Our First MSC Cruise Was NOT What We Expected. Here's Why [MSC Seascape Review]

[@LifeWellCruised]

Planning a cruise? Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner. It's a 47 page printable cruise travel planner with packing checklists, shore excursion planning forms and much more! ($10 off for a limited time). Here are the details: lifewellcruised.com/ultimate-cruise-planner

[@arbonneladyTN]

In addition to my comment below (somewhere) … I loved seeing your son and watching you and hubby walking holding hands! Hubby & I have been married 43 years and still walk hand in hand❤️ How long have you two been married?

[@LifeWellCruised]

@@arbonneladyTN awe thanks! 30 years! Congrats to you on so many wonderful years 🥂

[@CARLOGONZO]

Hi ! Ilana, My wife and I are South Florida Residents since the 60's. We've cruised all over the World (since retiring in 2009). Actually we started cruising from Miami and Ft. Lauderdale in 2001. So, we are very familiar with the area and the Industry. Our favorite cruise line at this time is Princess (Elite Level cruisers) But we have enjoyed cruising with Celebrity, RCCL, MSC and NCL. Love your videos ! One thing that you didn't mentioned with MSC is that they offer a match of Loyalty Level (just in case you didn't know). We as Elite Princess Cruisers receive Diamond Level Status with MSC. All you have to do is send proof at booking time and you'll be awarded the status and perks that go along with it. Thank You and Keep on Posting those great videos !

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing & you’re so right! I’ll have to have a tips video to share this & other info :)

[@sf3413]

Thank you for sharing that! We're thinking of branching out from RCL.... I feel like that's a sin of thought, but we want more options.

[@evelynwelch8143]

I’m a princess platinum and very close to elite after my 2 cruises this year. What other cruise line honor your Elite? I know RC doesn’t acknowledge it. Have you seen any changes with Princess elite benefits ? Thanks!

[@CARLOGONZO]

@@evelynwelch8143 The entire Industry has made changes and cutbacks to some of the Top Level perks. Not just Princess. We go along with the flow and continue cruising. It is what it is !! Blessed to be able to do it. Thank-you.

[@Shahkee13300]

Very interesting! TY

[@KevinWhite-ql7nl]

We have done 3 MSC cruises in the past 8 months, which the cost of the cruises made this possible. We have been on the Seaside, Magnifica, and the Divina. We love the European flair onboard their ships. They have been some negatives but over all will enjoyed our self and We Love MSC.

[@jcshaves]

My wife and I just arrived safely home from our first cruise vacation. We both loved it. The only bad thing is that it ended. Thankfully we were blessed with beautiful weather and calm seas the entire trip. Thank you very much for your tips, tricks, and advice. It really helped a great deal. My wife would ask me questions and I knew quite a bit of the answers because of the awesome CruiseTube community. Again thanks for all the help and can’t wait to try another. Thanks LWC.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Awe I’m so glad that my videos & tips had even a small part of your enjoyment of your first cruise! Glad to hear that you’re hooked 🪝😂

[@jcshaves]

@@LifeWellCruised indeed.

[@arbonneladyTN]

@@LifeWellCruisedYou are wonderful! We have been cruising for about 20 years off & on. So many of your tips are great reminders for us… and of course new ideas & tips! Keep up the great work for us! I think you are one of the BEST in the KZbin universe 👏🏼

[@pamgordon5051]

After cruising most of the well known cruise ships, we took our first MSC cruise on the Seascape last year and absolutely loved it and would most certainly cruise on it again. By the way, I absolutely love your videos. I watch them every year right before going on a cruise so I don't miss anything. Lol

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing your review & experience, & for your lovely comments too 😊

[@BeCreativewithTerryJeanette]

We tried MSC (Seascape out of Miami)) in April of 2023, back to back.. We loved it so much, we gave it another try. This time it was on the Seashore out of Port Canavaral. We cruised March 21 through 14 April...yes another back to back. LOVED it! I totally agree with everything you have said in this video. Thanks for sharing.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Very interesting. I’m happy to hear your experiences as well 👏

[@arlenekraft]

Just a warning about MSC Yacht Club: Once you try it, you won't want to go back to any other cruising! We have done 7 MSC Cruises, with the last one in Yacht Club. Fabulous experience. We have three more MSC Cruises scheduled--in Yacht Club. The value is beyond compare. Also, if you love traveling in Europe, you will enjoy the differences on MSC. People who expect an American experience don't usually appreciate MSC.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I have heard this 👏

[@m.m.4645]

Maybe we should try an msc cruise out of North America. Because the ones we had from Europe weren't that great. Rude passengers everywhere and totally overcrowded, even in shoulder seasons.

[@dionnem4533]

Can you explain what the yacht club experience is please?

[@truepeacenik]

On hot tubs…I’m a hot springs fan, and I’ll hang in the Lobster Pots/Crab Pots which tend to be 110-115. On a ship, 100-105 is perfect.

