Just off the Armonia (Cuba/Christmas)

[Purpleflower6]

Are you allowed to bring your drinks on board "sodas and seltzers" like the other cruise lines, I'm not a fan of drinking ship water. 

[Beamafar]

See post #51 on this thread for what's allowed and what's forbidden.  Food and beverages aren't allowed.

[NCTribeFan]

Ah, so that's why I got a (small) fruit plate on Divina?  That was a gold perk?  As a status-match-to-Gold, I had no idea I was supposed to receive fruit or any other gift.  I just did it to get the 5% discount!  Guess I should go back and read about the loyalty program! 

 

Still waiting for DD to let me know if she can go on either the 5/6 or 5/13 sailings.  I want to book and I want to book NOW! 😉

[Reds4life]

Seems to be some inconsistencies in reports over the availability of lobster as promoted in the MSC press release. Are there any additional pictures of menus from recent cruises? 

[Beamafar]

I'm also curious to know if the Black Card complimentary meal for 2 applies to the new speciality restaurant.  Guess I'll find out in 12 days' time, if I don't find out beforehand.  I'll post pics of menus if there aren't any posted before we sail.

[smeesme]

2 hours ago, Beamafar said:

I'm also curious to know if the Black Card complimentary meal for 2 applies to the new speciality restaurant.  Guess I'll find out in 12 days' time, if I don't find out beforehand.  I'll post pics of menus if there aren't any posted before we sail.

We were talking to Emmanuel who is both the Future Cruise Consultant and the Voyager's Club Manager on board and he stated that they decided they were not giving the Black Card complimentary meal on Armonia when we were talking about the different benefits.  He said they may change that in the future.

[Reds4life]

In reading the Divina thread, I began to wonder, is the casino on Armonia non-smoking? On Divina it was in 2017 and then I went on Adventure of the Seas last year and it was impossible to play in the casino or actually even walk by due to the abundance of cigarette smoke. 

[Beamafar]

37 minutes ago, smeesme said:

We were talking to Emmanuel who is both the Future Cruise Consultant and the Voyager's Club Manager on board and he stated that they decided they were not giving the Black Card complimentary meal on Armonia when we were talking about the different benefits.  

 

Thank you!

 

I had a funny feeling that that would be the case.  It wouldn't surprise me if it changes in the future - especially if Black Card holders complain loudly about it (such as ourselves!).  Unfortunately, that won't be of any benefit to us.

Edited January 9, 2019 by Beamafar

[mexico8]

We are "black card status" on MSC and I will be very annoyed and very vocal if we don't receive the complimentary dinner on Armonia.    It is supposed to be provided.  How can they just decide they won't include it?   Will be my last cruise with MSC if they start doing things like that.  We are booked for April 29, 2019 cruise.

 

Hope other black card members will post if they do or don't receive the complimentary dinner.

[sfaaa]

5 hours ago, NCTribeFan said:

Ah, so that's why I got a (small) fruit plate on Divina?  That was a gold perk?  As a status-match-to-Gold, I had no idea I was supposed to receive fruit or any other gift. 

Never quite understand the fruit plate perk given the same fruits were available for the taking at the buffet. 

Edited January 9, 2019 by sfaaa

[FGJones]

12 minutes ago, sfaaa said:

Never quite understand the fruit plate perk given the same fruits were available for the taking at the buffet. 

 

Food is also at the buffet but for some it feeels luxurious to order room service. 

[pamrose228]

On 1/8/2019 at 12:07 PM, HeavySeaman said:

Twice is one better than Royal. Sounds great. Thanks. On one of the diagrams off the Cruise Mapper site it had a golf simulator. Is that accurate? 

Was just on the New Years Eve Cruise and lobster and filet mignon was offered on the first night which was New Years Eve from a special menu. The lobster was horrible very dry and chewy. The filet was not better.

[lovetoholiday]

4 hours ago, pamrose228 said:

Was just on the New Years Eve Cruise and lobster and filet mignon was offered on the first night which was New Years Eve from a special menu. The lobster was horrible very dry and chewy. The filet was not better.

Thank explains why I didn't see it on the menu.  We ate in the Surf and Turf on the 31st and had exactly that - surf and turf and it was excellent, couldn't fault it in there.

[Reds4life]

11 hours ago, pamrose228 said:

Was just on the New Years Eve Cruise and lobster and filet mignon was offered on the first night which was New Years Eve from a special menu. The lobster was horrible very dry and chewy. The filet was not better.

I plan on eating several of each. Maybe if my first one is bad the second or third might bee better lol? 

[FGJones]

10 minutes ago, Reds4life said:

I plan on eating several of each. Maybe if my first one is bad the second or third might bee better lol? 

 

Remind me which date you're sailing Reds4Life

[Reds4life]

1 hour ago, FGJones said:

 

Remind me which date you're sailing Reds4Life

May 27, 2019 same as you I think? 

