HOW is this cruise going SO WRONG?! Welcome to Saint John!

#cruise #msccruises #mscmeraviglia
In this video, I'm still onboard MSC Meraviglia, and it's time to explore my next port of call - welcome to Canada, and welcome to Saint John, New Brunswick! If you've been following the other episodes in this series, you'll know that there have been some MAJOR problems on this cruise and -spoiler alert - the issues continue in this episode... Let me tell you more!
Video chapters:
Introduction - Welcome to Saint John, New Brunswick - 00:00
Let me show you MSC Meraviglia - 01:41
Emerald Princess - 01:59
Leaving the ship and entering Saint John - 02:15
Saint John Cruise Port Container Village - 02:53
Heading into town - 03:48
Walking into Uptown Saint John, New Brunswick - 03:56
Walking through town… 05:10
Fall Colours? 05:31
Saint John City Market 06:09
The Red Path - walking to the Reversing Falls - 07:19
Important cruise tip! Let’s talk weather… 08:44
Is this the Reversing River / Falls?! 09:59
THIS IS AMAZING! 13:40
The Famous ‘Reversing Falls’ - 14:00
GOOD NEWS - Welcome to Walmart Canada! 17:00
I almost missed the ship…!! 18:28
Back onboard - let’s recap on today… 18:55
Was Walmart a SUCCESS?! 20:26
Cruise tip - seeing outside from an inside cabin! 21:51
Let’s talk about MSC - this cruise hasn’t been great… 22:04
The Blue Pelican - SUPPORT! 24:38
Sailaway from Saint John, New Brunswick - 26:31
We’re back out at Sea - on to Portland, Maine! 28:20
The Dining Room - a huge problem on this cruise… 28:43
The next problem - US Immigration on a Canada cruise… 31:12
Patreon! 33:26
If you'd like to watch the other episodes from this series, just check out the below videos!
My WORST cruise yet?! Welcome to MSC Meraviglia...! • My WORST cruise yet?! ...
My worst cruise yet GOT WORSE... MSC Meraviglia, Episode 2! • My worst cruise yet GO...
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Come and check out my website for so much exclusive cruise content: www.fraseratsea.com/
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#cruiseship #cruisetips #travelvlog #cruisevlog #msccrociere #saintjohnnb #canada #travel

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching my video today. If you’re new here, please support my channel by clicking SUBSCRIBE, and why not come and check out my other videos too? Thank you, and welcome onboard! ❤

[@SherryAnnOfTheWest]

I've sailed the Meraviglia several times --- but only in the Yacht Club. It seems that the problems you're reporting could be solved by sailing YC, but I understand why people may not want to do that if they are trying to stick to a budget. However, for a lot of people, by the time they book their cruise, pay for a drinks package, an internet package, specialty restaurants, items from the mini bar, spa access, etc. etc., they pay almost the same as YC where all those items (and easy immigration as well as other services) are included. I do notice that outside the YC the standard of service is sometimes questionable ... and, the standard of service on the MSC European ships (I LOVE the Grandiosa!) seems better than the USA-based Meraviglia.

[@williamcrowell1939]

Love your take and video presentation. Being a solo cruiser myself I use your videos as a reference for my travels. Keep up the great work.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much! When I started my KZbin channel, I was so nervous nobody would watch, so comments like this genuinely mean the world to me - thank you!

[@mo_goes]

When you said it was quarter to six but you had to be back at 7:30 my jaw dropped. Glad you made it. I was nervous for you!😂

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, watching this back, my jaw dropped. How I made it back, I don’t think I’ll ever understand 😂 Thanks for watching!

[@tammy_oh_nevermind]

I know it's all about timing of the tides, but this is the best views of the falls I've ever seen. Tides are amazing. I laughed at your McDonald's reaction, because I've done the same. 😂 Sometimes you need familiar instead of adventurous food. Cutting it close onboard...You've made me nervous before. 😂 Great views of the ship and everything. A better day for you this time! Enjoyed this one, thanks Fraser!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks a lot, Tammy! The falls were spectacular - I couldn’t stop watching the water - completely mesmerising! Thanks so much for watching, as always!!

[@bethcolford2513]

I live in NB (not Saint John) but so glad you had a positive experience in Saint John. The people really appreciate when the Cruise ship tourists enjoy their city.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, nice one - thanks for finding my video, and taking the time to comment. I found the people here to be just SO friendly and welcoming - such a joy visiting somewhere like that! ❤️ I’ll be back, for sure!

[@tamtam789-1]

You walked right past Tim Hortons and got coffee at McDonald’s! 😅 If you ever come back to Canada, you’ll have to go to Tim’s to get a double double and timbits. Love your videos and following along in your adventures!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, this is so funny you should say - watch this space for my video in a few ports time - you’ll laugh - I didn’t miss Tim Hortons 😂 🇨🇦

[@onelittlemustardseed]

You should have visited Catapult Coffee and Studio at the Port in the container village. Everything is locally made, their pottery is beautiful abd well priced. they have the best coffee and it supports the homeless in Saint John. Their store on Princess Street in an old Victorian brownstone is beautiful! Close to King Square where you discovered the park. Love your videos! We are going on this ship in September out of NYC but headed south. 😊

[@LornaGanong]

I’m from Saint John, NB and am so glad you enjoyed the city. The cruise port and people at large are so happy to welcome cruisers! I cruise frequently also, and I’m biased but the reception in Saint John far outweighs many other ports I’ve visited. When I read the title of your video though, I thought you must have had a bad experience in Saint John. Hoping no one else mistakes that and skips watching your video.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, absolutely not - I absolutely LOVED Saint John - the experience onboard the ship, not so much, haha! Thanks so much for watching - you call a wonderful part of the world ‘home’!

