The cruise was great and exciting ... great activities. I loved the restaurants. I have been on 3 cruises with MSC I think they should improve the menus of the restaurants.... same food for all 3. And they must change deck 13 menu and add more meat food ie ribs and other meats etc. The crew members are great and helpful. They r so bad working. Please open the gym from 5, 6am is too late. When I went on my first cruise MSC musica there offered us a bottle of water. Overall great experience. The disembarkation process was not great. Long lines to get to emigration. I loved the entertainment team and Eric the cruise director. The price of the photos are expensive. The cabin was also clean and neat. They need to add more seating areas at the pool area to ensure that it’s enough for everyone at the cruise Read Less

I had an awesome time indeed!! It's such a luxurious experience and it's not even expensive, it's worth every penny. From the friendly staff, to cleanliness of the rooms, passages each corner is extremely well taken care of. I don't know how they do it. The entertainment is extremely exciting and for everyone to part. The food is fresh and there was a wide variety of meals to choose from. OMG the club!! Dj was the bomb from Thursday to Saturday night. Yoh hai shame I had a blast and I want to do it again soon. The island was such a beautiful and private place the boats pick up and drop off on time. Infact everything regarding time on the MSC is prompt, no delay the queue must go on. Staff have lots of respect, our cabins were clean on time. Personal belongs kept in the same spot where you it. Overall I want to say the trip really depends on the type of crew you are with. The group of friends I went with were so awesome, which made the stay even more excellent for me. Read Less

One reason I choose to Cruise was to have fun and try out new experiences, how is it like to be in a titanic a 5 star moving hotel. The first time you enter the ship the ship smells 5 star and looks 5 star all the way, the decorations inside are amazing you even forget That you are inside a ship. The embarkation que is horrible, you can't wait for a while before entering the ship, and didn't like the fact that they only open few service desk during embarkation. The stuff members are super great and friendly especially the man responsible for our deck 8, even when most of them didn't know how to communicate in English but they tried. MSC is one hygienic cruise hotel I ever seen, every corner you turn there is sanitation thats what I loved. The food is super Healthy and they don't compromise on taste, everything I ate I could taste that it's quality food. The dinning areas I loved them because you get the opportunity to dress up and be fine and finned, only problem is you have to buy soft drinks all the time, I don't mind them selling alcohols wish they could have gave us maybe complimentary soft drink for every fine dinning meal or 5 drinks per Cruz then the rest you purchase. I loved Eric the voice from above the program director all his shows were fun and entertaining. The parties organized by stuff were super great problem they only last for an hour. Deck 13 buffet area was home to most cruises and would like to give blow to the stuff there at deck 13 because they are forever working, especially the pizza guy 24 hours pizza. Our cabin was in front so every wave the ship cut through we felt it, and you couldnt stand straight which resulted in sea sickness, so would advice you to book balcony center cabin. The excursions on the island were expensive hence did not do them. I hated the fact that we did not go to Pomene Island and they could not take us to a different island like Maputo instead of Portuguese Island which had nothing to see the second day and the waters were unclean to swim at them. Pomene has been giving them a problem why don't they start looking for an alternative to island or take it out on your markets because when I booked I saw two island and wanted to visit two not one island. The disembarking program failed them a bit, stuff was not properly assigned to guide people were they should go,whuch made things to go slower. The photo package is expensive and it would be nice if the price could go down or be included as our take home package because we got nothing as complementary everything you have to buy. Despite all the negatives would still go and advice people to go is an experience you don't want to miss. Read Less

cruise was advertised in the sunday times as pay for double and 50% for the third person was a very good deal and any6 other offers of that type would surly see me on board again only problem expoerienced was the drink coupond that was delayed and only recieved it on Sunday evening the excursion was vey good as far as the activeties on the island was concerned as well as the food that was catered for and the shattel of passangers to the island was also very well ocastrated cleanleness was obseved on the ship and lots and lots of a variety of food was on offer and also thier was coffee and tea as well as hot chocalte available almost 24hrs the appreciation also for the hallal corner was also noted The entertainment was most appreciated as the people that staged the show were of proffasionalst and the people on board really enjoyed themselves with the on going none stop dancing from embarkment to disembarkment If there would be a special package again i will certainly be on board again thanking MSC CRUSES for a wonderfull experience on board and a very safe sailing to and from Read Less

