After reading the reviews on CC we were a bit concerned. People either loved or hated it. We ended up loving it. Be warned, however, if you are looking for WOW factor, the latest in everything, gourmet dining and prefer steak and potatoes to anything else, you won't like the MSC Lirica. However, come open-minded and think more European-like experience that is different from the standard N.A. mega-ship, and not afraid to try something different, you'll be OK.
Embarkation: actually quite easy, well organized and quick. Being docked at the MSC container berth was not a bad thing as there was no congestion, but then having to park the car a mile away in the northport garage was interesting. A shuttle took you back to the ship. A steward takes you directly to your cabin.
Cabin...small (140 sq. ft)but well laid out. Absorbed the contents of our over-stuffed suitcases with the many nooks and crannies built in everywhere. Bed was on the hard side. Shower was SMALL...had to step out if I wanted to change my mind. But we use the cabin only to sleep, shower and change, so size was not an issue for us.
cabin was on the 7th floor at the back of the ship.....there was a large sunning area off the back of the 7th deck which made it feel like having a big balcony...nice perk for an inside room.