MSC Preziosa
A lively Mediterranean spirit and modern décor set the decidedly European tone of 3,502-guest MSC Preziosa (meaning "precious" in Italian). For passengers who swoon over sparkles, this ship from MSC Cruises amply satisfies with grand, Swarovski-crystal-studded staircases, Murano glass, white marble, and opulent sculptures everywhere. It’s almost surprising this level of panache can be paired with bargain fares. More well-heeled cruisers can upgrade to the Yacht Club, a ship-within-a-ship enclave, which encompasses 69 suites with butler and concierge services, plus a private dining room, lounge, and pool. It even has its own signature fig-and-almond scent wafting in the air, which is subtle yet inviting.
What We Love
Italian Eats: Mangia! Mangia! Passengers have plenty of opportunities to indulge in their cravings for pasta, pizza, and pastries at venues from quick-grab, casual spots to the open-kitchen Galaxy Lounge. There are also more sophisticated options, such as Ristorante Italia, which serves an elegant table d’hôte menu. Also, with 10 bars on the ship, you'll never have to stroll too far for a prosecco and Peroni — or to find music and late-night revelry.
Kid-Friendly: Italians adore children, and MSC orchestrates a full program of activities — and a slew of promotions — to keep kids (and their parents) happily humming. There’s a junior Tiki bar with fruit drinks, a weekly poolside flash mob, and a Formula 1 race car simulator. The Doremi Castle aqua park (named after the musical scale: do-re-mi) is a sizable zone where kids can splash, giggle, and have fun; and the supervised, pirate-themed Doremiland stays open even when the ship is docked.