MSC Seaside Cruise Review - B2B February 2018
Just the Facts:
Ship: MSC Seaside
Captain: Marco Massa
Cruise Director: Andre Schlemmer
Ports: Miami, USA - Ocho Rios, Jamaica - Georgetown, Grand Cayman - Cozumel, Mexico - Nassau, Bahamas - St. Johns, Antiqua - Charlotte Amalie, USVI - Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
I’m cruising on two 7-day cruises (B2B) on the MSC Seaside, these are my 7th and 8th MSC cruises and 135th & 136th cruises overall. This is my first time on the MSC Seaside and my forth time to sail with the MSC ‘Black Card’ the highest of their Loyalty Club levels. I am cruising with my dear wife (DW) and a large group cruise friends who wanted to try this new concept cruise ship. The first MSC ship specifically built and designed for the American market. I love the other MSC ships so this will be a new experience for all of us, both MSC experienced cruisers and the first-timers.
Saturday February 10 / Miami / Embarkation / Day 1
We are flying into port on the day of embarkation so travel begins very early. We left the ranch at 3:35 am for the drive to Waco, TX and the 4:50 am boarding time for the flight to DFW. It was a nice clear morning and we arrived about 4:30 am and were through the TSA screening and at gate one at exactly 4:45 am. Soon we were off and at DFW airport where we arrived just before boarding began for our 7:25 am flight to Miami. We met one friend here at DFW and were on our way. The flight was uneventful and no scares at baggage claim…all of our bags arrived fine somewhat unique for Miami. We rolled out with all our luggage and took the MSC shuttle, a large bus just for the three of us ($20 per person charge to ship account) to the Port of Miami’s new MSC Terminal. There was a friendly porter to take our bags and we proceeded to the entry. Arriving about 12:30 pm it was not really busy as I believe we are behind the early rush and before most airport arrivals. We went through security (easy) and then upstairs to see a Black Card agent (no line) and receive our Loyalty Club cards. Since we are not allowed in cabins until 2:00 pm we boarded and went strait to the deck 16 Biscayne Bay buffet. We got a table with an excellent view of the actual Biscayne Bay and had a short wait until the 1:00 pm buffet opening. The primary buffet on deck 8 opens at noon. I had a nice salad, pasta, and a two slices of pizza pie. We ate and relaxed until 2:00 pm then went to our cabin/home for the next two weeks. We have a regular style balcony and first impression is how it is smaller than any cabin we have ever had previously on MSC. Our bags did arrive soon and we began unpacking. Safety drill was uneventful, they scan your cards at the muster station and make announcements thankfully in English only unlike other MSC ships that do it in five languages. We found more members of our group after boat drill and confirmed our meet up later on deck 8. We were concerned that we had not seen our Drink vouchers we had purchased online. We discovered that they are distributed by the cabin steward and that we had to sign for them, we had not seen her and then she was on break when we tried to find her before the group party. Our group met at the Sports Bar on deck 8 and it is a great bar much larger than the sports bars on other MSC ships. Well designed with a large big screen TV with stage, smaller lounge areas with other TV’s, as well as a large bar with a sea view. Our group met and it was great to meet the regulars and new guests as well. A few stayed afterward and enjoyed cocktails until dinner. We have 8:30 seating in the Seashore Restaurant. We have great table locations in the center of the dining room and the tables are beautifully set with proper tablecloths and table service something you don’t see on many cruise ships. For dinner I ordered the Tomato Basil Soup, a wonderful Pasta with a Bolognaise style sauce with bacon (as a starter), and the Roast Lamb entree. We passed on dessert and retired to the cabin where we met our Cabin Steward Glinda who finally delivered our vouchers. We didn’t ask her for turn down service as we went straight to bed after a very long and busy day.
Sunday February 11th / Day at Sea / Day 2
Smooth seas overnight just enough movement for a very enjoyable nights sleep. The bed is ideal and very comfortable with a pillow menu and we chose what we have: one soft and one firm pillow each. I went to the MDR for breakfast and fortunately spotted two of our group in line and joined them. I ordered Eggs Benedict with a side of Bacon, & fresh grilled potatoes. I was served Hot Milk that is not always easy to get on other cruise lines but very common on the Seaside. DW enjoy a room service continental breakfast and is planning on a casual day. I finished cabin set-up increasing my storage by using my packing cubes in my suitcase under the bed. In addition to the cabins being smaller the storage is as well with only one small wardrobe and two drawers. We are finally settling in and once Glenda cleaned the cabin about noon and with our little adjustments I feel we are set for the two weeks. I went on a walkabout and had a pizza slice with friend on the outdoor area outside the Marketplace Buffet on deck 8. Also walked across the Bridge of Sighs on deck 16 aft (photo). On the way back to the cabin I picked up one of the prepared hamburgers individually boxed and available at the buffet, it was surprising very good, not a Guy’s Burger quality, but close. Back in the cabin it was balcony time and I established our internet account and posted first days review online. I also used the MSC for Me app to make reservations for the 7:00 show in the theater, the app is great with a map, locator with directions, schedule, and much more. We then watched a movie as we prepared for the evening. A bucket of Brut Champagne and Chocolate Covered Grapes and petit fours were delivered…these for being Black Card members on Formal Night. About 5:00 pm we met friends for drinks at the Seaview Bar. They were setting up for the Captain’s Formal Night complementary cocktails and I had a few rounds of those as well. They really do it first class with white glove service and a choice of four cocktails/drinks (Champagne, Vodka Martini, Rum Sour, Fruit Punch) served on silver trays. On RCCL it is Champagne only and on Carnival nothing but a $1 discount. Very nice MSC! At 7:00 pm we went to the Production Show: The Wizard in the Metropolitan Theater. It was an impressive production with singing, dancing, acrobatics, and more. The theater is very nice and we had a great view for this spectacular show. They do allow drinks in the theater, that's a first for MSC on this new Caribbean concept ship. We had a little time before dinner so we went to the Haven lounge for a short time. Formal Dinner was very good tonight, I ordered: the Arugala & Grana Padano Salad, the Rigatoni Meatballs (as a starter), and the Duck a la Orange entree. For dessert I ordered the Bananas Foster. Some attended the nightly Comedy Improv show at 10:30 pm but we retired to the cabin. It was a great day on the MSC Seaside.