[@lauradi308]

110% endorse MSC Yacht Club. Husband loves it so much I had to basically blackmail him into trying Princess next year ;-). It's a bit of a splurge compared to the price of your typical MSC cruise but it is so beyond worth it. Oh, and the Yacht Club hot tub on the Seascape is the hottest on the ship.

[@dianncrossman8437]

Ilana I totally agree with you about MSC. We took a 7 day cruise to Bermuda and Nassau on MSC Divina from Ft Lauderdale. We had heard mixed reviews about MSC with many negatives, particularly the crew being hard to understand, not particularly friendly and the food mediocre. We were so pleasantly surprised when we found none of this to be our experience. We found the ship to be very nice, food very good and all the staff we interacted with to be very helpful, pleasant and never a language problem. I would definitely cruise with MSC again without hesitation.

[@Rimshathaesthete]

Your review is so informative, if it wasn't for your review I wouldn't even have known how fun this particular crusie seems to be.

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad this was helpful 😊

[@phillipdavies9128]

Illana, We salied on Seascape in January and I have to agree with everything you said. It was better than we expected after listening to all the negative reviews. We had a fantastic time. The ONLY negative we found were some of the guessts wrre rude, but that had nothing to do with MSC. The ship crew and food were all amazing. We will definitely sail with MSC again and would love to try Yacht club..

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing! Perhaps things have changed with the cruise line for the better, but glad to hear your experience 👏

[@GayesyJ]

I wouldn’t have ever considered MSC but I think I will now! 🤩 Thanks for a very thorough review as always Ilana! 😎💞

[@MJinFlorida]

Love it when the cruise private island honors the beverage package!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Me too 🍹😂

[@paulgould1820]

Two things to add. If you are new to MSC and you have a status on another cruise line, or even hotel status, MSC will match it and give you their benefits. I matched instantly into Gold on my first MAC cruise. Also, in San Juan, do the El Yuenke rainforest excursion. It is amazing to see the Puerto Rican rain forest!

[@susanjackson8066]

Lots of walking?

[@joanneajetunmobi6874]

I was on MSC Seascape last week. We loved it!!! I found the infinity pool on deck 8 that you mentioned. I loved the evening entertainment in the lounges, in the atrium or on the pool deck. I did find the hot air balloon on the way to Le Cabaret Rouge longe. And yes, we took photos!!! Your review of this cruise ship is fair. And I will cruise with MSC again.

[@melissapuckett9983]

We just got off MSC Seashore and loved it. We have done other cruise lines but for the value and how classy this ship looks we will be sailing with them again.

[@Acruceros]

Hi Ilana I am so happy to find your channel and watching your video about MSC Seascape! I just disembarked from there 2 months ago and now I am on MSC Seaview and have started also to upload some videos about MSC and my job there as Hotel Director. You earned a new fan and I hope one day you cruise on one of the ships I am on!

[@daughtersofjesususa6228]

Greetings Ilana! This was a very fair and balanced review of the MSC Seascape. I have cruised most of MSC’s ships in North America, and Seascape is my favorite. As a travel agent, I find MSC to be a great value for my cruise groups and first-time cruisers. In fact, I have a group that just set sail yesterday on that ship. Thanks again for being such a great resource for travel professionals. I often send my clients your videos to teach them tips, tricks, and all things cruising. You are a treasure!

[@LifeWellCruised]

I really appreciate your comments & kind words! That means a lot coming from a TA & I appreciate you sharing my videos too :)

[@franknati658]

We love MSC cruises. We have sailed the Seaside and the Seashore twice with 2 more booked so far. We love MSC so much, that for us, MSC has knocked Royal down a notch.

[@cmoor052]

My wife and I were on the same sailing! We were in Yacht Club so our experience differed somewhat, and I completely agree that MSC is a great cruise experience. You mentioned that you're considering YC and I highly recommend you give it a shot, you won't regret it!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing your YC experience! I have a feeling many people who watch my channel might enjoy that too :)

[@jco3917]

We took a 7 day Caribbean cruise on the MSC Seaside. We thought the specialty restaurants were pricier than on other lines, so we ate every dinner in the main dining room and the food and service were very good. The entertainment was excellent. I liked the smaller buffet for breakfast and it’s located on an upper deck. We ate most lunches in the main buffet and it was ok and had very little style. We loved the private island and we were docked there overnight. I would highly recommend a cruise that is docked overnight at Ocean Cay.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing!

[@keoshamorival1753]

The entertainment on seaside was amazing, the divina food was great, the entertainment was lacking, going on seascape in September, and overall msc is a great line you can find things you will appreciate on each ship.

