We just returned from a week long cruise in the Baltic. We had a great time and enjoyed the cruise and ports.

We arrived in Kiel by train and were surprised to see a MSC desk at the train station to check our bags and there was a shuttle to the port. There was a charge for this (2.5 Euro / bag) but it was well worth it. The shuttle was complementary (so we could have dragged our bags with us) but we enjoyed the freedom of not having our bags.

The check in process was very quick and painless. I don't think it took more than 10 minutes from the time we got to the port till we were on the ship. Once on board we found our cabin. It was an inside cabin on the 8th deck (mid-ship). The cabin was small. There was a double bed, two upper berths, a small desk, minibar, TV and closet. The bathroom was the standard small bathroom that I remember from previous cruises. We did not hear any noise from our neighbors. On occasion you would hear someone walk by in the hall, but it never disturbed us. The room was spotless and in good repair. The cabin steward kept the room clean at all times. The bed linens were of good quality which I am a little picky about. The minibar had a variety of drinks and snacks but were pricey. Fresh fruit was in the room and was replenished as needed. There is a fee for room service except for breakfast. Read more