February 12th / Ocho Rios, Jamaica / Day 3
Rolling seas overnight and I again slept very well. I did some internet work early until we arrived in the beautiful waters of Ocho Rios. I met friends for breakfast in the MDR ordering three eggs over easy with ham, potatoes, bacon, toast, fruit plate & hot milk. It was very good. DW had her room service breakfast. We just relaxed until about noon, met a friend in the lobby and then walked over to the shops on Main street. We ended up hiring a taxi to take us up the mountain to a very nice overlook and I enjoyed the breeze and a couple of Red Stripe Beers. We then went to the cascading waterfall where it meets the Caribbean sea, It was interesting, but we passed on climbing the falls or getting in the water. Next stop was to get some spicy patties at Spicy Pattys. We had to wait for some fresh, but they were hot and delicious and I wanted to try this local fast food delicacy. I ate mine while the girls shopped a bit. We walked back to the ship and DW went to the Marketplace buffet for a salad and went back to the cabin and enjoy the view from the balcony until sail away. One of the benefits of being a Black Card member on MSC is a complementary dinner in a premium restaurant so tonight a dozen of us had dinner at Butcher’s Cut the premium steakhouse on the MSC Seaview. We met at 6:00 on deck 16 and had cocktails and were seated straight away for dinner. I ordered the Hearts of Palm as an appetizer as well as the Beet Salad with Burrata. My entree was a perfectly cooked to order Filet Mignon and for dessert a nice Sorbet. It was a wonderful meal with wonderful friends. After walking today in Ocho Rios and our three hour dinner I was ready for relaxing movie time in the cabin. It was a fun and interesting day In Ocho Rios and on the MSC Seaside.
Tuesday February 13 / Georgetown, Grand Cayman / Day 4
Very smooth seas overnight and I again slept very well. We were already anchored off Grand Cayman when I woke this morning about 7:30 am. The Freedom of the Seas is anchored next to us and I see the NCL Escape beyond her. It’s a nice partly cloudy day I’m sure guests will enjoy it and we plan to stay on board and enjoy the ship without most of them. I met three friends at the MDR for a very nice breakfast at 8:30. I’m enjoying the breakfast service, food, and hot milk. We had a nice lazy morning then again went to explore new areas of the ship while most guests are off. I met friends at the Jungle Bar and pool area on deck 18, it is a uniquely decorated area with an African jungle theme. We moved to the Miami Beach Pool and Bar area on deck 16 in order to get bar service. We had our Snoozemates traditional stay on the ship Bloody Mary party that grew to a dozen friends as they came & went as they too explored the ship. The Bloody Marys changed to Mojitos as we enjoyed the breeze and Caribbean views. I had a pizza for lunch, DW found the Creperie & Ice Creme area on deck 7 aft. I attempted a nap but did get some rest before preparing for the evening. The Black Card Reception was held at 5:00 pm in the Haven Lounge. Personal Comment: This is a proper time to host a reception with complementary cocktails unlike some cruise lines who have moved their VIP events to morning hours. The Haven was full but there was plenty of wait staff to serve all guests. They served a selection of wines, champagne, and cocktails, but Aperol Spritzers seemed to be the drink of choice as it is Italian night. A couple of light hors d'oeuvres were also offered. You could order a call cocktail and I did get a Cosmopolitan, but went with the flow of the evening on the Aperol as they were easily replenished. I spoke with the Beverage Manager Sergi who I met on The Divina and Captain Marco Massa came by our table and toasted each of us with his glass individually (much safer than shaking hands) and spoke with us a bit. I’m impressed by anyone who speaks six languages as the Captain does. We went to the Metropolitan Theater at 6:45 for the 7:00 production show Fly. It was a fantastic show with singers, dancers, acrobats, and more. I especially enjoyed the Cancan dance portion that not only included the dancers, but the acrobats in the final scenes. A very enjoyable show. Time for one cocktail before dinner in the Haven before dinner. Being Italian night (also White night) the waiters dress in Italian flair and the menu was all Italian. My choices were the Eggplant Parmesan, Lasagna Bolognese, Chicken Marsala, and the Osobucco. DW had the Pasta e Fagioli Soup. I ordered the Lemon cake with limoncello for dessert. They had the big Italian party tonight and the White dress theme party, but we retired to the cabin. It was another good day on The MSC Seaside.
