Having cruised with Carnival, Norwegian, Royal Caribbean, Costa and MSC before, you can hardly call me loyal to any one cruise line. However, even though I would probably prefer Norwegian and Royal Caribbean to MSC, I still think MSC does a decent job of deliverring value for money. If you do not expect lobster or steaks for dinner, you will most likely be satisfied with the selection on the 7-course Italian inspired menu. Food at the buffet was OK, too, but as previous cruisers have commented, it was difficult to find seating at breakfast and lunch.
Overall, I found the staff attentive, especially Ni Luh Eka Rian serving at the Rendez Vous Bar on deck 5 outside the restaurant.
At times, it was somewhat noisy at the pool side. However, part of it was due to dance instructions given by the most energetic male instructor I've ever seen on a cruise ship. How I would love to have him at my local gym!