Wonder (of the Seas) Insights

[cruz_happy]

We just returned from our Wonder of the Seas cruise from Rome.  (I was hoping to do a live report but always ran out of time---too much to do. So this is the best I could do.) We traveled with other friends on this cruise.  Thought I'd share a few of our and our friends' observations for others interested.  (If all you want is a COVID report, it's at the end of this post.) 

 

--SHIP was beautiful and full of activities.    At first, we were a little underwhelmed when we boarded but I think that is because all the publicity made it seem so much bigger than it was from first walkaround.  The ship is really beautiful and there is a lot of activities and fun onboard.  (I just think the media hype may have increased our expectations but no harm there.  I don't fault RCCL for this.)  It is amazing all they are doing with these ships now.  I was remembering my first RCCL cruise when I was 14 years old traveling with my parents on the Nordic Prince (sister ship to the Song of Norway, RCCL's first cruise ship which I cruised on twice and we thought that was amazing!).  These ships are certainly a far cry from my parent's cruising days.  We ran out of time to do all we wanted to do.  Just means we have to go on this ship again I guess!! (Aw, shucks!)

 

--CREW was marvelous.  Best we've ever had.  I know many have said they did move the best crew to this ship (wouldn't you if you were RCCL) and it shows.  They were great.  So happy and attentive.  We had a great time with many of them.  Malcolm, bartender in Masons Jar bar, was fun and had our drinks ready for us almost before we got there.  Note if you are a bourbon drinker:  Masons Jar bar has the best selection of bourbon on the ship.  (Pretty bad that we know which bars for best liquor selections, huh?). Both concierges (yes, we were in a suite) were wonderful and so helpful.  We were interport guests (more on that later); our concierges helped us book all our specialty dining and shows gladly.  Restaurant servers were friendly and helpful. Special shout-out to Rovic in the photo area who was wonderful.  We rarely do ships photos (as I have my own DSLR) but Rovic made it so fun that we did get some photos this trip.  (Plus we were with other friends so I was able to join in some of the pictures.). My suggestion is to get the download version if purchasing photos and you are halfway decent with a computer.  This was so easy to do & you don't have to lug the prints with you.  I plan to do this from now on whenever I get their photos. Rovic helped me out  BIG time with a photography issue I had.  He went above and beyond what he had to do to help me; he was great.  He also taught us ladies how to pose better for pictures so we look thinner!!!!!  Wow!  That has been worth it's weight (no pun intended) in gold!  

 

--FOOD:  We had the UDP and boy, did we use it!  Although we are Diamond (next cruise D+, just saying this to support that we've been on many prior cruises with RCCL and other cruise lines before), we had never done a UDP before.  With so many restaurants on this ship, we calculated based on the restaurants we wanted to try, the UDP was worth it for us.  So glad we did.  The food was wonderful.  Our favorite restaurants were 150 Central Park (you've GOT TO try the fried cheesecake---Wow!  I could eat that every night although my waistline might disagree), Hooked Seafood especially for dinner--lobster, need I say more!  Also our friends like the oyster shooters.  (I don't eat oysters even though I'm from Louisiana------yes, I know!), Masons Jar both brunch and dinner---different menu, so you've got to try both.  (Only exception at Masons Jar, gumbo needs to be with shrimp and crab--staples in Louisiana, not really lobster & crawfish. We don't have lobsters readily accessible in Louisiana.  But hey, worth trying something different.)  Our friends went to Giovannis one night to get their "giant meatball" and really enjoyed the steak muffaletta, their house salad as different from other salads and said the pizzas looked delicious.  While we had been to Wonderland before, our friends had not.  So we went there too.  I really liked the ambiance at this Wonderland much better than the prior one we went to.  Food was very good and fun (as always in Wonderland).  Our friends really liked it.----loved the smoked deviled eggs.  They are researching how to get a food smoker to re-create these.  As others have said on here, I would recommend doing Wonderland at least once; it's an experience.  And their cocktails are worth trying too.  (You can do the bar without the restaurant if. you want to try the cocktails.  The smoky bourbon one was a favorite with the men and we liked the cotton candy one.  I tried the one with the blue or red pill but didn't care for that one.  So I sent it back & got the cotton candy one instead.  Sorry I can't remember the names of them all.). We went to Chops Grill as well.  This was our third time trying Chops; we weren't impressed prior 2 times on different ships.  This time it was good (or did I finally learn what to order for me this time?).  While it wasn't our favorite of all the restaurants, it was worth it for us with the UDP.  (I doubt we would have gone there had we not had the UDP.). Can't address MDR, Windjammer or Sorrento's; never made it there.     

