MSC Seaside Review
Great ship & itinerary, a few areas for improvement
Rating by category
Additional details
This was our first cruise with MSC, having previously cruised with Norwegian and Royal Caribbean. The Seaside is a beautiful ship and we had a great cruise, but MSC do fall short in some critical areas.
Embarkation and disembarkation in Miami was fast and easy. Our bags were delivered on and off the ship very quickly - leave it to the porters. It’s baffling to me how many people drag huge luggage around with them on the first and last day.
The Seaside is beautiful. The Bridge of Sighs is very popular on the first day, go up at sunset for some great photos whether you’re in port or not. We liked dropping into the Sports Bar (the most inviting of any we’ve found on a ship) before or after an evening meal. There’s also a nice spot to relax on Deck 8, outside between the Sports Bar and La Boheme bistro. You’ll also find yourself taking a lot of pictures of the Atrium.
Cabin Review
Fantastica Balcony Stateroom
Standard balcony room, bathroom slightly on the small side.
Port Reviews
Miami
Miami is a great port to sail out of - definitely be out on deck for sailaway! In Miami, head down to Miami Beach for a dip. If it's where you're embarking, it's always worth spending a few days in South Beach before your cruise.
San Juan
The Old Town is great! Even if you're only in port for a few hours, you have enough time to explore it.
St. Thomas
Get the taxi to Magens Bay ($8 per person from downtown), stunning place!
St. Maarten
Get a taxi from the port to Maho Beach ($16 return). Maho Beach is famous for its USP - and is definitely worth going for - but it's also a nice, slightly small, beach to have a dip in the Caribbean Sea.
Nassau
Third time in Nassau so mainly wandered downtown. First timers should climb the Queen's Staircase and visit Fort Fincastle. Big up Sharkeez Tiki Bar, 2 minute walk from the port, for a great selection of Caribbean beers and fast free wi-fi!