Royal Diamond on MSC Diviana: Where Status Recognition is Non-Existent!

[gkbiiii]

There are many reports on recent cruises on MSC Divina on the MSC board, so I will comment mostly about the challenges faced by high level Crown & Anchor members status matched, to Voyagers Black Card.

 

1. Check in is good, being that ONLY; Yacht Club, Aurora, Black Card passengers, have their own check-in line.

2. The hour late disembarkation from your cabin is a great thing for a leasurely time leaving the ship. But you will still have to wait an hour, based on the extensive delays.

 

3. The Cruise Critic Party is MUCH nicer than the Black Card Top Tier Party, as is too, the Voyage Club Party for all members.

4. The party for all members is the one, where you take the picture with the captain and get a free photo the next day.

5. The Black Card Top Tier Party is where you get the Chocolate ships.

 

6. There is a total lack of Tier Recognition of the Black Card Status and unless you are YC, you count for nothing!

7. The YC passengers are the only thing that matters to the MSC staff, officers, and parent company.

8. MSC is the largest cargo company in the world, with nearly 900 ships: this the idea of Service & Hospitality are a foreign concept.

9. Be prepared to be often double billed for items, such as meals you pre-purchased and be spending a half day fighting these charges, through multiple departments.

 

10. The cruise staff seem to hate passengers and each other even more. Inter-departmental cooperation is nearly non-existent and the basic "Supervisory level" is often the ones with a bad attitudes; which are causing problems for their underlings!

11. Senior ship management knows this and states that most will not be joining the new ship (Seaside), which they are transferring to. They realize they there are big problems, with most staff not completing their first 6 month contract.

12. The staff seem angry with the company, as I was told it was based on poor pay & benefits. This line, (MSC) is like the Vegas Downtown casinos, where new dealers learn their job, then move on to better Strip properties.

 

13. Paid dining & snacks are outstanding, some of the best I have had at see. The free buffet, Main Dining Rooms, etc. are very poor, even compared with recent ROYAL cut backs!

14. The paid dining, drinks, coffee, gelato, pastries, are all oustanding and amung the best I have had at sea.

15. The Buffet Pizza is very good and the Paid Pizza Parlor is outstanding--best at sea!

16. Room service is good, with Prosciutto.

Edited October 12, 2017 by gkbiiii

[Clarea]

Interesting and sobering feedback, thanks.

[gkbiiii]

13. Paid dining & snacks are outstanding, some of the best I have had at see. The free buffet, Main Dining Rooms, etc. are very poor, even compared with recent ROYAL cut backs!

14. The paid dining, drinks, coffee, gelato, pastries, are all oustanding and amung the best I have had at sea.

15. The Buffet Pizza is very good and the Paid Pizza Parlor is outstanding--best at sea!

16. Room service is good, with Prosciutto.

17. Alcohol & Coffiee Drink Menu, amoung the best I have seen at Sea.

18. Best Paid ice cream/gelatio at sea.

 

19. The entertainment, both in the theater and classical music in the atrium, was outstanding!

 

20. Divena's a stunning Razzle-Dazzle Vessel, with a great solarium, crystal stairs, polished brass, etc. It is like a European "glitzy" Celebrity: with non-existent service and poor (non-pay) food options.

 

The bottom line is, that the MSC Divina is a good ship for Yacht Club passengers ONLY! The Black Card gets you nothing (service-wise) on-board and you may leave VERY disappointing! The pricing on YC, & Drink/Meal Packages is great, as is the price of pastries and other fun items. For the money you can get a good deal, BUT....

 

 

I would strongly advise not to book Seaside or Divina, other than in Yacht Club!!!

[easyboy]

Thanks for these highlights.

 

 

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[villager70]

I got a Black card last year. The four or so posts I have seen on MSC made me a believer that they will not be seeing me on that line.

[gkbiiii]

I got a Black card last year. The four or so posts I have seen on MSC made me a believer that they will not be seeing me on that line.

 

I did get a private tour of YC, with Butler and everyone there seemed VERY happy. I will be YC on Seaside in Oct. 2018, so I will see the HUGE difference for myself. By the way, the YC Inside-Suite with Black Card discount, brought the total cabin fare down to $2,450 with taxes, port charges, fees included.

 

Thus the base fare was only $1,100 pp, so quite a deal with $300 included on-board credit, plus free drinks, spa, etc. This is a good deal, something Royal does not offer, aside from Star Level Suites: where do you find such suites at just over a grand pp, for seven nights?

[Merion_Mom]

LMaxwell LOVED it.