 

--ACTIVITIES:  So much to do and so little time.  (We were on a port intensive cruise.  Stayed on for 1 port just to experience the ship more, although always limited while in port.). If one gets bored on this ship, you're not looking hard enough.  We didn't get to do as much as we targeted due to port intensive cruise.  (Oh, and did I mention we were dining and drinking too?)   Our favorites were the tribute bands:  they had Styx and Beatles tribute bands.  Both were very good.  The Styx band played more than just Styx later in their set.  Our last night I saw they were doing a tribute to Earth, Wind and Fire but we didn't make that one.  (Yep, you guessed; we were eating and drinking.  Had to finally go pack for debarkation.). We wanted to make the ice show & Aquashow; heard both were great. 

 

--ENTERTAINMENT:  Our favorite on this ship were the 2 tribute bands we saw---Styx and the Beatles.  They were very good.  (The Styx band included other hits besides just Styx.). Our last night we saw they were doing a tribute to Earth, Wind and Fire (not sure if a specialty tribute band) but we needed to pack (after dining and drinking), so had to miss that one.  Wanted to desperately make it to the ice show & Aquatheater but we were always dining and drinking (party animals---NOT!); so we missed them as too late for us.  (While our minds think we are 24 years old, our bodies remind us that we aren't!). We did see the Aquashow practice during the day & that was fun; I'm sure a totally different perspective then the night version with lighting and costumes.  I'm sure the evening show would have been wonderful.  Based on what we saw, I would recommend seeing the show.  (Another reason for us to book this ship again soon with less port intensive cruise or Caribbean where we don't get off since been there so many times as too easy for us.). The other entertainment listed on the Cruise Compass didn't entice us.  There seemed to be a lot of comedians (which we do like but can miss for more dining and drinking).  Some friends went to the tap show (forgot the name) and were not overly impressed; they actually left the show.  (The rest of us were eating and drinking.  Go figure!).  Did I mention we enjoyed our UDP for this ship and drink package?  (Yes; I'm aware as Diamond members we get drink vouchers.  But our friends were getting a drink package so we decided to join them---what the heck, it's only money.  One tip we learned from one of the bartenders:  My DH wanted a double one night and the drink package didn't allow a double.  The bartender realized he was Diamond & used the drink package for 1 and the D voucher to make the double.  Smart bartender; needless to say we tipped him extra.  Something to remember for others if interested.). Gotta send kudo's to RCCL for adding drink vouchers to Seapass cards that can be used anywhere.  Wonderful change; thank you, RCCL, for doing this. 

 

--Negatives:  There are only a few to share.  We were "interporting" on this cruise which I had never done before and will try to avoid in the future.  We spent pre-cruise time in Rome (much preferred over Barcelona for us), embarking in Rome.  We didn't realize we were an "interport" embarkation until we got there.  (Maybe I should have but I didn't; not sure I would have changed it though.). I have to say I felt like we were treated differently.  We were never able to use the app even once onboard since we were interport guests.  RCCL really needs their IT department to figure this out if they continue with interport cruising (which makes a lot of sense); I can't imagine it's that difficult but I'm no IT person.  Embarkation was less than stellar although didn't destroy our voyage.  The terminal people (not RCCL personnel from what I know) in Rome were ok but as typical for us, we got the slowest lady who wasn't the best at using the Ipad to check us in.  (And before you ask, yes! We had all our paperwork both electronically and printed ready to go.  I had them ready to hand her even before she asked for each one.  This wasn't my first rodeo.). We were in a suite and one of the perks is priority embarkation----unless you are interporting, I think!  We were actually one of the last to get through the embarkation process for our time slot.  While there wasn't a huge crowd, this was a perk that bypassed us (and any Pinnacles or others) on this cruise.  Key point is we DID get onboard; so that is what really matters in the long run.   Debarkation was really easy though for an interport cruise.  So maybe a tradeoff?  We also like doing the music trivia games but the ones on this ship were really few and lacking; so we didn't do them.  (Did I mention we were dining & drinking?). Only other negative from my DH was that you had to search for some of the top-shelf liquors; they did not have them in all the bars, only selective bars.  Even the concierge lounge did not have the better bourbons (e.g., Makers Mark & others).  I can tell our bourbon drinkers who've read this far, best place to find bourbons is the Mason Jar bar.  You can go there even if not dining there; they have a great assortment of bourbons there. 

