This is a long review, but I hope it will help you to understand the MSC experience. Like most folks, we (my DH and I) selected this cruise for its destination of Cuba. We’ve cruised about 20 times, but this was our first on MSC. Expectations were low due to the reviews; however, we were pleasantly surprised with our experience and in some cases liked MSC better than RCCL or other “American” cruise lines.

Embarkation was quick and easy. Just like other cruise lines, complete the registration on line and have your tickets printed, filled out and signed when you arrive. Also, have the “Guest Certification for Authorized US Travel to Cuba” printed, completed and signed. To note – our etickets said we were to arrive at 4:15, but we like to be on board early, so we arrived about noon with no issues. I assume they do this to stagger the amount of people arriving at one time. The only unusual issue is you will not be asked for a credit card for onboard expenses until you get on the ship. Once on board, you need to go to an ATM-type machine and enter your credit card. There is a big queue when everyone is getting on board, but you can come back anytime within the first 48 hours to add your credit card which will save you time in the queue. Be sure to let your credit card company know you are traveling, as the ATM-type machine looks to them as an Italian purchase.

Once on board, you are bombarded with the selling of drink packages and spa packages. We’ve never been on a ship that didn’t do this. We love the spa and they had a great deal if you bought 4 or 6 services. We bought 6 services (split between us) which got us 30% off and free use of the thermal spa area for the entire cruise. In the end, this was MUCH less than we usually spend at the spa! They also had a package for 20% off if you bought 4 services. Like any of the packages, you need to figure out if it will be saving you money or not. We did not buy the drink package. Read more