[@mlo8081]

Great video! Thanks for your hard work, it shows in the production value👍🏾👌🏾

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much - it means a lot that you appreciate the effort put in. Comments like this make the late nights of editing worth every second! 😊

[@daughtersofjesususa6228]

I have cruised on early every ship in MSC’s North American fleet. The Meraviglia is the ONLY ship that I did not like. As a travel agent, I do book clients on MSC because it is such a great value and the ships are gorgeous. But that particular ship is one that I will not book. I hope that things get better for you. Your attitude is lovely.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching, and thanks for commenting! I didn’t have the best experience by any stretch on this cruise… Thanks for your support!

[@joanneyoung8571]

What a beautiful place. Your video captured it really well

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much, Joanne - I’d love to get back here one day! 🤞🏼 🇨🇦

[@patriciamorash2763]

Glad to see that you had such a positive experience in the port of Saint John!

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks, Patricia - I loved it here! Thanks for watching!

[@johnkean6852]

"Smile, you're on Candid Canada!" : )

[@FraserAtSea]

Hahah 😊 🇨🇦

[@johnkean6852]

@@FraserAtSea :)

[@Travel-Duo]

Absolutely loving your videos. That place looked amazing.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, thanks so much - really appreciate the support! 😊

[@AntandGlen]

Loving this vlog series Fraser, even though we feel for you so much over the service issues. Your honesty is refreshing and really does help people make informed decisions about their next trip.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hi guys, thanks so much for watching - always great to see your names pop up! I was a bit unsure about this vlog series if I’m honest, but I’m blown away with how well it’s been received. Thanks again!!

[@CathyUhl]

I’ve just started watching your channel and now have to go back and binge watch all the other episodes. The Carnival Cruise and 7 Mile Beach episode with your tip about grabbing a cup of sprinkles for your ice creams had me in stitches. You are absolutely adorable ❤.

[@FraserAtSea]

Cathy, thanks so much - what a lovely comment! I’d love you to check out my other episodes - if you’re interested, you can find my whole running order on my website to help 😊 www.fraseratsea.com/my-year-at-sea

[@lynnfranklin5098]

Canada is such a treasure

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I completely agree!

[@davidjames-maddaford4531]

Sir, I am just agog at the atrocious experience that you keep receiving from MSC Meraviglia this cruise. MERAVIGLIA must be Italian for “Feck-up at EVERY convenient patrons’ inconvenience!” This is our motto, chaps! This as opposed to what (in english) Meraviglia actually means: - “wonder”; “stupendous”; “prodigious”… …You get the idea. On the pleasant side, your time in this Canadian port seamed nice to see. The tide that you experience in Australia is named a “rip.” Whether in the ocean or lake, etc.. And the container hub for shopping and trinkets looked funky. Cannot wait to find out what doesn’t happen next. 😢 😅😊

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, if there’s one thing you can be sure of, it’s that everything will NOT go to plan on this cruise, haha! Thanks a lot for watching - glad you enjoyed it David!

[@davidjames-maddaford4531]

@@FraserAtSea 🫡🙉🥸🙃🤣 Out if interest, is your cruise karaoke goto song “My Heart Will Go On” or “Abide By Me” as This trip sounds like you’re on the Titanic. Haheha

[@abrahamclott5604]

I loved my day in Saint John when I was there last Oct on The Emerald. My timing wasn't right to see the reversing action, but I enjoyed the walk along the red path to the visitor center very much anyway. Also the architecture and vibe of the city. I shuddered when you noted the time you started back. I was convinced the video would be about missing the ship. 50 push ups, dude.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, thinking back, I remember running SO FAST to get back - it was craaaazy! Thanks a lot for watching - I’m glad you enjoyed the video!!

[@abrahamclott5604]

@FraserAtSea Question: This is about a comment you made about Virgin that you would have preferred a balcony. Was this a function of the ship or of the itinerary? Did you find yourself spending more time in the room because the vibe of the ship was so intense or was it the itinerary? I fear that Virgin woukd be too noisy for me. That's why I ask.

[@Cruzencanadians]

Loving your content!! We are doing our first ever Canadian cruise next sept ! I have been to St John before. Lovely area. Welcome to 🇨🇦

[@FraserAtSea]

Hello! Thanks so much - thanks for your support! You’re going to have a great cruise - hopefully I can continue to help you get excited! 😊

[@hazels27]

Gosh that was close! You gave us a good insight into Saint John’s, so thank you. I hope your luck changed and you came away from the Casino a winner! I look forward to another day of excitement?

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much Hazel - glad you enjoyed! No comment about the casino - I guess they wouldn’t exist if I won every time, huh? Thanks so much for your support by following along!

[@TravellingLightLisa]

Missing the ship is something we have nightmares about. Glad you got back on board. It is interesting to see that there are differing policies on moving dining times on different MSC ships. Great video again. Can't believe this is going back to September! You must have so much content to edit! I hope you enjoy the video editing. 😂 Watching this, I was also curious about your video storage arrangements for your epic trip. That's just my inner geek, though.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, yeah - SO much to edit - 2 videos a week is tough going with editing etc, so I’m amazed I’ve kept that up. Should be done by Christmas 😂 Storage-wise, I relied on an upgraded iCloud account and strong wifi to push the files up, then stored locally on external drives when I didn’t have good internet - a bit of a logistical challenge, for sure! Haha, thanks so much for watching!!

