Positive Orchestra reviews ONLY here!

With the few negative reviews scaring people away, I thought it best if we start a board here with POSITIVE REVIEWS ONLY! I am sorry, but too many of the negative people on these boards focus too much attention on the few negative aspects of their cruise and forget about the majority of the positive aspects about it. If you can't find something positive about your MSC ORCHESTRA cruise, then you probably shouldn't be cruising in my opinion.

So here we go...

MSC ORCHESTRA... positive reviews please! :D

With the few negative reviews scaring people away, I thought it best if we start a board here with POSITIVE REVIEWS ONLY! I am sorry, but too many of the negative people on these boards focus too much attention on the few negative aspects of their cruise and forget about the majority of the positive aspects about it. If you can't find something positive about your MSC ORCHESTRA cruise, then you probably shouldn't be cruising in my opinion.

 

So here we go...

 

MSC ORCHESTRA... positive reviews please! :D

We haven't read anything where positives weren't mentioned. Maybe because the positives were so few, you missed them?

I have read lots of discussions, with interested future cruisers asking questions, and those post might be in a not so positive light, but it's their perspective from what they experienced first hand. Their other posts do share some positives.

The bottom line we have come to is YOU either LOVE MSC cruises or YOU HATE MSC cruises.

THose on the 2-day must have had a horrific experience, don't you think? Why else would a cruise line give each paid guest a $200 credit voucher?

With that said and from our own unique experience:

1. Beautiful and well planned lay-out for a ship. Always see staff cleaning.

2. Wine bar best lounge on ship. You are acknowledeged in this lounge so at least you know your prescence is known. May take 5 or 10 minutes to take your order if they are packed, but at least you were acknowledged. With every order, we received a plate of cheese and salami. Very very good. Also, a staff memeber periodically would come around with mini sandwiches.

3. While waiting in lines, we met many wonderful people and had great conversations. You never know what you might learn in conversing with those around you. We heard many wonderful things about Holland America, a cruise line we have yet to travel on and have added it to our list.

4. We were one of the first 20 or so off the ship - self-assist.

5. The buffet was closing, and the staff did a walk around to those of us still at tables asking if we wanted desert.

6. The bed was comfortable. The shower had good water pressure and stayed hot a long time. Much drawer, cabinet and closet space. More than I remember ever seeing on other ships.

Other things we cannot comment on as we didn't partake or use or the expereince was not so positive.

We haven't read anything where positives weren't mentioned. Maybe because the positives were so few, you missed them?

 

I have read lots of discussions, with interested future cruisers asking questions, and those post might be in a not so positive light, but it's their perspective from what they experienced first hand. Their other posts do share some positives.

 

The bottom line we have come to is YOU either LOVE MSC cruises or YOU HATE MSC cruises.

 

THose on the 2-day must have had a horrific experience, don't you think? Why else would a cruise line give each paid guest a $200 credit voucher?

 

With that said and from our own unique experience:

 

1. Beautiful and well planned lay-out for a ship. Always see staff cleaning.

 

2. Wine bar best lounge on ship. You are acknowledeged in this lounge so at least you know your prescence is known. May take 5 or 10 minutes to take your order if they are packed, but at least you were acknowledged. With every order, we received a plate of cheese and salami. Very very good. Also, a staff memeber periodically would come around with mini sandwiches.

 

3. While waiting in lines, we met many wonderful people and had great conversations. You never know what you might learn in conversing with those around you. We heard many wonderful things about Holland America, a cruise line we have yet to travel on and have added it to our list.

 

4. We were one of the first 20 or so off the ship - self-assist.

 

5. The buffet was closing, and the staff did a walk around to those of us still at tables asking if we wanted desert.

 

6. The bed was comfortable. The shower had good water pressure and stayed hot a long time. Much drawer, cabinet and closet space. More than I remember ever seeing on other ships.

 

Other things we cannot comment on as we didn't partake or use or the expereince was not so positive.

