MSC Bellissima Launch

I took a direct train from Birmingham Grand Central station and was then transferred by a quick luxury coach from Southampton Train station to the docks at Southampton Port. Check in and security ran very smoothly and there were many staff on hand to help and guide us at the terminal and onto the ship.

On entering Bellissima and her bright, beautiful atrium on deck 5 we were met by a beautiful Grand piano in the infinity bar, stunning Swarovski staircases leading to higher decks and stylish bars. Further on beyond the atrium and in full view is the heart of the ship, an impressive 96 metres long indoor promenade covered by a spectacular LED "sky dome" with exclusive boutiques and speciality restaurants and bars to tempt and enhance everyone's holiday experience.

Bellissima is effortlessly elegant, designed to meet every need of today's cruise guest with the world’s first virtual cruise assistant Zoe in all 2217 cabins, taking the art of hospitality to the next level of innovation. Zoe can answer over 2.2 million questions and even recognises 30 different accents in 7 different language. I had fun asking Zoe lots of questions, with her recognising my Brummie accent and showing me weather forecasts on the TV in the cabin.

On board I stayed in a tastefully decorated Balcony Cabin which was midship on deck 10 it was very comfortable and very spacious with everything you need. The balcony was large and had two sun loungers with a table for your comfort whilst looking out to sea, enjoying views of new ports or star gazing at night.

My favourite dining experience on board was sitting at one of the four demo cooking tables watching the chefs cook at the Kaito Teppanyaki restaurant. The food was amazing, and the sushi was so good. We sampled food in all five speciality restaurants for lunch and even ate in the buffet restaurant, there was plenty of choice to cater for everyone and even a "kids only" buffet which is a genius idea for anyone with younger children. Bellissima has so much choice you cannot possibly get bored of food or restaurant choice. We ate in one of the main restaurants for dinner which was ala carte and the service and food was exceptional.

The facilities for families of all ages is extensive. With children's clubs spread over 7 rooms catering for all age groups from babies to 17 years olds. The Lego rooms are fantastic. The Arizona Aquapark with waterslides is just brilliant and so much fun! From a bowling complex to an interactive cinema and VR Maze, Bellissima is just one great big adventure.

We took in the spa, hair salon, barbers, the exclusive solarium at the top of the ship with stunning sea views and premium deck space. If that's not enough there is a casino, cinema and theatre showing the popular Cirque Du Soleil show.

After dinner we sat in the sky lounge listening to a wonderful piano trio playing classical music, relaxing, drinking cocktails before we headed down to the atrium to listen to Craig David's DJ set.

I checked out of my cabin on Monday and headed to the buffet breakfast where there was an extensive choice. Checking out was smooth, quick and easy with staff to guide you to your onward coach transfer back to the station.

I had a great time on board and would thoroughly recommend Bellissima and MSC cruises. I had a fantastic experience and the only negative was that I did not have a longer adventure.