service is only available during breakfast hours (why not 24/7?). There are many smoking areas on the ship (such as the casino). As non-smokers we didnt appreciate the ship's smoking policy. Read more