Why is the photos so expensive. When you dont buy it they throw all away?? Their are many people that look at the photos but dont buy. It is very nice pictures but really expensive. Think about cheaper prices as to throw everything away.. The food staff rooms and entertainment is very nice. On our 2 nd trip their was also more fish available. Deserts and so many of a variety of fruits were avaible. Cocktail of the day was also our favourite The staff is helpfull and friendly. We enjoy all the entertainment . We did not see the Sokkie singers too much to mingle with them as it would have been nice. On Portuguese Iland with all the changes and enough shades was awesome. We will definitely go on another cruise. Prices is resonible. Their is 1 more last thing. The hairdryer does not work as the laat time Read Less

it was an experience and I would like to take my whole family again on this worldly experience. The friendly crew makes you to feel welcome and at home. All the activities on the ship was such an experience one just needs to experience yourself. The service was excellent. I could not attend all the activities as there was too many and I have to go back to finish all others. The entertainment was the highlight of my trip as I am a person that likes to enjoy myself on the dance floor. I think 3 days was not enough for me to peruse through the entire ship. next time I would want to do more excursions compare to only Portuguese Islands. I have really enjoyed myself with my friends. There was a variety of food and we could just choose what ever we wanted. The service was good and I hope to see all the crew members again in the near future. Read Less

Wanted to experience cruising since it was my first time, i miss breakfast and lunch buffet it was wonderful. I cant wait to go back again it was unique experience . The staff was friendly when need assistant they will help with smile. Every time we leave our cabin when we come back its neat and well packed.service from the disco it was excellent really enjoyed myself a lot from there. Embarking to portuguese island wit a boat first when the boat leave i was scared looking left right front and back its only water but when spend few minutes i enjoyed too much. FOR A FIRST TIME VISIT I GUESS WHEN VISIT AGAIN I WOULD KNOW WHAT TO PACK FOR MY CRUISING AND HAVE ENOUGH FOR MY ENTERTAINMENT.I WISH TO CRUISE WITH MY FAMILY NEXT TIME FOR THEM TO EXPERIENCE WHAT I DID.CLEANNESS IS THEIR BEST THEY MAKE SURE.WOW THE MUSIC WAS ACCOMMODATING EACH AND EVERY ONE WHO WAS THERE Read Less

I choose MSC Musica because of what the ship had to offer sounded very attractive. The look off the ship and structure captivated me .The overall experience from the food to the staff were exceptional. The fine dining experience was one of a kind ,being graced with such humour loving and passionate waiters made the our time there worthwhile.The cabins were well kept on a daily basis which I was pleased about. The island pomene and the shows were breathtaking and was the highlight of my vacation. We were given the oppurtunity to meet and be seated to such an amazing family. Also the emabarkation and disembarkation processes were well planned out and executed. This ship gave us diversity from the people to the cuisine. I simply loved everything about this cruise ship. I will definitely be doing many more trips with the MSC family. Thank you to all involved for making it an unforgettable experience. Read Less

I chose this cruise as I always wanted to do so but was never able to because of work and family commitments, mu only regret is that I did not do the cruise sooner :(. We embarked on the 11 February 2019, remember to get to the embarkation port a earlier to avoid standing in long queues, the crew assisting with the embarkation was very efficient and directed us in a well manner, the entertainment also kept the queue occupied...it was amazing to see the elderly and disabled being assisted immediately. I did not book the trip so I was not aware of the "Easy On Board" system which allows quick embarkation for a fee, next time I will make use of this service. MSC makes this cruise exciting beginning to end with the photographs which can be purchased on board. I was amazed at the luxury of the ship as we entered, the welcome by the employees and the continuous reminders of what is required and the friendly smiles deserves a "thumbs up" Collection of vouchers (Drinks, water, etc...) which can be purchased with your booking was easy , also note that vouchers can be purchased on board as well. It is advisable to purchase the vouchers as part of the cruise package... I was a bit disappointed with the cabin being small but as I previously stated I did not book the cruise and will definitely book a cabin with a balcony on my next cruise.. The housekeeping service is excellent as the cabins were cleaned out twice daily. The Buffet is excellent with a huge variety to choose from and also includes a Halaal food station. The dinner at the restaurants was also good with also an option of a Curry menu for the spice lovers. The service from the waiters is exceptional The one thing that I most enjoyed was the entertainment and activities especially the world class daily shows at the theatre. The show at the theatre must not be missed by anyone... The Port and shore excursions was awesome, I would recommend that you book your seating spaces etc...with your cruise package, once again I was not aware....but will definitely do so next time. Also get your tickets to the islands early instead of waiting after breakfast to really enjoy the islands. Pomene was extremely hot, the one negative was the water package at Pomene we received 1x 500ml water instead of the 1.5 lt water which is purchased on board, MSC should have taken a decision to sell 2 x 500ml of water if they did not have 1.5lt.... Getting back to the ship was a nightmare due to standing in queues in the heat and passengers cutting the lines claiming their family were already in line and the crew did had poor control over the passengers and whom were next in line...there should definitely be a drinks station at this area for passengers to purchase water etc.. whilst in the queue. I love reading and the ship has a library but with limited selection of English books...this could be improved. Overall experience was 10/10...I loved every minute of the cruise and proud to say I have been bitten by the "Cruise Bug" and am already planning my next trip.. Well Done MSC Musica for a beautiful experience..... P.S....the ship cruise is for partying and having fun...... Read Less

