Our Divina Cruise, the good and the bad

[Giantfan13]

Len-

 

If you are on an Italian ship, and they are serving lasagna...this is real Italian lasagna....the way Italians eat it (or at least one of the ways).

 

 

Sorry, but I grew up in an Italian neighborhood in Brooklyn, NY. My best friend and best man at my wedding was from Italy. I think I ate in his house more than mine growing up. I used to go to Little Italy, in Manhattan all the time to eat, and while I was in the service, I spent some great time in Italy. I know what Italian food is like and supposed to be like.

(After I got married, this all changed, but that is another story for another day).

 

I have eaten more lasagna, made by Italians than many others, and I know what it should taste like and look like. Maybe the idea of preparing it for 3000 people might take some of the home made idea of it away, but real lasagna is made with tomato sauce and not some heavy cream thing that they put on this one. Now I'm not saying it can't be done this way. Obviously it can, as they served it that way, but it was far from what a true Italian lasagna is.

 

Cheers

 

Len

[Giantfan13]

Are you allowed an open flame in the library of a cruise ship? It sounds like a law suit waiting to happen. Even the candles at the dining tables in the Yacht Club restaurant were the little LED ones.

 

And do you know whether the service was one that MSC was responsible for organising, or simply one where they made space and some resources available but was passenger organised? Would I be correct in saying one would judge it by different standards according to which is the case?

 

I'm also wondering how you knew where to go if the daily paper didn't specify that it was in the library. Is there any particular reason this room is considered unsuitable? I am just enquiring as I am not Jewish so I don't really understand the significance of this comment.

 

As far as the open flame. I believe some one else has already mentioned, but when one lights Sabbath Candles for the beginning of the Sabbath, on Friday night, there should be at least 2 candles to light. On all other cruises that offered Friday night services, they always had this. My DW lights candles at home each week, so she has done the prayers on several of these cruises. Technically, the candles are supposed to burn for at least 3 hours, but when we have done this before, we always extinguish the candles right after services. They are NEVER left unattended.

 

We sail NCL a lot and they always supply what is needed for these services, Carnival very rarely. MSC is trying, but they just need some one to instruct them in the correct way to do it. I'm sure they will have it right in no time at all.

 

As for the location, in the daily bulletin, they called the area where the Library and the adjoining part, something else. Maybe one of the other cruisers can remember the exact name. Myself, I probably never would have found it, but my DW remembered seeing it on the wall (or door, or somewhere) once before, so she knew exactly where it is. Why they didn't just say, in the Library is anyone's guess. The do say what deck it was on, so it wouldn't be too difficult to find the exact spot.

 

Cheers

 

Len

[Giantfan13]

Kat- Len reported that they used a "Chanukah Menorah" that is used in Dec. and holds 9 candles or lights.

 

Shabbat is 2 candles or lights. Every cruise ship departing Miami or South Florida on a regular basis offers candles, kosher wine and fresh challah.

 

Some have prayer books available. These are always guest led EXCEPT during major holidays.

 

Exactly.

 

Cheers

 

Len

Edited September 2, 2014 by Giantfan13

[Mikesa1721]

As far as the open flame. I believe some one else has already mentioned, but when one lights Sabbath Candles for the beginning of the Sabbath, on Friday night, there should be at least 2 candles to light. On all other cruises that offered Friday night services, they always had this. My DW lights candles at home each week, so she has done the prayers on several of these cruises. Technically, the candles are supposed to burn for at least 3 hours, but when we have done this before, we always extinguish the candles right after services. They are NEVER left unattended.

 

We sail NCL a lot and they always supply what is needed for these services, Carnival very rarely. MSC is trying, but they just need some one to instruct them in the correct way to do it. I'm sure they will have it right in no time at all.

 

As for the location, in the daily bulletin, they called the area where the Library and the adjoining part, something else. Maybe one of the other cruisers can remember the exact name. Myself, I probably never would have found it, but my DW remembered seeing it on the wall (or door, or somewhere) once before, so she knew exactly where it is. Why they didn't just say, in the Library is anyone's guess. The do say what deck it was on, so it wouldn't be too difficult to find the exact spot.

 

Cheers

 

Len[/size][/font]

 

MSC calls it "Sky And Stars". I wouldn't have known it was the library either if I hadn't asked a question regarding this area before we sailed.