Which sailing were you on?

We were on the Jan 10th sailing. There were issues, but there are issues on with all of the cruise lines. We have taken 12 cruises in 10 years. We have never been on a cruise were all areas of service, dining, etc. were perfect. We did not expect this cruise to be perfect. We will not let anything come in the way of a vacation.

We don't usually post on this site, however, based on all the negative reviews we read before our trip, we felt it was important to post to assure future MSC passengers that they will have a good time if you let yourselves have a good time.

Our overall experience on MSC Orchestra was positive and we would sail with MSC again. :):):) (Our remarks are not in any particular order).

1) The MSC Orchestra ship is beautiful and kept very clean.

2) Most of the staff (dining rooms, restaurants, bars, room stewards, spa, etc.) are not all Italian. They are from very interesting parts of the world. Indonesia, Bali, Romania. Our room steward was from Bali. She took excellent care of us. Each morning we were greeted by a beautiful girl from Nepal in the buffet who served us our daily cappuccino. We enjoyed our conversations with the staff regarding their families and home countries. They also enjoyed speaking with us. Most understood english. We spoke slowly to the staff so they would understand us. Most of the staff had smiles on their faces all the time and always greeted us day or night. There is no doubt that the staff we met on the Orchestra provided us top notch service. Make sure you see the singing Italian server in the buffet. He is always singing Italian songs (especially to the children).

3) Drinks - overall the liquor and wine were very reasonably priced. Alcohol mixed drinks (gin/tonic; rum/coke) were about $4-$5. They have an excellent selection of wines for as little as $18 per bottle. Wines were as little as $4 per glass. Beer was also affordable. They had drinks of the day which ranged from $4-$6 (with and without alcohol and a daily speciality coffee drink). MSC also offers daily discounts on select bottles of wine if ordered via the interactive TV in your room.

4) It's very quiet on the ship. No pressure to purchase anything. It was nice not be constantly be asked if you wanted a drink. It was so nice not to have announcements from the cruise director every 30 minutes as to the activities and shopping. All the daily activities were listed in the daily program left in your room the evening before. No music blasting at the pool. You can actually read a book by the pool! The Italian lessons (offered three times throughout the cruise) were a lot of fun to attend. Some activities around the pool were done Italian style which was very interesting. Another nice touch are the pool deck chairs -they have a built in sun-shade which makes it easy to cover your face from the sun.

5) Entertainment :) :) :)- Entertainment was the highlight of the trip for us. The Italians sure do know how to provide entertainment. The shows in the Covent Garden Theater are a must see. They are so different from any other cruise we have been on. The Pool Deck Party is the best pool deck party we ever attended on any cruise. It's worth staying up for! The music in all the lounges is excellent. Even the DJ in the Disco was great!

6) Entertainment Team - Are the most beautiful energetic of any cruise we have been on. The guys were especially attactive when they wore their beautiful Italian suits. They girls looked marvelous in all of their outfits. They went out of their way to make sure we were having fun. They were always smiling. Finally a cruise staff where both my husband and myself had someone to look at. The men were equally as beautiful as the women. And they are all great dancers! Don't miss the dance lessons!

7) Embarkation and Disembarkation were an absolute breeze. The offered "self-assist" disembarkation for passengers who can carry their own luggage off the ship. With self-assist you can be one of the first to disembark the ship (which was around 7:00 am on our cruise).

8) The food was totally acceptable. Actually the food was much better than the last Princess cruise we were on. Great choices in all areas (dining, buffets) . We found the smaller dinner plates to be favorable. This gave us the opportunity to try several dishes. We didn't eat what we did not like. The soups are quite tasty and not thick and creamy which are much healthier. They did not have a midnight buffet everynight (which is fine for us). Every night at 11:30 the bar staff served in the lounges little snacks. Each night was something different such as sandwiches, crepes, croissants. The Maitre D' was very accommodating.