[@jamespartee5930]

It was so good meeting you on the Seascape.MSC IS ONE OF MY FAVORITE LINE. HOPE TO SEE YOU ON ANOTHER MSC.SHIP

[@LifeWellCruised]

Nice to meet you too! Thanks for leaving a comment here & see you on another ship 🛳️👏😂

[@merliealley5938]

Me and 3 friends are going to MSC Seashore Cruise for the first time schedule May 12. I’ve been watching your cruise videos. Thanks so much for sharing all the tips. It helps us prepared what to expect in two weeks on our cruise experience.

[@brianebert6770]

My husband and I went on her sister ship MSC seashore. It was the best experience we have ever had and we are platinum on several different levels on several different cruise lines.

[@jesscarey7418]

You have done an amazing review Ilana. Thank you for sharing. We are excited to go this upcoming week. This will be our third MSC cruise. We cruised twice on the Seaside last year out of Port Canaveral. I think with every cruise line your going to get your hiccups and MSC has been really listening to what their clients are complaining about and making changes for the value of the cruise. We are also Canadian Cruisers and love to hear all the different languages as well. Just getting away from Spring in Canada for a week is a treat in its self. Happy Cruising

[@LifeWellCruised]

I totally get you! Agree - give me sunshine & 25+ C & I’m already pretty happy 😂

[@ghjcmo]

I’ve always heard such horror stories about the food on MSC so it’s nice to hear a positive review. I think I’m going to have to try them.

[@miladycernuda1]

I have been in two MCs cruises this month. The Magnifica and the Seascape and the food at the main restaurant was excellent. The buffet is only open until 11:30pm. Snacks only pizza) until 1:00pm. No unlimited ice-cream soft cone machines anywhere.

[@mymodernhomestead]

Such a great review! I appreciate your videos. We got back home Saturday from a 5 night cruise with a group of 26 friends. It was my second cruise. My first was 19 years ago. Your tips were a great help! My husband and I have an RC cruise scheduled in August for our 25th anniversary! Thank you for all you do!

[@LifeWellCruised]

That’s so exciting!! Happy anniversary & I’m so glad my videos have been a help

[@scottwoods504]

I miss Captain Bye Bye. We had him on the Sky Princess in Jan 2020 and I heard he left Princess for MSC. There are few Captains I remember and he is one of the good ones. He keeps you well informed in a lite hearted way.

[@Melissanailzcliques]

I'm a huge fan of MSC, we are now diamond and our son is gold (he's 11 😂) when you reach gold or above you can utilize a free 1 hour thermal spa area! It's awesome...18+ only. If you book a future cruise with them on board they double your voyager points also. We just did merivilia for he 2nd time and will be on seascape in June. We booked Europa & world america for next year! ❤ happy cruising!

[@christinelloyd-kg9ow]

How lovely to listen to someone who is not talking too fast and loud

[@doctormstein1]

We love MSC Cruises, especially the Yacht Club. Would not want to go any other way. Quiet areas away from the crowds, individual service, great food, services such as free wifi, drink package, personal Butler and so much more. So far I have taken 3 Yacht club cruises and loved each one. They are very reasonable compared to other similar features in other cruise lines but much less expensive. They have their own private Yacht Club lounge and private restaurant as well as private elevators. The Yacht Club is really a special experience that anyone would love.

[@guayames]

We have taken MSC since it was a totally Italian experience. Went in its Yacht Club a few months ago and liked it so much will be back in the Seascape next week. Thanks for your review, will test it during this, our 174th cruise.

[@scottmilo2971]

Great video Ilana. I have cruised MSC five times and I have enjoyed it. Best things on MSC: THE VALUE, the coffee, the affordable drink package, the pizza, and the beauty of the ships. Not so good: variety of included food options, & the entertainment is below average compared to other lines. I have another MSC cruise booked for September 2024.

[@christalambe5435]

We loved the Seascape and will absolutely book with MSC again - excellent overall value! I’m so glad you had a positive experience and are sharing this with us!

[@PauMaz]

While in San Juan consider an excursion to El Yunque Rain Forest. Also consider an excursion to the Bacardi Cathedral of Rum.

[@lorigallegos5649]

I had never been on a Cruise and my first cruise was MSC and I had a great experience. I had no expectations and enjoyed everything!!

[@juliemagic]

Thank you so much for the honest review. We love MSC and can’t wait to go back. The multinational vibe on Seaside was magically fantastic! We loved all the shows, our steward was super sweet, and all the buffet staff was terrific. The pizza was simple but yummy and crunchy. Decaf coffee was the best! Ocean Cay is a heaven! 🫶🏼 Overall, the ship design and especially the Atrium is luxury gorgeous! However, there are many things to improve on the ship (pasta was not good, meat choice could be better, some of the bar design was off, upper deck pool beds were dirty/moldy, and the evening before disembarkation entertainment was not good, we are bored). Next time, we will try their another ship, Seashore. Hopefully, it will be an even better experience 🙌🏼

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing your experience & review :)

[@LifeisGoodLiveFully]

I absolutely love MSC Cruises! I've always had a great experience and vacations anywhere with anyone is still what we make of it! Thank you for yet another great video, love your channel!

