As a solo traveller who needed to find something to do while other family members were busy elsewhere, I had little choice of cruise or cruise line. The MSC Fantasia dates fitted so that was it! However I did have to pay full double price for my balcony cabin on deck 9.
Embarkation involved queuing but it was a well-managed queue and inevitable considering the number of passengers.
My cabin was great, very clean and comfortable and I used the balcony a great deal to read and just enjoy the views. Jacques, the cabin attendant was always smiling and cheerful.
On deck 9, towards the back. Great for watching the pilot boats coming and going. Very quiet, very little corridor noise.