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First MSC Cruiseship
This was our first cruiseship experience. I found MSC Euribia amazing, from the staffs to the services they provided. I like the food (they should serve varieties of cusines everyday, ex. Persian food during Monday, Korean food during tuesday) also some tastes blant. The staffs were very much welcoming and warm, I’m just sadden by the thought that they been working for 12hours without getting some rest or sit for awhile. The excursions were expensive, it should be free. Wifi should be free as well. Anyway, this is an italian company, what do u expect?
Date of experience : March 22, 2024
Very poor customer service staff are r…
Very poor customer service staff are rude and arrogant. My whole experience was very bad from start to end it felt like I'm in a jungle not on a cruise ship. over crowded no places to sit people reserving sunloungers from early morning without using them so you can't use the facilities because it was very Crowded horrible food too. Pay a bit more and look elsewhere
Date of experience : March 17, 2024
Really poor service
Really poor service. MSC. Have travelled with you several times before but this will be our last. We get a better service from other cruise companies. Accommodation is awful dripping taps, bed stains etc. paid a lot of money to be on this cruise. Complained and yet nothing has been done. Made formal complaint to head office and basically got told tough…. Fair enough won’t be back then…..
Date of experience : March 12, 2024
Currently on MSC Poesia world cruise
Currently on MSC Poesia world cruise. MSC Customer service has been appalling…. No response to written correspondence prior to embarkation (due to multiple itinerary route changes - some of which were due to the Red Sea conflict, others due to yellow fever, others due to, well who knows!!). Complaints made to the CS manager whilst on the ship also gone ignored. Replacement ports poor, food below standard, entertainment terrible. Currently 900 passengers have signed a petition as a result of their dissatisfaction to the sailing = 40% of the ships passengers which shows how bad it is. Threats are now being made by the ships staff (including Captain) to retract complaints, AVOID, AVOID, AVOID!!!! One saving grace is the fabulous hospitality staff on board who MSC are unbelievably lucky to have.
Date of experience : March 19, 2024
Extremely poor customer service
Extremely poor customer Service. It doesn’t feel like anyone there knows what they are doing, I have been told conflicting information by different members of staff and had some of the most useless and unhelpful responses I have had from any company. I would strongly advise you book your cruise with another company. I only wish I had seen some of the reviews here before I booked. Shoddy.
MSC Virtuosa Dubai & Arabian Gulf
The Virtuosa is a lovely ship shiny bright and spectacular. Sadly like Royal Caribbean their ships have become too large as a consequence the sheer volume of passengers spoils the experience. The market place buffet is like a rugby scrum no plates, no cutlery, no cups, no tea bags kids poking fingers in the food staff fed up and not bothered. Sun decks overcrowded and unpleasant as a result. The itinary was not the best all ports required a shuttle bus which cost 10 - 15 euro per person. Excursions not cheap. MSC operates like a bus picking up and putting down passengers in most ports the cruise is not ‘closed’ so passengers change on a daily basis and you will find every nationality on board not like P&O TUI etc. This is probably one of the companies negatives although we don’t mind the multi cultural ambience this would not suit everyone. We took this cruise as we wanted to go to Dubai to visit family ( pre cruise stay sadly in a dump of a hotel as part of this package ) so it was a means to an end but it’s not an itinerary I would recommend apart from the fact that you get warm weather.
Date of experience : February 24, 2024
Disappointing Experience on MSC CRUISE
Disappointing Experience on MSC CRUISE I embarked on MSC with high hopes for a relaxing and enjoyable journey. Unfortunately, my experience was marred by a series of disappointments that I feel compelled to share. Service: The service onboard was far from the standard I expected. These instances were not isolated, but rather a pattern that persisted throughout the cruise, leaving me feeling undervalued as a guest. Food Quality: A highlight of most cruises is the culinary experience, yet the food on MSC was a letdown. , such as lack of variety, poor taste, undercooked or overcooked items, etc. Meals are a cornerstone of the cruising experience, and this was a significant disappointment. We legit only ate pizza the entire time because I got sick after anything I ate . I threw up every night I was there from the food . Staff Interaction: The behavior of the crew and staff can significantly impact the enjoyment of a cruise. Regrettably, I encountered rudeness and indifference from several staff members.. Such interactions made me feel unwelcome and cast a shadow over my entire trip. They also will charge your room 70$ for cleaning service even if you don’t want your room cleaned and they don’t pay any mind to the DO NOT DISTURB sign they will just come in. Overall, while I embarked on this cruise with enthusiasm and the anticipation of creating lasting memories, I was left with a feeling of dissatisfaction. I hope this feedback is taken seriously as an opportunity for MSC to improve and ensure that future guests do not have a similar experience.