Highlights I chose MSC because ever since I have started every time i become more crazier to take a cruise. This was my third time because I love the atmosphere, I love the hospitality and I just love being part of this family because everything is being done on professionally and efficiently on board. I should really say Musica is indeed a beautiful baby. Spacious cabins and very attractive scenery. Embarkation was a little longer but there was a valid reason which was a a result of load shedding which was beyond anybody's control. Otherwise the excitement killed the thought and waiting was no problem. From my previous experience there is normally no problem as far as that is concerned. It was only when we came back that I noticed somebody not being happy about her luggage because she could not find it. It was a little odd as I never heard of that ever since i started boarding the ship. Maybe there should be a checking point where security checks that people do take the luggage that truly belongs to them. The lady was causing an unnecessary scene drawing attention. Thank you for serving food that makes one to yen for more. The food is being served with love. Thank your kitchen team for looking after us. It is by choice to eat unhealthy but you surely do cater for everybody to eat a healthy meal. The plays are always exquisite. Thank you very much entertainment team you were just wonderful. Your costumes are always out of the world and everything becomes real. One of my highlight is this that I got to dance with one of the officials and that made my cruise the most enjoyable. Chilling around the pool more especially when there are activities is also most enjoyable experience. I love being on the Portuguese island. I love the water as well as the atmosphere around the island. It is more accommodating. The setup as well as the moving around all the activities are people friendly. Please make some improvements at Pomene as well or rather bring back the excursion of going into Maputo and cancel Pomene. I personally did not find the place enjoyable. The hot sand is unbearable, the limited space makes it very unpleasant for the people who came later and did not have any shelter to be under. The footpath leading to the beach could be at least outlined properly with wood material or so. Please take this matter seriously as it really was a low light as far as the excursions are concerned. Thank you very much for the great time that we had on the ship. The service from the people cleaning the cabins as well as the the waiters, not forgetting the personnel you meet around the ship who always are willing to help. How can I forget the teachers who so wonderfully look after our children and make their time a memorable. That gives mummy and daddy ample time to enjoy being on the ship without any hassles. My grandson was always reminding us not to forget that it is time for him to be dropped off. This is a lifetime experience as it really awakens the child in me. I would never miss an opportunity to go on a cruise. I intend cruising at the end of December to Mauritius and will share that with my sister. Read Less

Myself and my mom (who is 78yrs old) went on the trip. From the start of the trip till the end was AMAZING, the cabins was comfortable and spotless. The entertainment stunning. I am encouraging all my friends and family to go on one of the MSC cruises. It is truely value for money entertaining a great experience.The food was well divine. I would go on a MSC cruise any time instead of booking a holiday at a hotel where you still had to worry about meals. The drink packaging that you can buy online before the trip really adds that extra value for money. The staff are friendly and always have a smile on the faces and willing to assist you with anything. The baristas was most friendly of all. I was also very impressed with the upgrade of the Portuguese Island, so much better than when i visisted in 2011. Thank you MSC for the amazing memeories Read Less

