MSC Seashore Cruise Review - November 21, 2024

 MSC Seashore Cruise Review

Just the Facts:

Ship: MSC Seashore

Captain:  Pietro Maresca (Italy)  Cruise Director: Eversen Beville (USA)

Ports: Port Canaveral, USA - Nassau Bahamas - Ocean Cay, Bahamas

This is a special 3-day cruise to introduce the 5 year old Granddaughter to cruising.  We have four in the group: The DW, DD, & GD. This is her first cruise,  but my 4th cruise on the Seashore, my 23rd cruise on MSC, and my 217th cruise overall.  I do have Diamond status, and was informed that I have the new Blue Diamond status, the highest of the MSC Loyalty Club levels, when it begins in 2025. Nice.

Thursday, September 21 / Port Canaveral / Embarkation / Day 1  

We have an assigned a noonish boarding time so we planned accordingly and left the Florida Villa at about 9:00 am for the drive to Port Canaveral. We arrived at Park-N-Cruise at about 11:30 pm. We immediately boarded a shuttle bus to the port terminal. We arrived at Pier number 10 before noon.  We checked a bag and rolled the others through security.  The GD is a Disney veteran so the boarding process went smoothly. All card lines were open without a line and we went directly to a Diamond check-in counter. We could go straight to our cabins arriving on Deck 14 at about 2:35 p.m. We have adjoining balcony cabins located aft of the aft elevators.  Each cabin has a Queen bed, Wardrobe, Large screen Television, a Counter/dressing table with mirror, a small stocked Refrigerator, Shelving, Drawers inside the Wardrobe, a Couch, and a small but adequate bathroom with a solid glass door shower.  We soon took the Panoramic aft elevators up to the Deck 16 Lido Marketplace for lunch.  Afterward, we all went down to our Muster Station and checked in, thankfully you can check in casually and not as a mass hoard (MSC was last to update the streamlined system). I orderedthe premium WiFi package and the reception in my cabin was good. They are strict about one device…and you can not change from a Laptop to an iPhone.  The DD and GD went to the Children’s area to check in and get the youth wristband. We then all met in the Brooklyn Bar at about 3:00 pm for cocktails. We did get the drink package.  We sailed away at about 5:00 pm and we watched from our adjoining balconies. We have an 8:00 pm dinner assignment in the Manhattan Dining Room (MDR), located on deck 6 aft. Dinner and service was good. For dinner, I ordered the Tomato Basil Soup, one very nice Shrimp Cocktail, and the Prime Rib entree with horseradish. For dessert a wonderful Crema Catalonia.  The girls went to the Production show in the Theater and then to the Children’s area on Deck 18.  I retired to the cabin for rest and retired soon afterward.  It was a good first day on the MSC Seashore.

Friday, November 22nd / Nassau Bahamas  / Day 2  

Smooth seas overnight and a delightful night's sleep. The bed is comfortable with good pillows: one soft and one firm. I woke early and at about 8:20 am I went down to the Central Park MDR for breakfast.  I ordered Danish, Hot Milk, a Fruit Bowl, Eggs Benedict, Bacon, Sausage, and Potatoes.  It was delicious.  The girls had Room Service breakfast on the balcony, the GD enjoyed that.  We were docked at about 10:00 am and it is a beautiful day today with a nice breeze keeping it cool.  We all went off the ship at about 10:45 into the NEW Nassau.  We did a little shopping and I felt comfortable leaving the girls in the new security area as I returned to the ship after an hour.  Two had a few braids done in the new designated Hair Braiding area.  Yes, the new Nassau is better.  Upon my return to the ship, I began updating this blog, then went upstairs when the Cabin Stewart Roldan came to clean.  I took my Yeti and enjoyed Coca-Cola, a Cheese Steak Sandwich, French Fries, and more for lunch.  I then took two cans of Cokes back to the cabin.  The girls had lunch and went to the nice aft Pool on Deck 8. They did some Trivia and Kids' area in the afternoon.  The DW and I went to the Hola Bar for Mango Margaritas then to the Uptown Lounge at about 7:30 to listen to the solo guitarist before dinner.  We were joined by the others and then went to the Butchers Cut Steakhouse for dinner.  I enjoyed Filet Mignon steak, the Burrata Cheese & Beets, a Hearts of Palm Salad, a Baked Potato, Creamed Spinach, and Breads. It was a lot to eat and it was perfect as was the service and company.  It may be the last complementary Steak dinner as the new MSC loyalty program goes into effect in 2025.  I retired after dinner, but the DW and DD went to the late Comedy Show, they said it was good.  That’s how Americanized MSC has become having added comedy about a year ago.  It was a great day on the MSC Seashore.