[@brianpawlowski6498]

We enjoyed MSC on our recent European cruise and would like to try them domestically. We were in the minority so to speak over there, but not once did we feel uncomfortable with language barriers and diverse cultures. Despite any flaws MSC may have, I can honestly say they are very accommodating and very helpful. Eventually, even I get tired of 24 hour party cruise. Not too tired, but would still like a change of pace. I think MSC does that.

[@BeefromSC]

I enjoyed the video!!! All the food choices looked so delicious too! For three people, the drink package, and a balcony, I think it was a very good price! I’ve never sailed MSC, but from this video, I can tell it’s my style 😇🛳️🛳️

[@LifeWellCruised]

Glad you enjoyed it! I really liked the value & experience too

[@JilSpangenberg-ys7fz]

Honestly I had scratched MSC cruise off my list because their reviews aren't that great. But those reviews were from strangers - and may even have been from employees of Carnival, Princess, Royal, etc... trying to downgrade their competition. But I trust your review and now I might just be willing to try one. Their prices are GREAT! Thanks for going and sharing what you learned.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I’m glad this was helpful. I think they have been improving and adjusting as well with feedback

[@thebikinilife]

While I am also a stranger, let me just share that I have reached Diamond Plus on Royal... after sailing on the Seascape, MSC is not my preferred line for value.

[@caymanprincessa]

I agree with you. We cruised MSC before Covid and were not very impressed, especially with the food. Having seen this video I am ready to give MSC another try. We cruise 5-6 times a year and are high tier on several other cruiselines. Thanks Ilana😊

[@SuperKenndog]

Nope. They stuck

[@joannakondek5265]

She got free vouchers to upscale restaurants so of course she gave them good reviews. I've done the cruise on Seascape and it was a bad experience for me and most people we've talked to

[@cirasantiago971]

Great video!! We have sailed with MSC twice , one Mediterranean cruise from Barcelona and one Caribbean. We loved both cruises , I ve never understood why so many negative reviews . Thank you for you opinions, ideas and tips 😊

[@jonrenton3655]

So glad to hear your positive review on MSC. I went on the MSC Meraviglia last year from Brooklyn NY. It was so bad that my travel companion said he would never travel on them again at any price. There is not much anything that was good on my cruise. From never being able to get a drink at any bar because of the lack of staff and being so overcrowded to the fight to get food at the buffet. The pizza was always undercooked and pasta was boring at best. The MDR was sad and meager at best and not worth the extra charge for a second entre. Glad to here they have improved. I will say the ship was very pretty looking and the night parties were fun.

[@pammypoo3003]

It's too bad you didn't try the Seascape. It's a lot newer with more to offer. You may have had a better experience. That's the ship she did the review on.

[@Podgey25]

I was on the Meraviligia last year in May and returned this year in April. Give em another try. They've improved massively!🎉

[@denzildross5878]

My family (3kids) and I just sailed out of Brooklyn on the MSC Meraviglia for our first cruise, and we loved it and will definitely do MSC again. I would say try I and not just go by the reviews.

[@papatadzRN]

8 nights with MSC Divina was astounding 😊! It was my first cruise 🚢

[@LifeWellCruised]

Nice to hear!

[@Kevin-tk7hm]

Hi Ilana, We have been watching your channel for months and enjoy all the information and tips! We are so happy you enjoyed MSC so much because we did the same itinerary on Seascape February of this year and had the best experience.

[@geoffmatthews1094]

Thank you for this comprehensive review… Aussie here… heading off to Rome in a few weeks for MSC Seaside out of Civitavecchia. I watched a few American KZbin reviews for MSC that weren’t flattering of the Food, but at the same time didn’t show much if it. Watching your video the food looked so appealing…. I recognise that the experience out of Italy will of course have subtle differences… But I head off now feeling confident that it will hit the spot. Thanks again for your review.

[@vbrekk]

This was such a great video and would love to see more about port taino! I'm looking forward to my first msc cruise on seascape!

[@heidigeldean2510]

We sailed on the Seascape in November 2023. We had a wonderful time. We were in the Yacht Club and they made us feel very special. They even decorated our cabin and gave me a cake on my birthday! It had been a rough year and this made me so happy!

[@LifeWellCruised]

So happy to hear it was so special

[@marciasanguinetti3900]

Thank you for sharing your Yacht Club experience and how nicely they spoiled you for your birthday YAY ! I hope you are feeling far far better health wise, and that you look forward to scads more cruises and travel in general ! Cheers to you, M.

