'Live From' MSC World Europa - Yacht Club - 10/11/23 - 17/11/23

[Captain-John]

Never sure when to start a thread like this but figured since we sail on Friday now was an appropriate time to set the scene. 

 

We are sailing MSC World Europa in Yacht Club for 7 nights, on what I'd call a 'bog standard' Mediterranean itinerary. I intend to post from the ship about our experience as best I can.

 

 

The intention with this cruise is to get a taste for a larger ship, as well as to indulge in the YC experience. The destinations were less important as we've been many times before.

 

We will still get off in most ports but for example no plans to go into Rome, instead exploring locally. We are doing a tour to Aix-En-Provence from Marseille as we weren't overly impressed with Marseille itself on previous visits. I find MSC tours to be reasonably priced compared to other lines.

 

The largest ship we've been on to date across all lines is Meraviglia at 171,598 Gross Tonnage. Earlier this year were on NCL Joy - 167,725 Gross Tonnage.

World Europa is the 6th largest ship in the world by Gross Tonnage standing at 215,863 GT, surpassed only by RCL's Oasis Class.

 

We do have some apprehension about the size of the ship and crowds etc. but also looking forward to the extra facilties/venues only a mega ship can offer.

 

On Joy we were in Haven, so will be able to compare the the Haven vs YC experience with fairly recent memory. NCL is our most travelled line followed by MSC.

 

We are Diamond with MSC but many of the perks are covered by the YC experience anyway, so the only thing of real value to us is the speciality meal.

 

Just on the dining note, 7 nights is way too short a cruise for us and we also want to try the YC buffet (if it's still running) as the menu really appeals to our taste compared to the main menu, as well as use our Diamond meal, so in reality we may only have 3-4 evening meals in the YC restaurant. We also want to try Hola! and there simply won't be time for it all.

 

We fly to Barcelona on Thursday, to spend a night at the Kimpton Vividora and then join the ship on Friday. We have been given a 3pm boarding time which will be ignored.

 

If anyone has any specific questions regarding World Europa I will do my best to find out the answer when onboard. Appreciate the recent hot topics are wristbands and snacks in the TSL!

 

Edited November 5, 2023 by Captain-John

[Greygooser]

On this same itinerary in the YC next month, looking forward to your thoughts

[raino144]

Looking forward to this. Newly minted MSC Diamond + travelling on this itinerary next Easter. Previously sailed Grandiosa (just!), Seaside, Divina and Preziosa so looking forward to your thoughts. Especially the expanded YC vs. other ships?

[Two Wheels Only]

I'm booked on World America so most of the things will carry over from ship to ship. As far as the Yacht Club specifics, let us know how effective the elevator hijack system is outside of the enclave.

 

Also, can you give an opinion on how the non-Yacht Club staterooms are separated from the surrounding Yacht Club areas (decks 19-21, for ex.)?

[awatt]

Would like to know , with more passengers in Yacht Club are the spaces indoor and outdoor, crowded at all? The biggest appeal of the Yc to me is the lack of crowds and how relaxing that is.

[Captain-John]

1 hour ago, raino144 said:

specially the expanded YC vs. other ships?

 

We have been on Preziosa before to represent the 'smaller' YCs and in fact sailed Preziosa non-YC in the past too. The seperate restaurant never bothered me, but the butler's insistence on escorting us through the ship did on the smaller ships.

 

6 hours ago, Greygooser said:

On this same itinerary in the YC next month, looking forward to your thoughts

 

Great, and sorry in advance I won't cover a lot of detail in the ports just on the basis we have been before and not planning to go 'all in.' Thinking at this point is we are doing the Aix-en-Provence tour in Marseille. We will just walk around Porto Antico and Genoa city centre.

 

We will explore Civitavechhia itself instead of going into Rome. Palermo also we will just explore the city on foot.

 

Valetta we are going to take the ferry to 'The Three Cities' having explored Valetta proper previously.

 

48 minutes ago, Two Wheels Only said:

As far as the Yacht Club specifics, let us know how effective the elevator hijack system is outside of the enclave.

 

Also, can you give an opinion on how the non-Yacht Club staterooms are separated from the surrounding Yacht Club areas (decks 19-21, for ex.)?

 

Will do, I don't recall having much success with this on past YC sailings but I am keen to utilise it if it works on this trip.