When we got on board in Durban everything was excellent, curtesy from proffessional staff, our luggage well taken care, lunch already prepared, safety aspects observed and the takeoff entertainment exceeded my expectation.Just wanted an experience a cruise so can plan a holiday with my family, also just have fun and a weekend away. It has been the best experience in my life, now i will be planning to take my whole family. Every thing about the cruise from embarkement, the ship itsself, food entertainment and also hassle free disembarkement was excellent. Portuguese island Msc Lodge was spectacular, entertaiment, security, vibe all was world claas. I came with my friend but everything was worth the price. Loved different people with different cultures on board with their caring, helpful and friendly nature. Big up to your team and staff. Iwould like to take my son to have this life time experience, Well done MSC. Read Less

I did explore the cities before the cruise, embarkation and disembarkation went very well. I went to the cruise before so was familiar with the other things but the levels are upper than before, ship everything is so clean, the staff members do have respect to the guests, the cabin I was not expecting it, for me the cabin was the lowlight it was a 4 sleeper the cabin was too small for 4 people there was no space in the cabin, the top beds were so uncomfortable. Dining everything was ace, entertainment and activities oh that one was on top, service was excellent. Excursions the trip was going to Pomene and Portuguese Island but we ended up not going to Pomene nobody inform us about the changes we only went to Portuguese Island so for me that one was a lowlight maybe if they did inform that would be better because I went to this trip because of Pomene because I never went to Pomene before if I knew that we will only do Portuguese Island I wouldn’t go on this trip. I was traveling with my friends and I think that was last my trip but not sure. Read Less

My friend and I were looking for a cruise and found this one on the internet. It was a wonderful experience for me. The embarkation process [ from 11:30] until we were in our cabin was to long for me. The disembarkation went very smooth. The cabin was excellent and always nice and clean. The beds are fantastic. I enjoyed the balcony very much. The food were outstanding and there were something for anyone to eat. Even the two extra days we were on the ship - the food were still enough. The crew and waiters were always friendly and helpful. I did not take part in the outdoor activities because that is not my kind of thing. But I enjoyed the shows and the documentary films very much. I really enjoyed the lounges where I could relaxed with a book. The hospital crew were great and help my friendly and very quick. I certainly will make use of your cruises again in the future Read Less

Trying to find the perfect gift is always daunting, luckily i decided to gift my husband a cruise with the Msc Musica, Upon Arrival at the harbour, There was a que to get into check in and to leave your luggage, each step was even more exciting as its just one step closer to boarding, When we reached check in and all was in order my two kids, husband and i literally ran to the boarding area, We stopped quickly at the refreshments area to grab a drink and off we were ( this was so though full after waiting in the ques, a thirst quench was just what we needed) The music and the friendly staff outside just set the mood, Finally we arrived inside the ship, our passports was taken and immediately we were sent upstairs to get a wrisk band for my 7 year old, so basically this as to be worn by the child throughout the cruise, as it makes it easy to locate which cabin the child is,incase they get lost. As we explored we bought our drinks package and went on the 13th deck for our buffet lunch, this was my favourite spot throughout the cruise haha hence the weight gain, everything was perfectly set up, different types of food, bread rolls, salads, dessert, tea coffee and water is always served. We sat at a table and indulged in our scrumptious lunch btw the buffet is open 20 hours, breakfast lunch and supper, And the pizzas is thee best tasting pizzas ever, Everything is always in order as soon as u done eating theres always someone to clear up ur table. Making it easier for the next person to come in, After eating we went to our cabin to change up and went on deck to do the drill, Finally we set sail, the experience of just leaving was absolutely amazing. Everyone was filled with excitement. We had abit of a confusion with our cabin and illena from reception was the absolutely best, so friendly and she even sent up a bottle of champagne and some yummy snacks for my husband on his birthday. Theres so much to do on the ship but we mainly hung out on the deck as the kids wanted to be in the pool, there is a kiddies and teens club aswell, my 7 year old loved it and still talks about his teachers, they provide activities the entire day for the kids and believe me its so safe. They even take the kids for dinner and it's so exciting for the kiddies, Again the level of quality and security is absolutely amazing these ladies and gents are so patient and caring with the kids, Everything is always in a order, at 8pm every night we were allocated a restaurant which we could dine in, the food is absolutely amazing and our waiter was so friendly and welcoming, the manager if this restaurant was extremely rude and to be honest he was the only bad experience throughout our cruise, The shopping is a must, my husband bought me the most beautiful jewellery and the 4.5 liter drinks is absolutely well worth it, Island day: Day of island was amazing such beautiful experience, u have to get a ticket on board which will tell u what boat number u are, u go to the 4th floor and a boat awaits u, nothing to be scared about again everything is always in order and safe, when we arrived at the island the blue waters and music and views was just breathtaking. There's alot of locals selling stuff so carry some cash, it was extremely hot so we went straight to the buffet, freshly caught grilled fish and the delicious water melons and mangoes was my favourite, A dj and also a live band makes u feel so blessed just to experience this.We spent the day in the water and then finally decided to leave early as we didn't want to wait long with the kids, The boats started loading up and we finally entered the ship again, As we entered there was a gentleman handing us an ice face clothe again very well thought of as coming out from the heat, this ice cloth was a bit of heaven for us, Back to sail and after refreshing up we went on board for some activities. What amazed me was everything was always in order, the staff are all very hard working, A few are abit rude but majority are so welcoming, oh please be careful when buying drinks on the deck, if u not using ur drinks package, we paid 45 dollars for two jack Daniels and two cans of coke, yet at the bar across is was 5 dollars. So always ask the price before you purchase. The theater the night before we left was absolutely amazing we got to see the captain break some moves, so friendly so creative and overall it was definitely the best experience ooooh i forgot to mention i felt sea sick for two nights so make sure u take something and they also provide some tabs at the reception area. Would i recommended this cruise? I will be off my head not too, A lifetime experience, My Kids are still talking about it and my husband says he doesn't no how to top this for my birthday hahahah. Overall I'll be back again Read Less