[@sbedford9833]

We have only taken 1 cruise and it was this one except we started in Boston and in June. Like you we found St Johns and Halifax wonderful! We booked the cruise only the week before so all the excursions were already booked. But we also found as we got off the ship the tourism hosts were wonderful. They told us how we could take the bus to the see the falls. Our girls were little. It was a lovely day. Very kind of you to promote the local businesses! What a beautiful sailaway. Being summer we left and it was still daylight. Sorry you are not having a good time aboard the ship itself. At least you are still laughing.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks a lot for watching, and thanks for this comment! I did find the hosts to be wonderful on this itinerary - it was SO clear that they wanted you to enjoy your visit to their town/city - it really does make all the difference, doesn’t it? Thanks again for watching!!

[@alanjones7050]

Oh Fraser I’ve been following your trip and unfortunately know exactly what you’re talking about when you say this cruise just isn’t meeting your expectations. I mentioned in another post my experience with Virtuosa was pretty much identical. It was so sad to see so many crew members have such disdain and lack of interest or motivation. It was clear so many of them didn’t want to be there. I was lucky enough to speak privately with a few crew members (these were a couple of the very few who were outstanding). They understood my frustration and realised I knew things weren’t right. They gave me an insight into what happens on board and explained the hierarchy amongst crew. I heard the same details from different crew members. What I was told made me feel pretty angry and left a very bitter taste towards this cruise line. Happy to pass on to you what I was told. Anyway I’m thoroughly enjoying your videos, great work and I hope the Walmart tripod does the job. I’m definitely keen to cruise Canada now.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hi Alan, thanks so much for this comment, and thanks a lot for following along! I’m so sad you’ve had similar on Virtuosa - she’s one of my favourite ships, and I’ve had such great experiences on there! Hopefully they turn it around - I’m not overly confident in their product, at this point! 😔

[@Krypto64]

That was fun, well done on making it back onto the ship, we once nearly missed catching out ship after getting lost in Split, brrrrr.

[@FraserAtSea]

Haha thank you - I was STRESSED when I noticed the time and how far away I still was - I’ve never ran so fast, ha! Thanks a lot for your support, and thanks for watching!

[@jlgcannuck]

GReat highlight video of Saint John. And there was tons of other things not highlighted so a visit is certainly worth it if you are planning a visit to our east coast. As a Canadian, I am proud your experience on land was so great. Even in Canada we consider the easterners extra friendly ---they really do have that reputation . Love your perspective on purchasing something in a local port and that people will see cruise passengers as a positive to their local economy. Looks like Saint John terminal has upped their game since I was there last. As for MSC---Ii had to do a lot of talking to myself to enjoy my time on Divinia to stay positive but it wasn't the staff or the ship, it was the passengers who were rude etc. I wonder if you caught these staff on their "last nerve" after a season of rude people. (because even a positive respectful person like you can't seem to get staff to be accomodating) I too disliked the idea of dining times and gave up and did the buffet on my 2 MSC cruises. BTW that solo cabin looked like a nightmare---I enjoyed the solo cabins on NCL, Celebrity, Virgin .

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much for watching, and what a lovely comment. I’m delighted that you (as a Canadian) have found my channel - thanks so much for your support! I’ve not been to many parts of Canada, but where I have been has been absolutely beautiful - I can’t wait to return! Thanks again!

[@robwhitley7902]

I went on that exact same cruise a week later and I had zero problems with MSC. I have cruised on their ships now at least three times and have had great service and overall a wonderful experience so hopefully your issue is an anomaly.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, this is a comment I was hoping would come in - it felt SO out of character for MSC for everything to go wrong. Great to hear it was much improved for you after me - long may that continue!

[@susanlynn0559]

We took a ferry across the bay of Fundy. It was a wild ride

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I can imagine!! 🌊 🌊

[@johnkean6852]

Was recommended this vid, Part 2 l think, first but l'm into it now and will watch to its completion. Also, l've been watching Hudson & Rex, filmed in St John too, which makes it even more special. Thx again.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I’m glad you were recommended this video - welcome to my little corner of KZbin. Hope you enjoy what you see! 😊

[@patriciamorash2763]

Saint John, New Brunswick, not Newfoundland!

[@siobhanair2659]

Wishing you luck 🍀

[@FraserAtSea]

Thank you! 🤞🏼

[@russellgray1426]

The nickname for St John is Fogtown, you we’re lucky with your weather 👍🏻

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, I did hear this - thank goodness I could actually see something after the last few days!

[@LiveYourBestLifeTravel]

Glad you enjoyed my home port 😊

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I had an absolute ball there - I’m so jealous you get to call Saint John ‘home’!

[@ruthbickerstaffe1915]

Fraser your video just appeared tonight on my KZbin. I started to watch and I have thoroughly enjoyed your excellent video. I loved you bringing us to the Port of St.Johns. The Revolving Falls was great. I enjoyed your visit to the Market. I live outside of Toronto, Ontario and I do enjoy a MacDonalds Coffee sometimes. I have subscribed to your channel. Happy travels. Sad that the crew is not more helpful on your ship. 🇨🇦🌊🌊

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, hello! Thanks so much for watching, and deciding to follow along, Ruth - your support’s massively appreciated! McDonald’s coffee is the best value, isn’t it?! I’m jealous you live in Canada - I’ve left a little piece of my heart there, for sure!

[@cruisecrazy7066]

Your tripod broke for a simple reason. It spent too much time looking at You. LMAO

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks…

[@zoegibson3514]

Glad you had a good day in St John; the Reversing Falls are mesmerising and your video was stunning. Dying to know - did you find a use for the spider/octopus/dalek gismo? 😊

[@FraserAtSea]

Zoe, hello! Thanks for watching - glad you enjoyed it! Yeah, they were absolutely amazing, weren’t they? Haha, thanks for asking - I actually did - I used it to time lapse on a few ships after this one!