 

Yes, I'll explore the seperation for you. We are on deck 18, forward so backing on to the public indoor pool area. Wasn't our first choice but our agent only had access to a certain range of cabins at the time.

 

16 minutes ago, awatt said:

The biggest appeal of the Yc to me is the lack of crowds and how relaxing that is.

Agreed. As a % of the overall ship I think the YC equates to <5% of passenger volume, but you're right, the overall numbers are higher (nearly 400 at max capacity I think). While I don't think this sailing will be overly popular with families, and given it's not high season, I do think the YC will be full or nearly full given the prevalance of the Bid Up programmes. Will let you know how it 'feels.'

 

 

[Captain-John]

Our trip is underway. We had a civil flight time of 10:30 this morning, Edinburgh direct to Barcelona. Normally we start much earlier so although sacrificing some time in Barcelona, it has worked out well. 

 

Check-in and security were smooth. Conditions were pleasant on the ground. 

 

 

We are not spoiled for choice in terms of carrier and often low cost airlines is the easiest way to fly to European cities for us

 

Unfortunately the Vueling aircraft we were on was absolutely filthy. The A321 was only 9 years old, but last cleaned the day it left the factory. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

However smooth skies followed and we departed on time. 

 

 

 

 

 

Some beautiful views as we flew:

 

 

 

I spotted another LNG powered vessel when coming in to land - I trust World Europa will be slightly more comfortable! 

 

 

 

We landed early but had a long wait for baggage. Immigration was very smooth (we have found this to be true in many Spanish airports recently). 

 

Before long, we were on our way into the city. Lovely settled weather in Barcelona just now. 

 

 

 

Edited November 9, 2023 by Captain-John

[pirate4me2]

Following along! We are booked on World America so I am sure a lot of things will be the same or similar. I am very curious to see how the YC area is. 

[Captain-John]

We arrived at our hotel, the Kimpton Vividora. The taxi driver had never taken anyone there before and struggled to find directions on his phone, so it was an interesting ride. There is no direct road access to the hotel, we had to cross over La Rambla with our lugggage, but apart from that very impressed so far. Taxi was c. €35. 

 

Last year we stayed in the Majestic which was very nice but just a tad farther out (on foot) than we wanted for such a short stay. 

 

Fantastic welcome from all the staff and we have been assigned a King room for our one night stay. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

We are dining on the terrace later as we want a more relaxing holiday than our usual wandering for hours and hours.

 

We did take a walk around for a few hours, as the sun set, and were reminded how much we enjoy this city. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Gemina]

We will be in the Yacht Club on World Europa next October so I’m very much looking forward to your review. It will be our first non-Caribbean cruise and I’m interested to see how it differs from what we’re used to (we have the Escape Haven booked in Feb but other than that we’ve only sailed with Royal and Disney). 

[Captain-John]

This evening we had a great meal on the terrace at the hotel. Unfortunately the patio heaters had 'run out of gasoline' but blankets were offered and certainly compared to home it was by no means cold.

 

 

 

 

 

Perhaps a foreshadowing of the type of thing we like to eat when cruising but we had:

 

Patatas bravas

Mushroom croquettes

 

 

Burger

Lobster tacos

 

 

 

 

 

Vanilla ice cream

Chocolate brownie 

 

 

 

All tasty, followed by a post meal walk around the back streets.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Very much looking forward to the breakfast offering tomorrow and of course boarding World Europa.

 

 

Edited November 9, 2023 by Captain-John

[dexddd]

Well, at least the hotel has a cruise ship type toilet.

[Captain-John]

Now onboard World Europa and it is definitely a shiny ship, in the MSC style of glitz and glamour. 

 

Embarkation was smooth at around 11am this morning. There is a dedicated YC waiting area in the terminal as well as the usual dedicated bag drop off. 

 

 

 

 

 

All our documents were taken and check in formalities completed as we waited with a drink. 

 

After around 10 minutes,  group of 6 were escorted onboard and deposited in the TSL. Compared to American ships, there was a serious lack of air conditioning in the TSL and it was uncomfortably hot as we were given the introductory briefing from the head butler and concierge staff. 

 

 

 

 

 

Everyone has been incredibly attentive so far, more so than we found in Haven at this stage. We met our butler in the terminal and he has promised to stop by later for a more formal introduction. 

 

We require very little of a butler but early signs are positive. 

 

To settle a few outstanding matters:

 

We were given wristbands in the terminal. 

