As the saying goes, ‘not all that glitters is gold.’This is especially true for cruise lines, where the luxurious amenities and breathtaking views can sometimes be overshadowed by subpar service and accommodations.
In my experience, I’ve come across two cruise lines that have consistently failed to meet expectations: MSC Cruises and Hurtigruten. While these cruise lines may seem appealing at first glance, the reality is far from glamorous.
From limited menu options and poor quality food to cramped cabins and lackluster facilities, MSC Cruises and Hurtigruten have been rated as the worst in various areas by disappointed passengers.
However, it’s important to note that personal preferences and expectations play a significant role in how one perceives their experience on board. So, let’s dive deeper into the reasons why MSC Cruises and Hurtigruten have earned their reputation as the worst cruise lines, and what you can expect if you choose to sail with them.
- MSC Cruises is rated worst for customer service, space, facilities, cabins, food and drink, according to reviews.
- Hurtigruten is rated worst for facilities and cabins, with no swimming pools or family facilities on board.
- Personal preferences matter, as some people still give excellent reviews to these cruise lines, and experienced cruisers tend to leave bad reviews.
- MSC cruises are often some of the cheapest available, but standards in some areas may be a little below the more expensive cruise lines, and when it comes to cruising, you really do get what you pay for.
MSC Food and Drink
I found it interesting that while MSC Cruises is rated worst for food and drink, their pizza served on board is actually pretty good. However, the other food and drink options do not necessarily stack up well against what other cruise lines offer.
Portion sizes can be pretty small, and the limited menu options and buffet variety can be disappointing. If you have specific dietary requirements, such as gluten-free or vegan options, you may struggle to find suitable meals on board.
However, MSC Cruises does offer plenty of specialty dining restaurants if you’re willing to pay an extra charge. The drink quality is pretty good, but the service can be slow at times. Overall, while MSC Cruises may be one of the cheapest options available, it’s important to remember that when it comes to cruising, you really do get what you pay for.
MSC Customer Service and Space
Customer service and space are major issues on MSC cruises, as reported by reviews. Many passengers have complained about the lack of attention given to their needs by the crew. Some have even reported incidents of rudeness and unprofessional behavior from staff members.
MSC needs to work on improving their customer experience by training their employees to be more attentive and responsive to their passengers’ needs. Space is also a concern on MSC cruises, with many passengers reporting cramped and uncomfortable rooms. The cabins are often smaller than those on other cruise lines, with limited storage space and basic amenities.
MSC needs to work on maximizing space utilization by redesigning their cabins to make them more spacious and comfortable. This would greatly improve the overall experience for passengers and make their cruise more enjoyable.
Hurtigruten Facilities and Cabins
Facilities and cabin size are major concerns on Hurtigruten, as the ships are designed for a destination experience rather than traditional cruising. This means that there are limited options for evening entertainment on board, and the basic facilities may not meet the expectations of those who are used to larger, more luxurious cruise ships. Additionally, the cabins on Hurtigruten tend to be smaller than other cruise lines, with older ships in the fleet having cabins as small as 53 square feet.
On the other hand, MSC cruises may have better facilities and cabins in comparison to Hurtigruten, but the food and drink options are not necessarily up to par. The portion sizes can be small, and while there are plenty of specialty dining options available for an extra charge, the main dining room may not offer enough variety for some passengers.
It’s important to note that personal preferences play a large role in how one perceives a cruise line, and while some may find Hurtigruten lacking in certain areas, others may appreciate the focus on a destination experience. Similarly, while MSC cruises may not have the best food and drink options, they may be a more affordable option for those on a budget.
Personal Preferences and Cost
When choosing a cruise, I always consider my personal preferences and budget constraints. In my experience, while MSC Cruises and Hurtigruten may not be the most luxurious cruise lines out there, they do offer budget-friendly options for those who want to see the world without breaking the bank.
However, it’s important to note that their standards in some areas may be below those of more expensive cruise lines. When compared to other cruise lines, MSC Cruises and Hurtigruten may fall short in terms of facilities, cabins, and food options.
However, personal preferences do play a role in how one perceives their experience on board. Some people may still enjoy their time on these cruise lines and give excellent reviews. At the end of the day, it all comes down to balancing your budget with your desired level of luxury and comparing your options to find the best fit for you.
What are the activities and entertainment options available on MSC and Hurtigruten cruises?
Looking for top rated entertainment and family friendly activities on a cruise? MSC and Hurtigruten may not be your best bet. Limited facilities and basic evening entertainment on Hurtigruten, while MSC offers extra charge specialty dining and small portions.
Are there any restrictions on bringing your own food and drinks on board MSC and Hurtigruten cruises?
I couldn’t bring my own food and drinks on board MSC or Hurtigruten. Both lines have restrictions on bringing food, and Hurtigruten has alcohol limitations. It’s best to check their policies before packing.
What is the dress code for dining on MSC and Hurtigruten cruises?
For dining on MSC and Hurtigruten cruises, dress code expectations vary by ship and restaurant. The dining experience ambiance is generally casual, but some restaurants may require more formal attire. It’s best to check with the cruise line before packing.
How do MSC and Hurtigruten compare in terms of environmental sustainability and responsible tourism practices?
When it comes to responsible tourism practices and environmental sustainability efforts, MSC and Hurtigruten differ greatly. While MSC has faced criticism for its environmental impact, Hurtigruten has made efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and promote sustainable tourism.
Can you bring pets on board MSC and Hurtigruten cruises?
Pet policies vary by cruise line, but both MSC and Hurtigruten do not allow pets on board their ships, except for service animals. It’s important to check the individual policies of each cruise line before traveling with animals.