Saturday, November 23rd / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve  / Day 3. 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We were docked very early and the gangway opened by 8:00 am.  I had leftovers from the previous night for breakfast and the girls had room service.  We rented a Cabana in the North Beach area so left at about 9:30 to get it squared away, then texted the location back to the ship for the girls.  The Cabana was nice, with seating and lounges.  Two floats and six towels were furnished as was a cooler with water.  We had a service bar located just a few yards away and a great view of the Lagoon with the Ship and Lighthouse in the background.  Soon the three others arrived for our long beach day.  The Granddaughter loved it, she brought a lot of sandcastle-building items that kept her busy when she wasn’t in the water.  The DD and GD used the floats and explored the beautiful Lagoon.  Ocean Cay is different from other Cruise lines private islands as it is in a very natural state without pools, rides, or amusements.  The numerous swimming beaches and lagoon are pristine with natural beauty.  There were two Food Trucks on our beach with complimentary burgers, hot dogs, and fries.  I had a Lobster Roll that I thought was well worth the $12.50 charge.  Bahamian Food was an option in the Pavilion in the center of the island.  The DW and I headed back towards the ship at about 3:45 pm.  We caught a shuttle that made it very easy.  The DD and GD were back before the 5:15 pm designated return time.  Most had a light snack.  I had the Macaroons that were delivered to the cabin as well as the bottle of Prosecco, a part of the Diamond guest loyalty benefits.  Thanks, MSC.  Already our final dinner night on this short cruise.  It was Italian Night and the menu was good.  We ordered Caprese Salads, Minestrone Soup, Shrimp Cocktail, Chicken Breast Parmigiana, Pasta Primavera, Penne Pasta, and more.  Desserts included Limoncello Cake, Tiramisu, and Banana Ice Creme. We even had some Italian entertainment and sing-alongs.  The GD had spent this time with Children’s activities including a Disco Party…she really enjoyed going to the Children’s Area.  I retired to the cabin to stream the 2nd half of my Oklahoma Sooners football team upset Alabama 24-3.  Sweet.  The girls had photos to review and other events.  It was a great day at Ocean Cay and on the MSC Seashore.

Sunday, November 24th / Port Canaveral / Debarkation

Fair seas overnight and I slept well. We arrived on time and were docked just after 6:00 am. I finished packing and I was very proud of the Girls all being prepared to roll at 7:00 am.  We were lucky with an elevator and on Deck 6 just after they opened the gangway.  We were off strait away and through Security by 7:15 am.  The shuttle was waiting and we were in the car and on the highway by 7:30 am.  All very smooth especially for four people. We stopped in Lakeland at Krispy Kreme, then washed the car, and refueled.  Home before 10:30 am.  

Ship

Maiden Voyage: 2017 I Gross Tonnage: 153,500 tons

Passenger Capacity: 5179 | Crew: 1413 I Length: 323 meters/1060 ft

Max Cruising Speed: 22 knots I Avg Speed 21 knots

Installed power: Diesel (40,000kW) I Propulsion: Twin propellers

17 passenger decks     Builder: Fincantieri

Godmother: Sophia Loren

Highlights of the Cruise

The excitement of first-timer Lily-Rose

Cabana at Ocean Cay

Butcher’s Cut Steak House

Carnival Mardi Gras - October 26, 2024

 

Mardi Gras Cruise Review - October 26, 2024 

 

Just The Facts:
Ship:  Mardi Gras, first of Carnivals Excel class @182,000 gross tons. 5282+ capacity.

Captain: Allesandro Iemmi  -   Hotel Director: Hugo Hidalgo    

Ports: Port Canaveral, FL  - Grand Turk, BWI - Amber Cove, DR - Nassau, Bahamas 

 

This is my 9th cruise on the Mardi Gras, my 114th Carnival cruise, and my 216th cruise overall.  I am sailing as a solo guest.