[Giantfan13]

It is an "European" ship and people want the American atmosphere. Choose an American ship!!!!!This is not the choice that is missing. be a bit adventurous and try other things.;)

 

And WHAT American atmosphere are you referring to, if I may be so bold as to ask?

 

Is it to have a fish dinner that isn't dried out when served?

 

Is it to expect to be served a cocktail when invited to a cocktail party?

 

Is it not wanting to pay a fee just to be able to access the top deck, even just to look around?

 

Is it to expect a good cruise for a budget minded cruiser and not having to be in the Yacht Club to enjoy it?

 

so what are these American things that you speak of. Oh, and I am adventurous, we did try this cruise line instead of just staying with the 'regulars'.

 

Cheers

 

Len

[Giantfan13]

I'm confused. The OP is Jewish and tries to follow a kosher diet. No shellfish makes total sense, as well as no pork. No meat dishes with dairy on the same plate, right? Surely MSC could have brought you a steak or chicken breast with vegies and rice or potato. What don't I get here?

 

As far as the salmon, overcooked IS unpleasant. I wouldn't necessarily call it inedible, but I wouldn't be reordering it three times either. You compared it to "fresh salmon" that you cook at home. Your expectation of fresh fish on a mass market cruise ship is unreasonable. It's Frozen fish, and should be compared to frozen salmon you cook at home (which I agree is vastly inferior to fresh salmon, hence, my hesitation to order it on cruises.)

 

Sorry you didn't enjoy your trip. I'm looking forward to our September sailing on the Divina.

 

I think some one already explained when we didn't order meat, or could not order meat. Before criticizing, maybe you should have read what I wrote first about our food requirements and what we can eat and cannot eat.

 

I really don't know what you order on cruise ships, but I have ordered Salmon going on 15 years of us cruising and it has ALWAYS been edible. Sometimes better than others times, but always either very good to excellent. Must I keep repeating this, this salmon was dry and overcooked. Is this MY fault as some here seem to be trying to say.

And when I buy Salmon, I immediately cut it up and freeze it. When it is defrosted it is as good as fresh if cooked immediately, so why do you use this as an excuse for them overcooking it?

 

So, when you cruise in September, please try some of the fish dishes and then, come back here and tell me about them. If you like dry, overcooked fish, you will have a fantastic cruise.

 

WOW

 

OH, just a note, I really do not remember them EVER serving a chicken meal on any nights in the MDR. They had dishes where chicken was integrated into the sauce, or whatever, but I do believe there wasn't one just chicken dish served. Not even on the 'everyday' menu.

 

Cheers

 

Len

Edited September 2, 2014 by Giantfan13

[Giantfan13]

duplicate psot

Edited September 2, 2014 by Giantfan13

[Skier52]

Pete,,,If I was onboard and decided to purchase a $20,000.00 watch,,,would I then become a Black Card member?

On the last night of my last cruise I purchased a swarovski crystal necklace for just over €200 just to secure that extra point I needed to get a black card. having first checked the total spend up to that point at the accounts desk and allowed for the service charge that would be put on that night.

 

I managed to be €1.60 over the magic multiple of €200 and then had to wait three months to give the necklace to my wife for our wedding anniversary.

 

So in essence I managed to kill two birds with one stone. well one bird was very happy with the gift.

 

( to our US friends:- "Bird" is a somewhat out of date English colloquialism for a young woman I don't know if it was used in the US with the same connertation)

 

 

Pete

[American Bear]

I'm afraid you have misunderstood how the points accumulate.

 

The points are awarded on an individual basis so in your calculation you have 15 points awarded to a couple but they are split one person has 7 points and the other has 8

 

if you only rely on nights on board you will need to complete 15 cruises to get 105 points and get a black card.

 

If you always give the on board spend to the same person (B) and you get $400 (2 points) per cruise

the system will work like this

 

1st cruise person A :- 7pts (CLASSIC) Person B:- 9 pts (CLASSIC)

 

2nd cruise person A :- 14pts (CLASSIC) Person B:- 18 pts (CLASSIC)

 

3rd cruise person A :- 21pts (SILVER) Person B:- 27 pts (SILVER)

 

4th cruise person A :- 28pts (SILVER) Person B:- 36 pts (SILVER)

 

5th cruise person A :- 35pts (SILVER) Person B:- 45 pts (GOLD)

 

6th cruise person A :- 42pts (SILVER) Person B:- 54 pts (GOLD)

 

7th cruise person A :- 49pts (GOLD) Person B:- 63 pts (GOLD)

...

