We were a party of 6, 3 experienced cruisers and 3 first timers. This posting is from an experienced cruiser's viewpoint. We sailed on the MSC Musica's repositioning voyage from Venice to Santos on 2-20 November 2008. I did want to write a positive report - and we did enjoy our 19 day transatlantic cruise to Brazil, especially the ports of call - BUT although the ship's decor and the cabins were very good, the service, food and organization onboard badly let it down.

Embarkation: We were lucky inasmuch as we arrived at the port of Venice late (4pm) on our MSC transfer from Verona airport and could check in straight away and walk straight on board. We sailed at 5.30pm, unfortunately, in heavy mist. Fellow passengers who arrived at check-in at midday had a totally different experience and had to wait nearly 3 hours before boarding commenced!

Service: On embarkation we soon discovered that most of the staff onboard were untrained, this being their first cruise. Our first evening meal was chaotic with limited cutlery, cold food and difficulty ordering drinks -no one seemed to know what they were doing in the dining room. Our first impression of disorganization was confirmed in the bars with very slow bar service. There was no sign of our cabin steward on embarkation and everything had to be sorted out via reception. In fact our cabin steward never once introduced himself! We had to phone for toilet rolls on one occasion and requested an extra blanket 3 times and still didn't get it!! I should point out, though, that other passengers were very happy with their cabin steward. Read more