 

--COVID report:  Saved this for last as really NO REPORT.  I asked as we were disembarking if there were any cases.  Concierge told me there were NONE/ ZERO among the guests; a few among crew but not many at all.  (I didn't validate this anywhere so maybe someone else knows something different.). Felt safe the whole time.  Most guests did not wear face masks although some did.  (Crew did though.) All seemed perfectly comfortable with either.  The key I think is remembering to wash hands often, often, often!!!!  Sinks all over the ship as well as sanitizers.  Disappointed as not all venues had crew reminding the guests to "Washy-Washy" so some people just skipped this.  The pre-testing is always nerve wrecking but once you get the negative results, another reason to dine & drink to celebrate!  We used the e-med lab tests we brought with us to Italy & called from the hotel; worked quite well.  (BTW, our hotel in Rome was great!  I'll post on Italy board,)

 

I didn't save any of the Cruise Compasses so can't help with that.  Needed to watch every ounce for the suitcases with gifts being brought back home for grandchildren.  After all, it was Rome, Florence, Barcelona!    

 

I'll be glad to try to answer any questions I can if you have any.  Those of. you preparing to go on WOTS, you'll have a wonderful time.  Great ship, best crew!  Have a marvelous time.  

 

One last side note:   Please be kind on these Boards.  We all need to be kind to each other; we are all cruisers with different likes and dislikes, just enjoying life!!!  Please don't cloud these Boards with bashing other cruisers who are asking questions or sharing their views.  It's ok to agree to disagree in a kind respectful manner.  (I realize I might get "bashed" for saying this.  Oh well; I tried.)   Happy cruising.

 

 

 

[trotzoll]

Thank you so much for all the great information. We leave out of Rome in a little over a week. We had no idea it would be an interporting cruise for us (nor did we know it was even a thing.). I must admit, we've been disappointed that we won't have access to the app. I honestly don't understand why they can't get that together, but hey, we'll be in the med, so we'll be okay. Glad you had such a good time. Thanks again!

 

[Oceansaway17]

What does the term interport mean?

I sailed from on ship from Fla in early April

[Biker19]

Just now, Oceansaway17 said:

What does the term interport mean?

Mainly happens in Europe - ship has two different home ports on the same sailing.

[Oceansaway17]

2 minutes ago, Biker19 said:

Mainly happens in Europe - ship has two different home ports on the same sailing.

So half coming and going.

suitcases in hall two nights a week?

wonder how that effects reservations for shows then

[vjmatty]

1 minute ago, Biker19 said:

Mainly happens in Europe - ship has two different home ports on the same sailing.

Or more...... I can't remember if it was a Celebrity or MSC cruise I was looking at in the Eastern Med, and almost every port was a possible home port, depending when and where you'd like to board, and you just book accordingly. Really handy if you're trying to match up individual cruises from various locations. My favorite was a Costa ship that we boarded in Rhodes.... best pre-cruise stay ever. 

[Biker19]

1 minute ago, Oceansaway17 said:

wonder how that effects reservations for shows then

Same number of people on, should not affect things.

[Oceansaway17]

Just now, Biker19 said:

Same number of people on, should not affect things.

Ok I guess I would aim for shows later in week.

I am not sure I would like interporting so much.

would be interesting for those two ports how they handle shore excursions folks vs folks exiting ship to go home

[dunedinmaiden]

2 hours ago, cruz_happy said:

We just returned from our Wonder of the Seas cruise from Rome.  (I was hoping to do a live report but always ran out of time---too much to do. So this is the best I could do.) We traveled with other friends on this cruise.  Thought I'd share a few of our and our friends' observations for others interested.  (If all you want is a COVID report, it's at the end of this post.) 

