A 5-Night Spectacular Aboard MSC Virtuosa: From Southampton to Rotterdam, Cork & Cornwall
First Impressions: Glitz, Glamour & a Touch of Magic
From the moment we stepped onto the Virtuosa’s dazzling promenade, we were absolutely jaw-dropped. Glittering lights, sparkling glass staircases, and a hum of excitement in the air it felt like walking into a floating city designed purely for enjoyment.
After settling into our cabins, we headed for our allocated restaurant for dinner. The service was impeccable, and the menu was full of tempting options to suit every palate. After a delicious meal, it was time to explore what this magnificent ship had to offer — and wow, was there plenty!
Sailing Away: Cocktails, Robots & Ocean Views
One of our first discoveries was the Robot Bar a futuristic, must-visit spot where robotic arms mix your cocktail right before your eyes! Naturally, we had to try a couple (purely for research, of course!).
We then wandered the decks, soaking in the ship’s layout and atmosphere. Our favourite spot quickly became the bar at the back of the ship, where you can watch the wake ripple out across the sea as the Virtuosa glides through the water. There’s something so soothing about that endless ocean view.
The kids were equally happy not least because they discovered the Milkshakes at this same bar! Their favourite was the Mudslide, and thanks to the premium drinks package, they could indulge whenever the craving struck.
Fun for the Whole Family
Right next to our favourite bar was a hub of family fun the kids’ and teen clubs, sports hall, and entertainment centre. While my kids weren’t too fussed about joining the clubs, they absolutely loved the Entertainment Centre. We spent hours there playing bowling, trying out the F1 simulator, and braving the 4D cinema experience all while keeping an eye on the video games tempting them from the side-lines.
Top Tip: Set a spending cap for the entertainment area! You can do this easily at reception otherwise, once the credit limit is reached, any extra will automatically be charged to your cabin. You can always top it up if needed.
A Day at Sea: Chilly Weather, Warm Memories
Our day at sea was a little chilly it was October, after all but that didn’t stop the kids from making the most of the water slides and splash park. They had an absolute blast, shrieking with laughter as they zipped down slide after slide.
There’s also a high ropes course on board, which looked amazing, but unfortunately it was closed due to high winds that day. Still, it’s a fantastic option if you’re brave enough to give it a go when conditions allow!
That evening, we decided to treat ourselves to one of the speciality restaurants located along the promenade. These are paid extras, but absolutely worth it. The service was outstanding, our waiter was brilliant, chatting and joking with the kids, making recommendations, and adding a personal touch that made the evening feel truly special. And the food? It did not disappoint every dish was delicious and beautifully presented.
Entertainment Onboard: From Bingo to Acrobats
Evenings on the Virtuosa are buzzing with activity. There’s something for everyone from live shows and quizzes to a choice of bars, each with its own vibe.
We tried our luck at Bingo (sadly no jackpot for us!) and one night splashed out on a special acrobatic show. It was completely immersive, with performers and actors weaving between the audience as we sipped our drinks definitely one of the highlights of the cruise.
We also joined in on a silent disco and a lively White Night party, both of which were huge hits with the whole family. The atmosphere was electric and it was lovely to see everyone kids and adults alike dancing and laughing together.
Port Stops: Exploring New Shores
Our first port of call was Rotterdam, and getting off the ship couldn’t have been easier. A quick scan of our room card, a short shuttle to the port entrance, and we were free to explore.
Rotterdam was a pleasant surprise a city that perfectly blends modern architecture with charming canals and cultural flair. We loved wandering through the streets, admiring the innovative buildings, and soaking in the relaxed atmosphere.
If you visit, make sure to stop by the Markthal (Food Hall) a feast for the senses where you can sample local delicacies, international bites, and sweet treats galore. Another must-see is the Cube Houses (the upside-down houses) fascinating from the outside, and even more so if you take a tour inside!
Next, we arrived in Ireland, docking in a small town where we enjoyed a relaxed stroll through the streets, soaking up the atmosphere before settling down for a local pint of Guinness a must when in Ireland!
Our final stop was Portland Bill, a charming lighthouse town just off the coast of England. We loved visiting the lighthouse and walking through the fields to and from the ship, taking in the fresh sea air and beautiful views along the way. It was the perfect, peaceful way to round off our adventure.
Final Thoughts
Our five nights aboard the MSC Virtuosa were nothing short of spectacular. From the effortless embarkation in Southampton to the breathtaking design of the ship, the endless entertainment, the delicious dining, and the ever-changing destinations it was the perfect blend of luxury, fun, and relaxation.
This was our first cruise as a family, and we absolutely loved waking up in a new place each day, ready to explore somewhere different. The Virtuosa had something for everyone and we left already talking about where we might sail to next.