 

Day One -- Saturday --  October 26th, 2024 -- Port Canaveral Embarkation

I left the Florida Villa at  8:45 a.m. to drive to Port Canaveral. I arrived at Park-N-Cruise just after 11:00 am. A very efficient parking company I have used for years and soon I was on my way to the port terminal. I arrived at the pier at about 11:30 and went through port security and checked in fairly quickly. They had priority lines for VIFP guests. I was able to drop my roll-on bag in the cabin by noon. I have a balcony cabin on deck 15 aft of the aft elevator/stairwell. It is very comfortable, especially for a solo. I went up one deck to the Lido and had lunch from Big Chicken.  I had a good MDE (regular chicken sandwich with Pickles & Shaq sauce)  and some Chicken Tenders with two Dipping sauces.  It was a very good lunch.  I was able to watch my Sooners playing in Oxford MS and they gave highly rated Ole Miss a scare.  After finishing my meal and during half-time I went to my Muster Station 7F to check in and then to my cabin to watch the rest of the football game.  The cabin has a queen bed, a large Sofa (bed), double Wardrobes, a Large screen Television, a Counter & Mirror with a heavy Ottoman Seat, a Small refrigerator, Shelving and drawers, and a small but adequate bathroom with a glass door shower. I ordered the premium WiFi package and the reception was very good.  I was unpacked and fully set up by the time the game finished. Great weather today so I left the balcony open and it was exciting as the Carnival Freedom sailed past us on her way out of port at about 4:00 pm.  I wanted to eat early so I could watch the World Series game two tonight so at about 6:30 I went to Guy’s Pig & Anchor Bar-B-Que Smokehouse. I ordered the Pulled Pork, Brisket, and the premium St. Louis Ribs ($10+ for half rack).  I ordered two sides but they brought all four: Macaroni & Cheese, Onion Straws, French Fries, and Baked Beans.  More than I could eat and the Banana Pie for dessert was also very good as well.   I then retired to my cabin to watch the Yankees vs. Dodgers on my laptop.  One advantage of being an experienced cruiser is that you don’t have to do any ship activities if that’s your choice. I soon fell asleep to the rocking of the ship.

Day Two -- Sunday --  October 27th, 2024 -- Fun Day at Sea

Slightly rocky seas overnight and I slept very well in my balcony cabin. I woke very early, reviewed scores of late NCAA football games, and updated this blog before falling back to sleep.  I had cabin time before going to the Flamingo MDR for the noon Diamond Luncheon.  I had a five-top table with two couples who were fun people.  My cocktail server was busy serving me several Cosmopolitan Cocktails.  I ordered the Prosciutto Crudo appetizer, the Filet Mignon entree, and the Cantaloupe Panna Cotta for dessert.  It was a great meal.  Afterward, I went to the Summer Landing on deck 8 to watch NFL football.  Various areas had various games on big-screen TVs.  I found the Tampa vs. Atlanta game in the cushy seating area.  I was able to get a spot and enjoyed the game.  A different experience with a live crowd.  I enjoyed several Pilsner Urquells as well.  After the game, I went by the Photo Gallery to pick up my Diamond gift, a blue VIFP Beanball style hat, and another Mardi Gras pin.  I did run into Ed Patterson in an elevator, many VIFPs know him as he’s always sailing and a nice fellow.  I won't be the most frequent guest on this cruise as I was on my previous Mardi Gras cruise.  It was back to the cabin for a nap.  I was hearing an unusual noise outside, and I finally figured out that it was The Bolt roller coaster (photo) going by above my balcony.  At about 7:30, I went up one deck to the Lido Buffet for a light meal before the start of the SNF game.  I admit I fell asleep before the ending and the Cowboys lost anyway.  It was a very entertaining day on the Mardi Gras.

Day Three -- Monday — October 28th, 2024 — Grand Turk, British Overseas Territories

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. It’s a damp morning so guests are slow to debark for the beaches.  At about 8:30 am I went up to Lido deck and my favorite breakfast on a Carnival ship: The Blue Iguana. I had one Tortilla with two fried eggs, I added Cheese, Pico de gallo, and Salsa. I also had an Arepa and Watermelon on the side. It was fantastic. I did a walkabout on Lido before returning to the cabin.  As the weather improved I had Balcony Time.  I did a little walkabout before going to Guy’s Burgers (photo) on deck 17 at about 12:30 pm.  My first Hamburger since Poland, I just don’t eat as many in Florida as when in Texas.  The Guy’s burgers were good and it was busy.  I think guests came back on board to eat or are eating before they debark…I don’t blame them, I find the pricing here dear.  The sun is out and we can see the beautiful blue water around the island.  I watched some cabin TV, but very limited choices on Carnival.  I’m glad I did the streaming WiFi to watch football & the World Series as I can also watch the News.  I had dinner at the Lido Buffet as it’s World Series baseball.  I have to watch the ESPN Spanish broadcast, but it’s just fine.  The Dodgers won again in a close game over the Yankees that lasted until almost midnight.  A good day on the Mardi Gras.