[@ellen9274]

I have cruised many times and took my first MSC cruise last fall (departing from Southampton, England) There was nothing I would complain about. I had a fabulous time. Service was good, food was good in both the buffet and mdr, my standard balcony cabin was spacious and comfortable. I had my cabin steward in twice a day for cleaning and many cruise lines have gone to once a day service. There was a variety of entertainment and the ship was beautiful. (MSC Virtuosa) Very modern, sleek design but with high tech elements. MSC offers a very good value for the money, imo. I am sailing again with them in 2 weeks.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Have a great cruise!

[@brantthompson199]

We have done 2 MSC cruises. Really enjoyed the first one and not so much the second one. We are sailing again with them at the end of next year on the Seashore. I’ve received feedback from friends that they liked the Seashore so hopefully we enjoy it as well. Thanks for the informative video.

[@KathyPuleo]

Hi Ilana! Glad to hear you had a good time with MSC. We had read so many terrible reviews prior to booking our first cruise. We decided to take a chance and sailed on MSC Meraviglia in January 2023. We were so glad we did! Besides being a beautiful vessel, we loved the LED ceiling shows that happened at various times. We were also happy with the food and entertainment. We were glad we did our status match which gave us gold status to start our journey. Not only does MSC status match with other cruise lines, but also many hotel chains for those just beginning their cruise experiences. A family member received gold status using his Marriot status. In June 2023, we sailed on Seaside. Again, another good experience. We enjoyed the entertainment. This time, we booked Aurea experience which was wonderful! Had access to the private bar and patio, priority boarding, separate dining access and some other nice amenities. The ship was clean and well maintained. The only slight glitch was the pool bar usually only staffed with one bartender, so patience was needed. Also, I noticed that unlike the frequent roaming waitstaff that would normally be asking if we needed a beverage, on MSC, they wait until you gesture and indicate you wished to order. On this ship as well, the food was good, although not outstanding which has also been the case on our last RC and Celebrity cruises. The MSC private island was a pleasant change from the other ones with all the bells and whistles- staying overnight on the island was nice, especially with the lighthouse show. All in all, would definitely cruise with MSC again. Thanks for all your fun videos! So much wonderful information!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Thanks for sharing this. Sounds like an overall really good experience with Aurea. Agree food on Celebrity was really good, but they are a premium cruise line so expected for the price :)

[@anastas6179]

I've sailed the Meraviglia 2x and Grandiosa in the past and very much enjoyed the cruises and the ships are beautiful. Your thorough review and video of the Seascape make it appear as beautiful and yet, very different from those two ships. I have another Meraviglia cruise lined up, but will definitely look at Seascape and/or World America for 2025.

[@jillharling]

I love your runway model style! Your walk is so cute! We watch you always!!!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha thanks 😂

[@fredcasiello3797]

So glad that you found MSC as good as we have. We found them about six years ago and are hooked, going on our fifth cruise with them next month. Like you, we explore the ship first and know about the hot air balloon. Last cruise and the upcoming one are Aurea and we appreciate the any time dining plus the little extras; and we are not spa people.

[@LifeWellCruised]

That is awesome!

[@erins2544]

Nice to know the drink buttons work on Seascape because when I went on Seashore this year no one came. I tried several times throughout the cruise

[@sherrenmacleod7807]

Hi, i am booked for an MSC April Mediterranean cruise, the price enticed me but your review has excited me. Thank you.

[@heathahlee]

I think you may have changed my mind about MSC. Several other vloggers have not had great experience with them (particularly on Meraviglia), but this ship experience sounds fantastic! Thank you for the great review!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Perhaps I’ll try that ship in the future :)

[@critterrunranch]

@@LifeWellCruised I hope you do ! I would love to hear what you think of it

[@davidarnold7676]

Similar experience except we were Yacht Club. Only bad thing about Yacht Club you don't want to leave the area and explore the ship. Our favorite ship and cruise. About our 10th cruise. Great video. I love your positivity!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha I think I’d feel the same 😂

[@gaufa-r5m]

Wow you just answered pretty much all our questions about that cruise , I had a quote today, and we will book tomorrow .Your video was complete with images and tips , congratulations for your professional review , 2 happy Canadians cruising in September , thak you 😊

[@ElizabethRivera-yu9hh]

Great review and images, very detailed and helpful information. We were on the MSC Seaside cruise back in November and had the Easy Package drink. With this review I just learned that the soft ice cream is included for free, though not self service. Going on another MSC cruise now in July so we will definitely get ice cream this time. Other than that we really enjoyed the cruise except debarkation where we waited several hours to finally exit at 11:00 a.m. this was at Port Canaveral FL.

[@designerpens]

Thank you for your insights. We sailed Magnifica (fantastica) in February and were pleased with it. Two days at ocean cay would have been nice but we are glad we chose MSC

[@kendallt506]

I just got off the Seashore on May 5th and absolutely loved it. Amazing cruise and great value. Great review. I'm booked for YNt Seascape next in December 2024.