[@MLASdeBxL]

I love your videos.

[@FraserAtSea]

Thanks so much!

[@1flames952]

I’m Canadian and never been to the Mary Times! 😂. Definitely a cruise I need to do. Thanks for such a wonderful review of Canada and its East Coast. Maybe not MSC though!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ah, hello! The rest of this cruise, and the next one, will be more of Canada, so hopefully you enjoy seeing more! Thanks so much for watching!!

[@wendingourway]

Welcome to Canada!! Been to St. John many times and where my father was born and lived as a child. Good that you got to the City Market and Reversing Falls! Good to see that you got yourself up higher and that you really got too see the river flowing in reverse!! There are usually jet boats out there filled with people swirling in them rapids. Fun to watch, but I've never tried. Well, you made it and wasn't a pier runner!! lol Indeed, one cannot pass up a $3 deal! How wonderful that you had a clear evening for sail-away...St. John is renowned for its fog! Unfortunate with the dining room experience...has never been a problem as there are always empty tables somewhere...but I am wondering if corners are being cut with fewer staff available for service. If you really want to see the fall colours and if you are ever up in this part of Canada again, make sure to take a cruise that takes you to Sydney, Nova Scotia somewhere around later September or early October. And if there is an excursion to take you to the Cabot Trail, do it!! Continue to enjoy and keep that brilliant positive attitude!!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, thanks - amazing you must’ve spent a good bit of time there is that’s where your Dad grew up! Glad you enjoyed watching my adventure! This cruise actually took me to there a few ports later - stay tuned!!

[@aprilmajgaard130]

My neck of the Wood! Welcome to Canada!

[@FraserAtSea]

What a gorgeous neck of the woods it is - you’re so lucky! Thanks for watching!

[@JohnnyHereYT]

Saint John's looks lovely. I too like to check out the local shops/supermarkets when I travel to get an idea of how it is to live there. When shopping, I always try to support the smaller independently owned shops whenever possible. It's nice of you to mention the Blue Pelican shop. I'll have to remember that if I ever get up that way. It sounds like MSC really needs to up their game, especially when it comes to organization and customer service.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I so enjoyed this port - it just felt so ‘real’ and not spoiled for the sake of tourism! Thanks a lot for following along, Johnny!

[@jonparkus7307]

You’re going to Love Maine, I was born in Brunswick Maine.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I adored Maine - that lobster…!! My next ship covers Maine too - watch this space…

[@moniquereneemanners4629]

Fraiser you look so sad on this cruise. I hope things get better.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, thanks so much for commenting - don’t worry - things will change soon, but sadly not yet…! 😩 Thanks for watching!

[@luludufuret4585]

Dear Fraser, good morning. Un grand bonjour. St-John is replete with Acadian history -- the original settlers from France who arrived nearly four hundred years ago. In fact, St. John is one of the major French speaking cities of Canada, after Montréal and Québec. Unfortunately when the British defeated the French at the Battle of "les plaines d'Abraham", many of these "Acadiens" were deported to New Orleans. To this very day, Acadien French, which is old, old French from the 15th century is the same as Louisiana French (yes, French is still spoken there). If you want to savour Acadien music, go pick yourself a CD of Edith Butler called L"Acadie. It's haunting. Je vous souhaite une bonne journée.

[@lynnfranklin5098]

Grew up in NewOrleans when I went to France and tried to speak lover there -repeatedly got who talk you how to speak French?

[@luludufuret4585]

@@lynnfranklin5098 There is ignorance in all parts of the world. And "le snobisme parisien"" is about as bad as it gets. That being said, things have changed. No longer is standard Parisien French required on TV and Radio; the various regional dialects and even patois are taught in the regions; the absolutisme linguistique of Louis XIV is long over. Hearing an Acadien or someone from New Orleans speak French is like coming face-to-face with the history of the French language. Grandes amitiés, Lulu

[@FraserAtSea]

Wow - this is absolutely fascinating - I had no idea! Thanks so much for watching, and thanks for taking the time to leave this comment!!

[@BettinaKleine]

So beautiful the music you're picking for your videos! I just love it! But one question- if you dont like the service on MSC and are disappointed about long waiting lines and unmotivated crew.... have you tried to pay more and experience the Yacht Club on MSC? I believe after that you will judge differently ......You always have to consider the price you are actually paying, please... Hope to know your first name soon, as I will watch all your videos ( I subscribed just after the first time I saw you!) and I would love to address you correctly.... best, Bettina

[@FraserAtSea]

Bettina, hello! Thanks a lot for still following along :) I haven’t tried Yacht Club yet - would love to one day, but still out of my budget at this point in time. Also, my first name is Fraser - don’t worry - you’ve got it right! :)

[@jamiepeterson1981]

Im doing a transatlantic to NY on the QM2 in march, I had been considering taking a MSC cruise from NY to the Caribbean when I got there because of the price, but youre videos have convinced me that that would be a bad idea 😄

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, I’ll be showing you the QM2 over the coming months - working through content 2 videos a week takes a while to cover a year at sea, haha! Thanks for watching - glad it’s proving useful…!!

[@jamiepeterson1981]

@FraserAtSea I love the QM2, I've been on her twice but only legs of her world voyage when she comes to Australia, can't wait to do a proper transatlantic crossing on her. Looking forward to seeing your video on her!

[@JenniferArmour-n3o]

Fraser, you are being so optimistic with all the cock ups😂. I think I would have been painting a St Andrews Cross on my face and going on the rampage to guest services.

