This was our second cruise and the first with MSC, having cruised with RCI last year. The Magifica is a beautiful ship and very clean as was the Independence of the Seas last year. The main difference being the culture on board. As has been stated many times MSC is Italian and this is reflected in the clientele and the ambiance on board. We knew this before we left and I would agree with what has been said in many previous reviews with regard to the lack of free coffee and the need to announce everything in 5 or 6 languages. Water was freely available at lunch times in the Sahara cafe. Ice and water machines are provided so there is no need to purchase bottled water unless you want to.

Our flight to Venice from Heathrow was delayed and we also had to wait for the bus to take us to the ship. This was not a problem and there were MSC representatives at the airport to assist if necessary. When we reached the port, embarkation went smoothly and we were aboard very quickly and shown to our cabins. We had a balcony cabin which was very comfortable......possibly slightly smaller than last year but the shower and toilet areas seemed larger. The shower was powerful and hot at all times. The cabin was kept spotless and the towels and bed linen changed daily. We did not see much of the cabin attendant but he certainly did his job expertly and without fuss.

We ate breakfast in the dining room as we did not want to be bothered searching for a seat in the self service area. Service was always very good and we were offered bread juice tea and coffee continuously. The main food was served efficiently and the quality good. It was relaxing way to start each day. We ate in the Sahara at lunch times and although it was busy we had no problems in getting seated.......as long as you sat down immediately!! The food was good and there was a wide choice. We ate at the first sitting at dinner as the second one seemed very late. Our waiter was very cheerful and efficient. There were 7 courses and we chose as we wished. It took a while to get used to courses coming at different times according to what people had ordered. The quality again was very good although the choice was not always huge. Read more