I couldn't agree more with your take. You pointed out so many of the things that bugged us about this ship. My biggest annoyance was how during announcements and entertainment (even the belly flop contest!) they would translate every phrase into 5-10 languages so it was very difficult to follow along. I'm not sure if they actually meant it when they said they were designing this ship for North Anericans, but I can't imagine too many more North Americans choosing them over the other excellent options in the future.
Yes, the way they always did announcements in five languages got very annoying. The worst instance during our cruise was one day when we were really tired and decided to take a nap in our cabin mid-day. In the middle of our nap, the Captain decided to make a ship-wide announcement about the weather and the position of the ship. In other words, an unimportant announcement. Rather than just making the announcement to the public areas of the ship, he pushed the button to make the announcement go ship-wide, including inside all the cabins. So, he woke us up to tell us about the weather. He went on and on for two minutes straight, in English. Then he read his announcement again, in Italian. Then he handed the microphone over to a woman who read it three more times, in three other languages. All while we were trying to take a nap in our cabin! This is the kind of stuff that I just don't think American cruisers have to put up with. There are so many great ships that Americans can sail on... Harmony Of The Seas, Anthem Of The Seas, Carnival Vista, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Escape... where the cruise is totally geared towards Americans and you don't have to put up with any of the annoyances of the European focus of MSC.
Oh, no, Paul Jordan, they really do make shipboard announcements in an incredible number of languages, due to the fact that MSC caters to passengers from all over Europe. So, they have to make announcements in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and more. During our cruise on MSC Seaside there was a day where we were very tired and decided to take a brief nap in the middle of the afternoon, so we would be fully refreshed and able to stay up later in the evening. In the middle of our nap, the Captain came on the public address system speaker directly in our cabin. Not just the speakers in the hallways and public areas, but the ones everywhere throughout the ship, including inside all cabins. He made a completely unimportant announcement in English about the weather conditions, the ship's position, and our scheduled arrival time in our next port of call. It took more than a minute for the English version of the announcement. Then the Captain read the same announcement in Italian. After that, he handed the microphone over to a female crew member who read the announcement three more times, in three other languages. This is a completely true story. But it also happens for announcements made prior to shows in the theater, and announcements made over the public address system in the public areas throughout the cruise. Those kinds of announcements are really annoying on any cruise. Now imagine having to listen to them in five different languages! That's just another example of why I say that Americans would be much better off to sail with Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, or Princess... as all of those cruise lines tailor their entire experience for Americans. If you're an American, it just makes sense to cruise on a ship tailored for you. To be on a ship tailored for Europeans was frustrating in multiple ways.
Paul Jordan , I believe what she said is true. On my experience, it start out with English then Italian then Spanish then French then German. I fell asleep hearing it.
Athie L We were scheduled to go on an MSC cruise last year but listening to to another cord that was similar to yours on the negatives to issues. We canceled the sitter going through this disappointment. This is even though we had a very great cabin at a good price. It’s not worth the aggravation. What’s really surprising is that the executives of MSC cruise line haven’t picked up on these criticisms and change things that they can. Sometimes business people are deaf.
We went on the seaside in march and it seem to be that thier had improved the shows ,very good. The ship was beautiful. We got our money worth and more.
The buffet is the low end cafeteria food line alternative to the main dining room which doesn't cost anything extra. Why they didn't eat in the main restaurant more baffles me.
They actually close the main buffet to create a third main dining room for dinner service, leaving the family buffet open. The food is aimed at the kids.... Who probably don't have an issue with hamburgers and chicken nuggets. That buffet literally has a kid height counter for the kids.
Amy Neumann...just think a little bit about that...they would PURPOSELY make one of the food sources BAD to make people PAY MONEY for the more expensive restaurants? That's your idea of a business plan for the second largest shipping company in the world, and whose ship designs incorporate just about any kind of beauty or innovation that you can imagine?
Just booked the Seaview, Seaside's sister ship for the Mediterranean this October. I usually sail Royal Caribbean, but they were priced way too high for this itinerary. MSC will match my Crown & Anchor status! I was a little worried about this ship as I've heard people say negative things about MSC and particularly the Seaside. After watching this, I'm actually more sold on MSC than I was before. Most of the negatives are positives to me. Deep pools keeping people out--great! More room for me! I also enjoy improv comedy and opera. I don't eat at the buffets often, so a lack of selection makes no difference to me. I rarely do specialty dining. It was very generous of them to refund those excursions due to weather. This usually does not happen. I don't mind a lack of laundry facilities as I've never been on a ship with self laundry. Who really wants to do laundry while on vacation anyways? Hopefully the smell issues have been resolved and it never becomes an issue on Seaview. From what I've read, it's mostly the lower decks and we'll be on 13. The other things mentioned are just minor to me. Although I disagree with some of your opinions, thanks for the review. It was informative
My worst cruise experience ever and I've sailed with a few lines... If you have only paid your deposit for this cruise cancel and go with another line. This review video is absolutely spot on !!
They gave me Gold status, but they will not give me the same amenities, that I get being a Celebrity Elite or Royals Diamond status. Another words, no free laundry, no free internet and no free drinks! It;s not really a match!
MiltPalacio he named a few more problems and that means it’s automatically a bad ship. just look at a corridor and you can tell it’s goi to be a good cruise i-
Last night I booked a Mediterranean cruise on the MSC Seaview for April 2019. I've sailed once before with MSC on the MSC Divina, in a yacht club suite. I will honestly say that the Yacht Club experience was impressive. I could tell the rest of the ship wasn't having the same experience as me though. The staff made me feel like a celebrity for the week I was onboard. They have since tweaked the YC offering, to add drinks on the whole ship, instead of just in the YC areas which was my only complaint about the YC product. The cabin I booked for my Mediterranean cruise is a yacht club inside cabin. Although it's a bit expensive for an interior cabin, I felt the YC offering was well worth the extra money. I have been watching all of your seaside videos, as they're among the first close looks at this new ship design. She is certainly beautiful and elegant, although the design's a bit too "glittery" for my taste, I can certainly appreciate it for what it is. I'm looking forward to spending time in the new Top Sail Lounge, and YC Restaurant which look beautiful and seem a bit more elegantly understated in decor than the main parts of the ship. I found the food in the main buffet to be not so great, with the exception of the Pizza, and the seemingly endless supply of little croissants. The Divina did put out a small selection of "nibbles " in the Top Sail, and an even smaller buffet by the YC pool bar, but the one or 2 hot dishes served were nice. The YC Restaurant served very nice, elaborate Restaurant quality meals every night, although holding to their Europeanness, it was a multi-hour affair, and took much longer than most Americans would like. They were also a little light on the seasoning, so some of the food was a little bland. While I do actually love opera (Yes, I know I'm a slightly weird American) I found that part of the entertainment to be lackluster as well. In terms of entertainment, on the Divina, there seemed to be a whole category of entertainment like trivia, games, non-sales pitch talks, and the like that I never participate in, but I very much miss having the option to not participate in. This may seem like a very stupid complaint, but I like to point to a jam-packed cruise program and say "look at all of this stuff I'm not doing!" I'm glad to see they added some comedy, even if it's not the best. The Divina had no comedy whatsoever. I imagine an improv troupe would probably go over better in europe than here in the states. The particular cruise I chose is port intensive, and has no full sea days, so I think the lack of entertainment won't be as much of an issue on this particular trip, and the ports for the cruise include some places I'm completely unfamiliar with, which I find exciting. This will be my 5th cruise, and my 2nd with MSC. I'm thinking the YC interior suite will serve very nicely as a floating hotel for a port intensive tour of the Mediterranean. Thank you so much for this series of Videos on the Seaside!
I'm unsure if that was intended to be insulting, but it made me giggle. I often write overly long emails to my customers at work. You are not the first person to accuse me of "writing novels".
Joseph Dadey, To each his own, but I am so confused over the concept of "Interior Cabin" AND "Yacht Club". I mean, is it really that important or appealing to pay so much more money just to have a butler (whatever for) and a snobby separate deck, swimming pool, bar, and dining room, while meanwhile staying in the rock bottom worst kind of cabin on the ship? That strikes me as being like paying first class on an airplane just for the free champagne and to board the plane first, but sit in the tiniest, most cramped seat at the very back of the plane. To me, the hierarchy would be: inside cabin, sea view cabin, balcony cabin, special suite with a hot tub on the deck and blah blah blah, and THEN Yacht Club. Yacht Club and inside cabin just does not make sense...to me, anyway.
Hi Tom, Thanks for the comment. I think it's a matter of what you find important. Personally, I kind of like inside cabins in general. They're fantastic for sleeping. I think to answer your questions best, I should compare a "regular"inside cabin to a YC inside cabin, the price is anywhere from double to triple the price. I would agree that butler is certainly not worth the price of admission. The biggest factors that make me feel it's "worth it" are as follows: 1) Uncrowded pools and public areas. 2) Priority boarding 3) The food is better 4) Significantly lower staff to guest ratio in YC areas. 5) Drink package included (used to be only YC areas, now extended to the entire ship) 6) Spa access (Steam rooms, saunas thalassotherapy pool etc) included. All of these things in combination, make for a very different experience. I'd say almost like a different cruise line, even though you're on the same ship. I've only been on MSC once, so I've never experienced the "non-YC" rooms on MSC, but based on what I saw, it appeared to be a very different overall experience, geared toward budget minded travellers. While I get your analogy to paying for first class, and getting the tiniest coach-type seat in the back of the plane, I'd probably liken it more to paying for business class, getting first class treatment, but sitting in only a slightly roomier than coach seat in the first class cabin. To note, I've only stayed in the "Family Suite" on the MSC Divina when I did YC, so I've never actually experienced a YC interior, but I've done inside cabins on other cruises, and have found them comfortable, and wonderful for sleeping due to the absolute darkness of the room. As it turns out, I cancelled my cruise on MSC in favor of a land-based vacation, but If I were to do an MSC ship in the future, I'd probably book an interior YC cabin if the ship had them available. One more comment I wanted to make was on the "snobbiness". I'm in general, not a very "fancy" person. While I enjoy luxury, I despise pretense. I found that any attitude of snobbiness (and yes, there was some) came from other guests, not the staff. In fact, there was another couple on the ship who we'd befriended, who were a bit intimidated by some of the other guests' snobbiness. And the concierge was amazing in the way he made them feel comfortable. The same couple was also a bit intimidated by the YC dining room, finding it way too fancy and snooty for their taste. I hope that helps you understand my rationale.
Five years later and this review is DEADLY accurate. It is the worst cruise I’ve ever been on. I’m sure some people like it and it fits their tastes, but you are extremely accurate on ALL of the comments. For the majority of American cruises, MSC seaside was somewhat of a nightmare. Guest service was awful. I couldn’t agree more with everything you said. Great and thorough review!
Out of curiosity, I wonder if part of MSC's problem in figuring out the cruise market (particularly the North American cruise market) is that MSC is not a cruise line first and foremost. MSC stands for Mediterranean Shipping Company and is one of the world's largest steamship/freight cargo lines. In other words, has this international shipping company just completely missed the mark when attempting to cross over to the cruise industry?
Thank you for your review but I can’t believe that you complained about the entertainment and compared it with Carnival. Seriously Carnival is like a school production compared with high end entertainment MSC.
That's ironic you said that, because the Improv comedy show I saw on MSC Seaside was amateurish... and on Carnival I've seen some absolutely hilarious professional comedians. The two are not even close to being even as far as comedy. On Carnival, you'd have four professional comedians during the week, and on MSC it was young kids just past college age. And the comparison I made about rock and roll bands was an amazing 9-piece band that I saw on Carnival... which was so good I went to just about every show they did during the 7-day cruise. The two leads were musical pros from Branson, Missouri... a huge entertainment capital in the USA. On MSC Seaside, as I said in the video, most of the time it was one or two performers... and twice during the week I saw a cover band from the Philippines... simply not in the same league as that amazing 9 piece band I saw on Carnival Breeze. I suspect the true focus of your comment, though, was the big musical production shows in the main theater. Let's just say that Carnival knows their audience and would never present an opera show. And if MSC is serious about filling the MSC Seaside with 80 percent North American passengers and 20 percent from the rest of the world... which is what their chief executive was quoted as saying... they need to ditch the opera and get more in touch with the entertainment tastes of an American audience.
@@JimZim It is not the same to prepare entertainment for one major language or six different languages at the same time. Check this link ua-cam.com/video/BooaUosqSaE/v-deo.html
@@Croativno I was reviewing what I saw on MSC Seaside the week I sailed on it. MSC only offers the cirque show on two of the ships in their fleet... and MSC Seaside is not one of them. And the language thing is a huge deal for Americans cruising on MSC. It's SO ANNOYING to have to sit through announcements in multiple languages. I think Americans would be much better off to sail with cruise lines that are geared to Americans. When you go on Royal Caribbean or Carnival or Princess or Norwegian Cruise Line... everything is tailored to American tastes and there is only one language used. That's a much better situation for an American on vacation.
@@JimZim Not totally true. We've sailed out of the US and many cruise lines do announcements first in English and then in Spanish. And if you are cruising in the mediterranean, Royal Caribbean has after English announcements, Spanish and Italian announcements.
I like your candid review, not just another UA-camr pumping up your advertisers or sponsors. We love the RCCL Oasis class ships. I really can't imagine going on anything else.
