MSC Armonia Review
4.0 / 5.0
So Glad
10+ Cruises • Age 60s
Rating by category
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Sail Date: Feb 2020
My husband and I received a status match to the Voyager's Club Diamond Card last January 2019 when we were on MSC for the first time, sailing on Divina. In order to keep the status we needed to sail again within 18 months, and so we chose this cruise. We had been to Ocho Rios and Grand Cayman before, but it was a while ago so that was fine.
We had a very early flight into Miami, so we were quite pleased that we were able to get on the ship by 11am. Doors for the embarkation process opened at 10 but they did not start moving people through the scanners until 10:30, and that was a little frustrating. I would think if you open the doors, you should be ready to roll and not make people stand in one place for that long. I did appreciate the fact that they did a thermal scan of all passengers with the idea that if anyone had a fever, they would not be allowed to board the ship. Once we got to the check in counter, it only took 10 minutes to process us and we walked on board and right up to the buffet line which was great because I was starving! Food selection was good and the food was hot and tasty.
We LOVED this ship! Yes it is small and yes it is older, but we accept that as part of her charm. She is classy and pretty, and very clean. The staff and crew were all fabulous. MSC shines for service and entertainment. The food is good, and some food items were awesome. The Surf & Turf Specialty Restaurant managed by the sweet Brenda was fantastic, and we were lucky to have two meals there. Lobster & Filet, oh my! Try the Mexican Chocolate cake for dessert. You're welcome! We were also very lucky to be assigned to "Your Choice" dining at the Pergola restaurant, a smaller dining room strictly for Fantastica and Aurea passengers. I love to have the option of having dinner whenever we want to. Service is a little slow, but we were never in a hurry so it didn't matter. We are non-drinkers, so I can't tell you much about the bars, though we did usually buy the "non-alcoholic cocktail of the day" which is advertised daily in the newsletter. Make sure when you order, you tell them you want the $4 no-alcohol cocktail of the day, and don't order by the name. If you don't say it that way, they will charge you the regular price!
Cabin Review
We were a little disappointed in the size of our balcony cabin which was smaller than on Divina. There was no couch or chair and there was a single bunk hung on the wall that my hubby bonked himself on a few times. There was a little desk with a hassock, and a big mirror where the electrical outlets are. There were both European and American outlets. The bed was very comfortable queen sized, and I loved the pillows. We slept quite well most nights. I was surprised how quiet it was. I never needed ear plugs. The balcony was the same size as Divina, however, and so was the storage and bathroom. We were able to view a suite because a friend had one, and we would seriously consider one for our next cruise. Our cabin steward Lino was amazing and our cabin was kept spotless and Lino smiled and immediately responded to all requests. My husband uses a cpap and we requested distilled water from guest services which arrived promptly both times we needed it. Our Diamond card perks appeared in a timely manner, with our robes and slippers in the cabin when we arrived. On Divina, we had to ask for them.
Port Reviews
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
Docked right on the island, and to the right of the lighthouse. Cute little shops run by MSC and one or two by Bahama. Beautiful beaches, great large kitchen where the ship served lunch, cabanas that could be rented, water sports excursions, a little junkaroo parade, and just an all around gorgeous place to spend a very relaxing day. Just wonderful!
Ocho Rios
Not fond of Ocho Rios. We may have enjoyed it more if they would regulate the amount of pestering taxi drivers. We did not book an excursion there, and we might have had more fun if we had. We walked to downtown and back, and did see a cute park and spent some pleasant time there. Other than that, we got tired of being pestered and just went back to the ship.
5 Helpful Votes
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