Wednesday Valentine's Day February 14 / Cozumel, Mexico / Day 5
Again calm seas overnight and we slept very well. It was 9:30 am before I got around and that’s late for me, but I was able to watch us dock at Puerto Langosta near downtown San Miguel. I was going to go get a haircut early and take a friend, bit there was such a long line to debark at 10:30 am we went to the buffet so I could eat some breakfast. My first time there and it was actually good. We finally debarked and we did the 20+ minute walk from the ship to downtown San Miguel. After stopping to rest in the Main Square and photos we made it to Antonio’s Barber Shop. Martin has been cutting my hair for eleven years now. After my haircut I met the group at Woody’s just off the main square in San Miguel. They have been my HQ in Coz for years and have good Mexican food as well the fastest internet on the island. Woody’s does have my favorite Mexican beer: Bohemia and live music. We had a dozen+ Snoozemates there most who had attended a Valentines Day meal we shared in Cozumel nine years earlier. We shared a Valentines cake just as we had years ago and it was wonderful. Mexican cakes are so rich and delicious. After a visit to the Pharmacia we walked back to the ship about 3:30 pm and was on board by 4:00, much smoother process than this morning. A shower and cool cabin felt so good after the humid day and nice walk in San Miguel. I had some Travel Agent business to do online as well. We met the group in the Seaside Bar for cocktails about 6:00-6:30 pm. Sergi did his job as they did have the proper ‘fixins’ to prepare a Hugo Spritz. Thanks. We shared Valentines goodies and Jazz began at 8:00 and that was very nice. At dinner we did a boy table and a girl table as we have been known to do, even though it was Valentines…we had our own decorations too. For dinner I ordered the Asian Salad, the excellent Tortellini with Spinach & Ricotta (pasta as a starter), and the Shittake Beef Short Ribs entree. For dessert the Black Forest Cake. This was one of the better dinners especially the Tortellini. After dinner friends went to the Casino, Retired, or to one of the shows. It was an great Valentines Day in Cozumel and on the MSC Seaside.
Thursday February 15 / Day at Sea / Day 6
Again very smooth seas overnight, perhaps a bit more rolling. I awoke in the early morning and had some super fast internet time then slept until 9:00 am. when room service arrived. I decide to join DW on the balcony for breakfast. And yes they deliver hot milk but only brought cold this morning. Danish and Fruit Plate were good. At 11:00ish all in group who had bottles of Prosecco delivered took them to the Miami Beach Bar. The bar servers, who already know us, brought ice buckets, Orange Juice, and Champagne glasses for our deck party. It was fun. I had lunch from the buffet then the DW and I went to the 2:00 pm show in the theater: Invito All’Opera a selection of various opera sung by a tenor and soprano accompanied by Classical Violin and Piano. Good but not as good as a full production you may see on MSC in Europe. Afterward it was lunch for DW and they had Guacamole & Hearts of Palm in salad bar (I was jealous). It was cabin time and an actual nap for myself in the late afternoon…nice. We attended the 7:00 pm feature show Timeless in the Metropolitan Theater and it was perhaps one of the best shows I have seen at sea. It was actually similar to the MSC show Starwalker as it featured several Michael Jackson numbers. The costumes and feature singers and dancers were fantastic. After the show we met the group in the Sports Bar for an aperitif before dinner. We had the full group at dinner tonight unfortunately it was perhaps the weaker menu of the week, yet still good, they just had the bar set high with previous dinners. I ordered: the Arancini Messina-style (this was excellent), Shrimp Fettuccini Alfredo (as starter), and the Beef Tournedos entree (just OK). For dessert the Key Lime Pie and Coconut Tapioca (both just OK). After dinner some went to the casino, others to the 70’s party, and some retired for the evening. I did the later. It was a great lazy day on board the MSC Seaside.
Friday February 16 / Nassau Bahamas / Day 7
Again very smooth seas overnight. I awoke in the early morning and had some super fast internet time booking clients then slept until 9:00 am. when room service arrived. Same procedure as yesterday except this morning I did get the hot milk. Again the Danish and Fruit Plate were good. DW does yogurt and cereal. We have the Disney Magic docked next to us on port side so that is our breakfast entertainment this morning in Nassau. Lazy morning until I went to the Sports Bar about noon for a few beers, those in the group met there at 1:00 pm if they were interested in going to Nassau’s Fish Fry for lunch. This is an area of Nassau that is where the fishing boats dock and many fish vendors operated then later seafood shacks then restaurants sprang up. The place to go for fresh seafood. Once we got to the dock and gates we took a taxi with Ms. Barbara who had a nice a/c van for the seven of us. We went to Goldie’s Conch House where we got a table on the water among all the discarded conch shells. Interesting atmosphere. Between us we ordered everything from Lobster to Red Snapper, but we had three full orders of conch to get through before the main courses. The conch was fantastic and everything else was great too including the Kalik Gold beer. Ms Barbara picked us up and carried us back to the ship ($5 pp each way) about 4:00 pm. There are five ships in port and it was crowded in town and at the pier. Nassau is not a favorite port, but the lunch was super good. It was back to the cabin for R&R until time for the 7:00 pm feature show. Tonight's show was Peter Punk featuring the acrobats, dancers, singers, dancers strongmen, and more. The costumes were amazing with lots of pirates following a revised Peter Pan theme. After the show we had aperitifs in the Seaside Lounge. Dinner tonight was perhaps one of the better of the cruise. I had the Mediterranean Meze (fair), Risotio Pescatora-style (good), and the NY Strip Steak entree. The steak was the best I have ever had in any MDR…certainly steak house quality. Guests were having a big final night everywhere on the ship tonight…all the venues were very busy. We haven’t received our new Sail cards for next week, but Guest Services is far too busy for me to get them tonight so I retired to the cabin and will make a go early tomorrow. Glad we have another week especially since they announced an itinerary change from Freeport to Grand Turk. It was a great day of food today in Nassau and on the MSC Seaside.