 

 

We were strongly encouraged to utilise 'La Brasserie' 'at least twice' - this was presented a great alternative dining option rather than an overspill. We always intended to eat here anyway but I found it odd that reservations are rquired. 

 

 

We have been told we are only entitled to one hour in the thermal suite per day and it must be booked. Not happy about this one at all - will see how it plays out in reality as I suspect it will be more lax than what the briefing told us to expect. 

 

To the question about separation of YC from other areas of the ship, the entrance is tucked away behind the elevator bank and really quite discrete on deck 18. On Joy Haven the door was big, bold and in the stairwell area. I can look into this on the other floors in more detail later on. 

 

 

 

Edited November 10, 2023 by Captain-John

[Boschmann]

On Seaside we were told the same thing about the thermal spa, only a one hour reservation per day.  We also didn't get wristbands, told it was a supply issue.  I'm envious you had Pringle's available at check-in, we never saw any on Seaside.  

 

Thanks for a detailed look at this ship's Yacht Club. 

[Captain-John]

After 20 minutes or so we were escorted to our cabin, 18008.

 

Cabin is a good size and suits our needs for a week. There are two wardrobes either side of the main dressing area. 

 

The bathroom is smaller than I recall from previous YC cabins. No tub and laminate rather than tile on the floor. 

 

Standard MSC branded amenities. 

 

An apology was provided for the lack of fruit on arrival, they are to be re-supplied today (no issue for us). 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Very comprehensive lighting and temperature controls. 

 

 

I previously thought photographs of these cabins made them look quite cold and grey but that's not the case in person, it's proving very comfortable so far. 

[Captain-John]

We explored the ship and then had a delicious lunch in the YC restaurant. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[Captain-John]

QR_W_YC_LUNCH_DAY3_EN_1699623040.pdf

 

 

Cheese fritters

 

Salmon rillettes 

 

 

BBQ Chicken with fries 

 

 

Clam linguini 

 

 

 

Fantasy sundae

 

 

 

All delicious and very filling. It will be a later meal this evening I think. 

 

Afterward we explored more of the YC. Sad to report that snacks are not available 'buffet style' and instead are brought on a tiered stand. Will see as the week goes on if we can specify savoury vs sweet and exclude or include certain items or if it's just a standard offering for all. 

 

 

 

Pool bar and grill (located a deck below the pool) :

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pool is heated. 

 

 

 

 

There is a roving bar trolley on the pool deck proper. 

 

 

Edited November 10, 2023 by Captain-John

[Captain-John]

On 11/5/2023 at 6:18 PM, Two Wheels Only said:

Also, can you give an opinion on how the non-Yacht Club staterooms are separated from the surrounding Yacht Club areas (decks 19-21, for ex.)?

Sorry just read this question more closely. 

 

The seperation on 19 is good in my opinion. An unmarked door provides access to the inside cabins and the YC entrance is grander, with key card control. 

 

 

 

[Ottawa_Cruiser]

Loving your review so far @Captain-John! Have an amazing cruise.

[Captain-John]

One remarkable (and frankly unexpected) difference between YC and Haven is the attentiveness of the crew. Everyone was very friendly in Haven, but the team so far in YC (accepting this is only the first day) have been more engaging in comparison. Seems like they have more time and freedom to chat beyond just carrying out their immediate duty. This extends to lounge staff, concierge, waiters, bad staff, pool deck, everything. 

 

What's really funny is the number of times La Brasserie ( the 'family style' alternative YC restaurant has been mentioned). Easily 5 times today from seperate crew. Clearly this is a KPI or something for them. As I have said, we always intended to eat there but is clearly being pushed by all.

 

Jason and Shakira served us this evening in the YC restaurant. They both established a great rapport and delivered an exceptional service - a step above any Haven service we received earlier this year. I don't want to go too strong on this point given how early into the cruise we are but the overall service is notable and remarkable. I don't recall having this strong a feeling on previous YC or Haven cruises. Top marks. 

 

Our butler Smith too has been very sincere and strikes just the right balance of being engaging without being overbearing. While pre-submitted newspaper and drink requests were muddled as usual, soon remedied by Smith, and again very pleased so far.

 

Anyway on to the meal. Very good indeed in term of taste and service. 