Date of experience : March 18, 2024
Absolutely shocking experience
This was our first, and will be the last, cruise with MSC. We don’t usually complain on a holiday because we prefer to just keep the peace and relax however the absolute lack of customer service needs to be known. Positives to start: Our stateroom attendant (Patrick, room 12279) was fantastic. Very attentive, always happy to see us, checked regularly that everything was ok in our cabin. Staff in the main restaurant of an evening were really nice and offered great service (table 321, 17th to 23rd March). Negatives: No soap in multiple toilets despite asking over 4days for them to be refilled No tea bags at breakfast Juice machines rarely working and when they did they were labelled wrong. Orange juice was actually grapefruit juice, which for some people on certain medications is contraindicated and therefore harmful to health. I raised this several times and nothing was done. I ordered a plain omelette and was given a mixed omelette containing onions that I’m allergic to. No apology or concern shown, they treated me like I was an inconvenience by raising it with them and asking them to change it! Ordered a drink at the buffet bar and there was no communication between the waitress taking the orders and the waiters serving the drinks. This resulted in 8 people who placed their orders after me receiving their drinks before me, and the waiters asking a further 3 times what I had ordered. After 20minutes I left without a drink because guests started to argue with each other over who was next. I made a complaint to Chris at guest services. Five days in and the issues above persisted. The buffet was absolute chaos, guests fighting their way through to get food, staff completely unorganised. People were behaving like animals! Chris from guest services contacted me by phone in our room and said the manager wanted to speak to me about my complaint. He asked me to attend guest services at 8.30pm that evening to discuss. I attended and after waiting 20minutes I asked a staff member what was happening and they rudely said I’ve already told you he’s on his way. Needless to say I didn’t wait around. I also didn’t hear anything more from them. Staff at bars were rude, they would usher you to one end of the bar for their convenience. On multiple occasions they ignored us while we and other guests queued, waited up to fifteen minutes to then be told we’re closed. No apology and they looked at us like we were the problem. Disembarking the ship was a joke. There was only one exit for guests disembarking and going out on excursions. This resulted in congestion on stair wells between floors 7 and 4. People were hot and stressed out and the staff were completely disorganised. Guests were pushing and shoving because they couldn’t stand the heat and the wait. We ended up being over an hour late disembarking which then meant we were late checking in for our flights. It also in turn meant we weren’t given extra leg room seats that we had paid for because other people had been allocated seats who checked in before us and with a group booking that MSC do it’s less of a priority to allocate seats, even though you’ve paid extra. Although if we hadn’t had the problem disembarking the ship, I suspect the seat situation wouldn’t have been a problem. Overall this was not a relaxing and enjoyable holiday, it was stressful from start to finish, we couldn’t wait to leave. MSC clearly don’t care about customer experience. I wish I’d read all the trust pilot reviews before we booked, it would have saved us money and from being subjected to this disgraceful experience. I have zero confidence that anything will be done to address this but if I can save anyone from this same experience that’s a win. Like I said above, we don’t normally complain and are quick to let things go, so please take note that this isn’t just having a moan for the sake of it. Book with another cruise line, avoid MSC and save yourself the misery.
DO NOT CRUISE HERE!
I’m in MSC Seashore Right now and I can say it leaves a lot to be desired as my first time on an MSC cruise. To begin… The service has been very poor. With zero empathy when you share a concern or poor experience. Some of these include queues everywhere and I mean EVERYWHERE! Embarking and disembarking is a mess at every port we were at except private island Ocean Cay which by the way is not ready for receiving people! To have a drink or eat anything expect to wait 15-25 min in queue under the hot sun. They nickel and dime you for everything! When I asked for a cold water bottle after giving me a hot one staff member said “you’re on an island you should take any water”! I was in shock! Entertainment staff was great but some of the singers a male In particular ruined soooooo many songs and I cringed every time he came out on stage. Poor guy! Anyway… I could go on and on. Food was good but don’t try the pasta! Worst pasta I’ve every had. (Mind you it’s an Italian cruise company) Last but not least… have fun waiting long times for their elevators. They are not efficient what so ever. Staying with Royal Caribbean for now.
Date of experience : March 01, 2024
Overcrowded, overpriced excursions, travel to and from cities on the shuttle bus extortionately priced when p&o was free. Food average but very busy around the buffet area. Euribia only used EU plug sockets but didn't clearly make this aware to us before hand. Also charged us an authorised payment and when challenged they said it was for their charity?? Yet thisnwas not discussed or agreed with us, and was not clear if this was written down anywhere before being taken out. Really long queues for the shows which extended uncomfortably close to people sitting in restaurants nearby which felt tacky and poor for a luxury establishment. Similar complaints looking at the previously review. I'll stick to P&O in future.
Date of experience : February 23, 2024
We won’t cruise with them again!
We were supposed to leave for our cruise in 16 days but a family member has just been diagnosed with cancer and we are unable to go now. When we called to cancel or they kept $900 out of the $1200 we paid, including our drinking package. We will never cruise with MSC again and I will make sure I tell everyone I can about this, every chance I get.