[Reds4life]

By the way, another question for those who have just went on the itinerary, I just talked to an MSC agent that tells me that Ocho Rios will/has been replacing Montego Bay. True?

[FGJones]

4 minutes ago, Reds4life said:

May 27, 2019 same as you I think? 

Yes exactly, I thought I remembered that.  It must be the Ohio sailing 

[lmfinney]

17 minutes ago, Reds4life said:

By the way, another question for those who have just went on the itinerary, I just talked to an MSC agent that tells me that Ocho Rios will/has been replacing Montego Bay. True?

 

On the Dec 24 cruise, we went to Ocho Rios instead of Montego Bay. They announced it as though it were a result of high winds. Maybe it was intended all along.

[Beamafar]

19 minutes ago, Reds4life said:

By the way, another question for those who have just went on the itinerary, I just talked to an MSC agent that tells me that Ocho Rios will/has been replacing Montego Bay. True?

 

We're sailing on Jan 21st;  we haven't been notified of any changes.  Mind you, that doesn't surprise me.  I'd contact my TA only she's "too busy" to deal with anything I've been requesting since the tickets were issued!    It's not a major issue for us (otherwise I'd be insisting on her getting the info);  we have an MSC excursion booked so we'll wait and see what the situation is when we embark.

 

I wonder - if there is a change (and it wasn't just for Imfinney's sailing) - is it due to trouble in Montego Bay, perhaps?  🤔

Edited January 10, 2019 by Beamafar

[abbeytravelstheworld]

For anyone who might have the free Havana shore excursions as part of their cruise booking I just spoke with MSC yesterday and these are the free ones:

 

CUB30 - HAVANA CULTURAL SIGHTSEEING & SAN JOSÉ HANDICRAFT MARKET
Havana’s vibrant culture is up for exploration on this appealing half-day visit, which showcases some of the city’s folkloric aspects. You’ll first enjoy drive-by views of historically significant architecture, passing Parque Central – a large palm-fringed square – as well as Plaza de la Revolución and the José Martí Memorial, a 109 m tower that commemorates a Cuban national hero. Next up, you’ll visit the Communitarian Project at the open-air Almacenes de San José handicraft market in the port of Havana. Apart from leather wares such as handbags, wallets, shoes and belts, you’ll also find ceramics, masks and papier-mâché ornaments that bear testament to Cuban folklore and creativity. Your return to the ship then brings this cultural visit to a close.Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests of limited mobility or who use a wheelchair. The tour is offered By MSC Cruises on a complimentary basis. In case you wish to take part in another excursion in Havana instead of this one, you can contact the on-board shore excursions’ office to receive a Usd 50 credit to purchase another visit to Havana.

CUB31 - DISCOVER HAVANA & THE LA CABAÑA FORTRESS
Spend a few hours off the ship taking a history-centric look around the third-largest fortress complex in the Americas, the 18th-century Fortaleza de San Carlos de la Cabaña. Known locally simply as La Cabaña, the historic fortress sits high up on the eastern side of Havana’s harbour entrance near the 16th-century Morro Castle. Enjoy a guided visit of the complex and learn about its storied past, pay a visit to the on-site museum and, if you feel so inclined, take time to interact with local artisans. After the visit, you’ll have a brief stop at the Christ of Havana statue, which stands 20 m tall, is made entirely of Carrara marble and overlooks the Bay of Havana. Its construction took 67 blocks of marble that were imported directly from Italy after receiving a blessing from Pope Pius XII. Last up, the drive back to the port and your ship will take you past the lovely Malecón, an architecturally significant waterfront esplanade of some 8 km in length. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests of limited mobility or who use a wheelchair. The tour is offered By MSC Cruises on a complimentary basis. In case you wish to take part in another excursion in Havana instead of this one, you can contact the on-board shore excursions’ office to receive a Usd 50 credit to purchase another visit to Havana.

CUB38 – CUBAN ARCHITECTURAL WONDERS
This half-day outing allows you to admire the development and variety of architectural styles in Havana. After leaving the port, enjoy a walk through the historic center of Old Havana, passing through its four main squares. Your guide will point out the main government, religious or military buildings as you pass the “Lonja del Comercio”, the Minor Basilica of San Francisco de Asís, the Palace of the General Captains, the “Palacio del Segundo Cabo” and the Castle of the Royal Force, among others. Then, board a coach and prepare for a sightseeing drive through modern Havana. Along the way, you will pass the Paseo del Prado, Central Park, and admire notable buildings such as the National Capitol, the Grand Theater of Havana and hotels Telégrafo, Inglaterra and Manzana Kempinski. Next on your journey is Calle 23, better known as La Rampa, a good example of the transition from the colonial period to the republican period and modernity. The Vedado District is a good opportunity to see examples of modern urban planning with buildings like El Focsa, the tallest reinforced concrete building in Cuba, the Hotel Nacional de Cuba, the Coppelia and the University of Havana. Next visit is to Miramar District, an exclusive residential district with 1930’s and 1950’s style architecture. Your day in Havana concludes with a short stop at Plaza de la Revolución, a panoramic drive along the famous Malecón and a visit to the Model of Havana where you will learn the urban development of the city in an integral way. Please note: this tour is not suitable for guests using a wheelchair or with mobility problems. In case you wish to take part in another excursion in Havana instead of this one, you can contact the on-board shore excursions’ office to receive a Usd 50 credit to purchase another visit to Havana.