[@FraserAtSea]

Haha, this comment just made me laugh out loud - can you imagine the scenes? I think my FREEDOM was well and truly taken when I saw that solo cabin on Day 1, haha! 😂

[@derekjustin09]

Getting on that ship (Emerald Princess)to go to that port in three days 🎉💪😎

[@FraserAtSea]

Ooh, amazing - enjoy!!

[@cruisecrazy7066]

I am looking forward to the video of you as a Pier Runner. It's gonna happen.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, a live POV video 😂

[@cruisecrazy7066]

@@FraserAtSea Great idea. You can show all the people leaning off their balconies cheering, as the ship pulls away. Hahahahahaaa

[@alibasher72]

How in the world are there no other people in your video. It was cool and so weird, loved this video.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, people ask me this all the time - people must avoid me 😂 Thanks so much for watching!

[@fshepinc]

Wow. It's hard to imagine a cruise with such lousy service and bad attitudes from the crew! I think you're being wonderfully patient and optimistic about this one - after so many negative comments from so many KZbin cruise reviewers I wouldn't go near an MSC ship on a bet!

[@jonnieinbangkok]

He expects Silver Sea service at MSC prices!

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! Thanks for watching, and unfortunately yes - MSC really underdelivered with this cruise. @jonnieinbangkok No, I don’t…

[@fshepinc]

I have sailed many budget cruise lines over the years, and never was I given the surly service that MSC has become famous for. I don’t expect caviar when I pay for pretzels, but I do expect those pretzels to be served with smile!

[@FraserAtSea]

@@fshepinc couldn’t agree more with this - I’m even expecting the pretzels to be worse quality - you get what you pay for at the end of the day!

[@SoloonaCruise]

What a wonderful view leaving St. John's. It is always nice to have a simple, local cruise day. What a shame that you had this experience aboard when you had so many good experience on their other ships. How are you finding regular live at all your cruises last year?

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I know. I guess it was inevitable that I’d have issues at some point - didn’t expect this many though, ha! Finding regular life interesting - it’s great to have so much editing to do - the memories are so lovely to look back on. Thanks for asking, and thanks so much for watching and supporting my channel! ❤️

[@ducheau100]

Good commentary. Subscribed. I sail solo and am from Florida. Many opportunities to take MSC, but I pass all the time. I like Celebrity or HAL.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, thanks very much - I appreciate your support so much!

[@beadroin8301]

Isnt it Grand you saw the Emerald Princess! (I'll get my coat lol!) I'll be on her P&O sister Azura come August time, honestly cannot wait for that trip. Also so amused you found that camera stand thing for $3, remind me of the stuff from Joby which is pretty expensive normally!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, this made me laugh - I can’t resist buying something that’s reduced - I’m a nightmare 😂 Azura is a wonderful ship - I’ve got an old KZbin series on here too from my cruise on her, if you’re interested! 😊

[@beadroin8301]

@@FraserAtSea Been making a start onto those, she seems a popular ship from what I've seen. And looks really good, also will be the newest ship I will be going on to this year lol 😂

[@stephenm8818]

I'm so glad that in your year of cruising Fraser, that, this was the only frequently problematic cruise ! 😮

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, me too - quite lucky, actually. Can you imagine they were all like this? I’d have been a nervous wreck 😂

[@stephenm8818]

@FraserAtSea I think you might have done a fair amount of research, planning and preparation too, Fraser!

[@moirasutherland7443]

I have found on MSC the officer class and the management are not always the best,but bar staff waiting staff and stewards are great.

[@FraserAtSea]

I’d sway with agreeing from my experience on here… Nobody could help at any point!

[@NJBRANDON1]

We board Meraviglia this Sunday. Hope we have better service than you did. I was on World Europa a few weeks ago and it was amazing so we wanted to go back on MSC.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ahh, I so hope you have a better experience too! Thanks a lot for watching, and have a fab trip!

[@NJBRANDON1]

It’s our second time on Meraviglia this past year. Unfortunately this past week wasn’t great for us either. The dining room service was was comparison to our recent World Europa cruise. Our waiter in Europa had our 2 favorite wines chilling table side without us even asking. We were in and out in an hour every night. On Meraviglia we would get our first drink the. The waiter disappear and not even ask if we wanted more. Dinner took 2 hours every night. The buffets were a madhouse with the overcrowding. On Europa there’s 3 buffets on two levels plus the Pizza Burger place on the inside promenade so the flow was more spread out. I kept saying to my wife you can’t have 1 location to feed everyone. The entertainment on Europa was another level compared to Meraviglia. The singers weren’t good especially the lead guy. The shows were boring other than the magic show when my wife got to go on stage. The pool bartenders weren’t friendly, like it was a burden to order a drink. It took me 15 minutes one time just to get a bottle of water. It’s a shame because we had a great time on Meraviglia last year and World Europa was unbelievable so I wasn’t expecting things to go this way.

[@FraserAtSea]

@@NJBRANDON1 oh no - I’m so sorry to hear you didn’t have the best experience on here. I totally agree that World Europa is so well provisioned from a good point of view - I love the multiple buffets, and also the thought of offering food in the galleria - really helps to spread out the crowds!

[@FraserAtSea]

@@NJBRANDON1 thanks for stopping back to update us on your cruise!

[@elizabeth-annecelebrant6155]

Hey Fraser, I am sorry that you haven't enjoyed this cruise. As you know I have now done a few MSC and they don't deserve the crap that gets thrown, but this time, I am disappointed for you. You are normally such a positive person giving a great balanced review. There is absolutely no excuse for bad / rude customer service. I love this itinerary but maybe I will wait and see lol😂 Maybe a lot of staff are due leave?? ( I am being positive now) Maybe there is a difference with MSC leaving from USA ports? Anyway, I hope things improve... And hope you did ok in the casino..

