We arrived bright and early at Gatwick Airport,having stayed locally overnight, looking forward to our flight with BA to Venice where we were to board MSC Magnifica. Check in and flight to Venice went well.

Embarkation was well handled by MSC staff and we swiftly located our cabin. Our standard stateroom with balcony was pleasantly decorated with a good-sized bed, although wardrobe hanging area could be larger. En-suite was clean with large mirrors and brightly lit. A comprehensive book giving all necessary information was to hand and cruise information available via television channel. Evening meals were taken in the Quattro Venti restaurant and the waiters were pleasant and obliging. However, being at a table for six, courses were served at different times and on occasion a further course served before the preceeding course was finished. Although food was in the main of a good standard the choice was limited, especially in respect of desserts. Also water would not be provided chilled and served in a jug, clients had to buy bottled water each night for consumption with their wine. Breakfast in the restaurant attended by waiters was chaotic, main courses being served before cereals and milk for tea given in a glass (difficult to pour).

Theatre shows were too short, only 30 - 45 minutes and those having 2nd dining sitting had to view show first at 7p.m. Lounges had musical entertainment (dancing could be enjoyed) and bingo. Only took one organised excursion whilst at Bari. The guide was very knowledgeable and the trip was extremely interesting. However, owing to the fact that the ship docked over an hour late there was no time during the trip to stop for refreshments. Cabin stewards were very polite and obliging and kept the cabin immaculate. Some waiters, both dining room and bar areas, seemed indifferent to their work and were rude. In respect of waiters it appeared many had not been trained properly and could not comprehend our service should be carried out. Read more