Exploring the Mediterranean with MSC Cruises

Our recent MSC Cruises sailing was a fantastic opportunity to experience the MSC Seaside ship the onboard activities, dining, and ports first-hand. From embarkation to disembarkation, here’s a full overview of what made this cruise so memorable. 

Embarkation & First Impressions 

Boarding was smooth and straightforward, within 20–30 minutes, we were on board, our luggage taken care of, and cruise cards waiting on our cabin doors. The ship itself immediately impressed with its modern, grand, and spacious design. Each deck offered something to explore, from lounges and bars to sparkling features like the Swarovski staircases in the atrium. The décor was a mix of stylish modern, with some darker maroon tones in the suite areas, giving a cozy yet elegant vibe. 

Accommodation 

We stayed in a balcony cabin, which was spacious and well-appointed. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the cabin included a sofa, a dressing table with a large mirror, and a generous wardrobe for storage. The bathroom was well-sized, and the balcony offered a lovely private space to enjoy the views. While some areas of the stateroom felt darker compared to the bright atrium, it was still very comfortable and practical for a cruise stay. 

Entertainment & Activities 

MSC Seaside has a wide variety of entertainment options. We enjoyed relaxing in the hot tub with views of La Spezia and taking part in karaoke at The Garage Club, which had an American diner feel and drew guests from different countries, singing in multiple languages. The disco at South Beach Bar was lively, and the sail-away party, with its snow machine, was a highlight! 

Our favourite entertainment was watching the salsa dancing in the Haven Lounge. Guests enthusiastically joined the instructors, and it was a fun, interactive experience that really captured the spirit of the cruise.  

Dining & Drinks 

The dining options on board were excellent, with plenty of choice to suit all tastes. We dined at the buffet, main dining rooms, and the speciality Mexican restaurant, Hola Tacos. 

At the buffet, breakfast included a delicious cheese omelette and fresh pastries, lunch offered build-your-own cheeseburgers and fresh salads, and dinner featured cheesy pizzas and flavourful crispy chicken with peppers. 

Hola Tacos was a standout experience. The service was engaging, and the food exceeded expectations. We enjoyed nachos with guacamole, soft shell tacos with pork, beef, chicken, and steak, plus burritos and enchiladas in a creamy cheese sauce. The combination of value, taste, and friendly service made it our favourite dining experience on board. 

Other speciality options included Butcher’s Cut for steaks, Kaito Sushi, and Pan Asian, offering Japanese, Hawaiian, and European fusion cuisine. Vegetarian and vegan options were available across all venues. 

Service 

Service onboard was generally friendly and attentive. Some staff were exceptional—like Paul, the bartender in the Sports Bar, who remembered my name and greeted me each time, and Rajeev, our waiter at Hola, who made our dining experience extra fun, overall, the crew were welcoming and helpful. 

Ports of Call 

We visited La Spezia and Marseille. 

Standout Tips & Highlights 

Looking for a cruise that combines modern style, diverse dining, interactive entertainment, and beautiful Mediterranean ports, MSC Cruises offers a fantastic choice. 

If you have any questions about sailing aboard MSC Cruises or want to discover our latest cruise offers, our expert team is ready to assist. Enjoy personalised service, insider knowledge, and exclusive deals you won’t find anywhere else. Call our Cruise Concierge today on 0808 274 9725.