 

--SHIP was beautiful and full of activities.    At first, we were a little underwhelmed when we boarded but I think that is because all the publicity made it seem so much bigger than it was from first walkaround.  The ship is really beautiful and there is a lot of activities and fun onboard.  (I just think the media hype may have increased our expectations but no harm there.  I don't fault RCCL for this.)  It is amazing all they are doing with these ships now.  I was remembering my first RCCL cruise when I was 14 years old traveling with my parents on the Nordic Prince (sister ship to the Song of Norway, RCCL's first cruise ship which I cruised on twice and we thought that was amazing!).  These ships are certainly a far cry from my parent's cruising days.  We ran out of time to do all we wanted to do.  Just means we have to go on this ship again I guess!! (Aw, shucks!)

 

--CREW was marvelous.  Best we've ever had.  I know many have said they did move the best crew to this ship (wouldn't you if you were RCCL) and it shows.  They were great.  So happy and attentive.  We had a great time with many of them.  Malcolm, bartender in Masons Jar bar, was fun and had our drinks ready for us almost before we got there.  Note if you are a bourbon drinker:  Masons Jar bar has the best selection of bourbon on the ship.  (Pretty bad that we know which bars for best liquor selections, huh?). Both concierges (yes, we were in a suite) were wonderful and so helpful.  We were interport guests (more on that later); our concierges helped us book all our specialty dining and shows gladly.  Restaurant servers were friendly and helpful. Special shout-out to Rovic in the photo area who was wonderful.  We rarely do ships photos (as I have my own DSLR) but Rovic made it so fun that we did get some photos this trip.  (Plus we were with other friends so I was able to join in some of the pictures.). My suggestion is to get the download version if purchasing photos and you are halfway decent with a computer.  This was so easy to do & you don't have to lug the prints with you.  I plan to do this from now on whenever I get their photos. Rovic helped me out  BIG time with a photography issue I had.  He went above and beyond what he had to do to help me; he was great.  He also taught us ladies how to pose better for pictures so we look thinner!!!!!  Wow!  That has been worth it's weight (no pun intended) in gold!  

 

--FOOD:  We had the UDP and boy, did we use it!  Although we are Diamond (next cruise D+, just saying this to support that we've been on many prior cruises with RCCL and other cruise lines before), we had never done a UDP before.  With so many restaurants on this ship, we calculated based on the restaurants we wanted to try, the UDP was worth it for us.  So glad we did.  The food was wonderful.  Our favorite restaurants were 150 Central Park (you've GOT TO try the fried cheesecake---Wow!  I could eat that every night although my waistline might disagree), Hooked Seafood especially for dinner--lobster, need I say more!  Also our friends like the oyster shooters.  (I don't eat oysters even though I'm from Louisiana------yes, I know!), Masons Jar both brunch and dinner---different menu, so you've got to try both.  (Only exception at Masons Jar, gumbo needs to be with shrimp and crab--staples in Louisiana, not really lobster & crawfish. We don't have lobsters readily accessible in Louisiana.  But hey, worth trying something different.)  Our friends went to Giovannis one night to get their "giant meatball" and really enjoyed the steak muffaletta, their house salad as different from other salads and said the pizzas looked delicious.  While we had been to Wonderland before, our friends had not.  So we went there too.  I really liked the ambiance at this Wonderland much better than the prior one we went to.  Food was very good and fun (as always in Wonderland).  Our friends really liked it.----loved the smoked deviled eggs.  They are researching how to get a food smoker to re-create these.  As others have said on here, I would recommend doing Wonderland at least once; it's an experience.  And their cocktails are worth trying too.  (You can do the bar without the restaurant if. you want to try the cocktails.  The smoky bourbon one was a favorite with the men and we liked the cotton candy one.  I tried the one with the blue or red pill but didn't care for that one.  So I sent it back & got the cotton candy one instead.  Sorry I can't remember the names of them all.). We went to Chops Grill as well.  This was our third time trying Chops; we weren't impressed prior 2 times on different ships.  This time it was good (or did I finally learn what to order for me this time?).  While it wasn't our favorite of all the restaurants, it was worth it for us with the UDP.  (I doubt we would have gone there had we not had the UDP.). Can't address MDR, Windjammer or Sorrento's; never made it there.     