Saturday February 17 / Miami / Day 8
Smooth seas overnight and I slept well, but up very early and watched us sail into Miami early. The lights were beautiful. I went down to Reception for my new cruise cards at 5:00 am….no line and back straightaway. I did some internet using the local connection on my iPhone since we were in port. I went to the main buffet for breakfast about 6:30 am and it was very busy…guests are getting off early. I did get an hour more sleep before getting up to do some telephone Travel Agent business. The B2B guests met at 10:00 am in the Seaview Lounge and they did have cocktail servers so an opportunity to have nice Screwdrivers while we visited with friends. They had trouble getting the last few guests off but took the B2B’s down to Customs & Border Security about 10:40 am We were processed and back on the ship by 11:00 am. Easy Peasy. At noon we went to the Buffet for lunch, I actually had the Roast Beef from the Carving Station. Also some Guacamole, Mashed Potatoes, and Green Beans. A nice lunch. We decided to do a walk about as DW had not seen the Jungle area and indoor/outdoor pool. We also walked across the Bridge of Sighs before stopping at the Miami Bar for A Mudslide and a beer. Then to the cabin for a nap or rest, already a long day having started at 4:30 am. Soon they began announcements for Safety/Muster drill. MSC does not require B2B guests to attend the 2nd muster drill probably because they have a long history of boarding passengers in various ports along the itinerary. They began announce drill is for those who boarded “today”. After drill we met our friends and our new friends who just boarded in the Seaview Bar for cocktails that extended into aperitifs. We skipped the Welcome Show as usual and went to dinner in the Seashore MDR…we have the same tables and waiters as previous week. For dinner I ordered the Niçoise salad, the Penne Amatricaina Pasta with a hearty tomato sauce with bacon (as a starter), and New York Strip steak entree. It was a very nice meal and we skipped dessert as we retired to the cabin to rest and for me to update this review. A very good day with friends on the MSC Seaside.
Sunday February 18 / at Sea / Day 9
Smooth seas continue and I slept very well overnight. I did wake early so I was able to get in some faster internet time and review the news, sports, and pay some bills online. DW always has room service breakfast and I’m joining her this morning for a light breakfast as I have big lunch plans. They did have hot milk, but a juice size glass and there were other omissions so we requested correct order…that will help them remember in future. Beautiful weather today so had balcony time before going up to deck 16 to the Asian Market for lunch at the Tappanyaki Grill. We had the entire grill seating area for 12 and were the only ones doing the Tappanyaki so a private room for us. It is a choice of four options all being a multi course experience, DW did the Vegetarian ($20) and I did the Sencho ($30). My first courses was Miso Soup then Sushi & Sashimi, then from the grill Atlantic Salmon and Tiger Prawns, next Garlic Fried Rice, followed by the main entree of Filet Mignon with Asian vegetables. For dessert we had Carmelized Pineapple hot from the grill covered with Matcha Custard, Ginger Ice Creme, and Mint Poesto. An amazing meal and show from chef Joseph. By far the best lunch I haver ever experienced on a cruise ship. It was nap time after such a good meal but I was up for the Cruise Critic gathering at 5:00 pm in the Haven Lounge. It was much better than I expected it to be with complimentary drinks, snacks, and a wonderful cake. The Captain also came by all the tables to meet guests. MSC is using this as a marketing opportunity and they will soon have a large percentage of the cruise market from Miami, but I’m glad to go along for the nice food and drinks. I then went up to the Seaview lounge where the Snoozemate’s area was well represented. We were joined by others through out the evening. We passed on the MDR for dinner and the show was a repeat so it was a party night. We actually stayed through the Jazz sessions and Piano sessions and not leaving until 10:30 pm when we retired for the evening. It was a great sea day on the MSC Seaside.
Monday February 19 / Day at Sea / Day 10
Again smooth seas overnight and another great nights sleep. We turned our clocks forward one hour overnight so I woke about 8:00 am and logged on the internet to check mail and messages before the wifi begins slowing down once everyone logs-in today. Room Service was delivered at 9:00 am and the order was perfect. I again just wanted my Hot Milk and Danish as we decided to eat in the steakhouse that is open for lunch on seadays. After some restful cabin time, we went to the Butcher’s Cut premium steakhouse just after the noon opening and had a very nice two-top table with window on the water. I ordered the same as previous visit: Hearts of Palm as an appetizer as well as the Beet Salad with Burrata. My entree was again a Filet Mignon and for dessert a nice Sorbet. DW ordered the Hearts of Palm and preferred just to order side dishes in lieu of the grilled vegetables she had previously. We were both very satisfied with the wonderful meal. It was now nap time and then a cabin movie. We went to see the production show FLY again. It was one of our two favorites from last week. I really features travel with its songs and dances. Perhaps best and longest Can-Can routine I have seen. Excellent show. We listened to the entertainment in the three level Atrium until dinner time. Dinner was good tonight, I ordered the Gravlax (just OK), Seafood & Chicken Gumbo (better), Penne Pasta in Vodka Sauce (good), and the Chicken Breast Parmigiana (excellent) entree. For dessert the Caribbean Rum Cake with Coconut Ice Creme. After dinner DW went to the buffet to get some of the fresh cookies th Iat come out at 10:30. It was Western night with a show at 10:30, but we retired to the cabin. It was a restful sea day on the MSC Seaside.