Jim you must have been on Seaside January 13 to 20th. We were on it was the worst cruise we ever had. I thought Carnival Glory was bad. The food was ok but missed formal night as they had elegant night. The menu wasn’t nearly as good as the night before. We refrain from using the Buffet as the food doesn’t stay warm and one can over eat the deserts. My brothers stateroom toilet wouldn’t stop running and the bathroom was flooded. We had some problems with stench also. The ship didn’t appear to be very stable in mediocre seas and closet doors kept sliding back and forth along with the empty hangers banging. We love the Divina and hope they didn’t change that. Seaside is more for family and the family buffet is a lot smaller than the Marketplace. I’m not anxious to do Seaside again unless there was a very special rate.
In Europe, it is very different from America. Probably, MSC is still not used to America. MSC is European, and as I mentioned before, it is very different.
If they are going to spend billions on new ships for north America might want to sail on an American liner to understand the difference and cater to it
Funny enough, Royal Caribbean is from Norway and they understand American travelers more than MSC. Then again, they've been around America for years while MSC are just starting to sail from America
Great job Jim. MUST say your not the first to give a negative review on MSC, I have heard many people say that there just not up to standard. Thanks for your well-narrated review.
Im still not canceling. I have only been on one cruise 13 years ago on the Princess Caribbean...its first year in service. It was pretty boring and a much older crowd. Food was very very good. I am used to bland food (low salt diet) and am mainly going to relax. Really could care less about the entertainment. I got a balcony room for cheap and the kids have an area to play so I think we will have a good time.
Ok I lied. I just booked a cruise on Carnival Magic and cancelled the MSC cruise. I was really looking forward to this ship but there a a TON a bad reviews all over the internet, and most of them say WORST CRUISE EVER. Wow..... I am not going to chance it. Too bad because the kids were basically free which helped alot.
I was just on this ship in April 2019 with a few dozen other travel professionals for a seminar at sea. Most of your review is pretty accurate for me as well. I didn't care for the entertainment. The food was very hit or miss, other than the specialty dining. The ship itself is beautiful. We especially enjoyed the staff in the sports bar. They were by far the friendliest and most accommodating anywhere on the ship. Also, the gelato was amazing! We had fun, but we will have fun wherever we go.
Thanks for the video. I think some of your negatives were a little unfair since they are not exclusive to MSC. For example, there are plenty of cruise lines that don't have self-serve laundry (Royal for one), and if you hit up specialty restaurants on other lines, they'll be as pricy or even more. When we were on RCCL Anthem last time, the entertainment was not that great and many of the bands have been replaced with 1-2 people singing. It was the same on NCL Breakaway. I agree the shower design is weird with the half door. I can't decide if the deep pools were a plus or minus since they weren't packed. As for dinner with hamburgers & chicken nuggets, I think they were catering to families, many people with younger kids would rather do the buffet as opposed to the dining room since it's quicker. To each their own and thanks for sharing.
OK. I get that you need to be entertained every moment. But tourist schlock isn't what a lot of people want. Carnival Cruises are notorious for being trashy. But you eat at Margaritaville, Señor Frogs and the Hard Rock Café! You must absolutely despise a city like Paris or Rome. Guy Fieri doesn't have a restaurant there! On the other hand, maybe they're still working out some of the buffet selections. I do appreciate and enjoyed your video. I just think it needs to be revisited in a few months.
Hi Jim, great review, thx. Saw some of your reviews and like them really. Last year we did 2 cruises with MSC. Other ships (Fantasia & Sinfonia), but we´ve had the same experience as you with MSC. Horrible service, bad food, we went to the restaurant for breakfast cause the buffet was so bad. And I want to say: No, the europeans don´t like that, too! We are from germany. We did a lot of cruises before. And the 2 MSC Tours are on the end of our list. We liked most the Norwegian Getaway. Then the Carnival Dream. The only good thing about the trips we´ve made with MSC: a lot of stopps (14 days in the carribean, 13 stopps) and long time in the port. We´ve liked also the design of the ship as itself and the cabin layout (& big balcony) of the Fantasia. But the pro´s are less than the con´s. So MSC is not on our list anymore. See you in may on the NCL Bliss :-). We are also booked on this tour (Panama Canal). On saturday we´ve been to the meyer´s shipyard in Papenburg and did a tour. Saw the Bliss there in the shipyard. It is a beautiful ship. We are looking forward to may! On next saturday they let the Bliss out of the dry dock. If you would, you could see that live on the homepage of meyer´s shipyard. Starting @8ish a.m. german time.
MSC is designing their ships all about restaurants and not buffet. Buffet has never been in the focus of MSC. Of you're a buffet fan go to other cruise lines, where you wont fined many restaurant options.
Everyone is complaining about how oh Americans and Canadians don’t like operas and that we need to up our standards. Everyone likes different things. This video is *HIS* opinion. That doesn’t mean it’s standard for anyone in North America. I saw another comment that said Americans need to not be so used to drinking beer and watching football. If you think that’s how we are then you obviously don’t live in America, which means you don’t have the right to say anything. I’m done with these nonsense American stereotype comments complaining about how Americans are uncultured because in this video he said he wasn’t fond of opera. Get over it. This guy isn’t speaking for all Americans just *HIMSELF*
Interesting review. I am glad to hear about the opera. I am not particularly an opera fan, but normally the entertainment on a cruise ship is so cheesy and low brow that I simply can't sit through it. Calling the "Broadway" as they do is "Well, I guess you don't know Broadway then", because none of that is the least bit "Broadway". I think opera will be a nice change and possibly even elevating. I love comedy, but improv has an added dimension of brilliance and improvs I have seen have made me nearly choke to death from laughing. Again, a bit above the level of the "Carnival Cruise Line" masses that you like so much. The pools...finally, a shipboard pool that I can actually use. Normally those shallow little pools are so packed solid with screaming kids that there is no room for an adult to squeeze in. I do believe, though, that they ought to have had some shallow areas (or provide noodles) just for relaxing, but at least these pools can be accessed for people who can swim. I honestly have no idea why people ever use the buffets. I guess because they tend to be open 24 hours a day? I like to eat my meals more formally in the main dining rooms and have a good conversation with the other diners at my table. It's funny how you felt it was such a let down to "have" to eat in the main dining room in order to get a great breakfast! Your bit about the left-over money, it seems to me from my experience that the ships expect you to close out everything that final night or maybe very early in the morning. They slip the financial reckoning under the door, and the tips are somehow taken care of at that time. It looks to me that you simply skipped over that final step and expected the ship to deal with your account still remaining open. There is one thing that I do totally agree with you, and that is the missed sights of Miami as the ship begins the voyage after dark. That's too bad, and a major time of great excitement at the beginning of a cruise is lost by that. Couldn't the European passengers arrive the day before and have some time in Miami? For my upcoming cruise out of Miami, I am arriving a couple of days before; so I can enjoy some of Miami, and so I won''t have to worry about arriving "too tight" or even too late.
We sailed 18MAY19. Completely agree with your comments. Sailed with my large family group of 125 people, photography manager denied us pictures, they said we had to make an appt + pay $100 in advance. Kicked us off the stairs, although we were just as entitled - we paid our money like everyone else. What if we paid and didn't like the pics? Photographers were take horrible shots. Hated the curfew of the Marketplace restaurant. Kicked us out at 1 am to close. If you went to the club, after a late night, if looking for a snack, you got nothing. Could only get a sandwich through room service. Loved your review.
Thanks for posting this review. This really helped me out. I was considering taking a cruise on the Seaside. Your video helped me realize that I probably wont unless they offer some extremely low prices.
I sailed the Divina and am booked on Seaside. I love the later departure leaving at night seeing miami lit up. Saw on other reviews that the two buffet are great (like Divina) . Every night is a different production show with one opera one. The slides look inviting. I do hope MSC dosen't go the route of having those horrible belly flop contest like other cruise lines have.
I'm 20, American, and I am outdoorsy to the extent of I almost exclusively work in the outdoor industry and am studying the outdoors in University and I thoroughly enjoy classical music and to a lesser extent opera. I also tend to find improv to be funnier most of the time. Plus I do like the main restaurant at night. That all said I very much prefer European vacations and tend to prefer the culture, layout, and feel of European cities.
Jim Zimmerlin I very much do like opera and fine dining, but I think you are right on this occasion. These large cruise ships are, as you say on your website, all about having easy fun , not about cultural enrichment. Going on one of these cruises and expecting high culture is like watching a football match and hoping the commentators to talk about the game in blank verse with copious references to the works of Marcel Proust. I quite understand your point about Americanising the ships that cruise out of American ports. When they send American ships to be based in Australia, they put them through a process of Australianisation so they will meet Australian tastes. I really like your videos because you clearly state your criteria of excellence in cruising. You obviously love this type of holiday and want to shares your insights with the sort of people whom you think will benefit. I would never travel on such a ship, but I really love watching your videos and seeing what it would be like to do so. I get the benefit of understanding the experience of cruising without having to do it.
It is a cultural thing that many people can't handle because of not being exposed to the world.Many Americans want crass commercialism. They for example abhor jazz,Classical music,ethnic food, arts etc.
I did my first MSC (Divina) that same week and I had the exactly same issues! The shows, the food (after 10 days I got tired of the Garden Café), THAT SMELL. The water was a big problem for me too, you can notice so much chemicals on it comparing with other companies like Norwegian, Royal, etc. I spend 22 days on board and after two weeks my hair started to fell out, I had to used bottled water too wash it (that’s what employees do sometimes to prevent it). Thankfully I had a free water package for the wellness experience. Another problem was the itinerary, we where left in some countries that had NOTHING to do and where dangerous to be by yourself. For example Colón (Panamá) or Puerto Limón (Costa Rica). Despite those problems, of course we enjoyed our vacations on board!
Thanks for the review on the MSC Seaside. I was on the MSC Divina 3 years ago and was so disappointed. The ship itself was amazing. We loved it. However the service & food were awful. We chalked it up to inexperience, and thought that they might have improved 3 years later, and were going to give it a go again on the Seaside. But we saw your review from last year, and you had the same issues we had in 2016. We decided to go with Celebrity instead. Thanks for the heads up!
My husband and I HATED the Divina! Terrible service, food, and activities! The ship was beautiful and the one Opera was FANTASTIC, but the casino sucked too! Hard Pass on MSC!
I’ll be on in 2 weeks. Looking forward to experiencing another cruise line. I usually use Royal Caribbean ( my favorite) and carnival once ..... Hoping to have a great time
Thanks for the excellent review of your MSC Seaside cruise! It gave me lots of good info and I appreciate you comparing it to other cruises you have experienced! I'm headed on an MSC cruise in a couple of months and hope MSC has learned to customize it more for US folks vs European. I look forward to checking out the Carnival Vista and Noregean Escape - RC Harmony of the Seas was awesome just like you mentioned in the video!
Didn't go through the entire video, but the critic concerning the Operas really is stupid. MSC is an Italian company, of course they will have Italian Operas, sang in Italian, despite the ship being designed for the North-American market. I don't agree that these are only suitable for Europeans. Maybe it's time for North Americans to start appreciating art of all forms and of all cultures. Especially because it's something they can't normally experience.
I can see how it would seem that way to you. What you don't understand is how MSC's public relations team made a big deal assuring everyone that this would be their one ship that was designed specifically for American cruisers. It's completely intentional that it's the only ship in their entire fleet with a name that is a English word, not an Italian word. This was the ship they said would cater to Americans and Canadians... with their stated goal that 80% of the passengers would be American/Canadian. You never heard any of the hype about how this was going to be a ship designed for North Americans, because they didn't direct that message in your direction. They directed it to the American audience, and I heard it and made the mistake of believing it. They have a long way to go to achieve their stated goal of making the ship so appealing to Americans and Canadians that we make up 80% of the passengers onboard. They seriously do not understand what the American cruiser expects.
Actuall6 it is not stupid. First, having just been on a ship full of Europeans, I don’t think we should trade with them on most things (a lot of rudeness abounds) - except politically and then.... Anyway, when someone is spending $4000+ week ($8k + for a couple), they are expecting to have something they enjoy available. I am a highly educated professional from a family of the same, but the only time I deal with classical music is when I play the piano (otherwise, I prefer Aerosmith thank you). They change or lose their company - customers don’t change to fit business... come on, even the very young know that!
I can tell you are probably not a business person. I get your take on American & Canadians' general view of opera, but the critique on the operas is not stupid at all. It is simply not a good business decision to go into a foreign (different) market and persume it makes sense to bombard your customers with entertainment that most of them probably don't enjoy. I am in the entertainment business and do a quarterly jazz event in my city and county. I know a lot of people do not like or relate to jazz, particularly traditional jazz. It would really be "stupid" for me get upset because the the vast amount of people that listen to music like lyrical pop, hip-hop, or country and may not particulary like what I like. Therefore, I have to create angles to motivate their interest not become disrespectful because some do not like what I find pleasing. MSC coming, into the North American market, should understand that it should not be their job to FORCE people to like what they like entertainment wise. They should present what their customers like at the greater level and give them glimses or taste of what I hope they will become interested in. In addition it might be wise for them to find no threatening ways and at a low level to educate their passengers about the opera music genre. Why? because their business may well depend on it. People pay for experiences they enjoy not based upon the fact of what YOU think they ought to do to appreciate their cruise experience.
