Everything You Need To Know About MSC Seashore

My husband and I just sailed on a four-night voyage in an Aurea Balcony cabin on the MSC Seashore to Ocean Cay, MSC Marine Reserve private island, and Nassau, Bahamas. While the ports were great, this trip for us was about relaxation and enjoying the ship.

Seashore docked at Ocean Cay

I cannot emphasize enough how much value the Aurea booking level provided on this ship. Beginning with an expedited check-in line and priority embarkation/luggage drop. It was already amazing considering how short the line was and that we had our bags and stateroom access by 3:15 p.m. The room came with complimentary champagne, chocolates, and MSC slippers, along with a robe, but you’re not allowed to take off the ship, unfortunately.

The Atrium

Aurea Balcony Stateroom, Starboard Side

There’s also an exclusive lounge on the top deck, 19, with a bar, seating/lounge area, and two private whirlpools. Quiet, high-quality service, private bathroom, and all you needed for a perfect afternoon. Rounding out the experience was the Aurea only “my-time” dining room, open for seating at your desired time between 5:30 and 9, no reservation needed. Complimentary access to the thermal area as many times as desired throughout the voyage as well, which was a huge plus. Super relaxing, and lots of unique steam rooms, showers, and therapeutic rooms to enjoy.

The ship had so many bars and we did try to make it to all of them; missed a few not for lack of trying, though. Our favorites were the Seashore bar in the heart of the action in the Atrium, the Aurea bar on deck 19, and the Brooklyn Cafe, which became adults-only at night and served up a fresh espresso and old fashion that left little to be desired, with the background of jazz music; its where we started most nights.

Dining in the buffet was always available, including afternoon snacks and late-night needs. It had tons of options and stood out for its salad bar offering tons of variety and high-quality healthy options, which guests praised. The main dining room was good as well, nothing to rave about, but the service was impeccable. Our specialty dining anniversary dinner at Butchers Cut with the Chef’s Table experience was by far worth its value. A seafood tower, sommelier accompanied wine pairing, and delicious homemade butters set the tone for a perfect last night on the ship for us, and the tower alone was worth the price we paid for the specialty meal for two..

While it was cold on our voyage and we didn’t get to enjoy much of the pool deck, there were so many different pools, including the indoor jungle pool that was filled with families, especially those with kids on a cool day. The pool deck was spacious, with two easily accessible bars, and the Aft, adults-only infinity pool had a designated bar of its own, making it a one stop shop for a day in the sun. Plus, there’s fresh gelato back there as well and it is a MUST try. There are tons of whirlpools around this ship, however, my one caveat is that they were not very hot at all, which typically isn’t a problem but came to be a huge talking point among guests on this chillier voyage.

View from the Aft, adults-only infinity pool

Pool Deck at sunset

One of multiple glass paneled bridges around the ship - such a cool feature

MSC is a very accessible and budget-friendly line, but the small increase for the Aurea experience is one of the most worthwhile value upgrades i’ve personally experienced, specifically on this ship. I don’t ever cruise without a balcony, as I find the fresh air and ability to watch the sunset as you pull away from port from the comfort of your robe and balcony to be completely unmatched.

Entertainment is the only thing I felt lacked a bit, and if you’re used to the likes of Royal Caribbean level entertainment you must set proper expectations—that’s not what this ship is about. Mellow music, ship orchestrated dance parties, LOTS of karaoke (which did get exhausting at a certain point) and piano/jazz and lighthearted music set the tone for a relaxed vibe that picks up the energy at given times. Not a bad thing, just an expectation to be set. I personally found the mellow music, and specifically the steel drum on the pool deck, to be incredibly peaceful and perfect for this cruise.

Don’t miss Times Square, hosting live music nightly that you can hear from sitting right at the Casino bar. The Venchi Chocolate store and experience was also a great value, with a tasting offered at $22 per person, that came with multiple chocolates to try and a chocolate ship as a souvenir—a $25 value alone. The sports bar has tons of seating for groups and is the perfect spot if you’re with the squad and want to enjoy a game, race, or event while onboard. This ship truly has something to offer everyone.

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