[@FraserAtSea]

Hi Elizabeth, thanks for watching! I agree - I’m usually such an advocate of MSC, but I’d have been struggling to put together really positive content for this cruise. I always believe it’s best to show the ‘true situation’ onboard - unfortunately, that wasn’t the best this time around… Thanks again for watching, and supporting my channel!!

[@RobStevens64]

I know these sorts of issues are not the norm, but it seems like I hear far more complaints about service on MSC than any other cruise line. Makes me wonder if they transferred all the most experienced people to Vitruosa.

[@FraserAtSea]

Yeah, I wondered the same - I’ve had SUCH great cruises on Virtuosa and just couldn’t understand how this ship (which is basically the exact same) was so poor in comparison!

[@brigidconroy2111]

Newfies are so wonderful ❤

[@FraserAtSea]

Totally agree!

[@patriciamorash2763]

They are, however, this video features Saint John, New Brunswick.

[@FraserAtSea]

@@patriciamorash2763 correct! Haha

[@brigidconroy2111]

@@patriciamorash2763 oops knew I was screwing up 😱 only excuse was I was up 20 hours should never text terminally tired forgot the “s” rule Friends are gonna fry me

[@kikky811]

Wow, definitely won’t be trying MSC. Not because of your experience or not just because of your experience as you echo what others have been saying lately. As far as St. John wow. Beautiful! I have to say though, weather at the end of Sep can vary wildly depending where in Canada you are.We’ve been mid October with beautiful sunny skies and weather in the low to mid 20s Celsius. In SW Ontario where we live, we often have a heat wave in September and really it does not start to cool off until mid October. No changing leaves until then either, so I’m glad you got to experience some of it! 🍂 🍃 🍁

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, thanks for watching! First off, I’m dying to visit Ontario - I’ve heard SUCH great things! I struck it mega lucky with the weather on my cruise. If you’re coming to check out the rest of this series, prepare for the sunshine - it was glorious most of the time!! Thanks a lot for watching, and thanks for taking the time to comment!

[@harlanabraham7772]

St. John is a great place. The reversing waters tour is good. Going to the historic marketplace is good too. They'll take you there from the reversing water. It's a long walk to the ship. The City Market place is great. Sometimes I get lunch here and definitely purchase coffee beans to take home. More parks on other side of historic marketplace. Should always bring clothes for all kinds of weather. The falls reverse better in the morning than in the afternoon. How is the cruise so wrong? You are on MSC. Behind you on your way to Walmart is Wendy's.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hello! Thanks for watching, and I totally agree - stunning part of the world! The reversing falls were truly mesmerising - I could’ve stood there for hours! Thanks a lot for watching my video :)

[@AlexYurchak]

I sailed MSC on a New England/Canada cruise last month. We docked in the morning but were not cleared until mid-day after Canadian Customs completed the interviews either.... guess it goes both ways.

[@FraserAtSea]

I have no idea why they do this - surely if it takes half the day, the ship really should be in port mega late, or just stay overnight and leave the next day? It’s craaaazy! Thanks for watching, and thanks for this comment too - I’m glad to know I’m not the only one who’s been frustrated with this challenge…! 😩

[@nrgpokemon5158]

Welcome to Canada! 🇨🇦 Kinda embarrassed that you’re showing me things of my country that I’ve never seen! Having said that, I’m now living on the Pacific coast, and I’ve never lived closer to St John than 950kms away. Wait till you throw in St John’s NFLD into the mix, and then you’ll be as confused as we are about these two port cities in our Maritime provinces!

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, this was funny! Don’t worry though - I’ve not seen so much of the U.K., and it’s a tiny fraction of the size of Canada. Besides, you’re seeing it now via my eyes, so no fretting required, haha! Thanks a lot for watching and supporting my little channel!

[@christineguise689]

Nooo don’t miss the ship ,the rapids were really good and I always eat in the buffet I find it so much easier 😻

[@FraserAtSea]

Haha, imagine the drama if I missed the ship - I pray daily that’ll never happen! 😂 Thanks so much for watching, Christine!!

[@christineguise689]

@@FraserAtSea that would be my worst nightmare too 😻

[@PaulaT237]

We went on the MSC Europa in March this year. It was an amazing cruise. We loved the ship. Only issue we had was the tour in Rome. Mainly because the tour guide took off without us and left us behind. We did let the cruise know in the review we gave.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hello Paula! 👋🏼 Thanks for watching - I’ve also really enjoyed my cruises on World Europa - I was on there for 21 days last year - she’s a beauty! Wow - that’s not ideal for Rome! 😳

[@PaulaT237]

No. The tour guides were actually very rude. They weren’t MSC guides they were from Rome.

[@PaulaT237]

Doesn’t stop us from doing another cruise either MSC though.

[@FraserAtSea]

@@PaulaT237 oh no - that’s not ideal! That’s when there’s a real benefit to getting one from the cruise line, isn’t it? I’m glad you made it back safely!

[@carmelshepherd6739]

MSC unfortunately do not learn their lessons from complaints I love the ships ,staff lovely to me but was worst cruise on Virtuosa complete chaos !

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh no - sorry to hear that. I find them to be pretty inconsistent, and the fact you didn’t enjoy Virtuosa proves this - she’s one of my favourite ships! Thanks a lot for watching!

[@GG-dq6fj]

I sailed with MSC in December. A med cruise. The port were amazing but every aspect of the cruise was a disaster. I'd never book with them again.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh no, I’m so so sorry to hear you also had a bad experience. Thanks so much for watching!