My experience was nothing like you say. Granted I do agree on a few negatives but I also didn’t cruise right when it came to the states. Shows were no longer opera and people were definitely using the pools. You can’t make everyone happy
Thanks for this very thorough, and very objective review. My wife and I sailed the eastern Mediterranean last Easter on the MSC Poesia. Ship was beautiful, entertainment was okay, but meals were terrible! Being from Canada, we were expecting some delicious Mediterranean meals, but what we got was nothing more than cafeteria food. I honestly could not recommend MSC, and probably will not sail on them again.
My wife and I travelled on the seaside from 13th January for 1 week, it was our 3rd MSC cruise but also the worst. The smell in the public areas especially decks 6 to 8 was disgusting. I got food poisoning and had to go to the onboard hospital where i was charged $150. The food was terrible, the same food each day with little variety was terrible. As 2 Irish people we thought the cruise was geared far more to Americans. The entertainment was good, we didn’t go to the opera at any point. Going on the Sinfonia in September and hoping that will be better
I have only been on 18 cruises. One of them was a Carnival and I will NEVER sail with them again. It's like a Section 8 housing project floating on the water. The rest were on Royal and NCL. I am determined to try another cruise line and I do appreciate hearing different opinions and experiences from those who have traveled on a variety of cruiseline ships. It's always a benefit knowing ahead of time what to expect. The last cruise that we went on was Oasis of the Seas. I really think I could live on that ship. To me, having an open mind and agenda to try something very different makes it a true adventure. I really enjoy meeting people from around the globe and seeing things sometimes through their first time cruising eyes. Thanks for the video.
I was on this ship last month and I agree with your review. They did get rid of the Opera shows but still had a couple shows that were sung in Italian. And hearing every announcement in 5 different languages is very annoying. If you claim you are building a ship for the North American market then build it for the North American market. It was funny when we were docked in the Bahamas and a Carnival ship pulled in and everyone was out on the deck having fun while the Seaside was dead lol. The basketball court was only used to play soccer on the Seaside which was crazy. We love meeting people from other countries but lots of them that I encountered on this ship were very rude, as if they were better than us. I have fun on any cruise no matter what but the Seaside is not a fun ship. If you're used to seeing everyone on the cruise having a good time you won't see that here. On other cruise lines the crew and everyone are all over the ship dancing and having a great time, not on the Seaside. I can't lie this was the longest 7 days ever. The prices are great and the ship is beautiful but this ship definitely isn't for the American market. I don't understand why so many people flew in from Europe and all over the world flew in for this cruise?
I work on MSC. Basically the theater is karaoke with 2nd hand artists. I was sound engineer there. Basically the head entertainer thinks that, Italia = culture and opera music. The elders are loving it.
When did you take your cruise? I couldn't agree more with you on all the negatives, we sailed September of last year and you were on point with all the things that we hated as well!
We were on MSC SEASIDE, departed Miami on 1/20. It was horrible - stench, "exploding" toilets, food service, no customer service, etc. It was the worst vacation experience in my life! I sent a letter and email on return. Two weeks later, and they haven't bothered to respond. My new mantra: Avoid this ship. Avoid this line!
Chip Dunham My wife and I were on the ship during that time as well. It was honestly the worst cruise I've ever taken. I will stick to Royal Caribbean from here on out. We booked harmony of the seas for this April. Can't wait!
This is a great review! So many of the things that are important to us were covered so well by you. I almost booked this ship a few minutes ago, but I think I will stick with my favorite line, Celebrity. Thank you so much! You saved me! Since I'm the "booker" in the family I always run the risk of making a mistake, so THANK YOU!
very detailed and through review. i also like that you point out the good and the bad, instead of being just all one way or the other. i am confused in that i thought you said the check in was long , but then you said it was very quick,
Sorry, I should have been more clear about that. The initial embarkation in Miami was fantastic... one of the best I've experienced. But in the ports of call, they could learn a lot from Royal Caribbean about how to get people on and off the ship quickly. It was not good in the ports of call.
Hi Jim as a newbie UA-camr, I want to say your videos are first rate. I really enjoyed your worst to best list along with the wonderful timelapse portion of this video. Your an inspiration to me and I can see how much more work I have to do. Regards, Bruce
Thank you, Bruce! That's really nice of you to say. Another UA-cam travel channel you might want to check out is Kara and Nate at ua-cam.com/channels/4ijq8Cg-8zQKx8OH12dUSw.html They're the ones that I look up to. They are so much better at video editing than I am. I also get inspired by watching the videos of Casey Neistat at ua-cam.com/users/caseyneistat
I concur on both of these youtubers! Kara and Nate are so much fun to watch. Jim, you are doing just fine and I have seen improvements in your editing style. The one thing you have figured out, audio. I will watch videos that are shaky and even blurry, if it has clear audio. You sir have a radio voice that is soothing.
Hey Jim, great video. My wife and I really love Royal Caribbean but were thinking about checking out some of the other cruise lines for future travel. After watching your video I think we'll stay clear of MCS. The buffet alone is a deal breaker.
Good call. If you've enjoyed Royal Caribbean but you feel like you want to try something a little different, I'd suggest Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Bliss, or Carnival Vista. The Havana cabins on Carnival Vista are one of my top recommendations... you get access to an uncrowded private area of the ship with a swimming pool and Jacuzzis that most of the other passengers don't have access to. Check it out at ua-cam.com/video/-KA89LvnBsg/v-deo.html
MSC is probably the last major cruise line that I would go on. Loved Carnival and Royal Caribbean isn't so bad either. I have a Norwegian cruise booked for 2020. I'm looking forward to the new experience.
Hello Jim. I am a British guy who has just returned from a tour of the western med on the seaside's sister ship the seaview. I watched your video with great interest and could not believe the almost identical nature of the two. It was our first cruise but we recognised the same issues and niggles as yourself.....aside from the sewerage smell, we were spared that one thank god. Dave.
A. Your voice is amazing! B. Your details are on point, thank you for such attention to detail. C. I hope to surpass your cruise count (5 so far, long way to go), can't wait to see the clips for Norwegian Bliss... and its going through the Panama Canal. That's awesome :-)
Hmmm, I'm European and I liked the ship very much! The only thing that bugged me is that there weren't many things to do for teenagers. There was the teens club, and that was super! Also there was like 1 activity in 2 days teens and children could join. Furthermore, the pool in the back was 16+ so my little sister couldn't swim with me, even though the one at the top was practically the same and 8yo kids swam in there! It only was so busy there wasn't even room to swim there. The food was in my opinion very good! I disliked the restaurant, because they had so little to choose from and they changed it only one time. Now, the marketplace didn't change up a lot too, but at least they had more to choose from than the restaurant. It was perfect for picky eaters, because they had burgers, pizza and fries. Entertainment was amazing in my opinion, but we didn't have any opera, so I guess we just got lucky with the shows (We saw all of them except for the inprov)
MSC said they built this ship for the N American people, Jim is just saying they missed the mark. If some people from other countries love it then they failed to do what THEY tried to do. Great job Jim keep up the good work and keep your videos coming.
Earl Louks Jim is just trying to help MSC be successful in what they promised. We are happy to not cruise with them but when they fail here in the United States they might want to know why.
The time lapse of Carnival Liberty arriving in Nassau is amazing! I also really appreciated your review. I've been tempted to give this ship a try, and I'm basically a pretty mellow cruiser... but the things you had an issue with are exactly the kind of things that would make me bonkers.
Question for you experienced cruisers: how about a travel alone person, not a party person, who just enjoys relaxation and the seas? What cruise line or ship would you recommend. I don't mind paying extra for the cabin. Definitely hate a party atmosphere. What should I do? Sailing from NYC area.
Me and my wife took ou honeymoon on the liberty. It was our first... We had a great time.. we saw y'all's ship and I was floored just how much bigger it was.. I would've thought I would've been better then carnival.
I was on the Seaside at the end of April. We were in the Aurea Aft Balcony Suites. We absolutely loved it. We were with a group of 192 and did a room tour of the different rooms and we liked ours the best. As for entertainment I’m not a show person but the people in our group loved all but one of the shows. I guess MSC heard the complaints and switched the shows. I absolutely loved the BeerProv!!! I love Improv and have been to Second City and love this kind of comedy. I was talking to other guests and they really liked it as well. My issue with the regular comics is they don’t change their show up enough. I only went to the aft pool and there were plenty of people in it, including me. My friend went by the main pool (jungle pool) and she said it was absolutely packed. She thought it wasn’t big enough. I like that the pools are deep. I can tread water for hours and prefer it to shallow pools. The water was pretty cold at first but was fine once in. We had great service on the ship. Whatever people were complaining about in the first month has been corrected with the service. We enjoyed our cruise enough that we booked another cruise on the ship. I’ve been on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Azamara and Viking River Cruises. I found MSC as far as service inline with Carnival and RCCL. I don’t like the different levels of service and all the extras. MSC see’s it as only paying for what you want but I feel like it’s nickel and dimming you to death. Like all reviews this was my experience on my particular cruise. I find most ships in the first couple of months always have issues. Even my TA had issues on the media cruise. Thankfully by the time April rolled around they corrected the problems.
I really, really appreciate your honesty! I'm an adult and I know how to listen to someone else's opinion and disregard the parts that don't concern me. After all - our own opinion is all any of us has. And there is no such thing as an "unbiased" opinion. That's like telling a truthful lie - lol!
Recently sailed on the MSC Magnifica and the entertainment was absolutely terrible. The cruise was good, but after two shows we just did not bother to go back.
Jim- I sailed the Seaside in Early February 2018. About the only thing I would have to agree with you on is the buffet. It was lacking. We ate breakfast only as it is hard to screw up breakfast. The main dining halls had top notch food. We did not eat at any of the restaurants that charged extra as we didn't need to with all of the good food included. We had no issues with getting drinks. They scanned our bracelets and it was done. As for the pool depth I do believe they should have a shallow end however I can see the safety factor with the deeper water. Never on the ship did we encounter any bad odors. Customer service was a little lacking but I believe will improve as time goes on. Our biggest complaint actually had nothing to do with the ship but rather the bulk of passengers. Since MSC is based out of Italy, the cruise had many Italians aboard and rudeness is just an everyday negative that we had to deal with. I guess manners in Italy were never taught. Disembarking at the end of the cruise was a cluster %&$#. Hopefully they will work and improve upon that. I would definitely sail on the Seaside again... as long as the population of Italians would decrease. I would be hard pressed to sail I would sail with Carnival considering their history. Thanks for your review.
Thank you for sharing this. Actually my wife and I are going on our first cruise on this ship. This was very helpful! I know what to expect now. Great review. 👍🏾👍🏾
Somethings that people mistake the largest ship in MSC to be MSC Meraviglia. MSC Seaside Is actually the largest ship in MSC at 1,066 feet in length, and 5,100 in capacity. The gross tonnage may be less, but it has nothing to do with size, just weight
I just got off or the MSC Seaside and I was in the yacht club stateroom 16016 it was a completely different and better experience the food was great and you are served great. I think they used the space on the ship great even though me and my family stayed mostly in the yacht club I did walk around and experienced the whole ship. The only thing I didn’t like is if I would walk through the buffet or where the non yacht club members were and everybody seems mad I don’t know why your on vacation! I must say boarding is easy you are escorted to the boat and getting of is easy.
I'm sure that if I had cruise in The Yacht Club, I would have had an entirely different reaction to this cruise. I've actually suggested to my wife that we should give MSC Seaside one more chance and stay in The Yacht Club just to compare and contrast it to our first experience. It would probably make for a great UA-cam video! However, she has vetoed this idea. She really didn't like the food and entertainment choices on this cruise, and she was very upset by how MSC jerked me around when I needed customer service. The fatal blow was the fiasco that was disembarkation... when they wouldn't let us off the ship because they owed us a refund. Standing in a long line at the customer service desk to resolve an issue that really should have just been a routine refund to a credit card... all the while wondering if we would ever get out of that line and make it to the airport to catch our flight home... that's a nasty memory of MSC. Since it was our very last MSC experience at the very end of the cruise, the sting seems particularly fresh in our minds.
Last year I went on Regal Princess. Tomorrow I’m going on MSC Seaside. I kinda scared because I never been on a bigger boat. The Regal Princess was the BEST cruise I have been on. Thank you for the video.
Im 35 and have yet to go on a cruise...been to many cities in the USA and out of the country but never a cruise. Came across a deal today via Travelzoo for MSC and although they are heavily promoted locally, I never looked into a cruise until the today. Im glad I came across your video as it helps me make a decision now and in the future. Much appreciated.
Say what you want but I have cruised the MSC Divina and found it to be awesome. I have no doubt that the ship is anything short of awesome. Granted as an experienced cruiser should know; you don’t cruise MSC to get the American cruise vibe. You cruise MSC to experience a high class ship at an affordable price. If you want the most American vibe cruise carnival.
The only thing I disagree with is the 7pm Departure. The Norwegian Escape did it to when it first started in Miami. I was told the reason is the ship is new and they delay the time to give the crew time to get everything on the ship such as supplies for the departure. I sailed MSC in the past and had a great experience.
you must work for Royal Caribbean or Carnival. I just got off this cruise Saturday 3/24/2018 and the week and Ship were an 11 out of 10!!! Not one complaint from me or the 9 families who went with us.
It didn't bother anyone that you couldn't stand up in the swimming pools? You didn't think the improv comedy was lame compared to the excellent professional stand up comedy they have on those other ships?
