We are not avid cruisers, but will cruise if itinerary and price are compelling, which was the case with the MSC Splendida booked online ($699 for a balcony cabin for 7 nights). We had been to the Mediterranean before (20 years ago on Holland America), but this cruise left from Barcelona and went to Tunis, Malta, Sicily, Rome, Genoa and Marseille. Since we had been to Rome for a week a few years ago, we didn't mind only spending a day there. This is a huge ship: up to 3900 passengers and 1000 crew. The ship is gorgeous, and our cabin was lovely. There were lots of amenities, including a full bathtub, robes, a nice-sized closet, good lighting, a bathroom bigger than our last hotel room. Everything was very clean. We were fortunate that we had quiet neighbors next to and above us. This is a very child-friendly cruise line, allowing kids 17 and under to travel for free. We specifically chose a season when the kids were not out of school, but there were still more kids than you would usually see on a cruise ship. They have lots of activities for the wee ones and 5 pools and other entertainments for the older ones.

Our cabin was on level 9. Passenger cabins start on level 8. We were fine, but if I had to choose again, I would try for one or two levels up because the life boats and walking deck were on level 7. They were very well lit, with some lighting reflecting up to our cabin. Good blackout drapes, but a little distracting if you want to look at the stars.

Our cabin attendant was friendly when we saw her. They will bring you ice for the ice bucket it you request it. There are no ice machines. Read more