Hi, not a first time cruiser, have an opportunity to compare MSC with Holland America we sailed a few months ago. Everything else being equal, I would choose HAL for my next cruise.

The Divina is an excellent ship, it is new and very comfortable, the cabin had a balcony, which was a big plus. Food was not as good as Holland America, though we were never hungry.

MSC does not offer Open Table choice for dinner, rather they assign you to 1st or 2nd seating regardless of your request. We were assigned 2nd seating, though I have specifically asked the booking agent for the 1st seating. Our first night on the cruise we did not go to the dining room, it was too late for my kids to eat. MSC has rectified the situation next day and we were assigned first seating. Though I would rather avoid this kind of issue all together: this is not something one looks forward to when sailing with a major cruise company. Read more