**Semi-Live from MSC Seashore, Bahamas/Mexico**

[Eric G.]

OK, so I've never done one of these before, apologies for the lack of knowing what I'm doing 😅 

 

Currently on the ship, we left Ocean Cay yesterday and are on our way to Mexico. I am pleased so far, this is my first MSC cruise, previously cruised Princess and RC.

 

I'll try to answer any questions or take pics if there's something you're curious about.

[Eric G.]

Ocean Cay, yesterday

 

[Eric G.]

Looks like they've started on another island (?)

 

[Eric G.]

We spent the night at Ocean Cay, then left the next morning around noon. Good timing, as just as everyone needed to get on board, a big thunderstorm came in.

 

[Eric G.]

If you look at photos or a map of Ocean Cay, it looks deceptively small. It actually takes a while to walk back and forth to the different areas, fortunately there is a tram you can ride between major areas.

 

I did the snorkeling equipment rental and had a good time. If you want to see fish, go to Bimini Beach.

 

 

[Eric G.]

I went on the on-ship excursion "Behind the Scenes" this morning that showed crew-only areas of the theater, laundry, and food stations. It was fun if you like to see what goes on in the areas you normally can't see.

[mcmomny]

Thank you Eric for your review!

 

We will be on The Seashore the second week in October, never been on MSC either so very interested in your thoughts!

[Eric G.]

I like balcony rooms, but decided to save a little money and go with a standard window cabin.

 

[lahlah57]

What are the temps like?

[Eric G.]

11 minutes ago, lahlah57 said:

What are the temps like?

Hot! In fact, there was an extreme heat warning day before yesterday. I packed too many long pants, and not enough shorts.

 

I think it's been in the 80s.

 

[lahlah57]

Was trying to figure what to pack.

We are to be on the week of 9/28.

[Eric G.]

Just saw the "Divas" show. It was good. Theater was packed!

 

 

[Eric G.]

I opted for the 3 restaurant specialty dining option. That includes the Ocean Cay seafood restaurant, the Butcher's Cut, and Hola. Last night was Ocean Cay. I chose the salad Nicoise, tuna, and creme brulee. All were great.

 

 

[Eric G.]

You probably know this already, but most cabin room walls are metal. You can organize smaller items with some good magnetic hooks.

 

[MonsterJoe]

THanks for the review.  Could you say more about OC restaurant?  Nobody ever seems to review that one - just Butcher's Cut.  We are big seafood fans, but haven't got to the restaurant yet.

[MonsterJoe]

5 hours ago, Eric G. said:

You probably know this already, but most cabin room walls are metal. You can organize smaller items with some good magnetic hooks.

 

Just a tip, in case someone reading doesn't know...

Those magnets will hold up to 20lbs more weight when attached via the ceiling (normal force: the force perpendicular to a surface) contrary to the wall (sheer force: forces parallel to a surface)

We use them both ways, because they both have their uses!

Edited September 19 by MonsterJoe

[Eric G.]

4 hours ago, MonsterJoe said:

THanks for the review.  Could you say more about OC restaurant?  Nobody ever seems to review that one - just Butcher's Cut.  We are big seafood fans, but haven't got to the restaurant yet.

Sure, I don't know if you saw the photos above of OC, but I  thought it was great. Everything was fresh, service was excellent, it's pretty fancy and I felt underdressed in my shorts and T shirt, but nobody kicked me out. There's a wine list, I had 2 glasses of wine that were not charged since I have the drinks plus package. 

I have nothing but good things to say about it.

[Eric G.]

5 hours ago, MonsterJoe said:

Just a tip, in case someone reading doesn't know...

Those magnets will hold up to 20lbs more weight when attached via the ceiling (normal force: the force perpendicular to a surface) contrary to the wall (sheer force: forces parallel to a surface)

We use them both ways, because they both have their uses!

Good to know...also make sure you buy neodymium magnets, they're much stronger than the old ones. 

[Eric G.]

OK, I just found out there *NO ATM's* on board, so bring plenty of cash for tipping, etc.

[Eric G.]

We are on our last day at sea, headed back to Port Canaveral (sad face).

 

The things I wish I'd packed but forgot:

 

1. Aloe Vera lotion. I usually forget an area with the suntan lotion, and burned the backs of my legs while snorkeling. The ship store completely ran out of aloe lotion (I guess I'm not the only one that burns) so bring plenty!

 

2. Water shoes. I kept meaning to buy some, but put it off and forgot. They were a necessity at one of the excursions. Fortunately a store in Cozumel had some at the last minute.

 

3. More cash. Between the markets and tipping, I burned through what I brought, and found out later that the ship does not have an ATM.

[lahlah57]

46 minutes ago, Eric G. said:

OK, I just found out there *NO ATM's* on board, so bring plenty of cash for tipping, etc.

I'm all about a bucket full of $1's. 😄

[MonsterJoe]

45 minutes ago, Eric G. said:

 

 

3. More cash. Between the markets and tipping, I burned through what I brought, and found out later that the ship does not have an ATM.

You can use the Casino and your cruise card as an ATM.  Go to a slot machine, buy credits funded from your cruise card. Immediately cash out and take the ticket to the teller.  No fees

[GonzoWCS]

On 9/18/2024 at 3:08 PM, Eric G. said:

I went on the on-ship excursion "Behind the Scenes" this morning that showed crew-only areas of the theater, laundry, and food stations. It was fun if you like to see what goes on in the areas you normally can't see.

Thanks for this review.  What was the cost and how long was the "behind the Scenes"?  TIA

 

Cheers

 

 

[Eric G.]

2 hours ago, MonsterJoe said:

You can use the Casino and your cruise card as an ATM.  Go to a slot machine, buy credits funded from your cruise card. Immediately cash out and take the ticket to the teller.  No fees

I don't think you can last day though...I'll give it a try.

[FLCruiser97]

Sailing tomorrow on this ship. Thanks for the pics.