The MSC Musica is the best experience I think anyone MUST experience atleast once in your life!! This has been the best time of my life. From the moment you arrive at Durban terminal, to the moment you disembark, the service is of excellent quality, you feel like royalty. The shows are out of this world, so much effort and detail to give the best most entertaining production, food was the best of the best. Prepared and displayed with class, Thank you to each and every staff member that i encountered for the hospitality and beyond friendly service!! Special thanks to Leo Lopez from the entertainment crew, for showing us around and taking care of us, and always around and willing if we were not sure about something. I cannot wait to go on my next MSC cruize. Once again thank you. I will definitely see you again in the very near future!!!! Read Less

We have been cruising with msc for many years, actually since 2009. This specific cruise was the first of three back-to-back cruises, as we only disenbarked on the 19th of december 2018. This cruise was the most exhausting experience ever. Embarkation took 3 hours 45 minutes. Once we passed customs, the ship served warm juices on the side, what a welcoming drink, after all the time in the shed to get through customs. Then another queue to collect vouchers. More qeues to activate the cabin account. The ship is beautiful, the staff tried to be helpful, but some of the guests behaved like barbaric pirates and this resulted in everything being hectic. The cabin was neat & clean, yet as a black voyager guest, apparently the only one on the ship, i did not feel welcome at all, i became my duty to inform the voyager desk, who was rarely available, that my cruise card need to be updated. We eventually, four days later started to receive the voyager welcome drink and platter in the cabin. After the 3rd cruise embarcation was completed on the 16th of december, i was horrifically embarressed by the hotel staff, after confirming the night before, that the seating arrangements for the second seating for the final cruise will remain the same. This was confirmed and after being seated, as arranged, we were moved around like chess pieces. I have never been this embarresed on any cruise, for that metter, not ever in even the average african restaurant. I then wrote a note to the customer service desk, indicating the situation and stated that i am not happy with the situation and the treatment from staff. The customer relations manager, chanel, the f&b manager, the spa manager, the casino maneger and other staff had a meeting and i was requested to have a meeting with them. Several issues were recitfied and we were treated with dignity and sincerely appologised to for the inconvenience and lack of acknowledgement. The main aim for this cruise, was to scatter the ashes of my partner, whom cruised with me since 2009, every single cruise, last in december 2016. We had booked a cruise for december 2017, but due to jason's medical state, he was not able to partake and we decided to cancel. Jason passed on 20 may 2018, and his wish was to scatter his ashes during a cruise. I've made all the arrangements, took all possible actions into consideration, arranged for all the documentation, made the relevant arrangement on the ship, to ensure everything is done legally and without consequinces, but eventually cancelled the request, as this was suppose to be a memorable experience, and not coupled to horrific memories. Therefor jason is back at home. I will cruise again, it's the most relaxing and practical holiday for me, as im a event planner, the head chef of my company and the owner of a venue in gauteng. I've refered hundreds of my clients and guests to msc, always tell people of this super experience, the most awesome service and amazing shows. To cruise is the only holiday for me, as it was for jason. Therefor i will not consider the last cruise i took as an indication of cruising experience, as there is so much more, i have experienced it in over 15 cruises since 2009. The portuguese islands and pomene was done and developed in great taste, well arranged and really confortable settings, but not really africa friendly, as the guests have proofed to other more sifisticated guests, that manners and etiquete lacks and can create chaos even in the best of planned events. Thank you again for a great experience. Read Less