Date of experience : March 05, 2024
Customer service not responding
Customer service still haven't replied after 2 weeks. It felt like we were a cash machine on the cruise. Everything was extortionate. Had to pay to use wifi!! One day pool towels were not delivered to our room so we had to pay 60€ for 2 towels on the day we left, to our surprise ... The whole experience was pretty unpleasant
Date of experience : February 11, 2024
Worst webpage cruise…
I can't believe how terrible the cruise line's web page is! It's absolutely the worst in the entire industry. How can such a fantastic cruise line have such a horrible online service? It's infuriating!
Date of experience : February 22, 2024
Customer Service is a joke
Customer Service is a joke, I'm trying to move my cruise have been for a week. Rather than being able to talk to person to get the move done, it is all by Email and so far 7 days has gone past.
Date of experience : March 04, 2024
Just terrible
Just terrible! The boarding process is rediculous, never again
Date of experience : March 24, 2024
Our waitress Ximena Espinosa was amazing!!!
Well, this was the second time taking an MSC cruise ship. The ship was new and pretty awesome. However, the elevator system to ho from one level to another was aggravating. Overall the food was salty and average. Communication for events, etc was poor. The only positive experience was our Waitress for the assigned restaurant for the week. Ximena Espinosa our waitress was amazing and made up the difference. She was very Professional, accommodating, and tried her best to satisfy our dinner experience. We give her a 10 star rating and if it wasn't for her the cruise would of been a one star.
Date of experience : January 06, 2024
Euribia 9-16 Feb 2024
NEVER NEVER NEVER again will i cruise with MSC over crowded, under staff, repetitive food, poor quality food, unhappy staff , ridiculous excursion costs Basically a floating holiday camp third time with MSC , previous 2 where satisfactory this one with Grand children, they loved it , kids club people where excellent . constantly running out of this running out of that in the restaurants , MSC in not interested in calls on my feedback , im just making potential customers aware , think twice next year ,back on P&O or Royal Carribean
Date of experience : February 09, 2024
Don't make a mistake and book with MSC Cruises
For last experience with MSC cruise Bellissima (Japan & South Korea), as usual we paid all excursions in advance. First day scheduled excursion (SAKURAJIMA Sightseeing -KAGOSHIMA) was cancelled due weather condition. They promised to refund the amount within 60 days. After 6 months and many follow ups from us with them, they rejected to refund the amount. Besides, MSC cruise is wasting of money and time. Zero quality in everything.
Date of experience : August 16, 2023
The elevators are horrible
The elevators are horrible. If you have a disability Don't go on these cruises. I have to use a scooter to get around its so busy on the elevators you have to wait Forever. They should have a button so handicap people can get a elevator....
Date of experience : January 14, 2024
DON’T CRUISE WITH MSC -BIGGEST MISTAKE EVER
We are currently on MSC POESIA WORLD CRUISE 2024. This cruise was meant to be a trip of a lifetime it is now a nightmare and the worst trip we have ever experienced. Over 900 people on board have signed a petition protesting the way MSC are treating us. This is over 40% of the guests who are on board. We got offered a small compensation and 10% off the first leg of the cruise - this is nothing to what we as passengers have lost due to such a massive change in itinerary- yes we all fully understand the world crisis but to not give us the opportunity to be able to cancel this cruise is not acceptable. The biggest problem is the lack of communication from MSC. They only reacted after the petition. They are now calling guest cabins and misleading guests into believing they will lose the 500 euros they were given. This is just scare tactics and totally unacceptable! 1. So many sea days Change of itinerary increasing itinerary to an extra 20 sea days, less port times, and no compensation for these changes or refunds of tax and port fees. As compared to other cruise companies such as Cunard, princess, costa etc who have all put in place packages for their customers and have at least communicated with them. After many emails have been sent to head office worthless apologies nothing else has been received. 2. Wasted visas - many customers wasted lots of money on unnecessary visas. We were forced to apply for Brazilian visas even though we showed them the smart traveller website that visas weren’t required but following their instructions we applied for such visas only to be notified 2 days later that these weren’t required. When we asked about compensation as MSC were responsible, we were informed that it was not MSC’S problem. 3. On board issues: The worst food ever on a cruise ship. I can say this as we have been cruising for over 20 years and have never come across such bland, boring and unappetising food. Both the restaurant and buffet consistently produce poor quality food. With only one speciality sushi restaurant on board there are no other options. 2. Entertainment- uninspired and mediocre quality entertainment. More forgettable performances than memorable. Daily activities- repeated and is on a set and forget programme do the same activities every day if you don’t dance, drink or exercise you are pretty well screwed. Supplies running out - you have to ask for black tea it’s kept at the back! Fruit can be short, honey is on request as well. Seriously the biggest shipping company has issues with supplies! On board excursions- extremely expensive, uninspired and unprofessional. Customers told no cancellations at all even though there is a 48 hour cancellation policy MSC will not let you cancel unless you argue with them. The whole ship is a powder keg with scuffles and arguments with guests out of frustration and too many long sea days. The only positive thing is the staff on board - waiters, waitresses, bar staff, cabin staff etc who are very lovely and friendly. If you want a amazing world cruise that will be memorable then take this from a guest who is still on board: NEVER NEVER EVER GO ON A MSC WORLD CRUISE. YOU WILL BE TOTALLY UNIMPRESSED AS WE ALL ARE. Look for a cruise company that will care, not make excuses and realise that this is your hard earned money and you deserve to be treated with respect!