...

 

11th cruise person A :- 77pts (GOLD) Person B:- 99 pts (GOLD)

 

12th cruise person A :- 84pts (GOLD) Person B:- 108 pts (BLACK)

 

If an extra point on spend is earned on cruises 1 to 11 then person B will get Black after 11 cruises

 

 

Pete

 

You are quite right Skier, thanks for pointing out the error in my math, I was thinking of our back to back when I stated 14 pts.!

After our 2 week cruise, with all our gratuities, spending for drink packages, and excursions, we had 40 pts! So we're a big fan of the pt. system using on board spending!

Edited September 2, 2014 by American Bear

[Giantfan13]

Another bit of info I just remembered. If Great Stirrup Cay is on your itinerary, here is a bit of advice on this place. We had been there before on a NCL cruise (it IS their island). Most of the people head right for the main beach as soon as they get off the tenders and it does get crowded there.

We were in no rush to get there and got to the island about 10:30 or so. By that time I would say all the lounge chairs were taken and every conceivable spot in the shade was occupied. No worry though. As I read on the GSC port of call board, they have a sort of tram that will take you to another location called the Lagoon. This place is remarkable. They had lounge chairs all over the place with hardly any people on them. Walking around, there are several areas, where you can take the chairs to and sort of have your own private lagoon. There is a very nice 'lake' right in the middle that is not very deep. They also have the BBQ stand there with free water and lemonade as well as the usually BBQ food. And shade, just move your lounge chair under one of many palm trees and viola, instant shade.

If you wish to go there, just ask anyone where the tram stop is and the lagoon is about a 10 minute ride away. If there were 300 people in this entire area it was a lot. Why they don't publicize this part of the island, I have no idea, but why fight the crowds when you can have a lagoon to yourself.

 

Cheers

 

Len

[Skier52]

You are quite right Skier, thanks for pointing out the error in my math, I was thinking of our back to back when I stated 14 pts.!

After our 2 week cruise, with all our gratuities, spending for drink packages, and excursions, we had 40 pts! So we're a big fan of the pt. system using on board spending!

How did you split it ?

 

I hope it is 14/26 so you have 1 Classic and 1 Silver

 

If you go again the booking made by the SILVER will get the 8% discount for all guests in their cabin.

 

if the split is 20/20 you'll only have CLASSIC cards and so only get a 5% discount

 

The way to play the system is to pile the points on to one card and get to black asap.

 

There are rumours of a fifth level to be added in the very near future. I was told by an on board rep, 12 months ago, that a new tier, PLATINUM???, would be added in 12 - 18 months; so that is now!!!

 

 

Pete

Edited September 2, 2014 by Skier52

[American Bear]

Yes!!

 

but not if you spent $20,000 in the casino

 

 

 

Here are the relevant T&Cs from the MSC Club web site

 

2. MSC CLUB POINTS SYSTEM

2.1 Gaining points for previous cruises (points for nights and on-board

spending): When registration for the loyalty programme is confirmed, the

points for nights and on-board spending pertaining to the new member’s most

recent cruise (taken prior to registration for the programme) will be added to

his or her MSC Club card. If a passenger has taken more than one cruise before

registering for the MSC Club, points for nights and on-board spending pertaining

to earlier cruises cannot be requested or obtained (only the points for nights

and on-board spending pertaining to the most recent cruise will be recognised).

2.2 You will gain 1 point for every night actually spent on board an MSC Cruises

ship and 1 point for every 200 euros/dollars spent on board (excluding casino

expenses). Applicable for cruises beginning on or after 15 October 2008.

2.3 Points are non-transferable, i.e. you cannot allocate your own points to another

member or non-member.