CUB39 - HAVANA & HEMINGWAY
Ernest Hemingway called Cuba home from 1939 to 1960; discover the island that inspired him on this half day visit and interact with people that keep his legacy alive. Your tour starts with a scenic bus transfer to his former residence, Finca Vigía or "Lookout Farm". It is here that he wrote many of his most famous novels including "For Whom the Bell Tolls" and "The Old Man and the Sea." Finca Vigia has since been transformed into a museum devoted to the author where one can still see the original furnishings and library, unchanged since the 1960's. Only visible from the windows, you will be able to imagine how Hemingway lived and worked. A gem on the property is his beloved wooden fishing boat Pilar. From Finca Vigía you will travel through the outskirts of Havana, enjoy scenic views and learn more about this neighborhood, its culture, and traditions. Sights include the Monument to the Virgen Del Camino, nearby wineries, schools, private businesses, and markets, where the products of small Cuban farmers are for sale. Next, continue your visit to Cojímar, a fishing village, which also inspired the "The Old Man and the Sea." Passing by a monument dedicated to Hemingway your next stop is the famous bar Las Terrazas de Cojímar to have a cocktail. It is at this location that Hemingway and his friends including Gregorio Fuentes, upon which the main character from "The Old Man and the Sea" is based on, would meet. Back in Havana, enjoy a stroll through the Plaza de la Catedral and a look at the legendary bar La Bodeguita del Medio, the birthplace of the Cuban Mojito, which Hemingway would also frequent. The tour concludes with views of the Hotel Ambos Mundos and the University of San Geronimo. Your last stop is the Floridita Restaurant, another favorite hangout of Ernest Hemingway, where you can enjoy a delicious Daiquiri, in the shadow of a bronze statue of the famous writer. Please note: an inside visit to Hemingway’s former residence is not included. The visit is considered to be unsuitable for guests of limited mobility or who use a wheelchair. In case you wish to take part in another excursion in Havana instead of this one, you can contact the on-board shore excursions’ office to receive a Usd 50 credit to purchase another visit to Havana.

 

We sail on 17 June doing the two week itinerary so we visit Havana twice.

[Reds4life]

6 hours ago, Beamafar said:

 

We're sailing on Jan 21st;  we haven't been notified of any changes.  Mind you, that doesn't surprise me.  I'd contact my TA only she's "too busy" to deal with anything I've been requesting since the tickets were issued!    It's not a major issue for us (otherwise I'd be insisting on her getting the info);  we have an MSC excursion booked so we'll wait and see what the situation is when we embark.

 

I wonder - if there is a change (and it wasn't just for Imfinney's sailing) - is it due to trouble in Montego Bay, perhaps?  🤔

I'm hoping for Ocho Rios after looking into it. Most reviews say it's safer and easier to just get off the ship and go to the beach if someone wants. Also close to Dunn River Falls and Blue Hole 

[lovetoholiday]

17 hours ago, Reds4life said:

By the way, another question for those who have just went on the itinerary, I just talked to an MSC agent that tells me that Ocho Rios will/has been replacing Montego Bay. True?

Not last week, we went to Montego Bay and took the ship's shuttle to Doctor's Cave Beach, the traffic was horrendous took us almost an hour to get there and 15 minutes to get back. Shuttle cost $19.99

 

[sanbixby]

21 hours ago, abbeytravelstheworld said:

 

 

We sail on 17 June doing the two week itinerary so we visit Havana twice.

We are on this same sailing (but only for one week)!  It will be my friend's first cruise ever.  So far it is just the 2 of us signed up for the Cruise Critic Meet and Greet event.

Edited January 11, 2019 by sanbixby

[NCTribeFan]

That's a long list of excursions (and large font)!  What's this about free Havana excursions?

 

Was just in Ocho Rios in December on Divina.  Got off with a couple and started walking.  Didn't come to anything interesting; mostly tacky souvenir shops and the usual Diamonds International.  Did stop for a Red Stripe at a little outdoor bar set up near shops.  Spent most of the time saying, "no, thank you" over and over to the dozens of taxi/tour folks.

 

Not sure what I'll do if I'm back there again so soon.  Was in MoBay November 2017 and did a ship tour to Dunns River Falls.  I always at least get off the ship, even if it's just to find somewhere to sit down and have a beer (that has wi-fi, of course).