Date of experience : January 04, 2024
Best Mediterranean cruise shore excursions
Shore excursions in the Mediterranean highlight must-see experiences such as fascinating UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Some of the wonders you travel to see – the ruins of Pompeii, the Roman Colosseum and Michelangelo's David in Florence – are nowhere near the pier where your cruise ship will dock. The easiest way to get to them is with tours sold by your cruise line, which typically include the services of tour guides who are experts about the destination.
While some Mediterranean cruise passengers choose to do an excursion in each port and see every major attraction, it's also fun to plan some time exploring on your own . If you go the independent route, do some research and pick a port where your preferences – beachfront, cafes, boutiques or other attractions – are close to the pier.
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While excursion offerings vary by cruise line, here are our picks for the best shore excursions in the Mediterranean.
Full-day tour of Athens, from Piraeus, Greece
The port of Piraeus, Greece, is about seven miles from Athens, and while you can use taxis or public transport to get into the city, you are better off booking a tour with a licensed guide who will get you to the key sights and provide details about the city — a birthplace of democracy and Western thought. Athens is a fascinating city with both ancient and modern attractions. While half-day tours will get you to the famous Acropolis, we recommend a full-day experience so you can see and experience more.
Europe's oldest capital has its origins in 3,000 B.C. Grab a window seat on the bus so you'll see the hilltop Acropolis dominating the skyline, as it has for thousands of years. On the tour, you will spend time exploring its sacred buildings including the Parthenon, the beautiful, columned temple dedicated to the goddess Athena.
Related: Best Mediterranean cruise tips to enhance your European vacation
Your tour will also show off other sites throughout the city, including the ruins of the Temple of Zeus and Hadrian's Arch, Greece's impressive Parliament building and the Olympic Stadium. You'll have opportunity to dine on Greek cuisine (lunch is included in full-day tours) and shop for souvenirs on the narrow ancient streets of the lively Platka neighborhood.
Pick a tour that affords time at the Acropolis Museum, a modern museum full of ancient treasures such as statues that date back to the 5 th century B.C.
Best of Olympia tour, from Katakolon, Greece
Katakolon, Greece, is a small town with a nice strip of beach – and a landmark attraction about an hour away. Cruise passengers make the trip to ancient Olympia to see the site where the Olympic Games debuted in 776 B.C. A tour of the ruins of the religious center and sports complex includes the Temple of Zeus, Roman baths, gymnasium and swimming pool, as well as the first Olympic stadium. Three thousand years ago, the games took place every four years, after the summer harvest, with competitors coming from as far away as Italy and Asia Minor.
The short foot races were the most prestigious of the events, and you can imagine the roar of the crowd as you stand in the field where the races took place. Your tour will likely include a stop at the Archaeological Museum of Olympia to see some amazing artifacts, including bronze and stone statues of well-toned athletes.
Palace of Knossos tour, Crete
Wherever you dock in Crete, in the Greek islands, you'll want to visit the ancient Minoan palace of Knossos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates to the Bronze Age.
First settled around 7000 B.C., the religious and administrative center was the domain of King Minos and home of Zeus and Europa, according to Greek mythology. Tour the ruins, some partially rebuilt, to learn about the labyrinth built to contain the Minotaur (half man and half bull) and how a queen had running water in her bathroom more than 3,000 years ago.
Related: Western Mediterranean vs. Eastern Mediterranean cruises: Which itinerary will I like more?
Your tour may also include a stop at the Archeological Museum of Heraklion, which houses Minoan artifacts removed from the palace site.
Game of Thrones tour, Dubrovnik, Croatia
You can take a shuttle from the pier and tour Old Town Dubrovnik on your own, but if you are a fan of "Game of Thrones," the must-do is a guided tour that highlights sights that appeared on the HBO TV show. As fans know, Dubrovnik doubled for King's Landing, the fictional capital of the Seven Kingdoms.
Stops on the tour include the formidable 11 th -century Lovrijenac Fortress, high on a rock overlooking the sea, just outside the medieval walls that surround the Old Town. In novelist George R. R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" books, which inspired GOT, the views from the fort are of Blackwater Bay.