2.4 Points have no cash value and cannot be exchanged for cash. They only determine

benefits on MSC Cruises holidays

2.5 The MSC Club points system is used to determine your eligibility for benefits

under the following membership types:

- Classic Membership: 1 to 21 points

- Silver Membership: 22 to 42 points

- Gold Membership: 43 to 99 points

- Black Membership: 100 + points

 

Great info Skier!:)

But I think if you lost $20,000. in the casino, the Aponte family might just give you a Black Card!:D

[Mikesa1721]

Yes!!

 

but not if you spent $20,000 in the casino

 

 

 

Here are the relevant T&Cs from the MSC Club web site

 

2. MSC CLUB POINTS SYSTEM

2.1 Gaining points for previous cruises (points for nights and on-board

spending): When registration for the loyalty programme is confirmed, the

points for nights and on-board spending pertaining to the new member’s most

recent cruise (taken prior to registration for the programme) will be added to

his or her MSC Club card. If a passenger has taken more than one cruise before

registering for the MSC Club, points for nights and on-board spending pertaining

to earlier cruises cannot be requested or obtained (only the points for nights

and on-board spending pertaining to the most recent cruise will be recognised).

2.2 You will gain 1 point for every night actually spent on board an MSC Cruises

ship and 1 point for every 200 euros/dollars spent on board (excluding casino

expenses). Applicable for cruises beginning on or after 15 October 2008.

2.3 Points are non-transferable, i.e. you cannot allocate your own points to another

member or non-member.

2.4 Points have no cash value and cannot be exchanged for cash. They only determine

benefits on MSC Cruises holidays

2.5 The MSC Club points system is used to determine your eligibility for benefits

under the following membership types:

- Classic Membership: 1 to 21 points

- Silver Membership: 22 to 42 points

- Gold Membership: 43 to 99 points

- Black Membership: 100 + points

 

Great info Skier!:)

But I think if you lost $20,000. in the casino, the Aponte family might just give you a Black Card!:D

 

Haaaa!!! I wouldn't need to worry about the Black Card at that point,,my girlfriend would throw me overboard if I lost 20k in the casino.

[Skier52]

American Bear

 

But I think if you lost $20,000. in the casino, the Aponte family might just give you a Black Card!:D

Who said lose $20,000??:confused::confused:

 

if you put $20,000 on "0" and win; you get back $740,000 then buy the contents of the jewellery store, less the original $20,000, you then get your black card, and the jewellery and your $20,000:D

 

Pete

Edited September 2, 2014 by Skier52

[riclop]

And WHAT American atmosphere are you referring to, if I may be so bold as to ask?

 

Is it to have a fish dinner that isn't dried out when served?

 

Is it to expect to be served a cocktail when invited to a cocktail party?

 

Is it not wanting to pay a fee just to be able to access the top deck, even just to look around?

 

Is it to expect a good cruise for a budget minded cruiser and not having to be in the Yacht Club to enjoy it?

 

so what are these American things that you speak of. Oh, and I am adventurous, we did try this cruise line instead of just staying with the 'regulars'.

 

Cheers

 

Len

 

It seems you get upset over every comment that's made to you, so maybe you should keep your reviews if you cant have a reasonable conversation even when it was not addressed to you. Like someone said the salmon was not good the first time and yet you ordered it every night. Geez.

Edited September 3, 2014 by riclop

[modes]

It seems you get upset over every comment that's made to you, so maybe you should keep your reviews if you cant have a reasonable conversation even when it was not addressed to you. Like someone said the salmon was not good the first time and yet you ordered it every night. Geez.

 

Your right he seems to bark at everyone.

[jkgourmet]

Another bit of info I just remembered. If Great Stirrup Cay is on your itinerary, here is a bit of advice on this place. We had been there before on a NCL cruise (it IS their island). Most of the people head right for the main beach as soon as they get off the tenders and it does get crowded there.

We were in no rush to get there and got to the island about 10:30 or so. By that time I would say all the lounge chairs were taken and every conceivable spot in the shade was occupied. No worry though. As I read on the GSC port of call board, they have a sort of tram that will take you to another location called the Lagoon. This place is remarkable. They had lounge chairs all over the place with hardly any people on them. Walking around, there are several areas, where you can take the chairs to and sort of have your own private lagoon. There is a very nice 'lake' right in the middle that is not very deep. They also have the BBQ stand there with free water and lemonade as well as the usually BBQ food. And shade, just move your lounge chair under one of many palm trees and viola, instant shade.