Day Four -- Tuesday --  October 29, 2023 — Amber Cove - Dominican Republic 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well. We were docked by our early 7:30 am arrival time and it's another damp morning.I had another very good Blue Iguana breakfast at about 9:00 as guests left the ship.  I had them put my Arepa on the grill, I like it that way and will do so in the future.  I did a small walkabout on the ship and decided to stay onboard.  I did have some balcony time with a good view of the port from the starboard side (photo).  I had a very nice lunch on the aft Lido deck at Big Chicken. Always good but not as rushed as on embark day and fewer guests. The food tasted much better too.  I had some TV time in the afternoon, I’ve been doing a Perry Mason marathon for the past two months and could stream several shows…I’m at the end of Season 4 now.  I enjoy seeing the old cars and the various actors from the early 1960s.  I had dinner again at the Lido Buffet, the food was adequate but nothing special.  I did a walkabout and got a soft serve of ice cream from the Summer Landing area.  I then retired to the cabin to watch Game 6 of the World Series.  Agood day on the Mardi Gras.

Day Five -- Wednesday --  October 30th, 2024 -- Fun Day at Sea

Smooth seas overnight but rocking in the morning hours. I slept very well…fell asleep during the World Series and slept until 8:30 am. Perhaps the best weather of the cruise is this morning so the guests can enjoy the outer decks.  I’m feeling better this morning too, like the weather I felt poorly for a couple of days.  I made it to the Blue Iguana for breakfast, still the best choice IMHO on the ship.  I worked on updating this blog this morning and read the news from home.     I did a walkabout to the casino to cash my remaining chips ($150) and to apply a Carnival gift card to my account at guest services.  I then had lunch at Cucina del Capitano, I ordered two Pasta Bowls: Linguine and Penne with different sauces & add-in ingredients.  They were good and the desert Limoncello Mascarpone Torta was fantastic.  This afternoon I stopped at the Alchemy Bar to have a cocktail with my old friend Maria, it was nice, and while I was there Aleksandra, now a Bar Manager, walked past… nice catching up with her, she’s a long-time favorite.  Some cabin time with Perry Mason before dinner at ChiBang this evening.  I ordered: Egg Drop Soup, Chicken Spring Rolls, Beef & Broccoli entree, Kung Pao Chicken (spicy) entree, and Hakka Noodles.  It was a very good meal.  I watched the exciting final game of the World Series too, Congratulations to the LA Dodgers.  It was a great sea day on the Mardi Gras.

Day Six -- Thursday --  October 31st, 2024 — Halloween — Nassau, Bahamas  

Rocky seas overnight and I slept well. It started as a clear and bright day in Nassau as I ate outdoors again at the Blue Iguana.  My plan for the day was to eat at Fish Fry, an area of fresh seafood restaurants for lunch so I had a relaxing morning on board.  The MSC Meriviglia one of my favorite ships docked alongside of us.  At about 11:15 debarked into the NEW Nassau.  For many years the area had deteriorated so much that most experienced guests never bothered to get off the ship.  A reconstruction of the docks and port area is finally complete and the results are amazing.  A museum and stalls reminiscent of the original Nassau with bright colors await you in the new dock area.  A new boardwalk goes along the shore to a new music venue and the previously restored new Grass Market.  A very large clean and secure area for ship guests. As it was now overcast and cool I decided to walk the long mile.  You walk along Shoreline dive past the British Colonial Hotel, The Margaritaville Resort, old Junkanoo Beach, and the newer West Junkanoo Beach, then cross the commercial Port road into Fish Fry with dozens of Restaurants and Food Shacks.  I usually eat at Goldies one of the originals, but stopped at Two Brothers the other very popular full-service restaurant.  It’s very clean and well-dressed waiters with a nice menu.  I ordered the Fresh Catch of the Day meal, a whole fried or broiled fish with sides.  It was good but next time I’ll try the basic Fish & Chips…easier to eat,  I would say that Goldies has better fish and Two Bothers has better service,  I planned to taxi back, but I walked it again stopping at the Beach and for an Ice Creme near the resorts.  I checked and it was over 13,000 steps so good for me.  Recovery time on the balcony and cabin until dinner (photo).  I ate at Cucina del Capitano at about 7:00 pm, I expected a long wait, but it was not busy at all due to lobster in the MDR.  I ordered: Arancini (3), Nona’s Meatball (1), and the Spaghetti Carbonara entree. And the Lemon Tart for dessert.  It was good.  After dinner, I did a long walkabout to all the various bars to see guests in their Halloween Costumes…I would say about a third were costumed and some were very elaborate.  Many cabin doors were decorated as well.  Itw as a great day in port and Halloween on the Mardi Gras.