[@AmiableAimee]

I loved seeing you finally try MSC! I have cruised with them and I'll be on the Seascape this summer. In regards to casual dining options outside of the buffet, I think a lot of people forget the sports bar. I realize that, like the gelato, it's an extra charge, but the menu is solid and the food is actually really good. Room service is another way to avoid the buffet with only a slight upcharge. I'd love to see a video exploring these options. And I agree that with so much fruit and cheese offerings that I tend to eat a bit healthier on MSC, but I think the drink package negates any health benefits lol.

[@LifeWellCruised]

I didn’t realize about the sports bar 👏

[@kevinbateman1199]

Great review! I am so happy you and your family had a wonderful experience. I appreciate your honest feedback and always enjoy your reviews. MSC found me during the pandemic and were my introduction back into my world travels. I took advantage of the unheard of pandemic pricing and limited capacity of guests several times and quickly became Diamond status. I’ve enjoyed sailing MSC from Southampton to Lisbon, as well as Hamburg, Rotterdam, and Le Havre, in addition to my numerous Caribbean cruises. I’ve enjoyed each ship and always have a great time. I swear I am addicted to Ocean Cay. It is my favorite place in all of the Bahamas. Like you mentioned, I often find I am eating much healthier on MSC than almost any other line. I, too, appreciate the freshness of the food, fruits, veggies, breads, and the insanely good quality of cheeses and meats. The charcuterie options are the best I’ve seen of any cruise line. I love the international vibe MSC brings with its diverse cruisers and haven’t really felt that on any other lines. I agree too that all the staff I’ve had over the various ships have been equally superb. Luckily I will be back on MSC in Sept, with an overnight at Ocean Cay. Looking forward to more of your videos. 👍

[@LifeWellCruised]

Really appreciate your comments! Thanks for sharing your experience

[@jeremyeckhause1747]

Incredibly helpful, Ilana. Thank you. I'm not sure it's the right line for us, but it looks more tempting than before. Knowing the pros and cons is extremely helpful.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Glad it was helpful :)

[@marymiddleton5324]

I just love your channel. So good. I also appreciate you do not super slow. I stay in engaged the entire time. I am sailing MSC next year for the first time..I'm more excited now.

[@RoxanneSchwandt-Knutson]

I met you on this cruise while my boys were experiencing the water slides. This was our first MSC cruise also and we really enjoyed it as well! The buffets topped Carnival by a landslide, but that’s all we have sailed in the past to compare. We will definitely be back on MSC in the future!

[@valenciagober6397]

Thank you so much for the information. Our next family cruise is going to be on Seascape. I was hesitant at first, but I'm good. I trust your judgement. I watch you a lot. Thank you again. Keep cruisin!🎉🚢

[@hellokitty2848]

Thank you so very much for this awesome review! Unfortunately, I watched way too many videos of negative reviews about MSC Magnifica before I went on my cruise and I wasn’t as excited to go. I expected the worst and even second-guessed my decision to book. Well…I am happy to say I was pleasantly surprised! I had a great time! Food, entertainment, service, embarkation, and debarkation were superb! I am looking forward to my next MSC sailing. Thanks, Ilana…for being so awesome and fair on your reviews!

[@hiviolet007]

We were on the Seaside 6 years ago. MSC had just started cruising from Florida. I’m sure things are different now. It was a fun cruise but several things were less than stellar. The food in the buffet was not good but the dining room was some of the best I ever had. The steakhouse was just ok. One night, some friends of ours had to return their steak because it was way too rare and the chef actually YELLED at them from the kitchen! It was awful! There were a few other instances of rude crew. One of the servers made fun of my friends’ hairstyle. They did complain. I really loved the shows. There was a lot of opera which was wonderful and the stage sets were fantastic! The spa was great and it was included with our room. The white party was great! We met the captain and he wanted to know what they needed to work on because they were new to the American market. I gave my honest opinion. I even told him I was disappointed that there was no Indian food in the buffet and that night in the dining room, I was brought a big Indian feast! I was so surprised! It was delicious! I probably would take another MSC cruise. The price was great but I would like to try the Yacht club.

[@joedipangrazio3218]

Thank you for your review on MSC, I respect your opinion and feel less hesitant about booking a cruise with them. I have seen many reviews that were negative and not many positive and wasn’t sure if I would like them. But I think I will give them a try in the near future. I have a cruise coming up in May on the Enchanted Princess, this is my first time with Princess. I know in your past reviews that you are a fan of Princess and I am really looking forward to our cruise!!! Thanks again

[@marvabaker961]

I have cruised on 3 MSC ships and loved them enormously. I will travel again. I was not bothered by her comments.❤❤❤❤

[@johnnolan5579]

With the cost of cruising on the upswing I will definitely consider MSC on my next cruise thanks to your positive review.