If you wish to go there, just ask anyone where the tram stop is and the lagoon is about a 10 minute ride away. If there were 300 people in this entire area it was a lot. Why they don't publicize this part of the island, I have no idea, but why fight the crowds when you can have a lagoon to yourself.

 

Cheers

 

Len

 

Thank you for this information! What did you eat?

[jkgourmet]

I think some one already explained when we didn't order meat, or could not order meat. Before criticizing, maybe you should have read what I wrote first about our food requirements and what we can eat and cannot eat.

 

Len

 

I re-read your OP and it states that you try to keep kosher AND that you don't eat meat. So - help me understand- are you trying to keep kosher AND be a vegetarian?

 

I'm sorry if I'm being obtuse. I get that the salmon was lousy - and I'm not surprised.

 

I just don't understand why you couldn't order the vegetarian meal, or ask for grilled chicken breast with vegies (even if its not on the menu, with little notice, they easily could have accomodated) or a steak without any dairy on the plate.

[riclop]

I re-read your OP and it states that you try to keep kosher AND that you don't eat meat. So - help me understand- are you trying to keep kosher AND be a vegetarian?

 

I'm sorry if I'm being obtuse. I get that the salmon was lousy - and I'm not surprised.

 

I just don't understand why you couldn't order the vegetarian meal, or ask for grilled chicken breast with vegies (even if its not on the menu, with little notice, they easily could have accomodated) or a steak without any dairy on the plate.

 

Very true they are accommodating if you want something just ask.

[riclop]

Thank you for this information! What did you eat?

 

HA HA very good question, all that barbecue food on the island or maybe he was still looking for that perfectly cooked salmon.

[maureencruiser]

As I read on the GSC port of call board, they have a sort of tram that will take you to another location called the Lagoon. This place is remarkable.

 

Len, Thank You for this! All I keep hearing is that there is no shade on the ship, no shade on the island..... You just made my night. :D

[IJustWantToGo36]

I re-read your OP and it states that you try to keep kosher AND that you don't eat meat. So - help me understand- are you trying to keep kosher AND be a vegetarian?

 

I'm sorry if I'm being obtuse. I get that the salmon was lousy - and I'm not surprised.

 

I just don't understand why you couldn't order the vegetarian meal, or ask for grilled chicken breast with vegies (even if its not on the menu, with little notice, they easily could have accomodated) or a steak without any dairy on the plate.

 

When someone is kosher and they say they don't eat meat, they mean non-kosher meat which includes chicken.

 

The OP has been attacked for saying the "salmon sucked"

 

Why can't you (members on this board) accept that at face value?

 

If OP has been on 15 cruises, I am sure he has ordered salmon on average 3 times per cruise. Why? Because salmon is an EVERY NITE menu item on most ships. On Lobster nite, Prawn nite, catfish nite etc, OP probably ordered the salmon.

 

So, it probably makes him a cruise ship salmon expert.

 

as to why he ordered it 3x, I just explained...it is a goto item.

 

Secondly, if the man grew up in Brooklyn in the 50's and 60's he actually does know food.

 

So, again, why are you'all attacking him for what appeared to be a fair and balanced review?

Edited September 3, 2014 by IJustWantToGo36

[Katgoesonholiday]

I'm going to pop my oar back in and say that the fish dishes I tried on the Preziosa were not very nice - some were dry and some tasted just odd. I stuck to red meat after a few attempts.

 

And I found the lack of shade on the ship to significantly impact my enjoyment of the outdoor areas. I am pale skinned and come in one of two colors - bright white or bright red. I wasn't able to relax outdoors for long even with sunscreen on as it was just too bright, too hot and too much sun.

 

Having said that, I still had an awesome cruise and would love to do it all over again.

[Katgoesonholiday]

...and my pillow was lumpy, the bacon was raw and there was a cigarette tray n the bathroom - not to mention a bunch of plumbing fittings that could have been painful had I taken a nose dive onto them! :p

[papcx]

...and my pillow was lumpy, the bacon was raw and there was a cigarette tray n the bathroom - not to mention a bunch of plumbing fittings that could have been painful had I taken a nose dive onto them! :p

 

 

Was the glass too slanty as well? :D