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2344786&highlight=MSC

[FLACRUISER99]

 

10. The cruise staff seem to hate passengers and each other even more. Inter-departmental cooperation is nearly non-existent and the basic "Supervisory level" is often the ones with a bad attitudes; which are causing problems for their underlings!

11. Senior ship management knows this and states that most will not be joining the new ship (Seaside), which they are transferring to. They realize they there are big problems, with most staff not completing their first 6 month contract.

12. The staff seem angry with the company, as I was told it was based on poor pay & benefits. This line, (MSC) is like the Vegas Downtown casinos, where new dealers learn their job, then move on to better Strip properties.

 

It's amazing to me that OP had such a bad opinion of the crew. It is 100% opposite of the three cruises I took on MSC. I found all of the staff could not do enough for you. Unlike the OP I highly recommend you give them a try and see for your self.

[asctony]

Sorry to disagree with your assessment of MSC. However, it was your opinion and I respect that.

My opinion of MSC based on the Divina which I cruised on in Feb 2017 and going back on in Nov 2017 and Feb 2018 is totally different and we do not use the YC category. We are experienced cruisers and have cruised Celebrity (Elite+), Costa, HAL (Copper), MSC (Black), NCL (Gold), Princess (Elite) and RCI (Diamond+.)

 

We cruise at least 6 times a year on different cruise lines and ships. No specific Cruise Line or Ship is our favorite as they all have their + and -. We are not cheerleaders for any cruise line either.

 

Based on your posting it seems you had more positives for MSC than Negatives. Your major complain or dissatisfaction was the lack of recognition of Black status. Really, what did you expect as it is given out based on NOT the number of times you cruised MSC, but on other cruise line status. As Diamond+, Elite+ and Elite on the other cruise lines I don't get anything as special recognition other than some perks. We don't even go to the cruise parties that are now held during the day and over crowed with people rushing to get a free drink. Maybe I am missing the extra recognition from those other lines? Enlighten me as to what you missed compare to other cruise lines.

 

Double billing was never a problem that I encountered, but that does happen on any cruise. I am sure I have read about it on all of these forums at times. That even happens on other venues besides a cruise.

 

Bad staff-that is another complain that I have read about on these forums, too. Regardless of the line or ship. It does happen as people are human and may have a bad day, but it is not something that is common. Maybe the passenger(S) may be the cause of this. Don't see to many passengers saying 'PLEASE or THANK YOU.' It is 'get me this or why can't I.

'Would you or I work on a ship 8-9 months with a 2 month break away from our families? NO!!! How many of us would put up with the BS from those who think they are 'KINGS n QUEENS of the SEAS?' Look around and try to understand their position.

 

Maybe MSC is not for you or others. That maybe true. That is why we have a choice of various cruise lines. Hope you have a better experience on your next cruise, regardless of your status or category.

 

Four or so posts and you are a believer that MSC is bad? Go to any CC forum and I am sure you can read 4 or more daily about any line or ship. People have very high expectations and want a lot. Some can never be satisfied.

 

We just got off of the Anthem OTS and the MDR food was very poor, but we did not starve. We do not like the Windjammer compare to other cruise line buffets. However, we try to enjoy what we like and accept the rest.

 

What is subjective? Everything you or I experience. That is life and that is our opinions.

Thanks for your review. You did bring out some excellent positives. Remember, everyone has a different experience on the same ship and cruise. Just in this topic alone, you were not please with some things which is understandable, but others like me were very pleased with their MSC Crise.

[Coochuck]

We completed a cruise in the MSC Divina during Hurricane Irma and can not say enough good things about the Captain, and Crew. There were a few occurrences were we did run into crew members that were not very good, however you run into that on every ship. We were in the Yacht Club, and are Diamond Plus, and had the Black Card Match. I can only speak to the Yacht Club experience and tell you that it is worth the extra bucks...service, food, drinks, and tons of extra perks was top notch. We booked the Yacht Club again on the Seaside and are really looking forward to it. By the way, I don't think that the Black Card match really gave you very much, but better than no match at all. You did get 2 for 1 Specialty Restaurants which was nice.

[George C]

Really want to try YC , love that they have private pool

[Cigar King]

The YC really appeals to me and their pricing is significantly lower. I'm guessing we'll be giving it a spin.

[Arzeena]

OP,

You must have read my mind.

I have the same thoughts, after my Divina cruise.However, I don't think the crew hated us, they just seemed very "duh"

If I book again, I would only do the YC.