9) Gelato - It's among the best we ever had outside Italy. They make it daily on the ship. It's available on deck 13. The charge is $1.50 for a cup which is a bargain for home made gelato.

10) Our room (Deck 11) was very nice. Balcony had lovely furniture. Clear glass made it possible to look straight through to the sea from the room. Room had ample storage space. Bed is comfortable. Temperature control is good. Bathroom is typical for cruise ship. Hair dryer is in desk drawer. Note: They provide body soap and shampoo but not lotion or conditioner.

11) The casino was always crowded. We do not gamble however we met quite a few people who felt they slots on this ship paid out better than other ships. The tables were always packed (another sign of passengers having a good time).

12) Cayo Levantado Samana was a bonus. This is a beautiful small island (it does not belong to MSC). The Sea Princess ship was there the same time we were. We had a lovely time with some of the Sea Princess passengers. There are beach chairs, hammocks, volleyball, at no charge. Massages, water sport accessories available for a fee. Drinks are plentiful (you can actually taste the rum) and resaonable. The native people are playing music throughout the island. There are also native crafts (and no pressure to purchase). Plenty of clean bathrooms. There are restaurants and bars. There is a special buffet provided by the islands Chefs for cruise passengers. $15 all you can eat. We can't report on the buffet because we did not eat at it. There were many passengers eating at the restaurants and buffet.

13) No children were traveling with us, however, we did hear from some parents that their children were having the time of their lives.

Yes, there is room for improvements in some areas. The suggestions we have for improvements will NOT be posted on this site. We will submit them to our travel agent and directly to MSC.

We went on MSC to try something different. And that's what we got. We are hoping that Mr. Sasso does not make drastic changes to the MSC style. We enjoyed the fact that MSC is different than Princess, RCCL, Carnival, etc.

Here's hoping that you all have a wonderful time on your upcoming MSC cruises!

From a couple of people who love to cruise!

Thank you so much for taking the time to encourage everyone and tell us about your trip! I can't wait to go:) My son will be so pleased to read this, he was starting to get a bit worried:eek: by the posts he was reading. He planned the trip and then invited us along and several other family members. He knows he will have a good time no matter what, but he feels responsible for the others. Thanks again:)

This was an awesome review and just what I was expecting and hoping to hear about the Orchestra. You are awesome for sharing so much and I know I speak for all of us that are looking forward to our own Orchestra experience when I say Thank you for these much needed encouraging words.:D

Just in case you didn't read my review it is listed under great trip and touchs on a few other points, but I agree completely with the reviews above. The only real change i hope they make is with the kids club. Meredith

I agree with the above posts !!! THANK YOU!!

This review sounds like a well thought out, comprehensive, non-agitated review!

This is the kind I have been looking for- not just because it was so positive- but because they were upfront and honest! NO snow balling here----:p

Just in case you didn't read my review it is listed under great trip and touchs on a few other points, but I agree completely with the reviews above. The only real change i hope they make is with the kids club. Meredith

Yes, Meredith....I did see yours as well. Thank you so much. It is refreshing to have such positive reviews. :)

Isn't it funny how a first time poster can be glorified and so appreciated when they write only positives? But a first time poster who writes both positives as well as the negatives is questioned, labeled as a complainer, called a troll and just unappreciated???

Toro, please don't be offeneded. I am just playing devil's advocate here.

I for one want people to feel comfortable writing about their experiences as they perceived them positive and not so positive. I want to be well informed so that I can make the best choice when I am planning a cruise.

Isn't it funny how a first time poster can be glorified and so appreciated when they write only positives? But a first time poster who writes both positives as well as the negatives is questioned, labeled as a complainer, called a troll and just unappreciated???

 

Toro, please don't be offeneded. I am just playing devil's advocate here.

 

I for one want people to feel comfortable writing about their experiences as they perceived them positive and not so positive. I want to be well informed so that I can make the best choice when I am planning a cruise.

WhoDat, can you give it a rest already? You pontificate on every thread. It's nice to hear opinions ABOUT THE CRUISE, both positive or negative but what you're doing is just plain annoying.