[@tammyclark5380]

I loved the MSC cruise I was on a few months ago. Would absolutely use them again.

[@darrylcade9890]

I have a hot tub at home in southern AZ. I keep it between 103 and 105 degrees.

[@lyneenyl1602]

Thank you so much for the wealth of information, are you able to do a video on the various memberships and perks within each Cruise Line and if its beneficial to just stay with one Cruise line or have various membership with other cruise line to build on.points and length of stay, thank you

[@LifeWellCruised]

I’ll definitely try to see how I can share this :)

[@susanshepherd2997]

Headed on our 1st MSC Cruise in Nov on Seaside and very excited. Even though we will be on a different ship, i still appreciate the info in the video. Thx

[@SarinaWheatman]

Hi Illana, so good to hear your positive views of MSC Seascape, I have not sailed this ship (yet) but last year my first-ever cruise was on MSC Prezosia and I was blown away by many of the things you wrote about. This year I am trying MSC Virtuosa in October. I found more things to love than to complain about. One negative was the lack of choice for Vegetarians in the MDR - but I figured that if I needed to, the Buffet was more than adequate. I did not starve! The crew were fab, entertainment varied. Another negative perhaps was there were very few things that a solo rookie could do, I like my own company so did not worry about this, I heard that there are 'meet-ups' on other ships but not on the one I sailed on. All in all, I am surprised that MSC receive such negative views, yours were great to hear - thank you.

[@jesscarey7418]

You have done an amazing review Ilana. Thank you for sharing. We are excited to go this upcoming week. This will be our third MSC cruise. We cruised twice on the Seaside last year out of Port Canaveral. I think with every cruise line your going to get your hiccups and MSC has been really listening to what their clients are complaining about and making changes for the value of the cruise.

[@grannyoffive1313]

So happy to hear you enjoyed your MSC experience… our first cruise with MSC on MSC Davina was in 2017 and we really enjoyed it… we have completed seven MSC cruises… Two of them in the Yacht Club… Of course we loved the Yacht Club but that doesn't stop us from cruising in the main area on MSC… We truly love them both… We will be going on MSC seashore in the main fantastica experience in September… Looking so forward to it🚢😎🚢

[@Nicki9202]

would love to see an embarkation for this cruise ship. and also to see a video for the port of calls Thanks llana

[@LifeWellCruised]

Sounds good & thanks!

[@NancyD2]

I took the Bacardi Rum tour ages ago. Interesting AND you can get your own personalized rum! Hopefully your ship doesn't lose it..... (they found it eventually)

[@ForeverHisPs46.10]

I enjoy your channel. We were on the MSC Seaside 5 years ago and really enjoyed it. In a few weeks we will be on the MSC Magnifica. She’s an older, smaller ship. We are excited for the itinerary. The reviews on her food and entertainment have been good.

[@miladycernuda1]

The entertainment at the Magnifica bits Seascape by far. The theater show singers are to be in Broadway. They were superb!

[@BonnieLukosunas]

Thank you Lana, for this video , my husband and I have gone on 14 cruises. This will be our first time with msc cruise line. We will be looking back on this a few more times and taking notes , going on our cruise in 2025 of April so excited ❤

[@tonilutgring3974]

Sailed in December on the Magnifica and heading on the seashore in June, loved the food, ship, and service.

[@adamp2384]

I loved my seascape cruise earlier this year too. Captain Bye Bye was fantastic I think he only rivals Captain Kate for the best cruise captain lol. Honestly if you haven’t given MSC a try definitely do it

[@DesertLifeCooks]

This cruise looks Fantastic! I know it has lower ratings but you guys make it look like a top cruise line and I would definitely consider taking a cruise with them. Because of your videos we have started to become cruisers. I look forward to all of your videos and just love your enthusiasm sweet lady! 🌸💐🥰💞👍🏻

[@LifeWellCruised]

So glad this video was helpful ☺️

[@JamileSm]

I am glad you enjoyed and was impressed with your first MSC Cruise. I was on the MSC Seaview, from Rio de Janeiro to Barcelona, in March/April. This is a sister ship to the Seascape, so it's similar. This was my first MSC cruise, and I tried to keep an open mind, with all the negatives I had heard beforehand. However, based on my experience, I can NOT recommend MSC. I did have a good time, and I would do it again at a rock bottom price, but I can't recommend it. Overall, the ship was dirty. The cabin. There was a layer of dust on everything. The sheets didn't look clean, and they were never changed during the 16 night cruise. This was not just my cabin. Everyone I met said the same thing. The buffet. The chairs need a deep cleaning. The tables were always dirty - even after they cleaned them with a dirty rag. (There was no button to call someone to take your drink order.) The napkins always had crud on them. And there were greasy plates in the stacks of clean plates. The food was OK, but I'm not a foodie. The entertainment was meh, at best, sometimes bizarre, like a circus sideshow. The gym was great. The staff was friendly. On this particular cruise, the vast majority of people spoke Portuguese, followed by Spanish. Very few English speakers, which was not a big problem. All announcements were done in English, Spanish, Portuguese, German, French, Italian...That sometimes interfered with activities, as they had to stop and wait. If I can get a really cheap ticket, I'll do it again to see if it's the same or different, but I can't recommend it to anyone. Also, there's nothing impressive about the look of the ship compared to Carnival or Royal Caribbean ships. (You're not the first online reviewer to talk about how beautiful the ship is. Makes me wonder if you're all getting paid.)

