I chose this cruise mostly because of its reasonable cost, and that it would be a new Cruise Line. MSC made it more enticing to try them with their Status Match Program. Though benefits differ from cruise line to cruise line; they are generally an incentive to be loyal. Knowing I would get "top tier" treatment made it easier to try something new.

I flew into Fort Lauderdale and took an UBER to the cruise port. (approx $50 with tip). I arrived at about 1 pm without any problems. When I got to the cruise port, they quickly whisked away my luggage, and when I entered the building they had a wheel chair for me immediately, none of the long waiting I have experienced on other lines. Once on the ship, it was the normal glitz and sell of drink packages, specialty dining, and spa experiences. All of which can easily be ignored. . . except child registration if you have one to those with you. I was traveling solo.

I had put in a minimum bid for an upgrade from interior to oceanview. I got room 8003 with a forward facing window. The room looked out over a deck in the bow of the ship. The deck, though rarely used, was public, and people could see into my room. My only bad experience was here: my card would not open my room. I asked a steward to let me in and was told he would need to get his supervisor. I asked how long and he told me 5 minutes. It turned out to be 45, and my bladder was not pleased. After being let in, I was told I would need to go to reception to get a new card. (I could have done that in the first place). Getting a new card was quick and easy. Read more