I didn't go in the swimming pools, and the pools on all ships are packed and tiny. This one had 3, and they were larger than other ships, one being open or indoor with a retractable roof if it rains. I spent most of my time on Deck 19 with the Aurea Package which was a must and worth every penny. I did go on the slides which were as good as any other ship. Aurea also has Unlimited drinks(premium) with a touch of the servers ipad to your bracelet easy as can be, 2 hour long messages, priority boarding, anytime dining and the best of all was deck 19. All the chairs we ever wanted(group of 20) at 10:30am, our own bar, 2 hot tubs and the best of all...unlimited access to the Thermal room which was incredible. I agree the other ships have those comedy shows with professionals that are great, but I thought the Beer prov was very funny as was the Majority rules comedy show. The MC was great, and they said this was his first week so maybe you had a crappy guy.
Love your videos Jim! Thanks for the preview of the Seaside. We are going in May for two weeks in the Yacht Club. I hope they have fixed some of the things you mentioned - the deep pools are really puzzling on why they would do that. Keep up the great videos - look forward to your next!
Hi Ray! That band on the Breeze was the best I've ever seen on a cruise ship! I'm pretty sure I went to just about every show you gave that week... including staying up all the way in to the wee hours of the morning until they shut down the Red Frog Pub the night you guys had a jam session with every musician on the ship joining in at one point or another.
You are right on the dot about MSC Seaside. We gave them a try in Europe sailing on the MSC Meraviglia. That was a disaster from the very beginning. It was the worse embarkation. Take us 2 hours to get onboard. The buffet food is way below Royal Caribbean that we love. The dining room food is not any better. It just wasn't up to our standard. We asked about waiter, when is former night. He doesn't even know what that is. We have to explain to him that is the night you dress up and still he doesn't understand us. We have to ask his manager to know which dates. The entertainment was very good though because it has a variety of shows each night. The customer service was the worse and I don't even want to start with the European passengers. They were the rudest we have ever come across. They push you out of the way when they walk by without saying "excuse me". They even look at you like you are in my way. For us, MSC, that's the first and also the last. We have to redeem ourselves after by going back to Royal Caribbean to know what cruising should be about.
Hi Jim.. Have just discovered your fantastic channel. You are providing some great thoughts on cruising. Very balanced critiques. Really appreciate what you are doing. A huge thankyou! Now can't wait to see your miniature railway videos.. another passion. Take care and a big hello from 'Down Under'.
Cruise Views, You don't get out much, do you. That's a normal steak house price. What is stupid is paying that when you already paid for dinner in the dining room. He says he doesn't like the slowness and the formality of the dining room, so goes to an expensive steak house instead...so wasn't it slow and formal and with a waiter as well?
Great Review, Spot on for the most part. The part that needs a more detailed explaining of is the Septic Smell that is constantly drifting in many parts of the ship.I noticed it most in the main lobby by guest services extending upwards into all bar areas and main hallways. Also it was very strong at times in the casino and on the long entrance way to the shopping areas. We did not notice it in our room or hallway but the couple we were with on deck 10 had it for almost the entire week in their hallway and room. They were beyond livid !! The Food was very poor as were the lines. How do they constantly run out of coffee cups? And yes the food is the same every nite in the buffet. We thought we could try the main dining room but found no salvation ! Soup that is far below canned soup quality and main courses that are to be blunt just not very good. We found the service excellent on most levels but with such poor food and the constant septic smell it really does not matter.One final thought on septic smell they are it seems heavily spraying something in vents to cover it, I cant place exactly what it is but its very present,strong and I am sure not natural.Never again !
I’m sorry but I have to say that I did Seaside in March and had a wonderful time. I stayed in the same room as you. I just came back from Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas and I can tell you with no hesitation that I would cruise MSC again while I would have to be convinced to do another Royal Caribbean Cruise. I loved the food on MSC. Yes they didn’t have all the choices but it was all hot and good where as Royal Caribbean had a thousand choices of cold meh. I loved the sea bands and on MSC when I wanted a drink they would scan my wristband and then bring me my drink. On Symphony I had to remove it and let them walk away with it EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. On MSC the staff were wonderful to us. I have food allergies and every time I used the dining room a staff member would come and review the menu with me to ensure I had no problems. While Symphony was advised of my allergies no one offered any help even when asked!!? The entertainment on MSC does suck I’ll agree but at least I could see a 7 o’clock show. On Symphony all the 8 o’clock shows were booked 90 days before the cruise. No one bothered to tell us that we needed to book our entertainment 90 days out. I was stuck with 10:45 shows that had me going to bed around 1 am. If your a night owl it’s not a problem but I am not. The entertainment was top notch but there was so much of it that I was exhausted by the end of my cruise. I loved the chocolate shop on MSC it was amazing and some of it was free with my fare where as Symphony did not have chocolate candy of any kind not even at Sugar beach wth!? Symphony had free soft serve but again it was tasteless and soggy. On MSC I could always find a comfy chair to enjoy the sun outside, sometimes all by myself. On Royal I never could because chair hogs were up at 4 am to claim their chairs and just leaving towels. MSC discourages this and will remove towels off chairs after a certain amount of time. I guess it really comes down to what you want out of a cruise. If you want non stop entertainment and lots of meh choices in food then Symphony is your ship. They do both very well. If smaller choices of good food and relaxation then maybe look up MSC.
I have to disagree with you about the entertainment! I have been on MSC Twice before and the opera is amazing! MSC has absolutely some of the best entertainment on any cruise ship I have been on! It is refreshingly different.
A very well done video and interesting experience you had. I don't think the things you didn't like would bother me too much. Looking forward to sailing with her. Thanks again for the review!
I'm in no position ro dispute what you wrote because I have only sailed in the Yacht Club. It does cost more but most of the issues you had do not exist in the YC.
My husband and I cruised on seaside last year. Used dining room for occasional breakfast or lunch. Purchased 2 of the 3 restaurant dinner packages for about $89 and ate really well in the specialty restaurants every night. The Asian restaurant was fantastic. This line is not known for great food but, as on all cruise ships, one never goes hungry. Ive been on several of their ships sailing the Mediterranean and found that food was much better there.
I enjoyed listening to your MSC Seaside assessment. I have one MSC cruise under my belt, MSC Divina, and I also walked away thinking they had some work to do. Especially in the service department.
Your excellent review has definitely put me off MSC! The food and entertainment look dreadful and for me that suite does not look comfortable, cosy or posh enough for the price. Standing in those queues and the risk of slipping in that bathroom look unattractive. It’s not surprising they offer low prices! 🤭
Thanks for this review. We are planning a cruise in October and nearly booked on the MSC Seaside, because of their Family Suites (three interconnected balcony cabins) and their kids club. Ultimately we decided on Carnival Magic (we considered the Horizon, but the Magic itinerary was a day longer with one more port). Your video makes me think we made the right choice. Some of your dislikes don't resonate with me. I've taken enough showers in European hotels that the half glass wall doesn't seem like a big deal. I do like good buffets and Carnival has more options for dining throughout the ship (burgers, barbecue, Mongolian grill, tacos, pizza at midnight). This will be my eighth cruise. My first was on the Festivale in 1979. I've cruised with several lines, including one in the Mediterranean. It will be our third cruise in a year, since we took the Carnival Paradise to Cuba last October and sailed on the Disney Magic in January. I'm not a snob about food and I'm frugal, so I wouldn't get enough out of the extra fee dining to make it worth paying extra. I don't even want to pay for the soda program. I can drink lemonade for a week! Our experience with Carnival last year was good, so I feel comfortable we'll have a good time on the Carnival Magic.
Without any doubt in my mind, you made the right choice in booking the Carnival Magic over the MSC Seaside. Absolutely no doubt about it. For your future cruises, do also consider the Norwegian Escape and Royal Caribbean's Symphony Of The Seas.
First I would like to say that we have been loyal Norwegian cruisers. We were hesitant to try MSC after reading so many crappy reviews. But because of the price we decided to try the Divina. We had a wonderful time. Ive never been on a ship where the people were so friendly and attentive. We were even greeted by the captain. I enjoyed meeting people from different countries. Not everything is going to appeal to everyone no matter what cruise line you choose. That's why there are so many of them. No everything wasn't "perfect" but enjoyable enough for us to book another MSC cruise. If you do anything with an open mind it could turn out better than you expect. And for the record I do enjoy watching your videos. We a fairly new cruisers and have learned quite a bit from them.
Divina gets much better reviews that Seaside. Seaside has had a mixture of odor issues, customer service issues, and small buffet issues that have lead to many poor reviews.
I am an avid cruiser who watches your videos. I am a travel agent as well and specialize in cruises. After watching your review, you have convinced me to cancel my previously made reservation on MSC and travel on another cruise liner! Thanks for the honest review. Hopefully, they can rectify some of the cons and issues so they can cater more to the American market. I'd love for them to make a big splash (pun intended) in the American market.
it sounds like Divina doesn't have as many 'issues' as this ship. I'm still not sure it has quite the food variety of the typical NCL/RCI cruise though.
Wow, British here and agree with everything you’ve mentioned about the cruise. The narrow cabins, the smell, our room had fumes coming in from the shower cubicle. Food in the buffets were seriously disorganised. MSC does not do customer service well at all!
5:07 sounds like you need to go on disney cruise line, they have the best service and best tasting food, and its all paid in your ticket, so its essentially free!
It's only free if your parents pay for it. If you're paying for it, a Disney cruise is one of the most expensive cruises of all the major cruise lines.
There was one waterslide though, the one where you sat in a tube (if I remember correctly it was a tube) and then you would get stuck! You would’ve had to push yourself which could injure someone (youngsters).
After sailing on the MSC Divina, our family and traveling companions will never sail with MSC again. They simply have no clue how to cater to American vacationers and after having been in the Caribbean for so many years, one would expect them to have learned something. It has almost become a running joke, when we discuss MSC with cruisers while on Carnival and Norweigan or other lines. Everyone we find who has sailed with MSC equally hates them. That cruise line simply doesn't get it.
We are on the Seaside now! Our balcony cabin was so small for the three of us, I had to get another cabin! The cruise ship is confusing and the buffet sucks! The only benefit was the port stops! There are so many tiny children crying all over the ship! Fortunately, on Sunday we disembark and can get on Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Sea! Thank God!
Great review! We just got back from that ship and vowed we’ll never go back there again! It’s everything you mentioned and more. And we only had an interior cabin. The limited, low quality food and the unfriendly grumpy staff were our main issues.
NCL has deep pools too. Makes no sense to me. No one is there to do laps. They just want to stand around and cool off. Deep pools take longer to fill and empty and get less use.
I didn't pick up on that when I was onboard, but that's interesting to know. And when you say that whoever designed it that way was "smart enough", I know you are being sarcastic and really mean that a bowling alley should never be directly above a dining room.
Jim Zimmerlin no, it was indeed sarcasm lol. Yeah we booked 2 balcony cabins that we originally supposed to be enormous with a jacuzzi on the balcony. But they kept changing deck plans and it ruined our room. 4,500 each room and a terrible experience.
I couldn't agree more with your take. You pointed out so many of the things that bugged us about this ship. My biggest annoyance was how during announcements and entertainment (even the belly flop contest!) they would translate every phrase into 5-10 languages so it was very difficult to follow along. I'm not sure if they actually meant it when they said they were designing this ship for North Anericans, but I can't imagine too many more North Americans choosing them over the other excellent options in the future.
Yes, the way they always did announcements in five languages got very annoying. The worst instance during our cruise was one day when we were really tired and decided to take a nap in our cabin mid-day. In the middle of our nap, the Captain decided to make a ship-wide announcement about the weather and the position of the ship. In other words, an unimportant announcement. Rather than just making the announcement to the public areas of the ship, he pushed the button to make the announcement go ship-wide, including inside all the cabins. So, he woke us up to tell us about the weather. He went on and on for two minutes straight, in English. Then he read his announcement again, in Italian. Then he handed the microphone over to a woman who read it three more times, in three other languages. All while we were trying to take a nap in our cabin!
This is the kind of stuff that I just don't think American cruisers have to put up with. There are so many great ships that Americans can sail on... Harmony Of The Seas, Anthem Of The Seas, Carnival Vista, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Escape... where the cruise is totally geared towards Americans and you don't have to put up with any of the annoyances of the European focus of MSC.
When you say 5 to 10 languages.I don’t believe you.
Oh, no, Paul Jordan, they really do make shipboard announcements in an incredible number of languages, due to the fact that MSC caters to passengers from all over Europe. So, they have to make announcements in English, Spanish, Italian, French, and more. During our cruise on MSC Seaside there was a day where we were very tired and decided to take a brief nap in the middle of the afternoon, so we would be fully refreshed and able to stay up later in the evening. In the middle of our nap, the Captain came on the public address system speaker directly in our cabin. Not just the speakers in the hallways and public areas, but the ones everywhere throughout the ship, including inside all cabins. He made a completely unimportant announcement in English about the weather conditions, the ship's position, and our scheduled arrival time in our next port of call. It took more than a minute for the English version of the announcement. Then the Captain read the same announcement in Italian. After that, he handed the microphone over to a female crew member who read the announcement three more times, in three other languages. This is a completely true story.
But it also happens for announcements made prior to shows in the theater, and announcements made over the public address system in the public areas throughout the cruise. Those kinds of announcements are really annoying on any cruise. Now imagine having to listen to them in five different languages!