[@cyndigately1279]

Seascape is going to Galveston next year and we’re going to be on it in December doing the yacht club. I am so excited.

[@tinybubbles263]

Ocean Cay was the best private island. No long pier to walk. Beach right as you get off ship. Love the crystal stairs on all ships. We liked Divina. They gave us a free wifi and drink pkg and balcony.cruise costed $250

[@LifeWellCruised]

Wow!!

[@peachyplanner4834]

Glad y’all enjoyed. We had a Captain bye-bye on our 2018 Star Princess Alaskan cruise and I’m pretty sure he was Italian. He was great!

[@nancyruckman5875]

Capt. Tuvo!! He is my all time favorite. I would cruise on a ship just for him! SO sorry he left Princess!!! ☹

[@LifeWellCruised]

Yes he was!

[@peachyplanner4834]

@@nancyruckman5875 yes!!! I remember that name now! Thank you for the reminder. I was hoping to cruise with him as captain again. He always made us smile when he gave announcements.

[@nancyruckman5875]

@@peachyplanner4834 I was heartbroken to hear he had left Princess for MSC. I was SO lucky to have him for 15 full days and nights. He was hysterical, gave wonderful piazza talks, hid behind the formal night picture screen and photo bombed his passengers. The list goes on and on. I decided that he had to have a twin because we saw him ALL over the ship for the entire cruise. Yup, I think I have a Captain Tuvo crush! 🤣

[@peachyplanner4834]

@@nancyruckman5875 a captain like that makes cruising more fun and entertaining. At least we can say we sailed with him on Princess. 😊

[@toddmiller7608]

Thank you so much for sharing about this cruise. My wife and I are leaving in two weeks for our first cruise. We are sailing in the msc Magnifica and appreciate all the positive info regarding msc.

[@LifeWellCruised]

Glad it was helpful! Have fun

[@LalaCybertruckGirl]

Taking this exact cruise December 2024! Such a beautiful ship and the food actually looks so good to me!

[@kizzyadams1082]

Thanks for the honest review! Will be enjoying my honeymoon onboard Seacape in June from Canada so I have been anxiously waiting for your thoughts... really glad you liked it! Was the ice cream in the buffet available all day? Lastly, was the muster drill streamlined to a new process... less chaotic than previously depicted by others?

[@LifeWellCruised]

Glad it was helpful! Boarding wasn’t difficult, but perhaps contact msc & let them know it’s your honeymoon:). Seriously the muster phone call from the cabin is the only thing that almost tripped us up 😂

[@mindycollie6548]

We have cruised on MSC three times. We have gone on the Divina two times and seaside once we have enjoyed every cruise with MSC. Yes they have a few things that could be a little improved but overall it is such an excellent value for the money. We have booked a Norwegian fjords cruise with them in August, I will have to let you know how that goes. It is on one of their largest ships so I am a bit nervous about the crowd, but we upgraded to the Aurea package after reading multiple comments that it provides you with a separate solarium experience , use of the spa, and free continental breakfast to your room. Love your videos and you have provided me with some great tips and suggestions!,

[@MrKl1978]

Thank you this really helped a lot, we will be sailing on a 10 day cruise in Spring 2025. MSC Seashore.

[@davis9971]

As always, your videos are full of great information. We are taking our first MSC cruise in June. Trying them because of their loyalty match program. My wife, Linda, is looking forward to wearing the dresses she bought on your recommendation. I’m with your husband on the need for daily gelato!

[@LifeWellCruised]

Haha daily gelato club 😂

[@melaniespikes]

Thank you for your videos. All of the research we need are in these playlists and help us prepare. 😊

[@zippyjetbernstein]

Hi Ilana: Have been on two MSC cruises and really enjoyed them. Loved their thermal spa and, would you believe they have. Cold room with snow! After watching your review I'm leaning on taking. A week cruise on the Sea Scape! IMO I feel MSC has a better overall food quality. Last year I cruised the Celebration and enjoyed it but MSC has that wow factor over Carnival.

[@MadeNCda]

Ilana, that is a fabulous fare. 👌🏻 And I appreciate your review as I will look at this cruise myself now. 😊

[@LifeWellCruised]

Glad you enjoyed the video & this was helpful info :)