 

--ACTIVITIES:  So much to do and so little time.  (We were on a port intensive cruise.  Stayed on for 1 port just to experience the ship more, although always limited while in port.). If one gets bored on this ship, you're not looking hard enough.  We didn't get to do as much as we targeted due to port intensive cruise.  (Oh, and did I mention we were dining and drinking too?)   Our favorites were the tribute bands:  they had Styx and Beatles tribute bands.  Both were very good.  The Styx band played more than just Styx later in their set.  Our last night I saw they were doing a tribute to Earth, Wind and Fire but we didn't make that one.  (Yep, you guessed; we were eating and drinking.  Had to finally go pack for debarkation.). We wanted to make the ice show & Aquashow; heard both were great. 

 

--ENTERTAINMENT:  Our favorite on this ship were the 2 tribute bands we saw---Styx and the Beatles.  They were very good.  (The Styx band included other hits besides just Styx.). Our last night we saw they were doing a tribute to Earth, Wind and Fire (not sure if a specialty tribute band) but we needed to pack (after dining and drinking), so had to miss that one.  Wanted to desperately make it to the ice show & Aquatheater but we were always dining and drinking (party animals---NOT!); so we missed them as too late for us.  (While our minds think we are 24 years old, our bodies remind us that we aren't!). We did see the Aquashow practice during the day & that was fun; I'm sure a totally different perspective then the night version with lighting and costumes.  I'm sure the evening show would have been wonderful.  Based on what we saw, I would recommend seeing the show.  (Another reason for us to book this ship again soon with less port intensive cruise or Caribbean where we don't get off since been there so many times as too easy for us.). The other entertainment listed on the Cruise Compass didn't entice us.  There seemed to be a lot of comedians (which we do like but can miss for more dining and drinking).  Some friends went to the tap show (forgot the name) and were not overly impressed; they actually left the show.  (The rest of us were eating and drinking.  Go figure!).  Did I mention we enjoyed our UDP for this ship and drink package?  (Yes; I'm aware as Diamond members we get drink vouchers.  But our friends were getting a drink package so we decided to join them---what the heck, it's only money.  One tip we learned from one of the bartenders:  My DH wanted a double one night and the drink package didn't allow a double.  The bartender realized he was Diamond & used the drink package for 1 and the D voucher to make the double.  Smart bartender; needless to say we tipped him extra.  Something to remember for others if interested.). Gotta send kudo's to RCCL for adding drink vouchers to Seapass cards that can be used anywhere.  Wonderful change; thank you, RCCL, for doing this. 

 

--Negatives:  There are only a few to share.  We were "interporting" on this cruise which I had never done before and will try to avoid in the future.  We spent pre-cruise time in Rome (much preferred over Barcelona for us), embarking in Rome.  We didn't realize we were an "interport" embarkation until we got there.  (Maybe I should have but I didn't; not sure I would have changed it though.). I have to say I felt like we were treated differently.  We were never able to use the app even once onboard since we were interport guests.  RCCL really needs their IT department to figure this out if they continue with interport cruising (which makes a lot of sense); I can't imagine it's that difficult but I'm no IT person.  Embarkation was less than stellar although didn't destroy our voyage.  The terminal people (not RCCL personnel from what I know) in Rome were ok but as typical for us, we got the slowest lady who wasn't the best at using the Ipad to check us in.  (And before you ask, yes! We had all our paperwork both electronically and printed ready to go.  I had them ready to hand her even before she asked for each one.  This wasn't my first rodeo.). We were in a suite and one of the perks is priority embarkation----unless you are interporting, I think!  We were actually one of the last to get through the embarkation process for our time slot.  While there wasn't a huge crowd, this was a perk that bypassed us (and any Pinnacles or others) on this cruise.  Key point is we DID get onboard; so that is what really matters in the long run.   Debarkation was really easy though for an interport cruise.  So maybe a tradeoff?  We also like doing the music trivia games but the ones on this ship were really few and lacking; so we didn't do them.  (Did I mention we were dining & drinking?). Only other negative from my DH was that you had to search for some of the top-shelf liquors; they did not have them in all the bars, only selective bars.  Even the concierge lounge did not have the better bourbons (e.g., Makers Mark & others).  I can tell our bourbon drinkers who've read this far, best place to find bourbons is the Mason Jar bar.  You can go there even if not dining there; they have a great assortment of bourbons there. 