[@mariavano9616]

So is it heights that get you, or heights being on a bridge, or the freakiness of the water swirling in various directions? (I couldn't see the ship at that point....although when you were at the lowest point, it looked like you could walk across to the ship because it almost looked an inch deep 😂 (and why in the world would *anyone* think it would be shorts weather in St. John at the end of September??) OMG I can't believe you said that at 18:16 -- I've never heard anyone else say that before! Having lived in nine countries, I'm always on the lookout for the next one, and I always always go into a supermarket in any new city for that precise purpose, "to see what it would be like living there." Kindred spirit! (except I'd be a little bit nervous at 6 going into a store and also eating, knowing back-on-board is 7:30...you're braver than me!)

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, we’re very similar Maria - I love a supermarket snoop when I’m travelling - I did the same in my Mexico vlogs, ha! Thanks for watching! It was the height that got me - I was fascinated by the movement of the water, but I haaaaated the height! Ha, thanks again for your support!!

[@mariavano9616]

@@FraserAtSea gaaaaa it was the swirling of the water in 13 different ways that got me in your video LOL

[@johnkean6852]

Those container shops are in the City of London too. Must be a trend.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, really? I’ll need to check them out when I’m next in London - thanks for the heads up!

[@johnkean6852]

@@FraserAtSea City end of Bethnal Green Road. Can walk from Liverpool Street Tube Station. Or jump on a No.8 bus, just outside Liverpool St Station, going East to Hackney. 3 stops l think. As it turns right into Bethnal Green Road stand up to get off. The containers are opposite the first stop there. All trendy there now. (I'm retired in North Cyprus now.)

[@stevenajack]

Interesting point about US Customs and Border Protection, was there any sort of fast track for travellers with Global Entry the USA'a fast track immigration service that you sign up to, undergo background checks and an interview?

[@FraserAtSea]

Hi Steven, good question. I don’t believe there was any sort of Fast Track like at the airports, no. I’ve double checked the letter that came to my cabin, and nothing in there about this, either!

[@onelittlemustardseed]

It's actually spelled Saint John and locals consider the fog that can roll in at night free air conditioning. The slogan is/was "The greatest little city in the east." 😊

[@FraserAtSea]

Free A/C - that’s so funny! Thanks a lot for watching!!

[@TWSmith42]

Can't you get a tripod onboard in the ship's photography dept? I got a waterproof camera there before, for example. Anyway, I am not loving your experience with this MSC ship.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey! Good question - I think you could, but it would’ve been mightily expensive. Knowing my luck on this cruise, it would be snapped in half and sent my camera into the ocean the first time I’d try it, haha!

[@daviddarby6579]

Fraser, Preziosa is not the same class of ship as Meraviglia.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh no, did I say it was? Oops, if so! 🤦🏻‍♂️

[@johnkean6852]

Did u have a fun day on Fundy?

[@FraserAtSea]

LOVED it!

[@johnkean6852]

@@FraserAtSea Super

[@johnluvsluna]

In my opinion all aboard time is the time passangers should have returned by and the sailing is typically 30 minutes later. I'd be a little peaved if a crew member was unpleasant for returning close to but not past the all aboard time. On that point when a crew member states to be there 30 minutes before all aboard, as in your last episode, I can understand that if this to minimise congestion and queues so the ship can depart on time but at the end of the day the all aboard time is the time for you to be returned and aboard and if the cruise ship is unable to process pasaangers efficiently enough to depart on time that is on them. They can either improve their processes or set an earlier all aboard time rather than inisit you return 30 minutes before all aboard. Just my opinion. And it doesn't surprise me that this attitude would come from MSC staff. I enjoy cruising with the European lines but let's just say they have are quicker to voicing their displeasure to guests compared to American or British lines. You could call it a cultural difference and I've no real issue with it if there has been wrong done and the comments are respectful and not rude, but when things go wrong on these lines they often go really wrong. Take the recent incident with Ben and David for example.

[@FraserAtSea]

John, I totally agree - this is why my view was to return for ‘all aboard’, and not the time some random crew member said that wanted me back for - ridiculous 😂 Thanks a lot for watching!

[@sodiumlights]

Reversing Falls 😅❤. #emma cruises scotishusm Faff.

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, this made me laugh - I need to be careful incase she’s trademarked that, haha!

[@VisualApproach]

Now I know why the Meraviglia cruises are always so cheap from NYC as a solo traveller.. the crappy cabin and crappy service!

[@FraserAtSea]

Yeah, I really wasn’t impressed with what I saw during my time onboard. However, this series isn’t over yet - watch this space…!

[@davidmarsden305]

If i ever went on MSC, it would have to be Yacht club or i wouldn't bother.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I wish! Haha

[@jonnieinbangkok]

Dude is skint...only sails steerage 😂 😂 😂

[@atomic_aura7846]

Unfortunately don’t count on the yacht club guaranteeing good service. We sailed on the Divina in the Royal Club Suite. My husband is a big guy like 400# big. We were celebrating our anniversary and wanted to eat at the steak house. Can’t remember the name of it but they have those clear plastic chairs. Not something my husband would be comfortable in and who knows if it would have stood up to him. We stopped by the restaurant to ask if they could please have a chair available for my husband when we came for dinner. The hostess said she would have to ask permission. Well you guessed it , the answer was no, she could not bring a chair that would be a better fit for my husband. The staff felt horrible, I was upset. The staff let us sit outside the restaurant and they served us there but they would have gotten in trouble if any officers had walked by. I cried through that whole dinner. We became close with 3 staff members on that cruise. They all left MSC shortly after.

[@tedlaurvik3765]

So are you releasing videos from last September? You keep mentioning fall colors and it is June 2024.

