Cruise on MSC Grandiosa

Ian Walsh on 10 September 2024
The MSC Grandiosa offers an unforgettable cruising experience, especially with a stunning itinerary that includes the picturesque ports of La Goulette, Palermo, Capri, Livorno, and Cassis. Each port brings a unique charm, combining Mediterranean beauty with rich cultural history.

We had beautiful Ports of Call:

La Goulette, Tunisia: This vibrant port is your gateway to the ancient city of Carthage and the bustling medinas of Tunis. You can immerse yourself in history, wander through the Roman ruins, or enjoy the whitewashed architecture of Sidi Bou Said with its stunning views of the Mediterranean Sea! This quaint little town is very like Santorini with its blue and white buildings!

Palermo, Sicily: The Sicilian capital is a blend of diverse cultures, with its Norman palaces, Baroque churches, and vibrant markets. A visit to Palermo means soaking up the local lifestyle, enjoying authentic cannoli, and admiring the stunning coastal views. A stunning day here, spent wandering the old city! With plenty of restaurants and shops to choose from too, we had an excellent lunch here!

Capri, Italy: This glamorous island, known for its dramatic cliffs and crystal-clear waters, is a dream come true. Wander through its charming town, visit the famous Blue Grotto, or take a breath-taking chairlift ride up to Monte Solaro for panoramic views! The chairlift was the highlight of my stop in Capri. The views are spectacular and its only 12 mins up and 12 mins back!

Livorno, Tuscany: Livorno is the perfect starting point to explore the rolling hills of Tuscany or take a day trip to the art cities of Florence or Pisa. Whether you’re soaking up the local vibe at one of Livorno’s canals or venturing to see the Leaning Tower of Pisa, the port is filled with possibilities. The city is beautiful, and you can see the restoration work that has taken place here. It's a very walkable place too, and any wheelchair users will also find this a perfect port to disembark and explore!

Cassis, France: Nestled along the French Riviera, Cassis enchants with its quaint harbour, pastel-coloured buildings, and access to the stunning Calanques National Park. The limestone cliffs and turquoise waters make this port an idyllic escape. I was not disappointed with Cassis! It has been on my radar for a while and the town is packed with restaurants, shops and a gorgeous little beach to laze away an afternoon in the sunshine.

Onboard Dining Experiences: MSC Grandiosa offers a culinary journey that rivals the spectacular ports. One highlight of your trip would have been dining at the Mexican all-you-can-eat restaurant. Bursting with flavours, it offers a vibrant atmosphere where you can indulge in endless tacos, enchiladas, nachos, and fresh guacamole. Pair your meal with margaritas or tropical cocktails, giving you a taste of Latin America while you sail the Mediterranean.

Families will be amazed at all the incredible things to do on board!

MSC Grandiosa offers a well-rounded mix of activities, entertainment, and facilities that cater to families, ensuring everyone from toddlers to teens (and parents!) has something exciting to look forward to.

MSC Family Explorer Club A unique experience for the whole family, this scavenger-hunt-style adventure takes families to different parts of the ship, solving puzzles and learning about different cultures. It's a fun, educational activity designed for both kids and parents to enjoy together.

MSC Grandiosa has multiple pools, including the Atmosphere Pool and a water park with interactive features, water slides, and splash zones. It’s a perfect spot for families to enjoy together, and children can enjoy various poolside games and activities.

Lots of dining options on board include:

L'Atelier Bistrot for an elegant French dining experience with gourmet dishes and wine pairings. HOLA! Tapas Bar by Michelin-starred chef Ramón Freixa, offering a fusion of traditional and contemporary Spanish tapas. Marketplace Buffet serves up international flavours from fresh salads and seafood to pizza and pasta, giving you the chance to explore diverse cuisines every day. For more formal evenings, the main dining room provides a sophisticated setting with multi-course meals prepared with fresh ingredients and a rotating menu of Mediterranean and international dishes.

The MSC Grandiosa, one of MSC Cruises' flagship vessels, offers various dining options, including Japanese cuisine at Kaito Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar. Here's a breakdown of these dining experiences:

Kaito Teppanyaki Style: Teppanyaki (grilled Japanese cuisine). Experience: Interactive dining where chefs prepare meals in front of guests on a hot iron plate. This experience is both culinary and entertaining, as the chefs showcase their skills with flair. Menu: Includes a variety of grilled dishes such as seafood, beef, chicken, and vegetarian options. Accompanied by rice, noodles, and traditional sauces. Atmosphere: Casual yet theatrical, with a focus on fresh ingredients and engaging performances.

Kaito Sushi Bar Style: Traditional sushi bar. Experience: Guests sit at the sushi bar and watch chefs create sushi and sashimi. The experience is more intimate and focused on the art of sushi-making. Menu: Includes a wide range of sushi, sashimi, maki rolls, and nigiri, featuring fresh fish and seafood. There are also options like tempura and Japanese salads. Atmosphere: Serene and minimalist, designed to evoke a traditional sushi bar ambiance. Both dining venues provide an immersive Japanese culinary experience with a focus on quality and presentation. Reservations are usually recommended, as these restaurants are popular choices on the ship.

Deluxe Balcony Stateroom: Staying in the deluxe balcony stateroom with an ocean view is the perfect way to unwind after a day exploring the ports. Spacious, elegant, and modern, the room is designed for comfort, with plush bedding, a seating area, and a private balcony where you can relax and take in panoramic views of the sea. Waking up to the sunrise over the Mediterranean or enjoying a quiet moment at sunset adds a touch of luxury to your cruise experience. The floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors bring the sea to your fingertips, creating an ever-changing backdrop of blue waters and coastal vistas.

From fine dining to unforgettable excursions, MSC Grandiosa offers an excellent cruising experience filled with luxury, comfort, and stunning destinations.

We will sail on this ship again!