Tuesday February 20 / Antigua / Day 11
A few rolls in the sea overnight for the first time this week and I slept very well. We docked about 9:00 am in St. John’s Antigua and I went down to the buffet for a nice breakfast this morning. I then went the Sports Bar at 9:40 to meet my excursion, along with nine others in our group, for the Catamaran Tour with Lobster Lunch excursion booked thorough the ship ($109). The tour operator was Mystic Catamaran and they are a first class operation with excellent boat and crew. It was a very short walk from the pier to the large catamaran and very soon we were off on our adventure. A 6-hour sail on this boat featured swim stops at 2 scenic beaches including Turners Beach, a nice lobster lunch, and unlimited wine, champagne, rum punch, beer and soft drinks. All nationalities and languages on board had a great time on this excursion. We watched sail away and had a short nap until the 7:00 pm production show: Frank Forever and the three feature singers did a great job performing, I especially enjoyed their accents on the various Frank Sinatra classics they performed. Afterwards we met the group in the Sports Bar for an apéritif while waiting for dinner. When seated this evening we ordered a cheese plate and requested quick service so we could catch the 9:30 show. For dinner I ordered the excellent Tortellini with Spinach & Ricotta (pasta as a starter), and the Shittake Beef Short Ribs entree, my favorite meal from last week. The food was again wonderful and we were out early and seated on row two of a full house in the Metropolitan theater by 9:30 pm. The Show was a condensed presentation of the Opera Madame Butterfly featuring the opera vocalists, two feature dancers, dance company, and even the aerialist. It was a very different show. Tonight is the White Night Party with special events on Pool Deck and there were many more guests dressed in white this week than last. It was a great and fun day on the Cat excursion and on the MSC Seaside.
Wednesday February 21 / St. Thomas, USVI / Day 12
Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well although up very early to update my review from yesterdays busy day. We arrive very early at St. Thomas (7:00 am), but leave early too due to our itinerary change for tomorrow. I met friends at 10:00 am and plans for Paradise Point were changed as the road up is still not repaired from recent hurricane. DW and I did walk the Havensight Mall area for about 1.5 hours and returned to the ship by noon. A few friends went on excursion, some just a walk about as we did, or just stayed on the ship. At noon we went to the buffet on deck 8. We got a table near the back and friends came and went as it became hard to get a table when we received some showers closing the outdoor dining tables. Then to deck 7 to the Ice creme area where we had some nice Gelato. We sailed away at 2:00 pm and it was a nice cool day after a second shower so we left the balcony door open and enjoyed the ocean sounds. We attended the Black Card Party today at 5:00 pm, I saw Robert the Assistant Hotel Director and Sveto the Beverage Manager, I enjoy talking to them. The Captain came by our table as well for a toast. There were fewer guests than last week, I'm sure the number of Black Cards vary from week to week. At 7:00 pm we then went to the feature entertainment show My Life in Music. It was DW’s favorite show of the two weeks and as the final song they did the best version of Con te Partiro I have ever heard. It is one of my favorites and the five feature singers really belted it out…IMHO better than Andre Bocelli and Sarah Brightman. We then went to the Seaview Lounge for aperitifs until dinner time. Tonight I ordered: the Arancini Messina-style (this was excellent), Shrimp Fettuccini Alfredo (as starter), and the Red Snapper entree (just OK). For dessert the Dulce De Leche Ice Creme (good). After dinner some went to the casino, others to the Quest, and some retired for the evening. I retired after a cookie run to buffet. It was a busy day on board the MSC Seaside.
Thursday February 22 / Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos / Day 13
Rolling seas overnight and I slept very well and until 9:30 am on my birthday morning. Just after 10:00
am I went up to the buffet on deck 16 and had a nice breakfast…after I
was seated the lady from the omelette station brought me a nice ham
& cheese birthday omelette…thank you nice lady. I enjoyed some
morning cabin time and reading birthday wishes on Facebook and email
until our arrival in Grand Turk about noon. It took a while to get tied
up in the wind but the Captain did a fine job, it would have been
disappointing to lose this port. The Carnival Glory came in just behind
us we were able to block the wind for them. Our ship is so long that we
will only be able to use the forward gangways here so we are going to
stay on board for a while and go off in the late afternoon. We watched a
movie then went to the buffet about 2:00 pm. We debarked and walked
down the beach to Jack’s Shack arriving about 3:30 pm and literally
greeted by Topher. Our group already had a couple of tables so it was
great timing. Thanks to my very nice friends I didn’t have to buy a
drink yet enjoyed several Turk’s Head lager birthday beers. Thanks
all. One of the best beaches in the Caribbean here and it was a very
fun day. DW got me a nice Topher shirt for my birthday. The jerk
chicken here is much better than any place in Jamaica so try it if you
come. We walked back about 6:00ish enjoying the sunset as we walked
back to pier. The Glory was late sailing so we enjoyed their sail away
party as our balcony was over their pool deck area. A lot of fun
between the two ships as they finally pulled away from the dock. We
sailed away about 7:15pm. We went down to the Seaview Lounge for
aperitifs and the Jazz Singer actually sang Happy Birthday to me. Sweet
since I’d been enjoying her all week.. We went to dinner in the MDR
and it was very good. I ordered the Pate appetizer, the Mushroom Cheese
Ravioli (as starter), and the NY Strip Steak entree. The waiters sang
“Happy Birthday” to me in Italian and English as well as delivering a
very nice cake. We went to the lobby bar for cabin cokes then retired.