Day Seven -- Sunday —  November 1st, 2024 -- Fun Day at Sea

Smooth seas overnight and I slept well and late as planned. I skipped breakfast, also as planned, and did some online business until about 11:30 when I went to Deck 8 for my noon lunch reservation at Bonsai Teppanyaki.  I prefer this to the other premium restaurants on the ship as you get a meal and some theater.  I had a nice table and Ryan was the Chef.  I had all the appetizers: Teppanyaki White Shrimp, Pork Belly Yakitori, Spicy Tuna, and Miso Soup.  My entree was a Lobster & Filet Mignon combination, and the assorted Tray of Desserts including Green Tea Ice Creme.  It was a great meal.  I did a walkabout the ship and enjoyed some cabin time in the afternoon.  I skipped the Diamond/Platinum party but used my drink voucher later in the evening. Before Big Chicken closed @ 5:00 pm I had my usual MDE and Chicken Strips as my dinner this evening.  Always good.  I then had some Balcony time and enjoyed my Pilsner Urquell beers that I had left over from my bucket of beers on Sunday…great weather and very enjoyable.  At about 7:00 pm. I went to the Fortune Teller Bar to see Dajana Blagojevic who I saw earlier in the day on my walkabout.  She prepared for me some excellent cocktails.  Nice experience.  I did a final walkabout before retiring to the cabin to do preliminary packing and update this blog.  It was a great final sea day on the Mardi Gras.

Debarkation -- Saturday -- November 2nd, 2024  -- Port Canaveral, Florida 

Smooth seas overnight and woke much too early. I was up by 4:45 a.m. and I finished my packing process. At about 6:40 am I went down to deck 6 and the Diamond meet area and they were already moving off the ship so I just joined the line and was off and through Facial Recognition by 7:00 am.  The Park-N-Cruise Shuttle bus had me at my auto by 7:15 am.  Amazing.  I was home at 10:00 am. including stops for Fuel, Groceries, and Car Wash.  Easy debark.

HIGHLIGHTS

Diamond Luncheon

Bonsai Teppanyaki

New port of Nassau

Good Fast Food: Big Chicken, Guy’s Burgers

Pig & Anchor BBQ

MSC Seashore Cruise Review - September 1, 2024

MSC Seashore Cruise Review  -  September 1, 2024

Just the Facts:
Ship: MSC Seashore
Captain: Pietro Maresca (Italy)  Cruise Director: Nathaniel James Khan (England)
Ports: Port Canaveral, USA - Ocean Cay, Bahamas (overnight) - Cozumel, Mexico - Costa Maya, Mexico

I’m cruising as a solo on this 7-day cruise. This is my 3rd cruise on the Seashore, my 22nd cruise on MSC, and my 215th cruise overall.  I do have Diamond status, the highest of the MSC Loyalty Club levels.