[gkbiiii]

I did like the (2) dining for two vouchers I received. To me, the Galaxy was my favorite dining room on the ship, plus the view from the 16 floor was great. It was the first time I had a true Mediterranean menu; which after three visits, I had most of the menu.

 

The Ristorante Italia was unlike any Italian restaurant I have been to: it most closely resembles a ultra-high-end steakhouse, such as Morton's of Chicago or Ruth's Chris. The grilled octopus starter, was the best I have ever had.

 

 

The Eataly Steakhouse is a solid choice with one of the best Caesar's salads I have had at sea. The Lobster was very sweet (being Rock Lobster) and side items. I also like the steaks, but recommend ordering a couple of the side sauces.

 

 

The Eataly Pizza & Wine Bar, was great as well. This Pizza was by far the best pizza I have had at sea, and would be impressive on land as well.

 

 

Many good bar/coffee drinks, among the best are the Chocolate-chino drink and the Appleton Rum & Hot Chocolate!

Also, the gelato is wonderful, as are the in-house baked pastries and ALL breads aboard! For some this might be a carb hell, to me, I was in paradise.

[LMaxwell]

Interesting and sobering feedback, thanks.

 

Bob, I would discount some of this. I was treated very nicely on both of my cruises. No one knew my status. At Black Card events we felt catered to, but other than that we had the same nice experiences that all guests receive. I never noticed ANY staff discord, in fact many staff are quite happy at their job. Everyone has different experiences of course, but I just can't buy some of this stuff from OP...

 

I stand by my impression that MSC today provides the service levels associated with Royal Caribbean 10 years ago. If you want staff fawning over you and pretending you are new best friends, maybe not so much, if you appreciate good, professional service without overt sweetness, MSC does great.

 

Since I am not a big drinker and don't mind an inside or oceanview, the blanket 5% off and the 2 nights at specialty dining were a good balance to Diamond Lounge drinks; the first formal night there are plenty of free cocktails around the ship and the 18 drinks for $84 let me have my own happy hours at very low cost.

 

I can't wait for the Seaside. Then I am sure pricing parity will come on strong.

 

Mix 'em all up. MSC, Carnival, Royal, NCL this year. I understand what it feels like to contemplate going out of the comfort zone; I just want good basic service, good food, and comfortable room. I keep almost trying HAL but just can't pull the trigger. MSC I'd go back on tomorrow. I spoke to highly that friends of mine leave on their honeymoon this Saturday. They cruise a ton of NCL and Celebrity so I hope they like it

[LMaxwell]

LMaxwell LOVED it.

 

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=2344786&highlight=MSC

 

Looking forward to meet you on that, or any, ship. I'll be on Enchantment soon:halo:

 

Also note: I am price sensitive and value driven. that does not mean CHEAP. It means I want "good" for the price of good. MSC delivers VERY good, for the price of "cheap". And it is subsidized and will not last long. My last cruise, 7 day Caribbean in an inside, almost 2/3rds cheaper than the Allure. That means I can do another vacation with $$ left. Hard to sneeze at

[Clarea]

Bob, I would discount some of this. I was treated very nicely on both of my cruises. No one knew my status. At Black Card events we felt catered to, but other than that we had the same nice experiences that all guests receive. I never noticed ANY staff discord, in fact many staff are quite happy at their job. Everyone has different experiences of course, but I just can't buy some of this stuff from OP...

 

I stand by my impression that MSC today provides the service levels associated with Royal Caribbean 10 years ago. If you want staff fawning over you and pretending you are new best friends, maybe not so much, if you appreciate good, professional service without overt sweetness, MSC does great.

 

Since I am not a big drinker and don't mind an inside or oceanview, the blanket 5% off and the 2 nights at specialty dining were a good balance to Diamond Lounge drinks; the first formal night there are plenty of free cocktails around the ship and the 18 drinks for $84 let me have my own happy hours at very low cost.

 

I can't wait for the Seaside. Then I am sure pricing parity will come on strong.

 

Mix 'em all up. MSC, Carnival, Royal, NCL this year. I understand what it feels like to contemplate going out of the comfort zone; I just want good basic service, good food, and comfortable room. I keep almost trying HAL but just can't pull the trigger. MSC I'd go back on tomorrow. I spoke to highly that friends of mine leave on their honeymoon this Saturday. They cruise a ton of NCL and Celebrity so I hope they like it

Thanks, I appreciate this.

[LMaxwell]

Thanks, I appreciate this.

 

I have never been recognized on Royal as a Diamond member. Sure, I take advantage of some of the benefits/lounge, but outside of the lounge no staff member knows my loyalty level or my room type and I have always received good treatment. Anyone expecting special treatment (that does not mean advertised perks) due to a loyalty level status is bound for disappointment.

