MSC Orchestra

Launched in 2007, the MSC Orchestra was the second Musica class vessel built for MSC Cruises. Along with its sister ships, the Musica, Poesia and Magnifica, the Orchestra was designed to provide an affordable and luxurious big-cruise option for the European market.

MSC - which stands for Mediterranean Shipping Company - is an Italian enterprise that was founded in 1987. Today, it has 11 ships, with another being built, and is one of the largest cruise operators in the world, after Carnival, Royal Caribbean and Norwegian.

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The Orchestra generally splits its time between Europe and South America. During the European summer, it departs on cruises lasting anywhere from seven days to a fortnight. Ports of call include destinations in both the Baltic and Mediterranean, with some favourites including Copenhagen,Oslo, St Petersburg, London, Lisbon, Gibraltar, Malaga and Barcelona.

As the weather begins to get chilly in the north, the ship sails across the Atlantic and spends the southern-hemisphere summer travelling along the coast of Brazil.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 2,200
Year entered service: 2004
Beam (ship width): 94.4 feet
Draught (ship depth): 22.4 feet
Length: 830.7 feet
Tonnage: 89,600
Crew: 701
Maximum speed: 23 knots
Number of passenger decks: 10
Number of lifts: 9
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 878

Food, cuisine and dining

On the Orchestra, hungry passengers have two main dining rooms to choose from. Villa Borghese is decorated in warm hues and features lovely murals of Italian landscapes, sure to provide the feeling of dining in a rural village in Tuscany. Alternatively, there's L'Ibiscus, which has large windows so that diners can take in the beautiful ocean views as they enjoy a fabulous meal.

Both venues can be found at the aft end of the vessel and serve three meals a day. There are two dinner services and passengers will be seated in groups for a traditional cruise dining experience.

If you're looking for something a bit different, then the casual buffet might be the perfect choice. These include the Four Seasons and Cafeteria La Piazzetta.

The Four Seasons becomes an a la carte alternative dining venue in the evening. Meanwhile, those seeking fine dining will be pleasantly surprised by Shanghai, an Asian-inspired specialty restaurant that serves what must be the best Chinese food at sea. The modern and stylish decor includes lots of black lacquer and red flourishes, while menu items include both Szechuan and Cantonese-style cuisine.

For a hot drink and a light snack, the atrium lobby could be the perfect choice. This stunning location is several decks high and often features live music in the evenings, making it the perfect place to enjoy a cuppa and your favourite pastry, as well as good conversation and a relaxed atmosphere.

On-board entertainment and activities

The main entertainment venue is called the Covent Garden. It's a stunning location, with tiered seating spanning three decks. Productions in this space range from cabaret acts, through to concerts and even magic shows, all of which are designed to appeal to an international audience. So in most cases, the language barrier shouldn't be a problem.

Alternatively, the various bars and lounges dotted around the ship offer live music, dance floors and competitions like karaoke, bingo and quizzes. Films are shown on a giant screen over the main pool and there's also a disco that's the ideal destination for those seeking a late-night dancing scene.

With the cruise line's family cruise deals, the Orchestra is a favourite choice for young families. There are plenty of on-board facilities for keeping little ones busy, such as the children's wading pool and a water slide.

There's an outdoor adventure play area, as well as two indoor spaces, while the kids' club hosts various activities like games, arts and crafts and shows. Meanwhile, some of the venues are popular among both kids and grown-ups - such as the mini golf course and ping pong tables.

Spas and fitness facilities

For the ultimate in relaxation, guests should head to the Body and Mind Spa. This modern facility offers a host of indulgent treatments, ensuring you feel completely rejuvenated by the end of your voyage.

A large fitness facility has picture windows looking out over the bridge, giving the feeling of spaciousness, as well as some breathtaking views. Choose from a range of cardio and resistance machines, or opt for a yoga or Pilates class. Elsewhere on the ship, you can also find swimming pools, mini golf, tennis courts and a jogging track.

The thermal suite is a popular choice and the steam rooms are beautifully decorated with ornate tile mosaics. There are even some gorgeous whirlpool hot tubs that will help relieve muscle tension.

Overall, the entire space has an Oriental feel, with exotic flowers and bamboo, as well as furnishings that further enhance the Asian motif.

Cabins

There are nearly 1,300 cabins to choose from on the Orchestra and approximately 80 per cent of the outside staterooms have balconies. Only a few of the verandas could truly be called private, as most are visible from other parts of the ship. Meanwhile, some views can be blocked by lifeboats.

Room sizes do not vary as dramatically as they do on some ships and even the suites are one-room cabins, with large seating areas. No matter which type of room you choose, you'll get a mini-bar and safe, as well as a TV with satellite channels and complimentary room service.