Sunday, September 1st / Port Canaveral / Embarkation / Day 1 

I have an assigned 3:00-3:30 pm Boarding time so planned accordingly and left the Florida Villa at about 11:45 am for the drive to Port Canaveral. I arrived at Park-N-Cruise at about 2:00 pm., closing time and was the last person on the last bus.  I did not realize that they closed that early, but a very efficient parking company that I have used for years. I was immediately on my way to the port terminal. I arrived at Pier number 10 at about 2:15 grabbed my bag and went up one level to port security and through quickly. All card lines were open without a line and I went directly to a check-in counter. Very smooth process when arriving later and I was able to go straight to my cabin arriving on Deck 10 at 2:35 p.m. I have a balcony cabin located almost all the way aft, actually near the aft Panoramic Lifts. It is very comfortable, especially for a solo. The cabin has a Queen bed, Wardrobe, Large screen Television, a Counter/dressing table with mirror, a small stocked Refrigerator, Shelving, and drawers inside the wardrobe, a Couch, and a small but adequate bathroom with a solid glass door shower.  At about 4:10 pm I went down to my Muster Station and checked in, thankfully you can check in casually and not as a mass hoard (MSC was last to update the streamlined system). I ordered the premium WiFi package and the reception in my cabin was good. They are strict about one device…and you can not change from a Laptop to an iPhone. We sailed away at about 5:00 pm and I watched from my balcony.  The Carnival Vista sailed just before we did. I have a 7:30 dinner assignment in the Tribeca Dining room (MDR), located on deck 6 aft it was a solo table with four guests this evening.  Dinner and service was good. For dinner, I ordered the Tomato Basil Soup, two very nice Shrimp Cocktails, and the Roast Beef entree with horseradish. For dessert a wonderful Crema Catalonia. After dinner, I had reservations for the 9:30 Production Show: Journey.  Unusual to have one on the first night.  It was good with a theme of travelers from Ireland across Europe by train,  Music and Dance from Ireland, France, Spain (photo), and Italy.  Memorable was Danny Boy, the French Can Can dancing, theme from the Godfather, and Conte Parte.  After a walkabout back towards the cabin I then watched the end of the USC/LSU football game, LSU let us down (I’m now an SEC fan now that my Sooners are in the SEC). It was an easy embarkation day.

Monday, September 2nd / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve / Day 2

Rolling seas overnight with enough movement for a very enjoyable night's sleep. The bed is very comfortable with good pillows: one soft and one firm. We were docked at about 7:00 am and it was a beautiful day. They have begun construction of the second pier, another building, and another beach area all easily visible from the ship. I went to Deck 5 Central Park MDR for breakfast at about 8:45 am and had a shared table. I ordered a Fruit Plate, Danish, Eggs Benedict with a side of Bacon, and hash brown potatoes. I was served Hot Milk which is not always easy to get on other cruise lines but very common on MSC. No usual Monday morning business activities as today is Labor Day so I enjoyed cabin and balcony time. At about 3:00 pm I went up to deck 16 to eat: Pizza (photo) and a very nice Salad with Roast Beef, also Bread Pudding for dessert. MSC is well known for their great Pizza.  I’m not going to get off the ship today so I walked about the upper deck to get a better view of the island. The water here is beautiful and the Palm trees look better with every visit. This stop will only improve over time.  I watched two old 40s-era gangster movies on TCM this afternoon. At 7:30 pm I went to the MDR for dinner, three at the solo table this evening.  I ordered: an Italian Wedding Soup, a Shrimp Cocktail, the Broiled Swordfish entree, and Appel Strudel with Vanilla Sauce and Ice creme for dessert.  Service was good and fast this evening.  Only a short walkabout for me before returning to the cabin.  I watched the 2nd half of the NCAA football game, then the abbreviated Light Show on the island…I assume because of construction.  It was a very relaxing day on the Seashore.

Tuesday, September 3rd / Ocean Cay Marine Reserve  / Day 3 

We were docked overnight and I slept well although I woke early. I had a casual morning updating this blog and doing some online work on this first business day of September. I had a TCM Alan Ladd Movie Day watching three westerns. I had a break at about noon when I went up to the Lido Buffet on Deck 16. The aft Panorama Elevators are perfect for getting from deck 10 to 16. We sailed away from Ocean Cay at about 3:15 pm into some cloudy weather. This is the Captain's Night so several functions in the early evening. I went to the Dining room for the Gala Dinner, I ordered: Eggplant Parmigiana, Shrimp Cocktail, the Filet Mignon entree, and Baked Alaska for dessert. It was a very nice dinner again with great service. I went to the Production show: Encore (photo), which featured songs from Broadway Shows, including Chicago, Hairspray, West Side Story, Les Miserables, Phantom of the Opera, and more. Very entertaining, the photo is of the female lead singer, she was excellent. I returned to the cabin and set out my room service order before retiring. It was an interesting day on the MSC Seashore.

