We have cruised approx 20 times on several cruise lines. We are getting older now and plan to leave as little behind as possible, life is short so now we are taking care of ourselves and so since traveling is what we enjoy most we have started traveling more upscale. After having said this we chose this cruise because of the Yacht Club which was recommended by cruises.com. First 'upscale' cruise was a year ago on Celebrity Reflection and we had a suite and so will make some comparisons. Although nice comfortable modern we were disappointed in the size of our cabin. It was half the size of our suite on Reflection as was the bathroom. It was about the same size as regular cabins we had on our Norwegian cruises.

I'll start with the negatives: The restaurant was on opposite side of ship and you had to walk outside a long way and through a smoke filled bar area with loud music and loud passengers. There was a view of a pool area with people in swimsuits they should not be in. Why they didn't at least pull the curtains down so we didn't have to see this I don't know. The view from special restaurant for suite club members was ocean and nothing else. Don't believe the "personal butler"hype. There was no unpacking of our suitcases we were not shown where things were in cabin and how things work. Shade was almost impossible to find on the yacht club deck. Entertainment was poor at best.

Pros: Food and service excellent in restaurant. Must mention Michael (Italy) who was most professional and attentive. Loved the "Top Sail Lounge" Drinks great and always something nice to eat there. Personal escort on and off ship made us feel very special. Unlimited drinks was nice. Concierge was great. Special private entrance to spa. Nice quiet pool (small) and hot tubs. We examined the other parts of the ship and would plan to leave with our suitcases at first port and fly home if we were not in the yacht club. AWFUL crowded and the pool at back of ship had a strong odor of sewer. The Reflection was nice throughout the entire ship. It was full but there were always chairs to lounge in. Since we are an older couple I think this was more suited to us. MSC seemed more for younger people. I hope this helps you.