 

QR_W_YC_DINNER_DAY3_EN_1699623058.pdf

 

Beef carpaccio (x2) 

 

 

 

Lamb chops

 

 

Lasagna

 

 

 

Cheese

 

 

Cheese trolley

 

 

Wine

 

 

While the portion of lamb was small, the flavour was delicious and I would have it again readily. We have also eaten very well today so the portioning was ideal and we walked away very full and satisfied. 

 

We wandered the ship again and had a drink in the TSL. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Old Fashioned and snacks. Had a chat about the snack situation. Apparently never been available buffet style on World Europa. A few complaints have been made by hungry travellers boarding the ship late and finding the restaurant closed and no snacks in the way they have been accustomed to. Our server said it could make a comeback with World America but clearly that is just speculation and we are seeing reports of this being withdrawn on ships that have the physical infrastructure to offer it (there is no serving area in the WE TSL). 

 

 

Water and chocolate by the beside for retiring. 

 

[morpheusofthesea]

31 minutes ago, Captain-John said:

Had a chat about the snack situation. Apparently never been available buffet style on World Europa.

'Read' that they did away with reserved seating for Yacht Club guests in theatre ?

[ConnieTact]

On 11/5/2023 at 10:06 AM, Captain-John said:

Never sure when to start a thread like this but figured since we sail on Friday now was an appropriate time to set the scene. 

 

We are sailing MSC World Europa in Yacht Club for 7 nights, on what I'd call a 'bog standard' Mediterranean itinerary. I intend to post from the ship about our experience as best I can.

 

 

………

 

We are Diamond with MSC but many of the perks are covered by the YC experience anyway, so the only thing of real value to us is the speciality meal.

 

Just on the dining note, 7 nights is way too short a cruise for us and we also want to try the YC buffet (if it's still running) as the menu really appeals to our taste compared to the main menu, as well as use our Diamond meal, so in reality we may only have 3-4 evening meals in the YC restaurant. We also want to try Hola! and there simply won't be time for it all.

…..

 

 

We were in the same position in YC and took our speciality meal at lunchtime on the sea day so we didn’t miss out on YC evening meal! For me, I preferred YC food but it made a change. 

[Captain-John]

13 hours ago, morpheusofthesea said:

'Read' that they did away with reserved seating for Yacht Club guests in theatre ?

 

Generally we don't go to the shows but I will ask the concierge what the position is. 

 

Speaking of reservations, not too pleased with the thermal area booking requirement. Requested 4pm and ended up with 6pm as fully booked from 3 onwards. I hope the upshot of a rigid booking system is that the thermal area is quiet and well capacity controlled. If it is also a zoo on top of a stupid booking system I will have to feed that back. I also intend to ignore the '1 hour' guidance. Clearly far too many people are permitted access. 

 

We also had to book La Brasserie for this evening which I also find strange for an alternative overflow restaurant offering. Will feed back on that experience later. 

 

Toured Aix-En-Provence this morning which was a nice change from Marseille.

 

Escorted both on and off the ship albeit lines weren't long anyway. We were on the bus early rather than late. I assume their logic is to allow a choice of seat but it did mean hanging around. I'd prefer to join later and just go. 

 

 

 

 

Lunch was good but not as good as yesterday's meal. 

 

QR_W_YC_LUNCH_DAY14_EN_1699704570.pdf

 

Burratta 

 

 

Muasell potato soup

 

 

Burger (x2) 

 

 

 

 

[Captain-John]

Had a good afternoon in the YC pool and hot tub then headed to the TSL for a few drinks. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Just a note on the drinks menus, odd situation in the TSL and ain ish they have would bring back paper menus. 

 

We scanned the QR code but were told that is not the full menu. 2 paper menus were presented and we were invited to take a picture for reference. 

 

So we have the typical QR menu plus the two further supplements below. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

QR_V_YC-BAR-LIST_OTHER_DAYX_EN_1699721108.pdf

[Captain-John]

For those interested, I've just had a very short visit to the thermal area. It's a zoo even with their booking system. The main hydrotherapy pool posts a capacity of 10. There were 19 people when I counted. Very loud and not relaxing. 

 

Hoping the 4pm slot tomorrow is quieter. 

 

Definitely an issue here though - too many cabins have access to a venue that is much too small. It's disappointing as we do enjoy this facility and is a factor in us booking a room category that allows this type of access. 

 

I find myself back on the YC deck braving the wind but enjoying the peace.