Related: Movies and TV shows you can stream to get your cruising fix
In Old Town, you'll climb to and walk along the defensive walls that appeared on the show in the Battle of Blackwater Bay, as well as in other scenes. Other GOT sights in Old Town include the Jesuit Staircase, where Cersei began her Walk of Shame (season 5) and an area near St. Dominic Street, where market scenes for the show were filmed. Elsewhere, the outside of the Ethnographic Museum Rupe may look familiar. It appeared on the show as Littlefinger's brothel.
Rome city tour, from Civitavecchia, Italy
The port closest to Rome is Civitavecchia, Italy. Getting into the city can take 1.5 hours (or less or more, depending on traffic). It's a good idea to book a full-day excursion to make the most of your time in the city – especially if you are determined to see St. Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel, along with the Roman Colosseum, Roman Forum, Circus Maximus, the Forum, the Pantheon and other sights. Tours may also stop at Trevi Fountain, where tossing a coin is said to ensure your return to Rome.
Some tours combine one marquee sight and free time. If you are going this route, we recommend you go with the Colosseum, an amphitheater that once held as many as 50,000 spectators and where you can well imagine life in ancient Rome in all its (gory) glory.
Make sure to also climb Palatine Hill for views of the city, which has something fascinating — a flowing fountain, a gelato stand, a designer handbag shop — practically around every corner.
Florence city tour, from Livorno, Italy
If you want to explore Florence, look for cruises calling in Livorno, Italy, or another port in Tuscany. From there, you'll take a bus ride into the city, known for its Renaissance treasures. The city itself is a visual treat; a shore excursion will assure that you see such key sights as Michelangelo's David, in all his polished marble naked glory (at the tickets-required Accademia Gallery).
Art lovers will want to choose a tour that includes the Uffizi Gallery, with its works by Botticelli, Donatello, Raphael, Leonardo da Vinci and other Renaissance artists. Your tour will also showcase the 15 th -century Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (a.k.a. the Duomo) and other architecture treasures in the city. Some tours also visit the university town of Pisa, famous for its Leaning Tower.
Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know
Ancient Pompeii, Capri and Sorrento tour, from Naples, Italy
It's not difficult to imagine life in ancient times while exploring the remarkable ruins of Pompeii, the ancient Roman city buried by ash from Mount Vesuvius in the year 79. The ruins — the forum, baths, temples and decorated villas — appear frozen in time.
While you can focus all your attention on Pompeii, we recommend a full-day tour from Naples that also showcases the breathtaking Amalfi Coast and the beautiful island of Capri — a typical combination would be Capri, the resort town of Sorrento and Pompeii.
You'll take a jetfoil to Capri and a funicular ride up to Capri Town, a shopping haven (with residential side streets well worth exploring). Back on the mainland, drive to Sorrento, with time to people-watch at an outdoor cafe. On the way back to Naples, stop by Pompeii for a guided tour of the ruins.
Gaudi and the Sagrada Familia tour, Barcelona
In Barcelona, you dock right in the city. Las Ramblas, the city's famous boulevard, is a long walk or quick shuttle bus ride away. For us, the must-do shore excursion is to see the extravagant creations of architect Antoni Gaudi, including his La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where construction has been ongoing since 1882. The cathedral is the most visited attraction in Spain.
Choose a tour that also takes you to the hillside, UNESCO-recognized Parc Guell, where Gaudi sought to combine nature with modernist architecture. You'll also see two Gaudi residential buildings on the Paseo de Gracia — the La Pedrera apartment building and Casa Batllo, a private home with an especially eerie-looking façade.
Related: Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions
Some tours also stop at Museu Picasso, which features early works by Pablo Picasso, in the city's Gothic Quarter (Barri Gotic).
Ancient Ephesus tour, from Kusadasi, Turkey
A favorite of those who love to explore ancient history, Ephesus is one of the most fascinating and best-preserved ancient cities in the world (and only a short drive from the Turkish resort town of Kusadasi).
In Ephesus, you walk the same marble streets as the ancients to sites that include a bath house, massive amphitheater and the jaw-dropping remains of a two-story library building façade, looking at columns, mosaics and monuments along the way. Greeks, Egyptians and Romans all ruled in Ephesus, but most of what you see today was built by the Romans. Outside the library, carved in stone, is early marketing asking whether you prefer to visit the library or a house of pleasure (an age-old question).
A tour of the ancient city can be combined in longer excursions with a visit to the House of the Virgin Mary, a modest chapel built on the spot where the Virgin Mary is believed to have spent her last days — a sanctioned pilgrimage site. There's also a second pilgrimage site in the area, St. John's Basilica, where St. John wrote the fourth book of the New Testament.