That's just another example of why I say that Americans would be much better off to sail with Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival, or Princess... as all of those cruise lines tailor their entire experience for Americans. If you're an American, it just makes sense to cruise on a ship tailored for you. To be on a ship tailored for Europeans was frustrating in multiple ways.
Paul Jordan , I believe what she said is true. On my experience, it start out with English then Italian then Spanish then French then German. I fell asleep hearing it.
Athie L We were scheduled to go on an MSC cruise last year but listening to to another cord that was similar to yours on the negatives to issues. We canceled the sitter going through this disappointment. This is even though we had a very great cabin at a good price. It’s not worth the aggravation. What’s really surprising is that the executives of MSC cruise line haven’t picked up on these criticisms and change things that they can. Sometimes business people are deaf.
We went on the seaside in march and it seem to be that thier had improved the shows ,very good. The ship was beautiful. We got our money worth and more.
It seems like they were purposely making the buffet not too good so that you would pay extra for the speciality dining.
The buffet is the low end cafeteria food line alternative to the main dining room which doesn't cost anything extra. Why they didn't eat in the main restaurant more baffles me.
They actually close the main buffet to create a third main dining room for dinner service, leaving the family buffet open. The food is aimed at the kids.... Who probably don't have an issue with hamburgers and chicken nuggets. That buffet literally has a kid height counter for the kids.
Chris McMahon that’s right! I forgot about the main dining room. Jim Zim what about the main dining room? What’s your take on it?
Amy Neumann...just think a little bit about that...they would PURPOSELY make one of the food sources BAD to make people PAY MONEY for the more expensive restaurants? That's your idea of a business plan for the second largest shipping company in the world, and whose ship designs incorporate just about any kind of beauty or innovation that you can imagine?
Tom Osborne I’m agree with you. I didn’t say it was bad, just so so that why you would be more interested in buying better dining.
Just booked the Seaview, Seaside's sister ship for the Mediterranean this October. I usually sail Royal Caribbean, but they were priced way too high for this itinerary. MSC will match my Crown & Anchor status! I was a little worried about this ship as I've heard people say negative things about MSC and particularly the Seaside. After watching this, I'm actually more sold on MSC than I was before. Most of the negatives are positives to me. Deep pools keeping people out--great! More room for me! I also enjoy improv comedy and opera. I don't eat at the buffets often, so a lack of selection makes no difference to me. I rarely do specialty dining. It was very generous of them to refund those excursions due to weather. This usually does not happen. I don't mind a lack of laundry facilities as I've never been on a ship with self laundry. Who really wants to do laundry while on vacation anyways? Hopefully the smell issues have been resolved and it never becomes an issue on Seaview. From what I've read, it's mostly the lower decks and we'll be on 13. The other things mentioned are just minor to me. Although I disagree with some of your opinions, thanks for the review. It was informative
so how did you like it?
Nancy So, how was it?
very careful on your status match they do not match exact i was on in July will never sail again i am diamond on carnival
My worst cruise experience ever and I've sailed with a few lines...
If you have only paid your deposit for this cruise cancel and go with another line.
This review video is absolutely spot on !!
They gave me Gold status, but they will not give me the same amenities, that I get being a Celebrity Elite or Royals Diamond status. Another words, no free laundry, no free internet and no free drinks! It;s not really a match!
This has got to be the most courteous, classy absolute trashing of a trash bag fire experience LMAO
MiltPalacio he named a few more problems and that means it’s automatically a bad ship. just look at a corridor and you can tell it’s goi to be a good cruise i-
Last night I booked a Mediterranean cruise on the MSC Seaview for April 2019. I've sailed once before with MSC on the MSC Divina, in a yacht club suite. I will honestly say that the Yacht Club experience was impressive. I could tell the rest of the ship wasn't having the same experience as me though. The staff made me feel like a celebrity for the week I was onboard. They have since tweaked the YC offering, to add drinks on the whole ship, instead of just in the YC areas which was my only complaint about the YC product. The cabin I booked for my Mediterranean cruise is a yacht club inside cabin. Although it's a bit expensive for an interior cabin, I felt the YC offering was well worth the extra money. I have been watching all of your seaside videos, as they're among the first close looks at this new ship design. She is certainly beautiful and elegant, although the design's a bit too "glittery" for my taste, I can certainly appreciate it for what it is. I'm looking forward to spending time in the new Top Sail Lounge, and YC Restaurant which look beautiful and seem a bit more elegantly understated in decor than the main parts of the ship. I found the food in the main buffet to be not so great, with the exception of the Pizza, and the seemingly endless supply of little croissants. The Divina did put out a small selection of "nibbles " in the Top Sail, and an even smaller buffet by the YC pool bar, but the one or 2 hot dishes served were nice. The YC Restaurant served very nice, elaborate Restaurant quality meals every night, although holding to their Europeanness, it was a multi-hour affair, and took much longer than most Americans would like. They were also a little light on the seasoning, so some of the food was a little bland. While I do actually love opera (Yes, I know I'm a slightly weird American) I found that part of the entertainment to be lackluster as well. In terms of entertainment, on the Divina, there seemed to be a whole category of entertainment like trivia, games, non-sales pitch talks, and the like that I never participate in, but I very much miss having the option to not participate in. This may seem like a very stupid complaint, but I like to point to a jam-packed cruise program and say "look at all of this stuff I'm not doing!" I'm glad to see they added some comedy, even if it's not the best. The Divina had no comedy whatsoever. I imagine an improv troupe would probably go over better in europe than here in the states. The particular cruise I chose is port intensive, and has no full sea days, so I think the lack of entertainment won't be as much of an issue on this particular trip, and the ports for the cruise include some places I'm completely unfamiliar with, which I find exciting. This will be my 5th cruise, and my 2nd with MSC. I'm thinking the YC interior suite will serve very nicely as a floating hotel for a port intensive tour of the Mediterranean. Thank you so much for this series of Videos on the Seaside!
I'm unsure if that was intended to be insulting, but it made me giggle. I often write overly long emails to my customers at work. You are not the first person to accuse me of "writing novels".
Joseph Dadey, To each his own, but I am so confused over the concept of "Interior Cabin" AND "Yacht Club". I mean, is it really that important or appealing to pay so much more money just to have a butler (whatever for) and a snobby separate deck, swimming pool, bar, and dining room, while meanwhile staying in the rock bottom worst kind of cabin on the ship? That strikes me as being like paying first class on an airplane just for the free champagne and to board the plane first, but sit in the tiniest, most cramped seat at the very back of the plane.
To me, the hierarchy would be: inside cabin, sea view cabin, balcony cabin, special suite with a hot tub on the deck and blah blah blah, and THEN Yacht Club. Yacht Club and inside cabin just does not make sense...to me, anyway.
Hi Tom, Thanks for the comment. I think it's a matter of what you find important. Personally, I kind of like inside cabins in general. They're fantastic for sleeping. I think to answer your questions best, I should compare a "regular"inside cabin to a YC inside cabin, the price is anywhere from double to triple the price. I would agree that butler is certainly not worth the price of admission. The biggest factors that make me feel it's "worth it" are as follows: 1) Uncrowded pools and public areas. 2) Priority boarding 3) The food is better 4) Significantly lower staff to guest ratio in YC areas. 5) Drink package included (used to be only YC areas, now extended to the entire ship) 6) Spa access (Steam rooms, saunas thalassotherapy pool etc) included. All of these things in combination, make for a very different experience. I'd say almost like a different cruise line, even though you're on the same ship. I've only been on MSC once, so I've never experienced the "non-YC" rooms on MSC, but based on what I saw, it appeared to be a very different overall experience, geared toward budget minded travellers. While I get your analogy to paying for first class, and getting the tiniest coach-type seat in the back of the plane, I'd probably liken it more to paying for business class, getting first class treatment, but sitting in only a slightly roomier than coach seat in the first class cabin. To note, I've only stayed in the "Family Suite" on the MSC Divina when I did YC, so I've never actually experienced a YC interior, but I've done inside cabins on other cruises, and have found them comfortable, and wonderful for sleeping due to the absolute darkness of the room. As it turns out, I cancelled my cruise on MSC in favor of a land-based vacation, but If I were to do an MSC ship in the future, I'd probably book an interior YC cabin if the ship had them available. One more comment I wanted to make was on the "snobbiness". I'm in general, not a very "fancy" person. While I enjoy luxury, I despise pretense. I found that any attitude of snobbiness (and yes, there was some) came from other guests, not the staff. In fact, there was another couple on the ship who we'd befriended, who were a bit intimidated by some of the other guests' snobbiness. And the concierge was amazing in the way he made them feel comfortable. The same couple was also a bit intimidated by the YC dining room, finding it way too fancy and snooty for their taste. I hope that helps you understand my rationale.
Joseph Dadey, that was a good, thorough reply and I can see why these various offerings exist. Thank you!
Five years later and this review is DEADLY accurate. It is the worst cruise I’ve ever been on. I’m sure some people like it and it fits their tastes, but you are extremely accurate on ALL of the comments. For the majority of American cruises, MSC seaside was somewhat of a nightmare. Guest service was awful. I couldn’t agree more with everything you said. Great and thorough review!
Out of curiosity, I wonder if part of MSC's problem in figuring out the cruise market (particularly the North American cruise market) is that MSC is not a cruise line first and foremost. MSC stands for Mediterranean Shipping Company and is one of the world's largest steamship/freight cargo lines. In other words, has this international shipping company just completely missed the mark when attempting to cross over to the cruise industry?
Thank you for your review but I can’t believe that you complained about the entertainment and compared it with Carnival. Seriously Carnival is like a school production compared with high end entertainment MSC.
That's ironic you said that, because the Improv comedy show I saw on MSC Seaside was amateurish... and on Carnival I've seen some absolutely hilarious professional comedians. The two are not even close to being even as far as comedy. On Carnival, you'd have four professional comedians during the week, and on MSC it was young kids just past college age.
And the comparison I made about rock and roll bands was an amazing 9-piece band that I saw on Carnival... which was so good I went to just about every show they did during the 7-day cruise. The two leads were musical pros from Branson, Missouri... a huge entertainment capital in the USA. On MSC Seaside, as I said in the video, most of the time it was one or two performers... and twice during the week I saw a cover band from the Philippines... simply not in the same league as that amazing 9 piece band I saw on Carnival Breeze.
I suspect the true focus of your comment, though, was the big musical production shows in the main theater. Let's just say that Carnival knows their audience and would never present an opera show. And if MSC is serious about filling the MSC Seaside with 80 percent North American passengers and 20 percent from the rest of the world... which is what their chief executive was quoted as saying... they need to ditch the opera and get more in touch with the entertainment tastes of an American audience.
@@JimZim It is not the same to prepare entertainment for one major language or six different languages at the same time. Check this link ua-cam.com/video/BooaUosqSaE/v-deo.html
Nothing beats punchliner
@@Croativno I was reviewing what I saw on MSC Seaside the week I sailed on it. MSC only offers the cirque show on two of the ships in their fleet... and MSC Seaside is not one of them. And the language thing is a huge deal for Americans cruising on MSC. It's SO ANNOYING to have to sit through announcements in multiple languages. I think Americans would be much better off to sail with cruise lines that are geared to Americans. When you go on Royal Caribbean or Carnival or Princess or Norwegian Cruise Line... everything is tailored to American tastes and there is only one language used. That's a much better situation for an American on vacation.
@@JimZim Not totally true. We've sailed out of the US and many cruise lines do announcements first in English and then in Spanish.
And if you are cruising in the mediterranean, Royal Caribbean has after English announcements, Spanish and Italian announcements.
I like your candid review, not just another UA-camr pumping up your advertisers or sponsors. We love the RCCL Oasis class ships. I really can't imagine going on anything else.
Jim you must have been on Seaside January 13 to 20th. We were on it was the worst cruise we ever had. I thought Carnival Glory was bad. The food was ok but missed formal night as they had elegant night. The menu wasn’t nearly as good as the night before. We refrain from using the Buffet as the food doesn’t stay warm and one can over eat the deserts. My brothers stateroom toilet wouldn’t stop running and the bathroom was flooded. We had some problems with stench also. The ship didn’t appear to be very stable in mediocre seas and closet doors kept sliding back and forth along with the empty hangers banging. We love the Divina and hope they didn’t change that. Seaside is more for family and the family buffet is a lot smaller than the Marketplace. I’m not anxious to do Seaside again unless there was a very special rate.
In Europe, it is very different from America. Probably, MSC is still not used to America. MSC is European, and as I mentioned before, it is very different.
If they are going to spend billions on new ships for north America might want to sail on an American liner to understand the difference and cater to it
i was there last month. Im european and i loved it.
Funny enough, Royal Caribbean is from Norway and they understand American travelers more than MSC. Then again, they've been around America for years while MSC are just starting to sail from America
Great job Jim. MUST say your not the first to give a negative review on MSC, I have heard many people say that there just not up to standard. Thanks for your well-narrated review.
Hey Jim, I think they listened to your advice cause the MSC for Me app has chatting now!!
Im still not canceling. I have only been on one cruise 13 years ago on the Princess Caribbean...its first year in service. It was pretty boring and a much older crowd. Food was very very good. I am used to bland food (low salt diet) and am mainly going to relax. Really could care less about the entertainment. I got a balcony room for cheap and the kids have an area to play so I think we will have a good time.
It's safe to say that every line has changed from 13 years ago. So many improvements in the cruise industry these days. Have fun on your cruise!
