MSC Virgin –

Well what did my hubby think of his first MSC experience? Is it because he likes value for money (tight I would say) or just the change I asked him. He loved it !

We even took advantage of the free coach to Southampton which he thought he would hate but yet again very relaxing and comfortable. As he drives a lot with his job I felt he needed a complete break so off we went at 7am to board at a local service area 10 minutes from home. Now I am not sure if we were just lucky but there was only 1 other pick up before heading straight down. Traffic as always was bad but after a short coffee and 40 min lunch break we arrive at Southampton stress free.

Magnifica joined the fleet in 2010 and still looked quite impressive. Boarding was a doddle and we were in our cabin with 15 minutes of arrival. Hubby was very impressed with the size and how comfortable the beds were. The room was immaculate and smelled very fresh.

She carries around 3200 guests with 16 decks, 14 bars (yes 14 that is another story) 2 main restaurants and The Oriental Plaza a Asian Fusion speciality venue. This did seem quiet most evenings, I do not think because of price but maybe was not right for this cruise. The Sahara Cafe was your typical buffet offering everything your heart desires for up to 24 hours per day however the pizzeria and salad bar were exceptional. I still think MSC do best pizza at sea (sorry Princess loved yours too). If you just wanted a light snack in a more relaxed area the sports bar did a light breakfast, lunch and afternoon tea along with some really enjoyable canape plates early evening.

The Royal Theatre was over 2 decks and again very high tech and hosted a vast selection of evening entertainment even the World cup final (I did not bother with that one). In the other 4 main bars other entertainment was also going on to suit most tastes. A young man named Mitch Corner did an amazing Gary Barlow tribute act along with Soul and Motown and a mean Michael Buble. This was his first cruise experience too and we just kept quoting look at Jane McDonald. He was amazing.

Daytime activities were also in abundance however not quite our scene. Nautical knit and origami to name but two.

I now feel MSC are listening to what the British passengers are looking for. I found the food hot and larger portions, served with a selection of veg and also crackers served with the cheese plate just a few of little niggles I have had from past guests.

When asking my husband his option to compare with other lines he felt he had had amazing value for money and would not hesitate travelling with MSC again. I have not even touched on the itinerary that deserves a page all of its own.