For the rest of the group it was 70’s night, Casino, Comedy or music.
It was a great birthday at Jacks Shack and on the MSC Seaside.
Friday February 23 / Day at Sea / Day 14
Some rolling seas continue as well as the good nights sleep. I slept for almost 12 hours but with the turn back in ships time overnight was awake about 9:30 am. Much needed sleep after a busy birthday. Updated my review and relaxed this morning then went to the Butchers Cut Steakhouse for Brunch at 11:00. This is champagne morning for the rest of the group at the Miami Beach bar. Our Brunch was wonderful. DW ordered the Mediterranean Omelet that was perfect for her, I ordered the Breakfast Club a great egg, cheese, & avocado sandwich, and we split the Blueberry Pancakes. It was great and we would do it again. Just after noon we joined the Champagne party still going on at the Miami Beach Bar. The *ding* notice on my iPhone reminding me to check-in for flights started bringing me into trip reality so I returned to cabin to review our travel day tomorrow. Boarding passes in the iWallet…sweet. Did some preliminary packing then up one deck to the buffet for pizza and salad about 3:30 pm before the buffet closes. Did a walkabout and ended up at the Creperie & Ice Creme on deck 7 aft so always time for a Gelato…especially when you have extra drink vouchers that can be used. No show for us tonight so we met the group for our final cocktails in the Sports Bar this evening…it was nice, but sad as well. It was Italian night for our final dinner. I ordered the Tri-color Italian Salad, the Lasagna Bolognese (as starter), and the Chicken Marsala entree. For dessert I had the Lemon Delight. All were very good. It was time for final good byes to friends and wait staff. After dinner we returned to the cabin to finish packing and put out our luggage out for pick up before 11:00 pm. It was a very nice final sea day on the MSC Seaside.
Saturday February 24 / Miami / Debarkation
We arrived in Miami about 6:00 am.. Our group and Bosque Travel actually had our own time and color luggage tag: Fuchia. That’s a first for me and group. We had a 8:15 meet time for debarkation in the casino. We went down to deck seven just before the designated time and had about 30 minute delay, but I adjusted our position to the gangway and soon we were ‘dinged’ right out. We then went down to baggage claim and yes our color was out. Just a few minutes until all the bags were collected and we got a porter who escorted us through U.S. Customs and to the taxi station. The passport cards really helped in getting us through both U.S. Customs AND airport TSA security strait away. We were at our departure gate about 10:00 am for a 11:50 am boarding. Piece of Cake. The flight from Miami to DFW went well, I watched the movie Dunkirk. We had time to eat some Tex-Mex at DFW before our Waco flight. From ACT to the Ranch about 7:45 pm. A long but uneventful travel day.
Ship
Maiden Voyage: 2017 / Gross Tonnage: 153,500 tons
Passenger Max Capacity: 5179 / Crew: 1413 / Length: 323 meters/1060 ft
Max Cruising Speed: 22 knots / Avg Speed 21 knots
Installed power: Diesel (40,000kW) / Propulsion: Twin propellers
Passenger decks: 17 / Builder: Fincantieri / Godmother: Sophia Loren
This is a very uniquely designed ship with a lot more of outdoor space than any other MSC ship since this ship will be a full time Caribbean based ship. Beautiful public spaces throughout the ship. Deck 8 has the indoor/outdoor promenade and primary food buffet…unique in design.
Cabin
We have cabin 15114 a starboard side balcony located on deck 15 and located between the aft and mid elevators. It is well decorated, but smaller than any cabin we have ever had on any other MSC ship. Storage is very limited too compared to other MSC ships. The toilet seems smaller perhaps because of the glass shower doors restricts some movement. The wardrobe is also smaller so storage can be a problem. The cabin has a push button safe, twin/king beds, large padded headboard, two small night stands, wall mounted wall lights, a large mirror, a small refrigerator, small table/bench (unusual), and nice TV with interactive features. I used an open suitcase as a set of drawers under the bed to get enough storage…we did have more clothes than normal since we are out for two weeks. Balcony is standard size with two chairs and table. You can hear chairs scooting above about 11:00ish each night when they clean or move chairs...so nice to be just one deck below food & drink though. The cabin 'grew' on me the move we stayed in it. (became more acceptable for my foreign friends)
Bars / Entertainment
Entertainment is the strong suit of MSC with very elaborate production shows and live music in most all venues. The shows in the theater were really outstanding and not to be missed. Great Talent. In addition to the production shows they have a ‘fun’ event scheduled every night night at 10:30 pm in the Haven Lounge (larger lounge located aft). I enjoyed the jazz in the Seaview Lounge. Several very uniquely decorated lounges among the sixteen bars and lounges on the ship. Being new not all the bars are fully stocked with correct stemware or even cocktail napkins as yet but will be soon. It does discourage ordering a martini when they don’t have a martini glass.
