We did a 7 day Baltic cruise on the MSC Preziosa from Kiel and are very disappointed. MSC did a bad job. The staff was obviously not trained, too few crew members had to deal with chaotic scenes in overcrowded bars and restaurants. Some weren't friendly and not guest oriented due to overwork. Embarking and disembarking did not work well, too less security points and staff. The ship could not leave ANY port in time. Even the mandatory safety drill was a mess. The Captain’s announcements were rare and without any use (but in 8 languages). Stockholm port was cancelled without a proper explanation in favour for a few hours on a second day in St. Petersburg. Due to the tough visa regulations in Russia, extra hours are useless and meant a challenge to rearrange all shore excursions.

Food in the main restaurant was mediocre, sometimes simply uneatable. Low standard on cantina level makes the pretence of a 3-course gala dinner ridiculous. Buffet was crowded with a single Espresso machine and one poor employee for all guests.

MSC obviously has a cost saving issue. You had to wait an hour for a drink at the bar, stand 90 min in line at the reception to discuss a wrong charge and actually push yourself to a table. Read more