It was a launch of the musica and msc invited us. The embarkation process was very long and tedious. So to be honest that was the down fall as we had to wait for hours on hours before we could be onboard. which meant we missed some time and were tired when boarding. However when we were on board it was quicker and the buffet lunch was ready however that also was limited the menu on offer was not that great. I have been on a cruise before that i paid for on the sinfonia and the menu was great we were spoilt for choice so i don't know what to tell my clients if that was because we were not fully paying customers or what. The dinner menu was great also the service was limited. But the entertainment was great over all the theme of the ship is music and that is true. Read Less

After the death of my husband in October 2017 i just wanted to treat my family to a well deserved break----away from home and all its sad memories. A relative suggested an MSC cruise and i jumped at it as none of us would be expected to do anything else but have fun. I chose the 'CRUISE to NOWHERE' due to financial constraints as i had to pay for all 7 of us. However now i realize that this was too short a cruise to really get the best experience. Embarkation was a breeze- i expected loooong queues but this was not so. Disembarkation was also not so bad. My major gripe is that when i did the booking i requested a wheelchair for my elderly father-in-law but nearer to the date of the cruise i was advised that a wheelchair will be available for embarkation/disembarkation purposes only and not whilst we were on board. He is not disabled but due to age and illnesses he is only able to walk a few meters before getting exhausted. Therefore it was my intention to have a wheelchair for his ease of viewing the entire ship. Due to this we had to borrow a wheelchair from a relative which was in not so good a condition. Our overall experience was excellent, with a few minor dissatisfaction....such as the cabin/bathroom was too small. The entertainment during the day was excellent, invigorating and quite jovial---thoroughly enjoyed ourselves on the 11th deck. - Friday evening was good only mishap was that the other bars closed when the disco started.....not good at all as there are some of us who do not enjoy frolicking with youngsters..... i would have preferred being able to enjoy the companionship of more mature passengers listening to and dancing to 'our' type of music. - Saturday evening was not so good- bars closed for +/-2hrs my youngsters getting a bit bored waiting for the disco that only started +/-11pm. I feel that the kids/teens entertainment should not have taken place here- perhaps one of the other bars could have been utilised for this.... Another point of dissatisfaction was the duration of the cruise----from Friday +/-2pm to Sunday +/- 7am. i am sure there are reasons for these times but eish! we could have done with disembarking after 2pm But like i said in the very beginning------ALL-IN-ALL IT WAS AN EXCELLENT EXPERIENCE and i would definitely love to go on a longer cruise as soon as i can afford another one ;-) Read Less