Dining / Food
The dinners in the MDR are very good, service and settings were wonderful. I can assure you that one will not get fish knives, coffee spoons, olive oil dishes, or other first class service items on a cruise line such as Carnival, but you will on MSC. Our wait staff were excellent, very pleased with the service. Buffet food was good to excellent. Not as many selections as in the past, but the food variety was fine. Favorites: all the Pizza, all the Pastas, Guacamole, Hamburgers, and Salad Bar. You can order bar service from all the buffet tables with an electronic buzzer…very convenient. I only did one specialty restaurant: The Butcher’s Cut. I really enjoyed both dinners and the brunch.
Black Card — MSC has a Loyalty match program that honors your status from other cruise lines so that made us ‘Black Cards’ the highest level. We received dinner for two in a specialty restaurant, large Chocolate Ships, a private Cocktail Party, Champagne & h’orderves, and more. The gifts were: a light beach backpack, lanyard, & baseball style hats…it was nice they changed the gifts from one week to next for B2B guests. Great program.
Comments - MSC Cruise Line
MSC is very different than the usual American cruise lines and if your looking for the same experience it will be much different. You may like the differences or you may be very unhappy with the differences. As an experienced cruiser I love different. If you don’t like change or are not flexible you will probably NOT like sailing a European cruise line. Following is my personal observations on sailing MSC:
MSC Seaside Pluses:
Beautiful Public Rooms, Top quality MSC Production Shows & Entertainment, Quality and Beautiful Themed Bars, Hot Milk readily available on buffet and MDR, Attentive bar servers, Good MDR Breakfasts, Great Alternative Restaurants, Smoothest sailing ever. The MSC for Me app is fantastic...book shows in theater, make dining reservations, check on-board account, interactive map, find closest toilet, and much more.
MSC Seaside Negatives:
Children Sail Free (too many uncontrolled children and prams), Buffet areas very busy, Smaller Cabin areas, Small storage wardrobe.
Differences on Seaside
I have been asked about the differences between European MSC ships and new MSC Seaside marketed as a more Americanized sailing concept and have noticed these:
Primary buffet is on deck 8 (no Lido deck per se) with lots of outdoor seating.
Pool Games…the typical things found on U.S. sailings.
Drinks are now allowed in main theater (still no bar service…a good thing IMHO)
Tips now gladly accepted.
More alternative dining options.
More outdoor swimming pools.
Highlights of the Cruise
Snoozemates and cruise friends sailing with us.
MSC Production Shows.
Antiqua Catamaran Adventure
Private Tappanyaki Luncheon with friends.
Cozumel Valentines Day gathering.
Grand Turk and Jack's Shack.
The Butchers Cut Steakhouse.
Bar Servers and Dining room staff
Ship: MSC Seaside
Captain: Marco Massa
Cruise Director: Andre Schlemmer
Ports: Miami, USA - Ocho Rios, Jamaica - Georgetown, Grand Cayman - Cozumel, Mexico - Nassau, Bahamas - St. Johns, Antiqua - Charlotte Amalie, USVI - Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos
I’m cruising on two 7-day cruises (B2B) on the MSC Seaside, these are my 7th and 8th MSC cruises and 135th & 136th cruises overall. This is my first time on the MSC Seaside and my forth time to sail with the MSC ‘Black Card’ the highest of their Loyalty Club levels. I am cruising with my dear wife (DW) and a large group cruise friends who wanted to try this new concept cruise ship. The first MSC ship specifically built and designed for the American market. I love the other MSC ships so this will be a new experience for all of us, both MSC experienced cruisers and the first-timers.
Saturday February 10 / Miami / Embarkation / Day 1
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| MSC Seaside Atrium |
Sunday February 11th / Day at Sea / Day 2
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| MSC Seaside Bridge of Sighs on deck 16 |
February 12th / Ocho Rios, Jamaica / Day 3
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| MSC Seaside in Ocho Rios (click to enlarge) |
Tuesday February 13 / Georgetown, Grand Cayman / Day 4
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| Production show FLY in Metropolitan Theater |
Wednesday Valentine's Day February 14 / Cozumel, Mexico / Day 5
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| Valentines lunch in Cozumel |
Thursday February 15 / Day at Sea / Day 6
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| Beautiful interiors of MSC Seaside |
Friday February 16 / Nassau Bahamas / Day 7
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| Peter Punk Show |
Saturday February 17 / Miami / Day 8
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| Miami from the MSC Seaside |
Sunday February 18 / at Sea / Day 9
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| Tappenyaki Lunch |
Monday February 19 / Day at Sea / Day 10
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| Butcher's Cut Steakhouse on MSC Seaside |
Tuesday February 20 / Antigua / Day 11
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| Mystic Cat at Antiqua Beach 2018 |
Wednesday February 21 / St. Thomas, USVI / Day 12
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| MSC Seaside docked St. Thomas USVI |
Thursday February 22 / Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos / Day 13
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| Topher 2/22/18 |
Friday February 23 / Day at Sea / Day 14
Saturday February 24 / Miami / Debarkation
We arrived in Miami about 6:00 am.. Our group and Bosque Travel actually had our own time and color luggage tag: Fuchia. That’s a first for me and group. We had a 8:15 meet time for debarkation in the casino. We went down to deck seven just before the designated time and had about 30 minute delay, but I adjusted our position to the gangway and soon we were ‘dinged’ right out. We then went down to baggage claim and yes our color was out. Just a few minutes until all the bags were collected and we got a porter who escorted us through U.S. Customs and to the taxi station. The passport cards really helped in getting us through both U.S. Customs AND airport TSA security strait away. We were at our departure gate about 10:00 am for a 11:50 am boarding. Piece of Cake. The flight from Miami to DFW went well, I watched the movie Dunkirk. We had time to eat some Tex-Mex at DFW before our Waco flight. From ACT to the Ranch about 7:45 pm. A long but uneventful travel day.
