Thanks I'll check out Virtuosa. My apologies, I thought the forum would be on first name terms with the main two Cruise youtubers I'd been watching Gary (Bambridge - tips for travellers) and Emma Cruises.
The Comedy of MSC errors post is exactly the kind of faff I'd like to avoid.
On more specific things, I'd love to hear your experiences of the following:
1. Is there a good agent for a budget trip like this, who nows MSC's quirks?
2. The base package has hot drinks / water included. We pretty much only drink that at home and won't want alcohol, so I assume that will be fine. Are there any complications about the package I don't know about?
3. I note there is (was?) a £379 balcony deal with *****. Direct that price seems to be £549, which is over-budget. A balcony would be amazing at the ***** price. Is that deal likely to resurface or have I missed the metaphorical boat.
3.1 Assuming I can get a balcony deal.
3.2 If the cabin is unsuitable (noisy, obstructed etc? what are the chances of getting moved?
3.3 Is £50 to pick the cabin worth it? Is that per person?
4. Kids club seems to be free. If that's right does anyone know what this entails for a 3YO? Especially one who doesn't go to nursery yet, so isn't used to being left with random people / a bunch of other kids.
5. The itinerary looks fine for Hamburg and Amsterdam. I plan to just self book local transport as the attractions aren't far from port. With LeHarve it's clearly not "Paris" as billed. Does anyone have any local tips?
6. I've heard mixed reviews about entertainment on MSC. Evening entertainment may be out, as at least one of us will be with the little one in the evening anyway. How is the daytime entertainment for families?
7. Facilities. From videos I've seen, the aquapark looks good for kids, is that right? Is it included in the fare? Similarly with bowling (I think I saw bowling)?
8. Are gratuities really included, or will I need cash onboard for various in-person gratuities?
9. Whats the coffee, pizza and ice cream sitch? Free, semi-free, paid?