We had a cruise on this ship (Orchestra) in january this year (10 days for 660 with balcony !!) and found the same issues. Lovely posh ship and great cabins but also tips were added on the final day and had them removed. In contrast we have just been on Island Star for two weeks . The staff were fantastic and so was more or less everything, the food and choice of food on the star was better than MSC . Even though Island Star itself is much older we prefer the relaxed british way and some of the "bigger newer ships" seems to have less space per customer and more queues. Definatly "atmosphere" is the biggest differance..

We are going on Orchestra later this month but now I'm worried! I don't mind tipping but hate the fact that tips are taken forgranted. If you ask for tips to be removed and do the tipping directly is it a big issue? I would usualy have a glass or 2 of wine with dinner but not at lunch. From what I read is it necessry to buy bottle water (I expect inflated prices) just to get something to drink?

Hi! A couple of points that catch first timers. Ask for 'ships water', that's the 'freeby' stuff that comes in a jug from the tap. Secondly if your not happy with the service charge (tips), you go to the desk & ask them to remove it, & pay staff as you feel fit.