 

--COVID report:  Saved this for last as really NO REPORT.  I asked as we were disembarking if there were any cases.  Concierge told me there were NONE/ ZERO among the guests; a few among crew but not many at all.  (I didn't validate this anywhere so maybe someone else knows something different.). Felt safe the whole time.  Most guests did not wear face masks although some did.  (Crew did though.) All seemed perfectly comfortable with either.  The key I think is remembering to wash hands often, often, often!!!!  Sinks all over the ship as well as sanitizers.  Disappointed as not all venues had crew reminding the guests to "Washy-Washy" so some people just skipped this.  The pre-testing is always nerve wrecking but once you get the negative results, another reason to dine & drink to celebrate!  We used the e-med lab tests we brought with us to Italy & called from the hotel; worked quite well.  (BTW, our hotel in Rome was great!  I'll post on Italy board,)

 

I didn't save any of the Cruise Compasses so can't help with that.  Needed to watch every ounce for the suitcases with gifts being brought back home for grandchildren.  After all, it was Rome, Florence, Barcelona!    

 

I'll be glad to try to answer any questions I can if you have any.  Those of. you preparing to go on WOTS, you'll have a wonderful time.  Great ship, best crew!  Have a marvelous time.  

 

One last side note:   Please be kind on these Boards.  We all need to be kind to each other; we are all cruisers with different likes and dislikes, just enjoying life!!!  Please don't cloud these Boards with bashing other cruisers who are asking questions or sharing their views.  It's ok to agree to disagree in a kind respectful manner.  (I realize I might get "bashed" for saying this.  Oh well; I tried.)   Happy cruising.

 

 

 

My husband and I were on the May 19th sailing on the Wonder out of Rome.  We agree with you completely!  Prefer Rome over Barcelona but wouldn't interport again -- it was "different" and not having the app was a disadvantage.  Still enjoyed the cruise though.

[BeginnercruiserHD]

I thought you can access the app once onboard?

[cruz_happy]

1 hour ago, BeginnercruiserHD said:

I thought you can access the app once onboard?

Didn't work for those interporting (at least for anyone in our group).  We could see deck plans but that was pretty much all.  We were able to manage though and still had a great time.  Wasn't too difficult to get shows at times we wanted even without the app working.  Ones we saw weren't full except the tribute bands which you cannot reserve anyway.  So for those, get there a little early if you want a seat.

[cruz_happy]

4 hours ago, dunedinmaiden said:

My husband and I were on the May 19th sailing on the Wonder out of Rome.  We agree with you completely!  Prefer Rome over Barcelona but wouldn't interport again -- it was "different" and not having the app was a disadvantage.  Still enjoyed the cruise though.

We were on this same sailing with you.  Glad to know it wasn't just me with feeling "different" as an interporting guest,.  Like the concept of interporting; just wish they would work out the kinks.  

[Kymberlyfarr]

@cruz_happyDid you fly into Rome from the US? Just wondering if the flight in to Italy requires mask wearing since Italy is still requiring for “public transportation.” Delta’s website seems to imply that it is required but not 100% clear. 
 

btw- I am so jealous you got to sail on the Wonder! We wanted to do the Wonder for our cruise but the Odyssey was all we could get for the room we needed! 

[cruz_happy]

59 minutes ago, Kymberlyfarr said:

@cruz_happyDid you fly into Rome from the US? Just wondering if the flight in to Italy requires mask wearing since Italy is still requiring for “public transportation.” Delta’s website seems to imply that it is required but not 100% clear. 
 

btw- I am so jealous you got to sail on the Wonder! We wanted to do the Wonder for our cruise but the Odyssey was all we could get for the room we needed! 

Yes, we did have to wear masks on our flights into Italy.  We flew from USA to Munich first which also required masks.  I do hope this eases for your cruise.  Wonder was nice. You’ll just have to plan another cruise on Wonder.   

[little britain]

8 hours ago, Oceansaway17 said:

So half coming and going.

suitcases in hall two nights a week?

wonder how that effects reservations for shows then

It doesn’t.  If you board on Sunday in Barcelona you watch a show on Tuesday and if you board on Thursday in Rome you watch that same show the following Tuesday.

 

MSC interport at almost every port in the Med so you can join the ship where ever suits you best. It works very well. 

 

 

Edited May 31, 2022 by little britain

[Oceansaway17]

8 minutes ago, little britain said:

It doesn’t.  If you board on Sunday in Barcelona you watch a show on Tuesday and if you board on Thursday in Rome you watch that same show the following Tuesday.