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Worthwhile excursions on Costa Maya and Cozumel
By thesnoopster2 , October 7, 2021 in MSC Cruises
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thesnoopster2
With Covid and all that crap, what are the best excursions currently available? There are always some that are worth it and some that are not. I'm looking for suggestions on ones I should consider and why, and which ones I should stay away from. Like I had a tequila tour I did a few years ago. It was $50 for 3 hours so I thought that was fun.
Also, I have a 20-month old I am taking on the cruise. So, in addition, what ones are child friendly? We may or may not leave the toddler on the boat in daycare, but if we take him with us, I would like to know what ones are child friendly. Something that would keep him entertained and such.
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Oh my. My response is being given as a mother first, and cruiser second. With "Covid and all that crap" I, for one, would not venture forth into Cozumel with, or without, my 20 month old. Cozumel just went to "yellow" status a few weeks ago and while they are doing what they can, the rate of vaccinations vs the US is much, much lower. Yes, there are visible signs that folks in Coz are taking steps to stop the spread the overall level of preparedness is NOT the same as in the US. (And, yes, I'm the gal who refused to drink the soda they brought me last week in Coz b/c it was poured over ice. I mean, really? Are you kidding me? Give me the can already folks, unopened, thanks.)
Even if you could check in the little one in daycare while you are off the boat (NOT even sure if this is possible) I would NEVER do it. I was on a Disney ship once where the kids were in daycare and the parents were 2 hours late getting back to the ship in Nassau. The captain would have left them stranded had it not been for the kids. The parents were confined to their cabin for the balance of the cruise. That being said, there's lots of things that could happen while you are onshore and I (PERSONAL OPINION ONLY) wouldn't want my toddler on a ship under the care of someone else during that time.
Also, from personal experience cruising with a child as a single parent - seat belts are often cut OUT of the backs of taxis b/c it takes a second longer for the passenger to get ready. Can't tell you how many times I got out of cabs b/c of this (cue the eye-rolling of the taxi driver.) Are you planning on brining a car seat? The taxis likely won't take you.
The days of bar hopping, cheap tequila tasting, and such might be in your rear-view mirror for a while, I'm afraid. 20 month olds don't have enough immunity yet from the world, let alone a virus such as "Covid and all that crap" ---- in my non medical opinion. (Though Dr. Mom is certainly a title I hold). I'd enjoy quiet time on the ship, put the baby in swim diapers and splash around the toddler pool safely on the boat. There'll be another time for Cozumel.
5 minutes ago, Morgsmom said: Oh my. My response is being given as a mother first, and cruiser second...
Your post oozes common sense throughout, as a father of three now adult children I commend you for the sensitive way you responded to the OP....well written, and well said!
We found an excursion put on by The Native Choice in Costa Maya that includes a visit to the ruins at Chacchoben and then lunch in the nearby Mayan village. They also get good reviews on another travel site.
Don't know how kid friendly it would be.
Nachi Cocoms in Cozumel is a relaxing beach resort that is highly rated. We are going on the MSC Chacchoben ruins tour in Costa Maya. We've been to Costa Maya before and took a cab to the beach and had lunch at the many restaurants that face the beach.
The Native Choice is a fantastic company with fabulous tours.
I have been on 2 with them, and highly recommend them if you are allowed to book private excursions.
I have been on that exact same tour about 5 years ago. Chaccoben is one of my favorite Mayan sites and I have been to several, and the meal at the Mayan village was one of the best meals I have ever had on vacation.
I saw this video. renting a scooter and touring the island on your own. I enjoy scooters and would rent these in any port so I can zip around
I have to agree with @Morgsmom
Pre Covid, Cozumel has some nice things to offer and I’d happily share those with you but during these times getting on a tour bus in Mexico isn’t something I’m planning to do. I love Mexico and especially love the Mayan people and their history…we’ve spent over 150 days on land in the Cozumel/Playa del Carmen area so we know it very well. Not sure what we’ll do this time in Cozumel because with their Covid problems this won’t be like past visits.
At this point I’m just very happy to be able to step on a cruise ship and enjoy that experience again.
Costa Maya to me is a ship day.
I’d be happy to dock at Coco Cay an extra day and skip Costa Maya.
44 minutes ago, styles27 said: I have to agree with @Morgsmom Pre Covid, Cozumel has some nice things to offer and I’d happily share those with you but during these times getting on a tour bus in Mexico isn’t something I’m planning to do. I love Mexico and especially love the Mayan people and their history…we’ve spent over 150 days on land in the Cozumel/Playa del Carmen area so we know it very well. Not sure what we’ll do this time in Cozumel because with their Covid problems this won’t be like past visits. At this point I’m just very happy to be able to step on a cruise ship and enjoy that experience again. Costa Maya to me is a ship day. I’d be happy to dock at Coco Cay an extra day and skip Costa Maya.
