Having had a big problem on the previous MSC cruise, we were not sure what to expect but went with an open mind. The ship is not as flashy as some of the newer ships, but makes up for it with a yacht type feel. There are fewer passengers than the larger ships, so no real problems with long lines.
Every member of staff we met were fantastic and worked hard, I can't understand some of the reviews regarding staff; if you interact with them they will interact with you. We never had to wait longer that 2 minutes to get a drink, when you are pleasant with the waiters they can't wait to come and serve you and chat to you. The only rude people we met were fellow passengers, can you imagine the smiling service they got when they clapped there hands and demanded "COFFEE".
The balcony cbin was a bit smaller than we have had on other MSC ships, with only a corner dressing table and a box stool. It took us some time to find the safe that was located behind the mirror on the dressing table; this could be improved with a notice on the mirror.
Good clean cabin with a small balcony, the cabin is small compared to other MSC ships we have been on before.
Spent 2 nights pre-cruise, the museums are very good, but beware of some of the narrow streets; particularly at night.
Tip if you are embarking in Genoa, there is a free bus and a 6 euro coach from the airport to the main railway station. On the day of embarkation MSC have a stand at the station where you can leave your luggage to be delivered to the ship and your cabin. From the station it is a 6 minute walk to the ship
Shuttle to the city is quite expensive but there is a city bus located on the left of the shuttle busses; it cost 4 euro return.
The shuttle is expensive but the City bus is located near the exit doors at a cost of 4 euro each way. If you walk to the main road (2 minutes) you can get the number 1 (Airport to Port) bus at a cost of 2 euro.