Cruising the Mediterranean with MSC

The MSC Virtuosa is a seriously stunning ship.

From the moment I stepped onboard, it felt sleek, stylish, and full of little touches that make it special. One of my absolute favourite features has to be the Swarovski crystal staircase in the main atrium – it’s a real showstopper and gives the whole area a glamorous feel.

Food & Service

The food onboard was lovely. From the buffets with endless choices to the à la carte restaurants with beautifully presented dishes, every meal felt like a treat. The service was just as good – the staff were friendly, helpful, and really made sure everything was spot-on throughout the trip.

Entertainment

There was plenty to do onboard, no matter what mood you were in. Whether it was catching a show, trying out an activity, or simply relaxing with a drink while watching the world go by, there was never a dull moment.

Lisbon

Lisbon completely charmed me. Walking through the districts with its winding streets, colourful tiles, and the sounds of local music felt amazing. We hopped on the famous yellow tram 28, which is a must for anyone wanting to see the city’s highlights in one go. For breathtaking views, the Miradouro da Senhora do Monte lookout was incredible.

And of course – I couldn’t leave without trying the famous Portuguese custard tarts (Pastéis de Nata). Fresh from the bakery, warm, and dusted with cinnamon, they are an absolute must when visiting Lisbon.

Vigo

Then there was Vigo, which felt like a real hidden gem. It’s a beautiful port city with a relaxed vibe and plenty of character. I loved exploring the old town ,wandering its narrow streets, and soaking up the atmosphere in Porta do Sol square. If you’ve got more time, Vigo is also the perfect jumping-off point for visiting the Cíes Islands.

Cherbourg

Cherbourg was another interesting stop. This charming French port city is full of maritime history. The highlight for me was visiting La Cité de la Mer, a fascinating museum dedicated to the ocean, complete with an actual nuclear submarine you can tour. Strolling around the harbour area was also lovely, with plenty of cafés and shops to explore. If you enjoy a bit of history, Cherbourg has connections to Titanic (it was one of the ship’s last stops), and you can learn more about that at the museum too.

Overall, I had an Great time on the MSC Virtuosa. The ship is stunning, the food and service were excellent, and the ports of call were full of surprises. Lisbon and Vigo in particular were absolute highlights – both felt like little hidden gems in their own way.