Already at home after 2 years of cancellations and changes of ships and itineraries, finally I was able to cruise the western Mediterranean again, this time on the MSC Seaview, and finally enjoy a few days in Barcelona. It was not the ship initially planned, but I had a very good impression of the Seaview, better than I expected. It is a big ship, but full of nooks and crannies, so everyone can find what they are looking for. Families with children will find the water park with heated water (with 3 giant slides), the children's clubs, the main pool on deck 16. For those looking for more tranquility, like me, the indoor heated pool on deck 18 or the spectacular aft pool on deck 7, or any solarium area on the upper decks. There are two buffet restaurants, one on deck 16, next to the main pool, and the other on deck 8 with plenty of tables in the area that runs along the sides of the ship (the waterfront boardwalk is definitely one of the best places). Another charming place is the atrium space that is four decks high, surrounded by bars, and with views to the outside on the sides and with lots of natural light, where there is live music every night (the white night is back again). In the theater there are shows every day at various times, mostly a variety of musicals and X-Factor type skills performances (all acceptable, although I'm sure the jury would give them a no). There is no lack of a good gym and a thermal SPA area. Covid measures were still in place (such as masks in indoor areas, except for bars and restaurants, chairs in bar areas that must be left free), and reservations are required for theater shows (which had reduced seating).

If you have the budget for a balcony cabin in the Aurea experience, I suggest you consider upgrading to an inside cabin in the Yacht Club for almost the same price. You will gain many perks (premium beverage package throughout the ship, unlimited WiFi, access to the thermal SPA area, minibar, Nespresso coffee machine, ....), and although you will lose the private balcony you will gain access to the bow area of the ship (terrace over the bridge, deck 19 with pool and 2 jacuzzis), and of course the Top Sail Lounge and the YC Restaurant.

Without hesitation I would repeat in this ship, or in her sister Seaside (in the new Seashore or Seaescape is lost the use of the waterfront broadwalk for the buffet, which is moved to a single one on deck 16, and aft of deck 8 is now for the specialty restaurants). Read more