MSC’s MAGNIFICENT MAGNIFICA!

Well well well, I am sat here writing this blog in, I guess some form of shock? I have just returned from a visit aboard MSC Magnifica, and I have to say I was not expecting much, especially after the MSC Opera in June (awful). In this review I will go through each part of the ship and give you my honest opinion.

First Impressions (8/10)

She is blinking good looking, sleek lines, a fierce look, the well recognisable MSC sun beaming out over Southampton from the ships blue funnel. She is inviting and a stunning ship. Let’s go aboard!

Magnifica docked in City Terminal.

Interior Public Areas (7.5/10)

I was very impressed by the interior areas, clean, extremely spacious and modern. Highlights for me would have to be the theatre (one of the best I’ve seen at sea, although seat backs were uncomfortable). The tiger bar was another highlight. A vast open bar where you’ll find live music and entertainment, some shops and plush tiger furnishings. The atrium was pretty good too with a ‘water fall’ if you can class it as that. But again a good size and would be nice to sit here in the evenings. The nightclub is also a hip place, bowling, a big dance floor, a huge bar. The casino was huge and connected by a sweeping staircase to tiger bar, so leave the kids there and go and place your bets!

External Public Areas (7.5/10)

This ship has a few swimming pools, two outside and one in a retractable roof solarium. Both were very well cleaned and presented. No broken fixtures or fittings, a nice bar too. The only thing that stands out most with MSC is that they really do try to sell sell sell on board, drinks packages, spa treatments, extra for this, extra for that. It is in your face but you just have to ignore it, say no thank you. They aren’t going to follow you around the ship like they would in a Turkish market. A huge sports court on top deck, and a decent sized stage for sailaways and dance lessons. The sunbeds were immaculate which is one thing that I pick on, very impressed MSC.

Food (7/10)

I was not looking forward to lunch, purely because I did not know what to expect. With MSC the menu is HUGE so you never have any problem finding something you like. That also means you can eat quite a bit. I had 7 courses.

Battered fish fingers. (6/10)

Some lovely fish, the batter was fresh and well seasoned. I wanted to use the lemon but I didn’t as it looked off colour to me. The Tartare sauce was ok, but a little bland. I would choose this again but maybe only eat half of it.

Nicoise salad (6/10)

Although it doesn’t look that appetising the taste was pretty good. Not sure about the green beans though? I picked out the anchovies, yuk!

Gnocchi (8/10)

WOW, full of flavour, comforting and entirely satisfying. Give me a double portion!

Ham and Cheese omelette (6/10)

Slightly strange to have this mid meal but it was ok! The chips were crisp and well seasoned. The Omelette was bland until you got to the cheesy bits!

Parmesan Chicken (7/10)

Although a little dry, it was tasty and the veg was nice too, I am starting to feel my waistline tighten at this point.

Cheese and Biscuits (8/10)

Fresh yummy grapes, homemade marmalade, crisp crackers and creamy cheese. Everything you want after a main meal.

Coconut cake (9/10)

Mmmmm! I love coconut cake and this did the coconut world justice. Expertly baked, light and fluffy too. No one wants chocolate after a heavy meal so this was perfect.

Cabins (N/A)

Unfortunately we didn’t actually get to view any cabins. So I am asking you, send me your pictures and I’ll add them here!

Overall:

Well MSC you have truly shocked me with this beautiful ship. Thank you for allowing me on board! I would happily sail on this ship (in the sun!) and would have no complaints. With prices from £199 for a week in a balcony*? What could possibly go wrong?

Keeeeeep Cruising!

Ed x