 

MSC interport at almost every port in the Med so you can join the ship where ever suits you best. It works very well. 

 

 

hmmm I have my doubts as some shows are shown several times but how and when they got reserved. If I get on in Barcelona I would think shows easier to book AFTER Rome since I would already be one the ship and those getting on now have to reserve.  It gives me a headache to think about it.

I wish they would just have one starting point.

Then again does anyone get to do say 1 1/2 weeks like starting in Barcelona and go around once and then half way again to Rome and disembark.   That would be cool

[little britain]

3 hours ago, Oceansaway17 said:

hmmm I have my doubts as some shows are shown several times but how and when they got reserved. If I get on in Barcelona I would think shows easier to book AFTER Rome since I would already be one the ship and those getting on now have to reserve.  It gives me a headache to think about it.

I wish they would just have one starting point.

Then again does anyone get to do say 1 1/2 weeks like starting in Barcelona and go around once and then half way again to Rome and disembark.   That would be cool

Last week there was plenty of availability at all shows. 
And if you left it to Thursday to book then you will miss the shows shown M-T-W on your week eg TapFactory (which wasn’t very good imho) 
 

1 1/2 weeks rarely can happen as cabins are always Sunday to Sunday and others are always Thursday to Thursday.  However a few years ago my friends were able to do 4n Barcelona to Rome as a group had only booked the Rome to Barcelona section! 

[sgmn]

5 hours ago, cruz_happy said:

Yes, we did have to wear masks on our flights into Italy.  We flew from USA to Munich first which also required masks.  I do hope this eases for your cruise.  Wonder was nice. You’ll just have to plan another cruise on Wonder.   

Think the next time Italy looks at its regulations is 15 Jun

[long4acruise]

7 hours ago, little britain said:

 

MSC interport at almost every port in the Med so you can join the ship where ever suits you best. It works very well. 

Yes, MSC interports very well and in multiple countries on the same sailing.  We did a 9N Spain, France, Italy & Portugal sailing on the new MSC Virtuosa last year, boarded in Barcelona and it was seamless.

[di T]

Boarded on Sunday after 4 nights in Barca, agree so far a lovely cruise and amazing ship! We are b2b so hopefully will get to do most things before we leave her! Dianne

[lulagirl123]

Since you were in a suite did you make all your dining reservations ahead of time with the suite concierge? We have the same itinerary next month (no suite though) and I'm worried about dining reservations being full for the first few nights when we board since we can't make UDP reservations in advance.

[trotzoll]

On 5/30/2022 at 8:48 PM, cruz_happy said:

Didn't work for those interporting (at least for anyone in our group).  We could see deck plans but that was pretty much all.  We were able to manage though and still had a great time.  Wasn't too difficult to get shows at times we wanted even without the app working.  Ones we saw weren't full except the tribute bands which you cannot reserve anyway.  So for those, get there a little early if you want a seat.

Where did you go for show reservations? Or did you just show up early?

Thanks, in advance, for your help.

[Oceansaway17]

3 hours ago, trotzoll said:

Where did you go for show reservations? Or did you just show up early?

Thanks, in advance, for your help.

 

 

I did Wonder and I went to the 4th deck to a room called the Attic.  Did this also on Symphony and will do on Allure this coming weekend.  It is easier and a bit faster than the app as they have folks seated at tables to help and can do reservations for all the nights in 3 minutes or less.  Then the review with you

 

But, there are standby lines too (which they were not doing back in the fall)

[cruz_happy]

13 hours ago, lulagirl123 said:

Since you were in a suite did you make all your dining reservations ahead of time with the suite concierge? We have the same itinerary next month (no suite though) and I'm worried about dining reservations being full for the first few nights when we board since we can't make UDP reservations in advance.

We only sent them a few days before boarding.  But I will tell you that the restaurants were not as full as I expected. Only one that was tight at times (but still could take people) was 150 Park.  So you will likely be fine.  

[cruz_happy]

12 hours ago, trotzoll said:

Where did you go for show reservations? Or did you just show up early?

Thanks, in advance, for your help.

We pretty much just showed up early.  If you are early not a problem.  No shows we saw were overly crowded except for the tribute bands.