My time on board the brand new MSC Bellissima

Starting with families and those looking for an active break MSC Bellissima has so much to offer. There are spacious pool areas with a choice of multiple outdoor as well as an indoor pool available, the Aquapark with a brilliant selection of full slides, 5 fun children’s clubs covering all ages from babies to teens complete with a sports hall, a great virtual reality interactive area with F1 Simulator (I had a go on this and could not stop spinning, Lewis Hamilton I will never be) the Virtual Reality Maze and brilliant virtual reality Cinema, full size bowling alley and an ice cream parlour! The facilities on onboard MSC Bellissima outshine the vast majority of 5* European hotels. For those adults that like to keep fit whilst away, there is also a huge Technogym as well as a 328-metre Power Walking track.

MSC Bellissima has been tagged as one of the most innovative at sea. From the easy to navigate mobile app that lets you check in online and view your ports of call, book excursions, and view activities available prior to embarkation to the innovative Zoe (she is the world’s First Artificial Intelligence cruise assistant) who is there to look after you in your cabin. From advising on the weather, activities on board, specific children’s clubs, to turning on your television, Zoe will personalise the way you get cruise information.

I absolutely loved the central Promenade which is lit by a changing LED roof. At a magnificent 96 m this airy central promenade is filled with boutiques, restaurants and tranquil spots for shopping, eating and relaxing. On an evening it is also used as a central area for entertainment. Not to mention the 20 restaurants and 12 bars, you can have a different experience daily!

I was particularly impressed with the Yacht Club that will be relevant to those who want to have the choice of using the different restaurants, bars and entertainment facilities but also like luxury and having a dedicated area that offers an opportunity to unwind in a quieter area. The cabins have a more luxurious feel. You have complimentary access to the stunning Aurea Spa, your own private dining room, bar, 24-hour butler service as well as private outdoor deck space and pool only available to those in the Yacht Club category. It really does give you a luxury cruise within a cruise option. It is also great for those wanting to do a multi-generational cruise whereby some members of the party like to have an area to retreat to!

Boasting 2 unique Cirque du Soleil shows, a huge casino, theatre lounges, numerous bars including a British Pub and Champagne bar you will never be stuck for something to do of an evening.

I was able to sample various food in the speciality restaurants and the quality was excellent. Favourites for me were Kaito Teppanyaki (complete with show cooking from the chef) and Kaito Sushi. However, dinner in the main restaurant was excellent. I nipped into the buffet restaurant at breakfast and it had everything you could wish for.

MSC Bellissima surpassed my expectations and I am truly impressed with all she has to offer.

Please feel free to get in touch with me and let me tell you more! She is sailing around the Med this summer before moving to Arabia for the winter and there are some amazing deals available. These are a few to give you an idea; sailing on the 07th December from Dubai around the Emirates from £1149 per person including the Premium Drinks package (and flights from Manchester) Or, enjoy Christmas in the Sun from £1699 including the Premium Drinks Package sailing on the 21st December!