I chose this cruise because I needed a break and because of the itinerary. On the whole the cruise was really good and I would recommend it if you are a family with children, couple, friendship group, or are looking for a 'booze/party' cruise. First of all the staff were flawless, nothing was too much trouble and all the crew I came into contact with were friendly, helpful and just a pleasure to engage with. For me embarkation and disembarkation went smoothly. The ship was lovely, clean and well maintained with good facilities. My cabin (8129) was perfect for my needs, my only minor gripe was that I found a item of women's clothing under the bed from a previous passenger and an old ships programme (from October 2017) in a drawer. But apart from that the cabin was good. The food on board was good. I did the 'behind the scenes' tour and met the executive chef and got to appreciate what goes into food preparation on board and how challenging this can be. I was a solo gay passenger and I felt that all of the entertainment was geared up for heterosexual couples and families with children and there was nothing really aimed at those who were travelling on their own or gay. I think that some sort of meet and greet for solo passengers may have been a good idea. Despite notifications being placed in the ships programme about the evening entertainment in the theatre being aimed at adults only there were lots of young children present. The theatre in the evenings was overcrowded and this was made more frustrating as people saved chairs for others, despite being instructed not to do so. The formal evening was a bit of a 'damp squid' (why bother having it) as there was some confusion on its advertising in the ships programme (dress for the evening indicated with formal logo with the words 'informal' written) so a small number of us dressed formally for the evening. Our itinerary was changed when we boarded and we spent two days anchored off Portuguese Island which left me feeling disappointed as I had looked forward to seeing Pomene. I felt that two days at PI was overkill if you're not into beaches and beach activities. Whilst there the services, entertainment and activities were moved to the island and very little happening on board for those who decided not to go ashore. For example, all the shops were closed during these days. Another minor gripe was the Baroque coffee shop only opening at 4pm which I think was very restrictive for those of us who enjoy a good cup of coffee during the day (although you could get coffee in the buffet during the course of the day). I've noticed that the cruises from Durban (I've done 3) are very much aimed at families and children. With the focus on parties and alcohol (I'm not judging), because this is not what I look for in a cruise I do not think I will do another cruise from Durban. However, I would cruise with MSC again in the Med or Caribbean Read Less

PRE CRUISE. I flew from heathrow to DURBAN via DUBAI Not great as trains in Dubai were not running meaning going thru security Twice! Stayed 3 nts at Parade Hotel right on the Beach. Saw USHAKA MARINE which I enjoyed apart from the rain. EMBARKATION. After a nice BREAKFAST in Hotel I got a taxi to the PORT and a long Queue for Check In no getting through any faster as my back card was not a classic as not cruised for a while. Another long queue for passport control. Finally after a photo I was onboard no cabin ready yet so dropped my other case and had a BUFFET LUNCH. Then my cabin was ready despite no announcement. CABIN. I had 7053 an obstructed view not a great view with the lifeboat in the way. Not a bad sixe a double bed no headboard I have had better. ok bathroom with a shower some drawer space. Safe was locked from previous tenant so had to get them to unlock it to use. Also no soap in the bathroom glad they sorted it out before the morning. I prefer proper soap not a dispenser. Then lifeboat drill which was very quick then the case was there and unpacked. I went up on deck to see the SAILAWAY. DINING. My cruise card had no info on it when I was dining or my table number. So at 1730 went to see MATRE D got a table in the other RESTAUARANT then find I was sitting ALONE! Not HAPPY! so had to wait 30 mins to get a table with others. By the time I had dinner I had missed the early show. I like a smoke so using the CIGAR ROOM was a good idea even though all are CIGERETTE smokers using it. I had deal with agent so got FREE bottled water at meals as I do not like not having tap water like most lines do. DESTINATION. My only place was MOZAMBIQUE ISLE I missed this place when I cruises on MSC 20 years ago as they had SMALLPOX so could not land. Funny enough that cruise sat with a couple from DURBAN who I met this time when I was there. EXCURSION. I booked and excursion 4x4 to TURTLE BEACH but as in said I was paying by cash it was not booked. I booked chicken bbq on the beach instead at $45 not cheap. I was having breakfast they kerpt calling tenders I had 2 tickets for different time and after breakfast went on the next one.Got off at MOZAMBIQUE ISLE and walked in the water to where my excursion went from. Got confused thought I cvould use RAND to payt for drinks but used your CRUISE CARD. Had a drink and some fruit. Waited till 1300 for the trip to INACHA ISLAND. it was a tiny like a rowing boat with outboard motor. Had to go into the water to get onboard, I had a lot of trouble getting in and out of the boat. He had trouble starting the motor.Then got there and had to paddle through the water to get to beach. walked to the BBQ and sat with another couple funny trhe lady eat almost none of the chicken and did not want to walk to the village. After the village got the boat back and bought a model boat for 120 RAND. Then got the Tender back to the ship. DEPARTURE. I thought we were staying there overnight but at Dinner I see we are moving nobody seemed to to believe we were. We cruised slowly along the coast. Had Dinner and made sure I did not want to miss the show it was a mind reading show they only picked women. Then cigar room always people to talk to. AT SEA. Had BREAKFAST BUFFET disembarkation talk which used to be shown on the cabin tv which was rubbish not even a map to see where we were. Also 2 lights went out in cabin despite me calling reception they did NOTHING! In the end I had to remove floresoent one as it flickered all the time otherwise all the lights went out. LUNCH Buffet and NAP then Last Dinner and show with goodbye and CIGAR Room was packed with CIGERETTE SMOKERS(NOT GOOD!) so sat on windy deck instead. Packed and left case outside cabin. DISEMBARKATION. After an early Breakfast an early arriving at 5am Then sat on deck waited for colour to be called then taxi to hotel. THOUGHTS. Not a bad cruise things need to be fixed though, only good thing I did like was a machine to take money out of bank account rather than charging me twice, I hope more cruise lines adopt this idea. Read Less