Ship
Maiden Voyage: 2017 / Gross Tonnage: 153,500 tons
Passenger Max Capacity: 5179 / Crew: 1413 / Length: 323 meters/1060 ft
Max Cruising Speed: 22 knots / Avg Speed 21 knots
Installed power: Diesel (40,000kW) / Propulsion: Twin propellers
Passenger decks: 17 / Builder: Fincantieri / Godmother: Sophia Loren
This is a very uniquely designed ship with a lot more of outdoor space than any other MSC ship since this ship will be a full time Caribbean based ship. Beautiful public spaces throughout the ship. Deck 8 has the indoor/outdoor promenade and primary food buffet…unique in design.
Cabin
We have cabin 15114 a starboard side balcony located on deck 15 and located between the aft and mid elevators. It is well decorated, but smaller than any cabin we have ever had on any other MSC ship. Storage is very limited too compared to other MSC ships. The toilet seems smaller perhaps because of the glass shower doors restricts some movement. The wardrobe is also smaller so storage can be a problem. The cabin has a push button safe, twin/king beds, large padded headboard, two small night stands, wall mounted wall lights, a large mirror, a small refrigerator, small table/bench (unusual), and nice TV with interactive features. I used an open suitcase as a set of drawers under the bed to get enough storage…we did have more clothes than normal since we are out for two weeks. Balcony is standard size with two chairs and table. You can hear chairs scooting above about 11:00ish each night when they clean or move chairs...so nice to be just one deck below food & drink though. The cabin 'grew' on me the move we stayed in it. (became more acceptable for my foreign friends)
Bars / Entertainment
Entertainment is the strong suit of MSC with very elaborate production shows and live music in most all venues. The shows in the theater were really outstanding and not to be missed. Great Talent. In addition to the production shows they have a ‘fun’ event scheduled every night night at 10:30 pm in the Haven Lounge (larger lounge located aft). I enjoyed the jazz in the Seaview Lounge. Several very uniquely decorated lounges among the sixteen bars and lounges on the ship. Being new not all the bars are fully stocked with correct stemware or even cocktail napkins as yet but will be soon. It does discourage ordering a martini when they don’t have a martini glass.
Dining / Food
The dinners in the MDR are very good, service and settings were wonderful. I can assure you that one will not get fish knives, coffee spoons, olive oil dishes, or other first class service items on a cruise line such as Carnival, but you will on MSC. Our wait staff were excellent, very pleased with the service. Buffet food was good to excellent. Not as many selections as in the past, but the food variety was fine. Favorites: all the Pizza, all the Pastas, Guacamole, Hamburgers, and Salad Bar. You can order bar service from all the buffet tables with an electronic buzzer…very convenient. I only did one specialty restaurant: The Butcher’s Cut. I really enjoyed both dinners and the brunch.
Black Card — MSC has a Loyalty match program that honors your status from other cruise lines so that made us ‘Black Cards’ the highest level. We received dinner for two in a specialty restaurant, large Chocolate Ships, a private Cocktail Party, Champagne & h’orderves, and more. The gifts were: a light beach backpack, lanyard, & baseball style hats…it was nice they changed the gifts from one week to next for B2B guests. Great program.
Comments - MSC Cruise Line
MSC is very different than the usual American cruise lines and if your looking for the same experience it will be much different. You may like the differences or you may be very unhappy with the differences. As an experienced cruiser I love different. If you don’t like change or are not flexible you will probably NOT like sailing a European cruise line. Following is my personal observations on sailing MSC:
MSC Seaside Pluses:
Beautiful Public Rooms, Top quality MSC Production Shows & Entertainment, Quality and Beautiful Themed Bars, Hot Milk readily available on buffet and MDR, Attentive bar servers, Good MDR Breakfasts, Great Alternative Restaurants, Smoothest sailing ever. The MSC for Me app is fantastic...book shows in theater, make dining reservations, check on-board account, interactive map, find closest toilet, and much more.
MSC Seaside Negatives:
Children Sail Free (too many uncontrolled children and prams), Buffet areas very busy, Smaller Cabin areas, Small storage wardrobe.
Differences on Seaside
I have been asked about the differences between European MSC ships and new MSC Seaside marketed as a more Americanized sailing concept and have noticed these:
Primary buffet is on deck 8 (no Lido deck per se) with lots of outdoor seating.
Pool Games…the typical things found on U.S. sailings.
Drinks are now allowed in main theater (still no bar service…a good thing IMHO)
Tips now gladly accepted.
More alternative dining options.
More outdoor swimming pools.
Highlights of the Cruise
Snoozemates and cruise friends sailing with us.
MSC Production Shows.
Antiqua Catamaran Adventure
Private Tappanyaki Luncheon with friends.
Cozumel Valentines Day gathering.
Grand Turk and Jack's Shack.
The Butchers Cut Steakhouse.
Bar Servers and Dining room staff