 

If I ever encounter a "lesser than" feeling on any cruise line I won't sail that line again. Hasn't happened in almost 28 years of cruising.

[Ocean Dancer]

Maxwell.

Don't pull the trigger on Hal, the entire ship was NEVER vacuumed in 10 days. My DH was not given a menu on two nights. They completely ignored him and did not understand our tablemates polite gestures. The table was not set correctly and he had no place settings. He finally gave his order while the rest of us were finishing our main course.

 

It is true that they roll up the side walks quite early. Having late dinner, we found not much to do afterwards and the Crows Nest crowd was not for us.

 

They did throw a nice party and we were invited to one, I think accidentally as this was our first cruise with Hal. All the stripes were there including the Captain. There were very little chairs encouraging people to mingle with free drinks and apps. We felt a bit uncomfortable but conversed with the ship's Doctor who put us at ease. We still do not know why we were invited to this party.

 

On my birthday, we were leaving the dining room and the waiter said.....you can't leave, we have a cake for you. Our entire table had left, the dining room was nearly empty and it was oldies night which IS our thing. No , I don't want a cake now, we want to go dance to Rock Around the Clock, Mustang Sally and Mony Mony.

 

Our sheets were never changed in 10 days, but the best thing I can say about Hal is we went to an adult puppet comedy show. About 60 people showed up. We were introduced to a comic by the name of Jeff Dunham. He only had the old man and Peanut back then. He put on a wonderful show!!!

 

We've never been back on Hal.

[gkbiiii]

Let me post one more (perhaps controversial) thing I actually like about MSC: the cabin experience pricing. On MSC you book the cabin type you like and then the experience you want:

Bella (budget, limited amenities)

Fantastica (premium amenities) such as 24 drink tickets & free room service.

Wellness (special fitness based amenities) Spa doctor consultation and free bottled water/sport drinks.

Aurea (VIP with Spa amenities) drink package, spa access with one comped treatment, VIP check-in line, VIP upper deck sun lounge deck, VIP section in main dining room.

Yacht Club (Private "ship within a ship") Butler, VIP dining room, Ultra-Premium drink package, Spa access, etc., etc.

 

Now with Royal, you must book a FULL SUITE to get comped room receive and Star Class to get a butler, "Coastal Kitchen" dining, beverage package, etc. This is big $$$$ that many, can't afford: while MSC allows you to purchase the perks you want, at a reasonable fare, with the cabin category, which suits your needs.

[Merion_Mom]

Maxwell.

 

Don't pull the trigger on Hal, the entire ship was NEVER vacuumed in 10 days. My DH was not given a menu on two nights. They completely ignored him and did not understand our tablemates polite gestures. The table was not set correctly and he had no place settings. He finally gave his order while the rest of us were finishing our main course.

 

 

 

It is true that they roll up the side walks quite early. Having late dinner, we found not much to do afterwards and the Crows Nest crowd was not for us.

 

 

 

They did throw a nice party and we were invited to one, I think accidentally as this was our first cruise with Hal. All the stripes were there including the Captain. There were very little chairs encouraging people to mingle with free drinks and apps. We felt a bit uncomfortable but conversed with the ship's Doctor who put us at ease. We still do not know why we were invited to this party.

 

 

 

On my birthday, we were leaving the dining room and the waiter said.....you can't leave, we have a cake for you. Our entire table had left, the dining room was nearly empty and it was oldies night which IS our thing. No , I don't want a cake now, we want to go dance to Rock Around the Clock, Mustang Sally and Mony Mony.

 

 

 

Our sheets were never changed in 10 days, but the best thing I can say about Hal is we went to an adult puppet comedy show. About 60 people showed up. We were introduced to a comic by the name of Jeff Dunham. He only had the old man and Peanut back then. He put on a wonderful show!!!

 

 

 

We've never been back on Hal.

 

 

 

I love Jeff Dunham!!!!!

 

 

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[denamo]

Very interesting perspectives. Thanks for all of the posts.

[Ocean Dancer]

I love Jeff Dunham!!!!!

 

 

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And we can honestly say we saw him when!:D

[Merion_Mom]

And we can honestly say we saw him when!:D

 

 

 

I always wondered if he had ever done cruise ships. [emoji6]

 

 

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[caribbeanboy]

I just came back from the Divina Sept 16 sailing, and from all my 40+ cruises Divina has the most unfriendly crew! looks like most of them don't care or don't want to be there.