Ok I lied. I just booked a cruise on Carnival Magic and cancelled the MSC cruise. I was really looking forward to this ship but there a a TON a bad reviews all over the internet, and most of them say WORST CRUISE EVER. Wow..... I am not going to chance it. Too bad because the kids were basically free which helped alot.
I cancelled my October cruise 2018 and booked a Western Carribean ON Disney fantasy, a bit more pricey but I know I will get my money worth.
The food is very bland and no entertainment, that's a compliment? Or are you being sarcastic.
I was just on this ship in April 2019 with a few dozen other travel professionals for a seminar at sea. Most of your review is pretty accurate for me as well. I didn't care for the entertainment. The food was very hit or miss, other than the specialty dining. The ship itself is beautiful. We especially enjoyed the staff in the sports bar. They were by far the friendliest and most accommodating anywhere on the ship. Also, the gelato was amazing! We had fun, but we will have fun wherever we go.
Thanks for the video. I think some of your negatives were a little unfair since they are not exclusive to MSC. For example, there are plenty of cruise lines that don't have self-serve laundry (Royal for one), and if you hit up specialty restaurants on other lines, they'll be as pricy or even more. When we were on RCCL Anthem last time, the entertainment was not that great and many of the bands have been replaced with 1-2 people singing. It was the same on NCL Breakaway. I agree the shower design is weird with the half door. I can't decide if the deep pools were a plus or minus since they weren't packed. As for dinner with hamburgers & chicken nuggets, I think they were catering to families, many people with younger kids would rather do the buffet as opposed to the dining room since it's quicker. To each their own and thanks for sharing.
OK. I get that you need to be entertained every moment. But tourist schlock isn't what a lot of people want. Carnival Cruises are notorious for being trashy. But you eat at Margaritaville, Señor Frogs and the Hard Rock Café! You must absolutely despise a city like Paris or Rome. Guy Fieri doesn't have a restaurant there!
On the other hand, maybe they're still working out some of the buffet selections. I do appreciate and enjoyed your video. I just think it needs to be revisited in a few months.
It's a Caribbean cruise! Not a trip to Paris. The relaxed Caribbean lifestyle. Jimmy Buffett music. Beaches. Booze. Steel drums. Girls in bikinis.
Hi Jim, great review, thx. Saw some of your reviews and like them really.
Last year we did 2 cruises with MSC. Other ships (Fantasia & Sinfonia), but we´ve had the same experience as you with MSC. Horrible service, bad food, we went to the restaurant for breakfast cause the buffet was so bad.
And I want to say: No, the europeans don´t like that, too! We are from germany. We did a lot of cruises before. And the 2 MSC Tours are on the end of our list.
We liked most the Norwegian Getaway. Then the Carnival Dream. The only good thing about the trips we´ve made with MSC: a lot of stopps (14 days in the carribean, 13 stopps) and long time in the port. We´ve liked also the design of the ship as itself and the cabin layout (& big balcony) of the Fantasia. But the pro´s are less than the con´s. So MSC is not on our list anymore.
See you in may on the NCL Bliss :-). We are also booked on this tour (Panama Canal). On saturday we´ve been to the meyer´s shipyard in Papenburg and did a tour. Saw the Bliss there in the shipyard. It is a beautiful ship. We are looking forward to may! On next saturday they let the Bliss out of the dry dock. If you would, you could see that live on the homepage of meyer´s shipyard. Starting @8ish a.m. german time.
MSC is designing their ships all about restaurants and not buffet. Buffet has never been in the focus of MSC. Of you're a buffet fan go to other cruise lines, where you wont fined many restaurant options.
Everyone is complaining about how oh Americans and Canadians don’t like operas and that we need to up our standards. Everyone likes different things. This video is *HIS* opinion. That doesn’t mean it’s standard for anyone in North America. I saw another comment that said Americans need to not be so used to drinking beer and watching football. If you think that’s how we are then you obviously don’t live in America, which means you don’t have the right to say anything. I’m done with these nonsense American stereotype comments complaining about how Americans are uncultured because in this video he said he wasn’t fond of opera. Get over it. This guy isn’t speaking for all Americans just *HIMSELF*
Interesting review. I am glad to hear about the opera. I am not particularly an opera fan, but normally the entertainment on a cruise ship is so cheesy and low brow that I simply can't sit through it. Calling the "Broadway" as they do is "Well, I guess you don't know Broadway then", because none of that is the least bit "Broadway". I think opera will be a nice change and possibly even elevating. I love comedy, but improv has an added dimension of brilliance and improvs I have seen have made me nearly choke to death from laughing. Again, a bit above the level of the "Carnival Cruise Line" masses that you like so much. The pools...finally, a shipboard pool that I can actually use. Normally those shallow little pools are so packed solid with screaming kids that there is no room for an adult to squeeze in. I do believe, though, that they ought to have had some shallow areas (or provide noodles) just for relaxing, but at least these pools can be accessed for people who can swim. I honestly have no idea why people ever use the buffets. I guess because they tend to be open 24 hours a day? I like to eat my meals more formally in the main dining rooms and have a good conversation with the other diners at my table. It's funny how you felt it was such a let down to "have" to eat in the main dining room in order to get a great breakfast! Your bit about the left-over money, it seems to me from my experience that the ships expect you to close out everything that final night or maybe very early in the morning. They slip the financial reckoning under the door, and the tips are somehow taken care of at that time. It looks to me that you simply skipped over that final step and expected the ship to deal with your account still remaining open.
There is one thing that I do totally agree with you, and that is the missed sights of Miami as the ship begins the voyage after dark. That's too bad, and a major time of great excitement at the beginning of a cruise is lost by that. Couldn't the European passengers arrive the day before and have some time in Miami? For my upcoming cruise out of Miami, I am arriving a couple of days before; so I can enjoy some of Miami, and so I won''t have to worry about arriving "too tight" or even too late.
We sailed 18MAY19. Completely agree with your comments. Sailed with my large family group of 125 people, photography manager denied us pictures, they said we had to make an appt + pay $100 in advance. Kicked us off the stairs, although we were just as entitled - we paid our money like everyone else. What if we paid and didn't like the pics? Photographers were take horrible shots. Hated the curfew of the Marketplace restaurant. Kicked us out at 1 am to close. If you went to the club, after a late night, if looking for a snack, you got nothing. Could only get a sandwich through room service. Loved your review.
Thanks for posting this review. This really helped me out. I was considering taking a cruise on the Seaside. Your video helped me realize that I probably wont unless they offer some extremely low prices.
Which cruise line did you end up selecting?
The other msc boats not this one
I sailed the Divina and am booked on Seaside. I love the later departure leaving at night seeing miami lit up. Saw on other reviews that the two buffet are great (like Divina) . Every night is a different production show with one opera one. The slides look inviting. I do hope MSC dosen't go the route of having those horrible belly flop contest like other cruise lines have.
I'm 20, American, and I am outdoorsy to the extent of I almost exclusively work in the outdoor industry and am studying the outdoors in University and I thoroughly enjoy classical music and to a lesser extent opera. I also tend to find improv to be funnier most of the time. Plus I do like the main restaurant at night. That all said I very much prefer European vacations and tend to prefer the culture, layout, and feel of European cities.
Three restaurants I would NEVER eat at are-Margaritaville, Hard Rock Cafe and Señor Frogs. Some Americans like fancier European food, and OPERA!
To each his own. My idea of a vacation definitely involves the Jimmy Buffett lifestyle, not the Luciano Pavarotti lifestyle!
My family fully agrees with you. I really wish more Americans would branch out and (at least try) to culture themselves.
Did you try the hooters in cozumel lol
Jim Zimmerlin I very much do like opera and fine dining, but I think you are right on this occasion. These large cruise ships are, as you say on your website, all about having easy fun , not about cultural enrichment. Going on one of these cruises and expecting high culture is like watching a football match and hoping the commentators to talk about the game in blank verse with copious references to the works of Marcel Proust.
I quite understand your point about Americanising the ships that cruise out of American ports. When they send American ships to be based in Australia, they put them through a process of Australianisation so they will meet Australian tastes.
I really like your videos because you clearly state your criteria of excellence in cruising. You obviously love this type of holiday and want to shares your insights with the sort of people whom you think will benefit. I would never travel on such a ship, but I really love watching your videos and seeing what it would be like to do so. I get the benefit of understanding the experience of cruising without having to do it.
It is a cultural thing that many people can't handle because of not being exposed to the world.Many Americans want crass commercialism. They for example abhor jazz,Classical music,ethnic food, arts etc.
I did my first MSC (Divina) that same week and I had the exactly same issues! The shows, the food (after 10 days I got tired of the Garden Café), THAT SMELL.
The water was a big problem for me too, you can notice so much chemicals on it comparing with other companies like Norwegian, Royal, etc.
I spend 22 days on board and after two weeks my hair started to fell out, I had to used bottled water too wash it (that’s what employees do sometimes to prevent it). Thankfully I had a free water package for the wellness experience.
Another problem was the itinerary, we where left in some countries that had NOTHING to do and where dangerous to be by yourself. For example Colón (Panamá) or Puerto Limón (Costa Rica).
Despite those problems, of course we enjoyed our vacations on board!
Thanks for the review on the MSC Seaside. I was on the MSC Divina 3 years ago and was so disappointed. The ship itself was amazing. We loved it. However the service & food were awful. We chalked it up to inexperience, and thought that they might have improved 3 years later, and were going to give it a go again on the Seaside. But we saw your review from last year, and you had the same issues we had in 2016. We decided to go with Celebrity instead. Thanks for the heads up!
My husband and I HATED the Divina! Terrible service, food, and activities! The ship was beautiful and the one Opera was FANTASTIC, but the casino sucked too! Hard Pass on MSC!
What ship is the best in the world? Most modern and luxurious?
I’ll be on in 2 weeks. Looking forward to experiencing another cruise line. I usually use Royal Caribbean ( my favorite) and carnival once ..... Hoping to have a great time
Thanks for the excellent review of your MSC Seaside cruise! It gave me lots of good info and I appreciate you comparing it to other cruises you have experienced! I'm headed on an MSC cruise in a couple of months and hope MSC has learned to customize it more for US folks vs European. I look forward to checking out the Carnival Vista and Noregean Escape - RC Harmony of the Seas was awesome just like you mentioned in the video!
Personally, I haven't been on a cruise ship, but I love watching Jim. We'll try to on the MSC Seaside sometime soon
Didn't go through the entire video, but the critic concerning the Operas really is stupid. MSC is an Italian company, of course they will have Italian Operas, sang in Italian, despite the ship being designed for the North-American market. I don't agree that these are only suitable for Europeans. Maybe it's time for North Americans to start appreciating art of all forms and of all cultures. Especially because it's something they can't normally experience.
I can see how it would seem that way to you. What you don't understand is how MSC's public relations team made a big deal assuring everyone that this would be their one ship that was designed specifically for American cruisers. It's completely intentional that it's the only ship in their entire fleet with a name that is a English word, not an Italian word. This was the ship they said would cater to Americans and Canadians... with their stated goal that 80% of the passengers would be American/Canadian. You never heard any of the hype about how this was going to be a ship designed for North Americans, because they didn't direct that message in your direction. They directed it to the American audience, and I heard it and made the mistake of believing it. They have a long way to go to achieve their stated goal of making the ship so appealing to Americans and Canadians that we make up 80% of the passengers onboard. They seriously do not understand what the American cruiser expects.
going this june on seaside can't wait
Actuall6 it is not stupid. First, having just been on a ship full of Europeans, I don’t think we should trade with them on most things (a lot of rudeness abounds) - except politically and then.... Anyway, when someone is spending $4000+ week ($8k + for a couple), they are expecting to have something they enjoy available. I am a highly educated professional from a family of the same, but the only time I deal with classical music is when I play the piano (otherwise, I prefer Aerosmith thank you). They change or lose their company - customers don’t change to fit business... come on, even the very young know that!
It's not stupid at all. Very few people go on a cruise vacation to listen to opera.
I can tell you are probably not a business person. I get your take on American & Canadians' general view of opera, but the critique on the operas is not stupid at all. It is simply not a good business decision to go into a foreign (different) market and persume it makes sense to bombard your customers with entertainment that most of them probably don't enjoy. I am in the entertainment business and do a quarterly jazz event in my city and county. I know a lot of people do not like or relate to jazz, particularly traditional jazz. It would really be "stupid" for me get upset because the the vast amount of people that listen to music like lyrical pop, hip-hop, or country and may not particulary like what I like. Therefore, I have to create angles to motivate their interest not become disrespectful because some do not like what I find pleasing. MSC coming, into the North American market, should understand that it should not be their job to FORCE people to like what they like entertainment wise. They should present what their customers like at the greater level and give them glimses or taste of what I hope they will become interested in. In addition it might be wise for them to find no threatening ways and at a low level to educate their passengers about the opera music genre. Why? because their business may well depend on it. People pay for experiences they enjoy not based upon the fact of what YOU think they ought to do to appreciate their cruise experience.
My experience was nothing like you say. Granted I do agree on a few negatives but I also didn’t cruise right when it came to the states. Shows were no longer opera and people were definitely using the pools. You can’t make everyone happy
Thanks for this very thorough, and very objective review. My wife and I sailed the eastern Mediterranean last Easter on the MSC Poesia. Ship was beautiful, entertainment was okay, but meals were terrible! Being from Canada, we were expecting some delicious Mediterranean meals, but what we got was nothing more than cafeteria food. I honestly could not recommend MSC, and probably will not sail on them again.
