We love cruising, are seasoned travelers and active seniors from California. We chose this cruise on the Divina for the itinerary -- some places we haven't been, the relaxing sea days crossing the Atlantic, a great ride to Italy. As expected, the ship was stunning, spotlessly clean, comfortable, and had a variation of venues inside. We'd sailed once before with MSC, and of course we'd read all the warnings -- but we recognize that crabby people don't like anything, always complain. In all but one area (embarkation) this was a fabulous experience! Our balcony cabin, Aurea experience, was clean and stylish and efficient, with a cabin steward who didn't bug us all the time, but was always available and amenable.

The dining room was a highlight -- from the seating hostess who greeted us with a smile every day, to the waiter who was fun and helpful and knowledgeable, to the bus boy who always smiled and kept our table spotless. The menus were varied, there were some "interesting" dishes, but plenty of choices, including comfort food. The food was hot, the servings were not huge but we were always satisfied -- just right. The buffet was pretty standard, though seating areas are larger, which helps. The pizza place was special (about $7 per pizza), cooked to order, with wines/beers well-chosen. The large central snack area had an ever-changing mix of small sandwiches and pastries (complimentary), gelato, coffees and fun drinks.

We all four bought the "drink package" so we tried everything/everywhere -- coffees, smoothies, cocktails, wines and beers; we met for pre-dinner drinks in a different bar/lounge every night, always greeted courteously -- smiles, little conversations about the ship or the port, tasty drinks served quickly and cleanly. All the dining and drinking venues were gorgeous -- beautifully decorated, thoughtfully furnished, unusual but not weird. Read more