MSC Orchestra is a sister to MSC Musica, which entered service in 2006. The ship has a balanced profile. The blue funnel is of a sleek, swept-back design and carries the MSC logo in gold lettering. From a technical viewpoint, the ship is powered by diesel motors driving electric generators to provide power to two conventional propellers.
The interior layout and passenger flow is quite good with the exception of a couple of points of congestion – typically when the first seating exits the two main dining rooms and passengers on the second seating are waiting to enter. The decor is decidedly European, with many Italian influences, including clean lines, minimalism in furniture design, and a collection of high-quality soft furnishings and fabrics in warm colors that work beautifully together, and with no hint of garishness at all (arguably much nicer and softer than sister ship MSC Musica). Real wood and marble have been used extensively in the interiors, and the high quality reflects the commitment that MSC Cruises has in its product and the vessel’s future.
Facilities include a large main show lounge, a nightclub/ discotheque, numerous lounges and bars (including the stunning “Out of Africa” Savannah Lounge, library, card room, an internet center, virtual reality center, shopping gallery (the shops are integrated with many bars, lounges and entertainment areas so that shopping becomes a city-like environment where you can shop, drink, and be entertained all in one convenient area). Gamblers will find pleasure in the Monte Carlo Casino, featuring blackjack, poker and roulette games, plus an array of slot machines, and a couple of gilt female nude reclining sculptures.
Drinking places include a pub-like venue as well as several comfortable lounges that have live music. Outside on deck a neat mini-golf course is locate don the port side of the funnel, while a walking/jogging track encircles the ship’s two swimming pools. The ship is really designed to accommodate families with children, who have their own play centers (a children’s club and jungle adventure playground), youth counselors, and programs.
MSC Orchestra operates Mediterranean cruises in summer and Caribbean cruises in winter. The onboard currency is the euro (summer) and US$ (winter). Gratuities (at a suggested ?6 per person per day) are extra, but bar drink prices include a service charge. Although access throughout most of the interior of the ship is very good, anyone who is wheelchair-bound should note that the passenger hallways are a little narrow on some decks for you to pass when housekeeping carts are in place.
Berlitz Guide © Apa Publishing 2008
