Fantasia to Mediterranean

MSC Fantasia is big, beautiful- stunningly so inside- and built to appeal to several different nationalities, typically English, French, Italian, German and Spanish, in the main. So when you hear an announcement over the loud speakers, it will be repeated in each language. And yes, this can be maddening at times.

My jaw dropped when I first saw the Swarovski staircase, a glittering glass walkway studded with thousands of crystals on each tread. It soars through the middle atrium area, and is without doubt one of the most show stopping sights on any ship afloat.

That same, lavish care extends right throughout the ship. MSC Fantasia is a floating palazzo on the briny; a true slice of Italy afloat.

Sadly, that same attention to detail does not extend to some of the staff. A request may be met with an affirmative reply, but then it is never delivered. MSC sometimes treats its passengers as though they are simply cargo, being ferried from one port to another. It's a big problem with this line, and it needs addressing right from the very top.

Some high points included a magnificent, two storey pool and bar complex, complete with sliding glass roof. There was often sunset jazz at an aft facing, open air bar, that was wonderfully atmospheric. If fact, the high quality of live music right across MSC Fantasia was a definite strong point.

Food catered right across a glut of nationalities. It had taste, good texture, and some really imaginative Mediterranean twists. Floor shows were high energy, fast paced, and designed to cut smartly across the range of languages on board.

My balcony room, complete with a ruby red bedstead, is the most lavish standard cabin I have ever seen. I could have stayed in it all week. The shower was wonderful, and storage space ample. Best of all, there was a full length couch.

Some aspects of being on the MSC Fantasia were maddening; the lack of communication being chief among these. But the ship herself is magnificent, stylish, and rather splendid. Go with an open mind, and you'll very likely have a fine time.