MSC Virtuosa: My Travel Experience
Recently our cruise specialist Emma embarked on a short cruise onboard MSC Virtuosa sailing with her family. We wanted to share with you their experience, so you know what to expect when stepping onboard a cruise with MSC Cruises.
Setting Sail
Embarking on the MSC Virtuosa was a seamless experience that set the tone for a great cruise. Our journey started in Southampton, with a swift and hassle-free embarkation process. Although our scheduled embarkation time was 2 PM, we decided to try our luck by arriving an hour early. There were no queues to our delight, and we breezed through the check-in process. One notable change in procedure was that cabin keys were no longer handed out at check-in. Instead, they were conveniently hung on the doors of our cabins. This process helped speed up the boarding process. The MSC for Me app also proved to be a valuable tool, allowing us to complete everything needed before setting sail so we had less information to provide at check-in.
Our Cabin: Bella Balcony
Our home for the duration of the cruise was a deluxe balcony cabin on MSC’s Bella Experience. This meant our cabin number was allocated by the cruise line. Opting for the Bella Experience meant we saved on the cost of the cruise but had the possibility of an obstructed view. We were allocated a cabin on deck 10 with no obstruction. The obstructed cabins are located on deck 8 and while the lifeboats are visible from the balcony, they don't obstruct the view out to sea to any significance. The balcony was furnished with two chairs and a footstool, perfect for enjoying the ocean breeze. Inside, the cabin featured modern amenities such as a TV, a sofa area, and a dressing table. The shower, enclosed by a glass panel, was spacious and stylish. A useful feature of the cabin was the light switch button with "make up my cabin" and "do not disturb" options, ensuring seamless communication with the cabin steward in a modern technical way.
Navigating the Ship: A Breeze on MSC Virtuosa
I found that MSC Virtuosa was one of the easiest ships to navigate, thanks to its intuitive design and extensive signage. Colour-coded carpets and numerous maps placed strategically around the ship, particularly near the lifts, made finding our way a breeze. The ship's cleanliness and aesthetic appeal were impressive, with plenty of picturesque spots perfect for capturing memories. The innovative lift system, which assigned a specific elevator based on your floor selection, ensured minimal waiting time.
Culinary Delights: A Gastronomic Adventure
One of the highlights of our cruise was the exceptional food and beverage offerings. Breakfast was a highlight, featuring the best oatmeal and raisin cookies I've ever tasted, along with some very tasty French toast. We didn't dine in the main restaurant for lunch or dinner, instead opting for the buffet area which exceeded our expectations. It was extensive and never felt overcrowded, offering a variety of options, including Mediterranean, Rotisserie, Grill, Pizza, World Foods, Cold Meats, Vegan options, and a selection of Desserts. Everything was clearly labelled, making it easy to find what we fancied each day.
In addition to the buffet, the ship offered a selection of food venues, including speciality dining venues, a chocolate café, a crepe station, and an ice cream shop. The ice cream was some of the best I've ever had, and the white chocolate mocha from the chocolate shop was a standout treat. While some of these extras came at an additional cost, they were reasonably priced.
Entertainment: Shows and Parties
The MSC Virtuosa excelled in providing top-notch entertainment. The sailaway parties were lively and engaging, with music that catered to all tastes, from cheesy hits to more modern pop songs. We enjoyed several shows, including the Abba Songbook and the newly premiered Starwalker, a phenomenal Michael Jackson tribute that gave me goosebumps. The Carousel production was another highlight, featuring incredible talent in aerial hooping, juggling, and balancing acts. At £9, which included a cocktail, it was well worth the price.
Wellness and Relaxation: The Thermal Spa
We chose to make a visit to the thermal spa which was a rejuvenating experience. We spent a few hours indulging in the heated beds, Jacuzzis, and steam rooms. When it became too warm, the cold rain showers and cool breeze machines provided a refreshing break. The spa facilities included lockers, changing rooms, and bathrobes, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing visit. We could have spent the whole day in the spa but we wanted to experience everything Virtuosa offers and had only a couple of days to explore.
Final Thoughts: A Memorable Voyage
MSC Virtuosa offered an exceptional cruising experience, with minor areas for improvement. The buffet, while always offering a variety of choices, had the same menu both nights, which could benefit from more variation. However, we would have had more options if we had opted to dine in the main restaurant, so this is more down to personal choice. The select dining restaurants were at a supplement which we didn’t try on this occasion but look forward to trying out on our next cruise. The quality of the shows, particularly the Starwalker performance, was unparalleled and remains a highlight of my cruise experience.
The MSC for Me app was user-friendly and provided timely reminders for events and activities, making it easy to plan our days. There was always plenty to do, and the ship's overall experience was nothing short of spectacular. The staff onboard were all very friendly and helpful and really made our experience memorable.
In conclusion, the MSC Virtuosa is a beautiful ship that offers a blend of luxury, entertainment, and relaxation. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or embarking on your first voyage, this ship promises a memorable and enjoyable experience.