My wife and I travelled on the seaside from 13th January for 1 week, it was our 3rd MSC cruise but also the worst. The smell in the public areas especially decks 6 to 8 was disgusting. I got food poisoning and had to go to the onboard hospital where i was charged $150. The food was terrible, the same food each day with little variety was terrible. As 2 Irish people we thought the cruise was geared far more to Americans. The entertainment was good, we didn’t go to the opera at any point. Going on the Sinfonia in September and hoping that will be better
I have only been on 18 cruises. One of them was a Carnival and I will NEVER sail with them again. It's like a Section 8 housing project floating on the water. The rest were on Royal and NCL. I am determined to try another cruise line and I do appreciate hearing different opinions and experiences from those who have traveled on a variety of cruiseline ships. It's always a benefit knowing ahead of time what to expect. The last cruise that we went on was Oasis of the Seas. I really think I could live on that ship. To me, having an open mind and agenda to try something very different makes it a true adventure. I really enjoy meeting people from around the globe and seeing things sometimes through their first time cruising eyes. Thanks for the video.
I was on this ship last month and I agree with your review. They did get rid of the Opera shows but still had a couple shows that were sung in Italian. And hearing every announcement in 5 different languages is very annoying. If you claim you are building a ship for the North American market then build it for the North American market. It was funny when we were docked in the Bahamas and a Carnival ship pulled in and everyone was out on the deck having fun while the Seaside was dead lol. The basketball court was only used to play soccer on the Seaside which was crazy. We love meeting people from other countries but lots of them that I encountered on this ship were very rude, as if they were better than us. I have fun on any cruise no matter what but the Seaside is not a fun ship. If you're used to seeing everyone on the cruise having a good time you won't see that here. On other cruise lines the crew and everyone are all over the ship dancing and having a great time, not on the Seaside. I can't lie this was the longest 7 days ever. The prices are great and the ship is beautiful but this ship definitely isn't for the American market. I don't understand why so many people flew in from Europe and all over the world flew in for this cruise?
Tacos every day...........sounds like heaven to me ! I do agree with you though about the shower design.
I work on MSC. Basically the theater is karaoke with 2nd hand artists. I was sound engineer there. Basically the head entertainer thinks that, Italia = culture and opera music. The elders are loving it.
When did you take your cruise? I couldn't agree more with you on all the negatives, we sailed September of last year and you were on point with all the things that we hated as well!
We were on MSC SEASIDE, departed Miami on 1/20. It was horrible - stench, "exploding" toilets, food service, no customer service, etc. It was the worst vacation experience in my life!
I sent a letter and email on return. Two weeks later, and they haven't bothered to respond.
My new mantra: Avoid this ship. Avoid this line!
Chip Dunham My wife and I were on the ship during that time as well. It was honestly the worst cruise I've ever taken. I will stick to Royal Caribbean from here on out. We booked harmony of the seas for this April. Can't wait!
Chip Dunham @
Just got back . NEVER EVER AGAIN!!!!!!
Haha "exploding toilets" right on point, my husband would plead me not to flush while he still asleep... 😄😄😄
This is a great review! So many of the things that are important to us were covered so well by you. I almost booked this ship a few minutes ago, but I think I will stick with my favorite line, Celebrity. Thank you so much! You saved me! Since I'm the "booker" in the family I always run the risk of making a mistake, so THANK YOU!
very detailed and through review. i also like that you point out the good and the bad, instead of being just all one way or the other. i am confused in that i thought you said the check in was long , but then you said it was very quick,
Sorry, I should have been more clear about that. The initial embarkation in Miami was fantastic... one of the best I've experienced. But in the ports of call, they could learn a lot from Royal Caribbean about how to get people on and off the ship quickly. It was not good in the ports of call.
Hi Jim as a newbie UA-camr, I want to say your videos are first rate. I really enjoyed your worst to best list along with the wonderful timelapse portion of this video. Your an inspiration to me and I can see how much more work I have to do. Regards, Bruce
Thank you, Bruce! That's really nice of you to say. Another UA-cam travel channel you might want to check out is Kara and Nate at ua-cam.com/channels/4ijq8Cg-8zQKx8OH12dUSw.html They're the ones that I look up to. They are so much better at video editing than I am. I also get inspired by watching the videos of Casey Neistat at ua-cam.com/users/caseyneistat
I concur on both of these youtubers! Kara and Nate are so much fun to watch. Jim, you are doing just fine and I have seen improvements in your editing style. The one thing you have figured out, audio. I will watch videos that are shaky and even blurry, if it has clear audio. You sir have a radio voice that is soothing.
Hey Jim, great video. My wife and I really love Royal Caribbean but were thinking about checking out some of the other cruise lines for future travel. After watching your video I think we'll stay clear of MCS. The buffet alone is a deal breaker.
Good call. If you've enjoyed Royal Caribbean but you feel like you want to try something a little different, I'd suggest Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Bliss, or Carnival Vista. The Havana cabins on Carnival Vista are one of my top recommendations... you get access to an uncrowded private area of the ship with a swimming pool and Jacuzzis that most of the other passengers don't have access to. Check it out at ua-cam.com/video/-KA89LvnBsg/v-deo.html
MSC is probably the last major cruise line that I would go on. Loved Carnival and Royal Caribbean isn't so bad either. I have a Norwegian cruise booked for 2020. I'm looking forward to the new experience.
Hello Jim.
I am a British guy who has just returned from a tour of the western med on the seaside's sister ship the seaview. I watched your video with great interest and could not believe the almost identical nature of the two. It was our first cruise but we recognised the same issues and niggles as yourself.....aside from the sewerage smell, we were spared that one thank god.
Dave.
A. Your voice is amazing! B. Your details are on point, thank you for such attention to detail. C. I hope to surpass your cruise count (5 so far, long way to go), can't wait to see the clips for Norwegian Bliss... and its going through the Panama Canal. That's awesome :-)
Did MSC Seaside Jan 27th - Feb 3rd 2018 and Jim are right on point. We don’t plan on doing a MSC cruise again.
Hmmm, I'm European and I liked the ship very much!
The only thing that bugged me is that there weren't many things to do for teenagers. There was the teens club, and that was super! Also there was like 1 activity in 2 days teens and children could join.
Furthermore, the pool in the back was 16+ so my little sister couldn't swim with me, even though the one at the top was practically the same and 8yo kids swam in there! It only was so busy there wasn't even room to swim there.
The food was in my opinion very good! I disliked the restaurant, because they had so little to choose from and they changed it only one time. Now, the marketplace didn't change up a lot too, but at least they had more to choose from than the restaurant. It was perfect for picky eaters, because they had burgers, pizza and fries.
Entertainment was amazing in my opinion, but we didn't have any opera, so I guess we just got lucky with the shows (We saw all of them except for the inprov)
The cruise lines can't please everyone and it seems you were juat not happy at all I suggest a different cruis line for you
I absolutely agree that a different cruise line than MSC is the one for me!
MSC said they built this ship for the N American people, Jim is just saying they missed the mark. If some people from other countries love it then they failed to do what THEY tried to do. Great job Jim keep up the good work and keep your videos coming.
Earl Louks Jim is just trying to help MSC be successful in what they promised. We are happy to not cruise with them but when they fail here in the United States they might want to know why.
We have been on well over 70 cruises and will jump on it September. Always willing to try something new spice of life!
The time lapse of Carnival Liberty arriving in Nassau is amazing! I also really appreciated your review. I've been tempted to give this ship a try, and I'm basically a pretty mellow cruiser... but the things you had an issue with are exactly the kind of things that would make me bonkers.
Man I hope I will survive my stay at the MSC next Saturday
how was it?
@@user-kf7tt2vk6t lol nope
Question for you experienced cruisers: how about a travel alone person, not a party person, who just enjoys relaxation and the seas? What cruise line or ship would you recommend. I don't mind paying extra for the cabin. Definitely hate a party atmosphere. What should I do? Sailing from NYC area.
Me and my wife took ou honeymoon on the liberty. It was our first... We had a great time.. we saw y'all's ship and I was floored just how much bigger it was.. I would've thought I would've been better then carnival.
I was on the Seaside at the end of April. We were in the Aurea Aft Balcony Suites. We absolutely loved it. We were with a group of 192 and did a room tour of the different rooms and we liked ours the best.
As for entertainment I’m not a show person but the people in our group loved all but one of the shows. I guess MSC heard the complaints and switched the shows. I absolutely loved the BeerProv!!! I love Improv and have been to Second City and love this kind of comedy. I was talking to other guests and they really liked it as well. My issue with the regular comics is they don’t change their show up enough.
I only went to the aft pool and there were plenty of people in it, including me. My friend went by the main pool (jungle pool) and she said it was absolutely packed. She thought it wasn’t big enough. I like that the pools are deep. I can tread water for hours and prefer it to shallow pools. The water was pretty cold at first but was fine once in.
We had great service on the ship. Whatever people were complaining about in the first month has been corrected with the service.
We enjoyed our cruise enough that we booked another cruise on the ship.
I’ve been on Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, Azamara and Viking River Cruises.
I found MSC as far as service inline with Carnival and RCCL.
I don’t like the different levels of service and all the extras. MSC see’s it as only paying for what you want but I feel like it’s nickel and dimming you to death.
Like all reviews this was my experience on my particular cruise.
I find most ships in the first couple of months always have issues. Even my TA had issues on the media cruise. Thankfully by the time April rolled around they corrected the problems.
I really, really appreciate your honesty! I'm an adult and I know how to listen to someone else's opinion and disregard the parts that don't concern me. After all - our own opinion is all any of us has. And there is no such thing as an "unbiased" opinion. That's like telling a truthful lie - lol!
Im scheduled for an MSC Cruise in the Mediterranean Dec 1, 2020....
That's why I look before I book
How far in advance do you recommend booking your overseas flight?
Recently sailed on the MSC Magnifica and the entertainment was absolutely terrible. The cruise was good, but after two shows we just did not bother to go back.
Jim- I sailed the Seaside in Early February 2018. About the only thing I would have to agree with you on is the buffet. It was lacking. We ate breakfast only as it is hard to screw up breakfast. The main dining halls had top notch food. We did not eat at any of the restaurants that charged extra as we didn't need to with all of the good food included. We had no issues with getting drinks. They scanned our bracelets and it was done. As for the pool depth I do believe they should have a shallow end however I can see the safety factor with the deeper water. Never on the ship did we encounter any bad odors. Customer service was a little lacking but I believe will improve as time goes on. Our biggest complaint actually had nothing to do with the ship but rather the bulk of passengers. Since MSC is based out of Italy, the cruise had many Italians aboard and rudeness is just an everyday negative that we had to deal with. I guess manners in Italy were never taught. Disembarking at the end of the cruise was a cluster %&$#. Hopefully they will work and improve upon that. I would definitely sail on the Seaside again... as long as the population of Italians would decrease. I would be hard pressed to sail I would sail with Carnival considering their history. Thanks for your review.
Thank you for sharing this. Actually my wife and I are going on our first cruise on this ship. This was very helpful! I know what to expect now. Great review. 👍🏾👍🏾
Somethings that people mistake the largest ship in MSC to be MSC Meraviglia. MSC Seaside Is actually the largest ship in MSC at 1,066 feet in length, and 5,100 in capacity. The gross tonnage may be less, but it has nothing to do with size, just weight
They must not have done a good market analysis and focus group. some of those issues are obvious
I just got off or the MSC Seaside and I was in the yacht club stateroom 16016 it was a completely different and better experience the food was great and you are served great. I think they used the space on the ship great even though me and my family stayed mostly in the yacht club I did walk around and experienced the whole ship. The only thing I didn’t like is if I would walk through the buffet or where the non yacht club members were and everybody seems mad I don’t know why your on vacation! I must say boarding is easy you are escorted to the boat and getting of is easy.
I'm sure that if I had cruise in The Yacht Club, I would have had an entirely different reaction to this cruise. I've actually suggested to my wife that we should give MSC Seaside one more chance and stay in The Yacht Club just to compare and contrast it to our first experience. It would probably make for a great UA-cam video! However, she has vetoed this idea. She really didn't like the food and entertainment choices on this cruise, and she was very upset by how MSC jerked me around when I needed customer service. The fatal blow was the fiasco that was disembarkation... when they wouldn't let us off the ship because they owed us a refund. Standing in a long line at the customer service desk to resolve an issue that really should have just been a routine refund to a credit card... all the while wondering if we would ever get out of that line and make it to the airport to catch our flight home... that's a nasty memory of MSC. Since it was our very last MSC experience at the very end of the cruise, the sting seems particularly fresh in our minds.
I agree with you the yatch club it is really nice, the food the swimming pool, the service. My next one will be in Brasil on the twin ship Seaview
Last year I went on Regal Princess. Tomorrow I’m going on MSC Seaside. I kinda scared because I never been on a bigger boat. The Regal Princess was the BEST cruise I have been on. Thank you for the video.
Im 35 and have yet to go on a cruise...been to many cities in the USA and out of the country but never a cruise. Came across a deal today via Travelzoo for MSC and although they are heavily promoted locally, I never looked into a cruise until the today. Im glad I came across your video as it helps me make a decision now and in the future. Much appreciated.
Very good critic of the pool being so deep. Had the same experience on the MSC Sinfonia, and it was so frustrating!!!
