Msc Poesia was as nice a ship as the other lines we've been on. Lots of similarities. The staff was as efficient and as attentive as other lines, but there were a few significant differences, all positive. There was no constant sales of anything being "hawked' over the P.A., on the TV, or personnel in lounges, etc. No one cames by every 4 minutes around the pool or in lounges pushing drinks. The staff is there, but gives you space. The cabin attendant did their job, and was virtually invisible. (no fancy towel creatures). The entertainment team was the best we've experienced on any of our cruises. We had a very multi-nationality guest list, and many members of this team spoke at leat 6 languages fluently. They were also very active in getting people involved in a variety of activities, some of which were the best we've experienced. The cruise director did a very job putting a program together, and presenting many portions of it. Otherwise, you saw him around, but not promoting himself or "Diamond's International". Crew rates an excellent. Food: A very good selection available for dinner, with a different region of Italy featured nightly. This is not Olive Garden cooking. This is authentic. We ate all meals in the dining room, skipping the buffet, which got a little congested at peak meal times. Speaking of the buffet, it is NOT open all day and/or night. Their hours are basically the same as the dining rooms. If you miss the slotted times, hope that the infrequently open grill or pizza bar is open. After 10:30 p.m., there might be a token finger sandwich in a lounge. Men,...... do a double take. ALL men's rooms in public areas are lacking something.............urinals. When you go into a restroom, you'll exit in a hurry, because all you'll see are stalls. After checking the signage again, go back in. And learn to put the seat UP. Pool area are good, with both pools going from 5 ft. to 6 ft.(no shallow end). Good for laps, etc, but no easy entrance. jump in or use the ladder. Big disappointment was the large outdoor screen. Used only 2 nights for movies. All day , and night, used to advertise a children's fund or MSC. Was looking forward to more movies, concerts, or the Sunday NFL playoffs. Ports of call were routine. would have liked a "private island" beach day, but realize MSC is new to the area, and isn't hooked up yet. Overall, of the 5 recent cruises we've done, The Poesia was the right at the top. It had a few plusses over the others, and a few short-comings. But We would definitely go back.