*Ocean Cay 🙈 Forgot which board I was on sorry
Ocean Cay, Coco Cay - I'd take either right now! 🙉
1 minute ago, Morgsmom said: Ocean Cay, Coco Cay - I'd take either right now! 🙉
MacMarauder
On 10/7/2021 at 8:35 AM, Morgsmom said: Even if you could check in the little one in daycare while you are off the boat (NOT even sure if this is possible) I would NEVER do it. I was on a Disney ship once where the kids were in daycare and the parents were 2 hours late getting back to the ship in Nassau. The captain would have left them stranded had it not been for the kids. The parents were confined to their cabin for the balance of the cruise. That being said, there's lots of things that could happen while you are onshore and I (PERSONAL OPINION ONLY) wouldn't want my toddler on a ship under the care of someone else during that time.
I agree with this sentiment, unless there is an adult with your group who will stay on board I would not put kids in child care and leave the ship. Just too much that can go wrong.
Also you mentioned that car seats can be a pain in taxis, while in St. Marteen we did a day pass at a resort when on Allure of the Seas. The cab driver to the resort wanted my son to sit on our lap so she could fit another group in. She got mad when we told her we had to use the car seat. However the cab driver on the way back to the ship was not only fine with it he was super nice and chatty so it can go either way.
We have a stop in Cozumel on the August 2022 Seashore cruise I booked, my kids will be 4/7 at sailing. Still trying to figure out what, if anything, we will do but it's so far out a lot can change between now and then!
Maya Chan, Costa Maya, is a family owned beach “club.” There were children playing. It is lovely and the included lunch is also very good and made to order. Included in your fee is the taxi to and from.
Tagging on to this post. My 29-year-old son and I will be going to Costa Maya in January on Meraviglia. I heard great things about the " Maya, Lost Mayan Kingdom" water park resort pre-Covid. Their website is not clear about whether or not they have reopened since the closure in March 2020 due to Covid. Does anyone know if they are operating again?
Gatordad1967
On 10/8/2021 at 8:49 AM, styles27 said: *Ocean Cay 🙈 Forgot which board I was on sorry
On 10/7/2021 at 6:54 PM, codeyell0 said: I saw this video. renting a scooter and touring the island on your own. I enjoy scooters and would rent these in any port so I can zip around
I would love to do this, but afraid I got a bump and my baby goes flying
My favorite thing to do in Cozumel is to rent a car. The road around the island is good and driving is easy. Just pick where you want to stop and enjoy the beautiful island.
We just came back
In Costa Maya we rented a golf cart 60.00 just outside where you get taxi's. The only downside is our cart could not get out of its own way. We are not small and a couple times had to back up and get some speed to get out of where we were. If you rent a cart go to Mannie's place I forgot the name, the golf cart people will recommend him and some lobster place which was in the middle of everything just too much going on. where we went was at the end of the island. but it was so far down the road few were there it was sooo peaceful. swings at the bar to sit on. I think he cooks the food in his house because the bar has no kitchen its a bar outside. I had steak fajitas, meat was great. He offered us free margaritas but we don't drink and he apologized and brought us something else which was delicious. We did stop at some other place OMG the vendors were non-stop. we had a drink and left. AND we were over charged it said soda 3us he billed us 4 and then wanted a tip. stay away from anything in town no matter what people say there. I will post some pics when I get home. All places basically have beaches where you can swim and eat/drink. The free pool looks refreshing but we didn't stay long. Just toured the shops grabbed a few souvenirs.
In Cozumel ($100.00 for me and wife) I got a driver to drive us around 4 hours with A/C!! We went to the ruins, local markets, where he shopped. nothing commercialized, took us to a local restaurant. We were going to go to his favorite taco joint but we were out of cash. He gave us info about the island. stuff most people don't see. We did grab some sodas and snacks Since I noticed MSC doesn't care if you bring sodas or drinks back on the ship. So I stocked up since they were so cheap. local shops had some neat snacks too. I needed something other than MSC food to snack on.
In Costa Maya I went to Jaimie's Blue Reef and it was awesome $50 got you fabulous drinks all day what ever you want to eat and a lounger bed with a fantastic view. when I was there it was me and one other couple plenty of social distancing and the staff could not have been better.
In Cozumel I once again went on the Cozumel Bar Hop which is my favorite excursion. Super safe great protocols lots of fun and gorgeous views along the east side of the island.