Toro1234, Thanks for the awesome review! Anything you can share regarding room service and cabin design would be appreciated!

WhoDat, can you give it a rest already? You pontificate on every thread. It's nice to hear opinions ABOUT THE CRUISE, both positive or negative but what you're doing is just plain annoying.

 

Toro1234, Thanks for the awesome review! Anything you can share regarding room service and cabin design would be appreciated!

Babygirl, I think not! I have a right to express my opinions and respond as many times as I like. If there is a rule that you can only post so much, I would much appreciate your pointing me in that direction so I can follow the rules.

If you find it annoying - don't read them!

Listen, we are on this board to get positive and negative feedback about MSC, not to listen to you go on and on about minutia. Let's get real. I will take your advice and skip reading your posts because IMHO you really aren't contributing anything anymore. So, as I suggested earlier, you might consider giving it a rest, or better yet, start your own contrarian thread.

Listen, we are on this board to get positive and negative feedback about MSC, not to listen to you go on and on about minutia. Let's get real. I will take your advice and skip reading your posts because IMHO you really aren't contributing anything anymore. So, as I suggested earlier, you might consider giving it a rest, or better yet, start your own contrarian thread.

This is exactly what I am talking about. People who try intimindating others so they don't post.

It's a shame it's come to this.

Toro, thanks for the info from your cruise. I don't care if it was your first post or you 1000th. I just enjoy hearing opinions about how your cruise was. :)

To Babygirl: if you see someone's icon and you think you are going to get worked up over the post, ignore it. Some people like to get a rise out of others and don't let things rest. I believe we are going to be sailing together on the 14th; hope to meet you! I am very heartened by the positive reviews and think this ship will be gorgeous. I am certain I will find a few tasty dishes and won't have to cook for a whole week! Although I enjoy the change of seasons, this weather has been grim and the warm air and waters will be a welcome respite. I feel so fortunate to be able to take my family on this cruise and anticipate the experience joyfully.

I have been hesitant to post about my cruise. I have positive and the opposite. But since this is a positive only request, I am going to try it.

1. Learned about cruise critic while waiting to leave the ship - I hope that's good.

2. Gorgeous, so pretty. Classy ship.

3. Entertainment was good.

4. Some of the workers were friendly.

5. Best I can describe food - home cooking. I know not everybody likes home cooking.

6. Room had lots of storage space. Getting into bed was difficult as not much room between wall and bed but I am a big. Oh, is this negative?

7. Don't drink, but the lounges were spacious and were full when I passed.

8. Pool area was nice. I could always find a lounge chair.

9. Casino was good. I broke even.

10. Didn't sue spa or gym although I should have.

11. Cigar bar was great!

12. Didn't shop or use internet cafe.

13. Wrote to MSC regarding these as well as the opposites.

I think they will improve. Thanks to those who made the problemsbe known so future cruisers, like my cousin, will enjoy theirs. I should ell her about this site.

Hope I did ok.

To Babygirl: if you see someone's icon and you think you are going to get worked up over the post, ignore it. Some people like to get a rise out of others and don't let things rest. I believe we are going to be sailing together on the 14th; hope to meet you! I am very heartened by the positive reviews and think this ship will be gorgeous. I am certain I will find a few tasty dishes and won't have to cook for a whole week! Although I enjoy the change of seasons, this weather has been grim and the warm air and waters will be a welcome respite. I feel so fortunate to be able to take my family on this cruise and anticipate the experience joyfully.

Good advice and I'll put it to good use so thanks! We'll be sailing on the 7th and 14th and we're looking forward to it as well. I just love the Caribbean in the middle of winter. I too hope we get a chance to meet. I'll be traveling with my DH and DS, 8 and DD, 10 along with a group of friends.

I have been hesitant to post about my cruise. I have positive and the opposite. But since this is a positive only request, I am going to try it.