[@FraserAtSea]

I am indeed! I was living on ships for most of last year. With releasing 2 videos each week, it’s taken me to now to release this - consider it Fall 2024 prep 😉

[@jlawrence0181]

I cannot deal with poor food and poor service and will not take an MSC cruise especially on a route where Princess has competitive fare pricing. MSC KZbin videos remind me too much of my first cruise - on Costa ehich swore me off cruising tor 30 years.

[@FraserAtSea]

Hey, thanks for watching! Ah, I took Costa last year actually - got lots on my channel from those trips, and was actually pretty impressed to be honest! I would agree - MSC work as a good budget option when you can't jump on the likes of Princess for the same (or sometimes cheaper) price at the dock next door...!

[@mm-yt8sf]

"hello, i'd like to-" "how did you manage to get through to this line? fifth class passengers shouldn't even be able to connect to guest services. i'll send maintenance down to fix your phone. by the way they're armed so don't even think about stopping them"

[@FraserAtSea]

Ha, as I get locked in the cabin for the rest of the cruise 😂

[@paperplain]

Lets also not forget you are a Diamond member - package or not, they should accommodate your request

[@FraserAtSea]

Yeah, I agree! I was so surprised and disappointed to be honest! Thanks for watching!!

[@tamiw1903]

Seems like no matter how often you tried to have/put a positive note on things, this cruise seems like YOUR worst cruise I've seen yet... between lack luster staff... dining options... i live in eastern USA i have no interest in trying that one at all...

[@FraserAtSea]

Yeah, I hate to admit it, but parts of this cruise made me feel sad through despair - I’ve never felt so helpless at parts… Thanks for watching!!

[@yoladee]

This is why I have not booked MSC.

[@FraserAtSea]

😩

[@WestCoastCultured]

What a nightmare cruise, complain and get your money back.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh, I know - problem after problem...!!

[@glengosling5636]

Too long to get to the point.

[@FraserAtSea]

Sorry - thanks for watching!

[@_echobravo]

Watch out... honesty about MSC didn't work out so well for Ben and David. 🙄

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh really?

[@_echobravo]

@@FraserAtSea they debarked Virtuosa mid cruise after being treated so shabbily. Their 250k subscribers flexed and MSC basically begged for forgiveness. 😄

[@_echobravo]

@@FraserAtSea BTW: I'm enjoying your content so much! Can't wait to see Portland Maine.

[@FraserAtSea]

@@_echobravo ahh, thanks so much for following - it’s so appreciated!

[@mm-yt8sf]

if they let the likes of you change your dinner arrangements then who knows what will happen....all the peasants will start demanding convenient dining times...and then it's full on mutiny! 🙂

[@FraserAtSea]

Hahah, this comment made me laugh! You’re probably right - where could they draw the line? Ha!

[@Leeann-gs5qz]

I will never, ever consider cruising with MSC. Yours isn't the first youtube video on the horrible MSC staff.

[@FraserAtSea]

Oh no 😔 The staff aren’t horrible - the experience on this ship was just SO sub par!

[@makiliv]

@@FraserAtSea Thank you for looking out for the staff/crew! It's the responsibility of the company and officers to ensure that cruises run smoothly. I felt so sad for you and as well, for folks for whom this is their only vacation of the year.

[@RetiredPrincess1107]

I'm voting for Biden. But he did have a bad night. I believe he can and will recover. We all need to get up and pull ourselves together. I don't agree with Morning Joe but we won't win if we don't acknowledge that Biden was struggling last night. As you said, he's old. Anyone can have an off night. He needs to do some interviews so he can get his message about what he wants to do in the future as well as all he's done.

[@FraserAtSea]

Don't worry - we don't talk politics here - only cruise ships!! :)

[@yt_energy]

Such a whiner

[@FraserAtSea]

😔

[@yt_energy]

@@FraserAtSea I didn’t mean to make you have a sad emoji face, it’s just dude you’re on a cruise and like the last three videos are all about how horrible it is. No one wants to hear that. A lot of your viewers would be happy to be on any cruise and would look at the positives, not at all the negatives.

[@debrathomson252]

@@yt_energy Sadly you need to look at other past vids as Fraser seldom complains and that is what shows us how bad things are on this ship. Getting ashore to find only 10 min to time to return, poor service, waiting 1 1/2 hours in a que to return back onto the ship, being insulted by staff when trying to sort out dinning etc. This is not a good cruise ship and pleased he is pointing it out.

[@yt_energy]

@@debrathomson252 maybe. I just started watching him so these are the only videos I’ve seen and all I’m hearing is a victim mentality. Maybe I’ll check out others

[@twochickens3954]

Holy cow, I keep looking at the super cheap prices for the Meraviglia, but even at around $55 per day for a solo traveler, I just can’t click the purchase button. At least Carnival lives up to its “fun ship” hype despite sometimes ugly old ships and lousy MDR food. I just don’t get it. I’m weirdly obsessed with this (possibly just my imaginary) dysfunctional ship. My theory is a toxic work environment caused by haughty upper management, tyrannical ship board management, unhappy and/over worked/ and otherwise poorly treated prisoners-- I mean - crew members. All leading to a nearly complete breakdown of colleagiality on all levels. Looking forward to your half hour 😉 in Portland. It’s my favorite city - for a time it had the most restaurants per capita in the US. It’s foodie heaven for sure! 🦞🫐🥔🍺🍨🍩🥞🍟

[@FraserAtSea]

Yeah, it’s a cracker of a city, isn’t it? Your analogy here made me laugh - I’m glad I can help your fascination with this ship, haha! Thanks for following along!!