I have to second the recommendations for Maya Chan in Costa Maya. The food is outstanding, the location is beautiful, the drinks are strong and the price is reasonable.
in Cozumel, I recommend buying a day past for Mr. Sanchos.
missalexandra
I am a scuba diver and have been to Cozumel many times, know the island well. The excursions are all ripoffs, don't bother. The "ruins" on this island are a total joke. If you want to go to the beach, get in a taxi and go to the beach of your choice. Some of them do charge but not nearly as much as the ship will take from you. The best option is to rent a scooter and drive it around the island at your own pace. Walk to a rental place and it will cost half as much as doing it through the cruise, if that. There are beautiful beaches on the undeveloped side of the island. It's perfectly safe and you can't get lost unless you are brain dead. No, you can't do that with a toddler. The ruins near Costa Maya are better than on Cozumel but don't remotely compare to something like Chichen Itza or Uxmal. If you want to go there negotiate with a taxi driver and they will take you for much less than being herded onto a bus. To get to the beach, either walk (not with a toddler for sure) or wend your way through the tourist trap maze and find the local taxis, which will only charge you a couple of dollars. Plenty of places to hang out for just the price of buying a few drinks.
I'm seeing all these wonderful ideas, but again, I have a little 20 month old so I need ideas that would be baby friendly. The long trips, 5 hours, to the beach clubs sounds great, but what if baby needs to sleep in the middle or he freaks and need to go back to the boat? Do those beach recordings have drivers to take you back or are you 'stuck' there till the bus comes back 5 hours later?
Yet another reason not to pay inflated prices to get on a bus. Cozumel has many "beach clubs." You can take a taxi and walk into almost all of them with no reservation of any kind. If there is no taxi when you want to leave they will call you one. It is really that simple. At Mahahual (that is the name of the town, "Costa Maya" is a fictitious name the cruise lines made up), there is a very long beachfront lined with shops and restaurants. Get in a taxi for a few dollars and pick an establishment that looks good to you, order a drink and you have your beach. When you want to leave, if there isn't a taxi in view, the restaurant will summon one. I suggest you pack one of those little sun shelters for kids that roll up small, and a foldable stroller. No Mexican beach is going to have facilities for babies.
On 10/7/2021 at 10:27 AM, KennyFla said: We found an excursion put on by The Native Choice in Costa Maya that includes a visit to the ruins at Chacchoben and then lunch in the nearby Mayan village. They also get good reviews on another travel site. Don't know how kid friendly it would be.
Snuck into this convo via a search for new info on mexico - but let me say that is a great tour, we loved it. I didn’t see little children on it but there were some teens. Great, educated guide! You will love it! But their location is a greater trek from the cruise port than you imagine so grab a cheap taxi if you can if you aren’t at a high level of fitness 👍🏼
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Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Attractions
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1. Electrostal History and Art Museum
2. Statue of Lenin
3. Park of Culture and Leisure
4. museum and exhibition center.
5. Museum of Labor Glory
7. Galereya Kino
8. viki cinema, 9. smokygrove.
10. Gandikap
11. papa lounge bar, 12. karaoke bar.
- Statue of Lenin
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The price for the combination is about 15% / $ 32 cheaper than booking each excursion separately. That gives passengers an incentive to book and likely more revenue for MSC since many who may normally book independently will book the combination now through the ship. Edited November 14, 2022 by JT1962. 1.
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Discover MSC Cruises shore excursions and book your experience now: choose among active adventures, city tours, culture trips, natural excursions and many more. Login Hi, {0} Sign out. 877-665-4655. Mon-Fri 9am - 7pm EST Sat-Sun 9am - 6pm EST. Home; Our Cruises; Excursions; Call me
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Las Ramblas, the city's famous boulevard, is a long walk or quick shuttle bus ride away. For us, the must-do shore excursion is to see the extravagant creations of architect Antoni Gaudi, including his La Sagrada Familia Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where construction has been ongoing since 1882.
Sail date: Feb 25, 2024 / Traveled as: Couple. Ship: MSC Seashore. Our cruise was awesome, we were a little cautious due to the negative remarks from other cruisers BUT it was great from beginning to end. The ship, staff, service and amenities were very good and provided much enjoyment and relaxation. JUST GO.
Our expert review of the MSC Seashore breaks down deck plans, the best rooms, dining, and more. ... Shore Excursions: 246. Sails To. Western Caribbean, Bahamas, Eastern Caribbean. Sails From.
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Hi All, I dont know this question is relevant here but as this forum is very active a lot of local Moscow guys are here I am asking it here. 1. When is the best time of the day to visit Moscow metro stations so that there is less crowd and...
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Apelsin Hotel, Elektrostal: See 43 traveler reviews, 19 candid photos, and great deals for Apelsin Hotel, ranked #1 of 4 hotels in Elektrostal and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor.
January 2, 2020. Port St Lucie. #4. Posted October 7, 2021 (edited) We found an excursion put on by The Native Choice in Costa Maya that includes a visit to the ruins at Chacchoben and then lunch in the nearby Mayan village. They also get good reviews on another travel site. Don't know how kid friendly it would be.
1. Electrostal History and Art Museum. 2. Statue of Lenin. 3. Park of Culture and Leisure. 4. Museum and Exhibition Center. 5.