Say what you want but I have cruised the MSC Divina and found it to be awesome. I have no doubt that the ship is anything short of awesome. Granted as an experienced cruiser should know; you don’t cruise MSC to get the American cruise vibe. You cruise MSC to experience a high class ship at an affordable price. If you want the most American vibe cruise carnival.
The only thing I disagree with is the 7pm Departure. The Norwegian Escape did it to when it first started in Miami. I was told the reason is the ship is new and they delay the time to give the crew time to get everything on the ship such as supplies for the departure. I sailed MSC in the past and had a great experience.
you must work for Royal Caribbean or Carnival. I just got off this cruise Saturday 3/24/2018 and the week and Ship were an 11 out of 10!!! Not one complaint from me or the 9 families who went with us.
Let me ask you...
Which Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line ships have you previously sailed on, if any?
NCL EPIC, Carnival Vista and RCL Allure
It didn't bother anyone that you couldn't stand up in the swimming pools? You didn't think the improv comedy was lame compared to the excellent professional stand up comedy they have on those other ships?
I didn't go in the swimming pools, and the pools on all ships are packed and tiny. This one had 3, and they were larger than other ships, one being open or indoor with a retractable roof if it rains. I spent most of my time on Deck 19 with the Aurea Package which was a must and worth every penny. I did go on the slides which were as good as any other ship. Aurea also has Unlimited drinks(premium) with a touch of the servers ipad to your bracelet easy as can be, 2 hour long messages, priority boarding, anytime dining and the best of all was deck 19. All the chairs we ever wanted(group of 20) at 10:30am, our own bar, 2 hot tubs and the best of all...unlimited access to the Thermal room which was incredible. I agree the other ships have those comedy shows with professionals that are great, but I thought the Beer prov was very funny as was the Majority rules comedy show. The MC was great, and they said this was his first week so maybe you had a crappy guy.
jeff cohen what’s funny if you look at the complaints there are far more Europeans leaving bad reviews than Americans lol
Love your videos Jim! Thanks for the preview of the Seaside. We are going in May for two weeks in the Yacht Club. I hope they have fixed some of the things you mentioned - the deep pools are really puzzling on why they would do that. Keep up the great videos - look forward to your next!
Hi Jim, Thank you for your kind words about our band on the Breeze. I look forward to your next video. Sugar Ray Morrison
Hi Ray! That band on the Breeze was the best I've ever seen on a cruise ship! I'm pretty sure I went to just about every show you gave that week... including staying up all the way in to the wee hours of the morning until they shut down the Red Frog Pub the night you guys had a jam session with every musician on the ship joining in at one point or another.
You are right on the dot about MSC Seaside. We gave them a try in Europe sailing on the MSC Meraviglia. That was a disaster from the very beginning. It was the worse embarkation. Take us 2 hours to get onboard. The buffet food is way below Royal Caribbean that we love. The dining room food is not any better. It just wasn't up to our standard. We asked about waiter, when is former night. He doesn't even know what that is. We have to explain to him that is the night you dress up and still he doesn't understand us. We have to ask his manager to know which dates. The entertainment was very good though because it has a variety of shows each night. The customer service was the worse and I don't even want to start with the European passengers. They were the rudest we have ever come across. They push you out of the way when they walk by without saying "excuse me". They even look at you like you are in my way.
For us, MSC, that's the first and also the last. We have to redeem ourselves after by going back to Royal Caribbean to know what cruising should be about.
Hi Jim.. Have just discovered your fantastic channel. You are providing some great thoughts on cruising. Very balanced critiques. Really appreciate what you are doing. A huge thankyou!
Now can't wait to see your miniature railway videos.. another passion. Take care and a big hello from 'Down Under'.
Thank you so much for this review! I am shocked with the bathroom situation and how expensive your dinner at the steak house was! Wow!
Cruise Views, You don't get out much, do you. That's a normal steak house price. What is stupid is paying that when you already paid for dinner in the dining room. He says he doesn't like the slowness and the formality of the dining room, so goes to an expensive steak house instead...so wasn't it slow and formal and with a waiter as well?
Great Review, Spot on for the most part. The part that needs a more detailed explaining of is the Septic Smell that is constantly drifting in many parts of the ship.I noticed it most in the main lobby by guest services extending upwards into all bar areas and main hallways. Also it was very strong at times in the casino and on the long entrance way to the shopping areas. We did not notice it in our room or hallway but the couple we were with on deck 10 had it for almost the entire week in their hallway and room. They were beyond livid !! The Food was very poor as were the lines. How do they constantly run out of coffee cups? And yes the food is the same every nite in the buffet. We thought we could try the main dining room but found no salvation ! Soup that is far below canned soup quality and main courses that are to be blunt just not very good. We found the service excellent on most levels but with such poor food and the constant septic smell it really does not matter.One final thought on septic smell they are it seems heavily spraying something in vents to cover it, I cant place exactly what it is but its very present,strong and I am sure not natural.Never again !
I’m sorry but I have to say that I did Seaside in March and had a wonderful time. I stayed in the same room as you. I just came back from Royal Caribbean Symphony of the Seas and I can tell you with no hesitation that I would cruise MSC again while I would have to be convinced to do another Royal Caribbean Cruise. I loved the food on MSC. Yes they didn’t have all the choices but it was all hot and good where as Royal Caribbean had a thousand choices of cold meh. I loved the sea bands and on MSC when I wanted a drink they would scan my wristband and then bring me my drink. On Symphony I had to remove it and let them walk away with it EVERY. SINGLE. TIME. On MSC the staff were wonderful to us. I have food allergies and every time I used the dining room a staff member would come and review the menu with me to ensure I had no problems. While Symphony was advised of my allergies no one offered any help even when asked!!? The entertainment on MSC does suck I’ll agree but at least I could see a 7 o’clock show. On Symphony all the 8 o’clock shows were booked 90 days before the cruise. No one bothered to tell us that we needed to book our entertainment 90 days out. I was stuck with 10:45 shows that had me going to bed around 1 am. If your a night owl it’s not a problem but I am not. The entertainment was top notch but there was so much of it that I was exhausted by the end of my cruise. I loved the chocolate shop on MSC it was amazing and some of it was free with my fare where as Symphony did not have chocolate candy of any kind not even at Sugar beach wth!? Symphony had free soft serve but again it was tasteless and soggy. On MSC I could always find a comfy chair to enjoy the sun outside, sometimes all by myself. On Royal I never could because chair hogs were up at 4 am to claim their chairs and just leaving towels. MSC discourages this and will remove towels off chairs after a certain amount of time. I guess it really comes down to what you want out of a cruise. If you want non stop entertainment and lots of meh choices in food then Symphony is your ship. They do both very well. If smaller choices of good food and relaxation then maybe look up MSC.
I have to disagree with you about the entertainment! I have been on MSC Twice before and the opera is amazing! MSC has absolutely some of the best entertainment on any cruise ship I have been on! It is refreshingly different.
walter walter well that’s just you I agree with a lot of Americans don’t do classical shows or operas. They would rather see theatrical performances
30 min shows ??? Cmon dude other cruise lines have broadway shows
A very well done video and interesting experience you had. I don't think the things you didn't like would bother me too much. Looking forward to sailing with her.
Thanks again for the review!
You didn’t mention their website! It’s a total disaster where you select a date it doesn’t do it!
I'm in no position ro dispute what you wrote because I have only sailed in the Yacht Club. It does cost more but most of the issues you had do not exist in the YC.
Yes, I'm 100% sure that if I had sailed in the Yacht Club I would have had a much improved experience.
My husband and I cruised on seaside last year. Used dining room for occasional breakfast or lunch. Purchased 2 of the 3 restaurant dinner packages for about $89 and ate really well in the specialty restaurants every night. The Asian restaurant was fantastic. This line is not known for great food but, as on all cruise ships, one never goes hungry. Ive been on several of their ships sailing the Mediterranean and found that food was much better there.
I enjoyed listening to your MSC Seaside assessment. I have one MSC cruise under my belt, MSC Divina, and I also walked away thinking they had some work to do. Especially in the service department.
Your excellent review has definitely put me off MSC! The food and entertainment look dreadful and for me that suite does not look comfortable, cosy or posh enough for the price. Standing in those queues and the risk of slipping in that bathroom look unattractive. It’s not surprising they offer low prices! 🤭
Thanks for this review. We are planning a cruise in October and nearly booked on the MSC Seaside, because of their Family Suites (three interconnected balcony cabins) and their kids club. Ultimately we decided on Carnival Magic (we considered the Horizon, but the Magic itinerary was a day longer with one more port). Your video makes me think we made the right choice. Some of your dislikes don't resonate with me. I've taken enough showers in European hotels that the half glass wall doesn't seem like a big deal. I do like good buffets and Carnival has more options for dining throughout the ship (burgers, barbecue, Mongolian grill, tacos, pizza at midnight). This will be my eighth cruise. My first was on the Festivale in 1979. I've cruised with several lines, including one in the Mediterranean. It will be our third cruise in a year, since we took the Carnival Paradise to Cuba last October and sailed on the Disney Magic in January. I'm not a snob about food and I'm frugal, so I wouldn't get enough out of the extra fee dining to make it worth paying extra. I don't even want to pay for the soda program. I can drink lemonade for a week!
Our experience with Carnival last year was good, so I feel comfortable we'll have a good time on the Carnival Magic.
Without any doubt in my mind, you made the right choice in booking the Carnival Magic over the MSC Seaside. Absolutely no doubt about it.
For your future cruises, do also consider the Norwegian Escape and Royal Caribbean's Symphony Of The Seas.
Great review !! I desire to cruise...I am a first timer, looking to explore this travel option
First I would like to say that we have been loyal Norwegian cruisers. We were hesitant to try MSC after reading so many crappy reviews. But because of the price we decided to try the Divina. We had a wonderful time. Ive never been on a ship where the people were so friendly and attentive. We were even greeted by the captain. I enjoyed meeting people from different countries. Not everything is going to appeal to everyone no matter what cruise line you choose. That's why there are so many of them. No everything wasn't "perfect" but enjoyable enough for us to book another MSC cruise. If you do anything with an open mind it could turn out better than you expect. And for the record I do enjoy watching your videos. We a fairly new cruisers and have learned quite a bit from them.
Divina gets much better reviews that Seaside. Seaside has had a mixture of odor issues, customer service issues, and small buffet issues that have lead to many poor reviews.
I am an avid cruiser who watches your videos. I am a travel agent as well and specialize in cruises. After watching your review, you have convinced me to cancel my previously made reservation on MSC and travel on another cruise liner! Thanks for the honest review. Hopefully, they can rectify some of the cons and issues so they can cater more to the American market. I'd love for them to make a big splash (pun intended) in the American market.
it sounds like Divina doesn't have as many 'issues' as this ship. I'm still not sure it has quite the food variety of the typical NCL/RCI cruise though.
Wow, British here and agree with everything you’ve mentioned about the cruise. The narrow cabins, the smell, our room had fumes coming in from the shower cubicle. Food in the buffets were seriously disorganised. MSC does not do customer service well at all!
Great review! I just cruised with the MSC Meraviglia and it was a fantastic experience. Hopefully I will try the Seaside soon!
5:07 sounds like you need to go on disney cruise line, they have the best service and best tasting food, and its all paid in your ticket, so its essentially free!
It's only free if your parents pay for it. If you're paying for it, a Disney cruise is one of the most expensive cruises of all the major cruise lines.
Jim Zimmerlin the actual ticket is expensive, yes. But not the food, all food and activities is free except for alcoholic drinks.
This is so accurate the desert was horrible in the buffet for my taste
There was one waterslide though, the one where you sat in a tube (if I remember correctly it was a tube) and then you would get stuck! You would’ve had to push yourself which could injure someone (youngsters).
Before you watch this they have been on 43 cruise ships
After sailing on the MSC Divina, our family and traveling companions will never sail with MSC again. They simply have no clue how to cater to American vacationers and after having been in the Caribbean for so many years, one would expect them to have learned something.
It has almost become a running joke, when we discuss MSC with cruisers while on Carnival and Norweigan or other lines. Everyone we find who has sailed with MSC equally hates them. That cruise line simply doesn't get it.
We are on the Seaside now! Our balcony cabin was so small for the three of us, I had to get another cabin! The cruise ship is confusing and the buffet sucks! The only benefit was the port stops! There are so many tiny children crying all over the ship! Fortunately, on Sunday we disembark and can get on Royal Caribbean Odyssey of the Sea! Thank God!
Great review! We just got back from that ship and vowed we’ll never go back there again! It’s everything you mentioned and more. And we only had an interior cabin. The limited, low quality food and the unfriendly grumpy staff were our main issues.
NCL has deep pools too. Makes no sense to me. No one is there to do laps. They just want to stand around and cool off. Deep pools take longer to fill and empty and get less use.
Idk if you noticed but whoever designed the ship was smart enough to put the bowling alley over the main dining room.
I didn't pick up on that when I was onboard, but that's interesting to know. And when you say that whoever designed it that way was "smart enough", I know you are being sarcastic and really mean that a bowling alley should never be directly above a dining room.
Jim Zimmerlin no, it was indeed sarcasm lol. Yeah we booked 2 balcony cabins that we originally supposed to be enormous with a jacuzzi on the balcony. But they kept changing deck plans and it ruined our room. 4,500 each room and a terrible experience.