Norwegian Fjords Cruise on MSC Virtuosa

Having experienced a short trip to Bergen and Beyond a few months prior gave me a taste of what was instore for our Norwegian Fjords cruise on MSC Virtuosa. 

We flew from Dublin to London Heathrow, transferred by coach to Southampton to board our 7-night cruise. Seamless embarkation! MSC Virtuosa, a Meraviglia Class is on the larger scale of cruise ships with a maximum occupancy of 6334.  The indoor promenade with spectacular LED Dome ceiling is the hub and focal point of the ship designed to be the ultimate destination for socialising, entertainment and boutique shops. This leads into the adjoining ornate Infinity Atrium with stunning Swarovski crystal staircases, piano and Champagne bar.

A world of fun awaits on board from fantastic shows in Le Grand Théâtre, expectational Carousel@Sea productions in the Carousel Lounge, Red Gem Casino, multiple bars from L'Atelier Bar & Art, Masters of the Seas, MSC Star ship Club, adult only Sky Lounge and much more.  Families be prepared for plenty of fun at the Sportsplex with Virtual Games Arcade, Baby Club, LEGO Group kids clubs for children to tweens and teens, Savannah Aquapark and Himalayan Bridge.  The pool and jacuzzies are probably the largest I have seen at sea so far with fantastic entertainment for all the family.

My balcony room was very comfortable with ample storage, flat screen TV, safety deposit, minibar (not included with cost), convertible sofa bed, bathroom with shower, tea/coffee ( only on ex Southampton sailing) and AC.  

The choice of dining on board was excellent, this ranges from the self-service marketplace buffet to the main dining room for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Menus vary each day.  Brunch on our sail day was delightful.  An excellent selection of speciality dining restaurants are available including a steakhouse, teppanyaki, sushi, Mexican and Indochina available for additional charge.  I can confirm that both the Mexican and Teppanyaki did not disappoint.

Our itinerary included:

Haugesund - home of the Viking Kings

Måløy - a picturesque town with a backdrop of charming houses and home of the Kråkenes Lighthouse, Nave Deer Farm and close to one of the best beaches in Norway

Flam, a stunning town set in the heart of the Fjords, home to the famous Flamsbana Railway line. Capture unrivalled scenery, cascading waterfalls, mountains and picturesque villages. Cyclist's, hikers and nature enthusiasts will adore flam. A very firm favourite destination for me.

Kristiansand - a city in southern Norway with a beautiful old town, quirky shops, museums and the Setesdal railway.  

The Norwegian Fjords is a seasonal cruise itinerary, ports of call can vary depending on the departure date. It is definitely a must do in my opinion for an immersive, scenic, historical and active destination.  The cooler temperatures of Norway are becoming increasingly enticing, just bear in mind they possibly receive more rainfall than Ireland.  

MSC Cruises have it all wrapped up for everyone including solo travellers, families and couples.  On board there are specific solo traveller get togethers enabling you to meet new friends.  Families with children of all ages (including the adults) will certainly not be board, there are activities to suit all ages.

Couples will love the entertainment, choice of cuisine, adult only Sky Lounge and the Aurea Spa.  I recommend considering the Aurea Experience for couples with additional access to the Aurea Sun Deck and Aurea Thermal Suite.

For an upgraded All Inclusive luxury cruise experience, speak with me about MSC Yacht Club.  Enjoy the best location of the finest luxury accommodation and suites on board, dedicated restaurant, lounges, private pool area plus full access to the Thermal Suite in MSC Aurea spa and the addition of a 24-hour butler service.

MSC Cruises offer multiple itineraries currently including Mediterranean, Caribbean, Emirates, Canary Islands, Norwegian Fjords, Far East, South American, Alaska and their Grand and World Voyages, so you will be sure that I can source the perfect itinerary for your requirements.

For me personally, I found our cruise to be exceptional value considering the inclusions i.e. range of entertainment from game shows to world-class performances, dining, facilities, activities, daily programme, itinerary, experiences plus all round family fun.

If you would like to discuss my MSC Norwegian Fjords in more detail or any other MSC cruise and itinerary, please do not hesitate to email me directly to arrange your initial consultation call.