It was gospel Cruise, I like gospel Music,so it was good experience,I enjoyed very much,food was good and delicious,embarkation process was professional,disembarkation process was professional,cruise staff were friendly, the experience was very excellent, the balcony room we were in was good looking,only blankets were not smelling good,next time they must wash blankets,entertainment was excellent, bathroom was cleaned, bath tub was cleaned, information sharing was good and updating, we were supposed to go to Portuguese island, but could not go due to weather not favourable, the pool side area was fun and enjoyable, me and my friends really had great good time together, kitchen staff were friendly, cleaning staff were friendly, gospel concert was excellent, Sunday service was good, the message was very courageous, breakfast,lunch and dinner was well prepared and Delicious ,deserts were very delicious and well prepared, the cruise itself was very enjoyable, we really had great time cruising with my friends. Read Less

I wanted to go to Durban so I chose This Cruise. Embarkation en disembarkation was fast and easy. real nice and friendly people helping you. the ship is beautiful and had lost of fun activities. Dining was always good and the food was great. you should just be aware of getting see sick/ so do your preparations. Portuguese Islands was fun. we could not get of the second island. service was good. anyone on the ship you ask for something. they will surely be able to assist you. the swimming pool deck was very nice. but if I can advise. It is very hot in that area. it would be nice is MSC can put up total shading at the swimming pool. the lady looking after the 3-0 baby was great. but the times was not so good. when there was night activities they where closed. I would surely go again Read Less

Cruise was to celebrate my daughter's 40th birthday and there were 8 of us in the group. We have a wonderful time and the entertainment crew were absolutely brilliant. Everyone wants to go again. The food was amazing. The shows brilliant. Unfortunately could not get off at Pomene, which we would love to have seen, but weather did not permit it. The entertainment arranged at such short notice was great. It was nice to just cruise as well. Was not impressed with embarkation, we all paid for priority boarding, but there was no such thing after going to immigration and then on board. We had to stand in very long queues and when asking port personnel about priority boarding, they did not have a clue. Once through immigration and waiting to board the ship, there was another long queue with no sign of "Easy on Board". Only after walking to front of the queue was there a sign for Easy on Board. That did not help when standing in the queue for almost 10 minutes. This needs to be addressed. Read Less

I'm 31 yrs of age and I took my 59yr old mummy on a cruise for the first time.She turned 59 yrs on board. What a surprise birthday she had.She didn't know,I kept it as a surprise. I knew she was going to enjoy herself for this was my second cruise.She still can't close her mouth.Her highlight was the food and the hospitality.The best treatment ever. The stuff made it really special. I'm so glad I chose taking her on a cruise for her birthday.I'll go on a cruise anytime of the day. Anytime is cruise time. Everyone needs to go on this cruise...I can go on and on and on about this cruise.I love you guys,keep up the good job. I'm definatly taking my brothers on the next cruise which has to be very soon. and obviously my future husband has to go with me again,I mean everyone in my life have to know about this cruise,I know it's sounds funny. Experience value for money. Oh the dance ,what an entertainment. I dance my lung out.I had too much fun.The best place for socializing,good time I had wow. We also enjoyed Portugues Island,best weather ever. My mum had the best time ever.She swam literally the whole day.She was just having fun.Even when we got there,the service was still on point. I'm just all over the moon about this cruise. what a smooth embarking and disembarking on this.fast moving lines well controlled,took the best pictures in the process. Oh I must say,perfumes,bags and watches are very cheap there. I always have extra cash to spoil myself with. Read Less