 

Wednesday, September 4th / Day at Sea / Day 4 

Smooth seas overnight and I slept very well. At about 8:00 am. my Room Service was delivered, I ordered Hot Milk, Danish, Fruit Plate, & Special K cereal.  Very convenient.  At 10:00 am I went to the Brooklyn Cafe Lounge for the Diamond  Guest Reception. I had to call Guest Services to get the info as I was issued a blue card and not a black card that I had corrected after the party.  I like this location better than the previous Cabaret location. I was served an Aperol Spritzer straight away, then two Hugo Spritzers, so the party was on.  They had a piano player and a Tango Dance routine by a couple from Argentina as entertainment.  The Cruise Director introduced the Senior Officers as well as the Captain of the Ship (photo).  As the event was finishing they forced the pre-prepared cocktails on those guests that remained so I helped them out by having a couple more of Aperol Spritzers. The party continued. I then went to Guest Services and picked up my correct Black Card then back to my cabin…very soon they were knocking on my door with a bottle of Prosecco, a Chocolate Ship sweet, and Petit Fours.  So the party continued.  At 12:30 pm I went to the Butcher's Cut Steak House (with a glass of Prosecco) for lunch.  The manager seated me so I was able to get my usual request approved straight away…I order two appetizers and no dessert.  I had the Burrata & Beets, Shrimp Cocktail, and a Filet Mignon entree.  This was a real filet, not the shoulder-cut beef they passed off in the MDR last night, and perfectly prepared—a great lunch.  I then soon retired to the cabin for a wee nap.  In the late afternoon, I did some online business and booked an excursion for tomorrow in Costa Maya.  I did go to dinner in the MDR  it was Caribbean Night, but I didn’t care for my appetizers or the meatloaf entree.  The Key Lime Pie was good though.  I had reservations for the Divas Show in the theater but passed and retired early and enjoyed a Coca-Cola and Western movie on TCM.  It was a good sea day on the MSC Seashore.

 

Thursday, September 5th / Costa Maya, Mexico / Day 5

Calm seas overnight and I slept very well. We arrived several hours early by 7:00 am and only two ships today: Ourselves and the Harmony of the Seas. I again had a nice room service breakfast then at about 9:10 am and left the ship and walked down the long pier to meet my excursion. I’m doing the Bacalar 7 Colors Lagoon tour today. We took a very nice bus on an 80-minute drive to Columpio Rancho Encantado on the Balacar Lagoon. We relaxed around the pool as we waited for our Pontoon Boats. They had my favorite Mexican Beer so I enjoyed a couple of Bohemia Cervezas. We were soon loaded on the Pontoon, perfect for the shallow water sites we will visit. We sailed by Fuerte de San Felipe de Bacalar (the fort) and then visited Cenote Negro before anchoring in the shallows to allow for swimming. We sailed by Cenote Azul and Isla de los Pájaros (Bird Island) before stopping at the second swimming location. We then returned to the Restaurant/Resort for a nice Mexican Buffet lunch. It was over two hours on the fresh water lagoon overall (photo). The bus passed through rain as we were returning to Costa Maya. When we arrived it was clear but there were very few guests…they all had returned to the ship when it rained so it was very easy to get through the usual gauntlet of vendors. I was back in the cabin by 4:45 pm. I planned to relax and skip dinner but the menu appealed to me so I went to dinner at 7:30. I ordered: Escargot, Beetroot Salad, Shrimp Cocktail, the Steak Diane entree, and the Tapioca with Mango dessert. A large number of guests were dressed in white for tonight's White Night party.  I returned to the cabin to watch the NFL Kickoff game between the Chiefs and Chargers.  It was great excursion day.

 Friday,  September 6th   /  Cozumel  /  Day 6

Smooth seas overnight and a good night's sleep. I woke at about 7:30 a.m. and we had been docked at Puerto Langosta for a while. At 8:45 I went down to the MDR for breakfast before they closed at 9:00 am.  I ordered three fried eggs with Toast, Ham, Bacon, Grilled Tomato, and Scalloped Potatoes.  Also Tomato Juice, Hot Milk, and Water.  It was a good and hearty breakfast.  After I walked down to Deck 4 and the gangway and was off and walking into town, I like docking at this pier, so much easier for the things I usually do when in Cozumel. My first stop was at the San Miguel Archangel Church, the second at Antonio’s Barber Shop for a haircut just as he opened at 10:00 a.m. Another good haircut too. The third stop is at my Cozumel HQ: Woody’s Bar & Grill. I had table 7 with a nearby fan, electrical plug, and view of the Ship. The good WiFi, Live Entertainment by Michael, great Mexican Coca-Cola, fair (not made to order) Guacamole, a Chimichanga, and Bohemia beer were all nice on this luckily breezy day. The day seemed a bit off though, not many tourists, and the time change. I casually began walking back to the ship earlier than usual. I did stop at the Thirsty Cougar on the Malecon as a break on my walk (photo). I made it back on board before 2:00 pm and refreshed and relaxed until sailing away at about 5:00 PM.  The seas are rolling more than any other time this cruise evening.  Nice ride.  This is one of those days that I’m glad I have a 7:30 dinner time. Dinner was very good, I ordered: Stuffed Mushrooms, Shrimp cocktail, the Penne all Amatriciana Pasta entree, and Coconut Cake for dessert. After dinner I retired to the cabin to watch television, overall another great port day in Cozumel.

