I believe that it was me who had the bright idea of taking a Mediterranean cruise in January with a 17 month year old baby and a 5- month pregnant wife. I thought, "Man, this ship is new, looks great and it will give us a very European cruising experience". I tried to downplay the fact that the weather would be in the cool 50's and nobody in my circle of friends and acquaintances had even heard of a cruise line called MSC!

So, I twisted my wife's arm by enticing her with the idea of taking along her mother and aunt, as well as my parents- all as potential babysitters for this 11 night journey on the Fantasia. In the end, after a lot of pressure and persuading, she obliged (my plan worked flawlessly I thought!). I mean, what could be more fun than a family cruise in Europe visiting exotic places like Funchal, Tenerife, Barcelona and Malaga to name a few highlights. BTW, did I mention that this was in January yet and that we live in Southern California?

In any case, prior to departure I there was a lot of anticipation for the launch of the Fantasia and to see some of the first reviews that were posted online- both pictures and write-ups. We looked with much excitement on the website nearly everyday to read the news- even saw the webcast at launch (including Sophia Loren!). I mean, heck, I had a lot riding on this cruise. Not just my wife and daughters (born and unborn), but also my own parents and even my mother-in-law and her sister would be travelling on this UNKNOWN cruise line. Read more