days@sea

I feel your frustration as well. Holland America had a great list of Mocktails at almost every bar, but most were sugary as you say. Virgin was better, it offers a selection of alcohol-free Spirits and Tonics and I was able to get some great crafted drinks that were not sugary. I wish cruise lines would wake up to what's happening on land, there's even zero-proof bars in NYC now.

After years of avoiding it, I am finally giving MSC a try. Especially since they status match (including hotel chains), I took advantage of their flash rate for last minute cruises. Anyone else on this sailing? Or, anyone who's been on Magnifica / MSC in general have any favorite tips or advice? Bon Voyage everyone!

Another great channel is The Weekend Cruiser. Not specific gay content, but a very unique channel. He lives in South Florida and takes a cruise just about every weekend. This has him repeating certain ships a lot, and he used to Loyal to Royal, but has since ventured to other lines. His videos are also very informative for solo cruisers. http://www.youtube.com/@TheWeekendCruiser

Hilton Honors Gold - got matched to Gold within a couple of hours. Booked a flash sale rate out of Miami in a couple weeks, first time on MSC, fingers crossed.

Personally, I don't think the Virgin ships are "poorly designed". I like the intimate spaces and that you aren't in Shopping Mall of the Seas. Are there some mistakes like pool sizes, yes. Are Virgin ships "poorly designed" for circuit parties at sea and drag shows for 2000 attendees? Yes.