 

1. Learned about cruise critic while waiting to leave the ship - I hope that's good.

 

2. Gorgeous, so pretty. Classy ship.

 

3. Entertainment was good.

 

4. Some of the workers were friendly.

 

5. Best I can describe food - home cooking. I know not everybody likes home cooking.

 

6. Room had lots of storage space. Getting into bed was difficult as not much room between wall and bed but I am a big. Oh, is this negative?

 

7. Don't drink, but the lounges were spacious and were full when I passed.

 

8. Pool area was nice. I could always find a lounge chair.

 

9. Casino was good. I broke even.

 

10. Didn't sue spa or gym although I should have.

 

11. Cigar bar was great!

 

12. Didn't shop or use internet cafe.

 

13. Wrote to MSC regarding these as well as the opposites.

 

I think they will improve. Thanks to those who made the problemsbe known so future cruisers, like my cousin, will enjoy theirs. I should ell her about this site.

 

Hope I did ok.

You did great! Thanks for taking the time to let us know your thoughts. I'd love some more details on the casino. Also, did you use room service at all? I've heard conflicting reports and would love some clarity. I don't care about it much for myself but my kids love it. I just like a pot of coffee in the morning from time to time.

Babygirl - that is what I have learned to do... There are several posters I always just skip. Much easier for me on the nerves!

I noticed you have a 10 dd-- I have a 9 dd. When you return would you please post a review, and include anything special your dd liked?

Also, I am wondering if they have foods you can take from the buffet when you go to ports? Before we would always grab a couple boxes of cereals, fruit, and buy waters. This way our dd had something to eat, while my dh and I sampled local foods... If it looks a little yucky my dd is not much for trying the food!!:eek:

Babygirl - that is what I have learned to do... There are several posters I always just skip. Much easier for me on the nerves!

I noticed you have a 10 dd-- I have a 9 dd. When you return would you please post a review, and include anything special your dd liked?

 

Also, I am wondering if they have foods you can take from the buffet when you go to ports? Before we would always grab a couple boxes of cereals, fruit, and buy waters. This way our dd had something to eat, while my dh and I sampled local foods... If it looks a little yucky my dd is not much for trying the food!!:eek:

You're right! There are several posters that I need to skip reading. I will definitely post an detailed review when I return especially as it relates to the kids club and food. I'm looking forward to a great B2B!

I am taking your advice too.

Baby, I am not going to respond to your questions. You and others will not like my answers even though they would be the honest truth.

I replied with positives and wish to leave it.

Each cruise is going to get better and better. I would think things will be going really well by the time my cousin in on the ship.

This is exactly what I am talking about. People who try intimindating others so they don't post.

 

It's a shame it's come to this.

Candidly I don't see what Baby Girl's beef is. I really like your writing style where you get to the point without a whole lot of "stuff."

Please ignore Baby Girl's posts and keep up the good work.

toro1234 and huskerfan2, thank you both for your detailed contributions. I hope those with criticisms keep posting too. this forum is an excellent source of mostly impartial information for travellers. not much point in setting up sub-categories of "only positive reviews" though. everyone writes their own experiences, and you take all opinions with a grain of salt anyway. you shouldn't let the negative reviews get you down. but if that's your problem, stop reading the reviews. don't try to engineer positive reviews only - forums like this are for all opinions on topics, not positive opinions only. there are places in the world where you are not permitted to criticize, and must only express positive opinions on certain subjects. thankfully, this ain't one of those places. let's agree to keep it so.

Why is it wrong to have a thread where positive people can get positive reviews? There are plenty of places for all of the negative stuff for all who want to read that sort of thing.....but why can't we request "positive comments only" on just one thread? Why is that such a bad thing? Are the negative people in the world the only ones with rights these days? Just wondering.......I'm with HarryFrancis.......nice is, well....nice for a change!:D Don't let the slams begin now......this is only mho and I am truly not trying to start a war here! Just giving food for thought. Play nice:o.