 

Saturday, September 7th / Day at Sea / Day 7

There were some rolling seas overnight, just enough rocking for a good sleep. I had a relaxing morning then went up to the Buffet for the first time at about 10:30 am for breakfast. I had Eggs, French Toast, Ham, and Bacon with milk and sat on the bump out with a view aft. Beautiful weather today and I did a short walkabout (photo) before cabin/balcony time. Today is NCAA SEC College Football Day for me.  I had the cabin set with snacks and began with the noon game between Texas and Michigan.  Then the 3:30 kickoffs.  At about 4:30 I went to Hola! Tacos & Cantina, the Tex-Mex restaurant on deck 8, and the All-you-can-Eat menu ($17.99). I ordered almost everything on the menu.  I ordered: the Signature Guacamole (2), Pico de Gallo (2), Queso Fundido, Tamales (2), Chicken Enchilada (2), Pork Enchilada (2), Chili Con Carne, and the best items on the menu…the Street-Style Soft Tortillas.  My favorites were Al Pastor (2) and Carne Asada (2).  In retrospect, I would do more soft tacos and less entree enchiladas.  A lot to eat.  This was my third visit in three cruises and the best restaurant on the ship in my humble opinion.  My big game, Oklahoma vs. Houston had a 7:45 kickoff.  The WiFi was streamlining well and I could get both the SEC Network as well as the Oklahoma radio broadcast.  The game was much closer than anyone expected and Oklahoma was lucky to pull out a victory.  It was a long but fun football day with excellent food. 

Sunday, November 8th / Port Canaveral / Debarkation
Fair seas overnight and I slept well. We arrived on time and were docked just after 6:00 am. I finished packing and waited until I actually saw guests on the gangway at about 7:00 a.m. and luckily got an elevator and joined the line. Thanks to facial recognition we were soon on the street. I was on the parking shuttle bus before 7:30 and on the road by 7:45 a.m. Went through the carwash in Lakeland, stopped for groceries, and was home at about 10:15 a.m. Easy Peasy.

Ship
Maiden Voyage: 2017 I Gross Tonnage: 153,500 tons
Passenger Capacity: 5179 | Crew: 1413 I Length: 323 meters/1060 ft
Max Cruising Speed: 22 knots I Avg Speed 21 knots
Installed power: Diesel (40,000kW) I Propulsion: Twin propellers
17 passenger decks Builder: Fincantieri
Godmother: Sophia Loren

Cabin
I had cabin 10276 a starboard side balcony located on deck far aft with a long walk to the main aft elevators, but close to the aft Panoramic elevators . Storage is fine if solo. The toilet seems smaller perhaps because the glass shower doors restrict movement. The cabin has a push-button safe, twin/king beds, a large padded headboard, two small nightstands, wall-mounted wall lights, a large mirror, a small stocked refrigerator, a small table/bench (unusual), and a nice TV with interactive features. My cabin steward was very good.

Dining / Food
The dinners in the MDR are very good, and the service and settings were wonderful. I love the tablecloths. Our wait staff were excellent, very pleased with the service. The buffet food was good to very good. Not as many selections as in the past, but the food variety was fine. Favorites: all the Pizza, all the Pasta, Guacamole, Hamburgers, and Salad Bar. I only did one premium specialty restaurant: The Butcher’s Cut for lunch and it was very good.

Comments - MSC Cruise Line
MSC is very different than the usual American cruise lines and if you're 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 are my observations on sailing MSC: 

MSC Pluses
Beautiful Public Rooms, Good MSC Production Shows and entertainment, Quality and Beautiful Themed Bars, Nice Cabins, Hot Milk readily available on buffet and MDR, Attentive bar servers, and Good MDR Breakfasts.  Tablecloths.

Changes since Covid
Announcements are now only in English
Fewer children since they changed the ‘Children sail free’ promotion.
Many more American guests result in more: Scooters, Wheelchairs, and complainers.

Highlights of the Cruise
Balacar Excursion in Costa Maya
Hola! Tacos and Cantina
Port Day in Cozumel
Production Shows
Butcher’s Cut Steak House