MSC Splendida at Dublin Port

MSC Splendida at Dublin Port

Thursday 19 May 2016


MSC Splendida - Ship Visit at Dublin Port on 13th May 2016 ~Andrew
 


On an untypically balmy mid May morning, I dusted down my trusty sunglasses, cranked up the car stereo, and headed for Dublin port to enjoy the day as a guest on board the MSC cruise ship Splendida. This was my first visit to such a vessel so I'd packed an overnight bag just in case I got lost and found myself somewhere in the Med. Well, that was the plan. 

Upon arrival, the Splendida did look rather splendid as she gleamed from the early morning sun and sat perfectly poised between water and sky. It's the longest ship to have docked in Dublin port. At around two and a half times the length of Croke Park’s hallowed turf, and taller than Liberty Hall, it's a temporary Dublin landmark itself. 



One of four Fantasia class MSC cruise ships, the Splendida was built as the Serenata but the name was changed to reflect the ships beauty and elegance. I can see why. The Fantasia class ships are the biggest in the MSC fleet and packed with every luxury and convenience needed for a memorable holiday. The Splendida boasts numerous dining options, bars and lounges, a VIP section with 24 hour butler service, a casino, a cinema, a spa and Turkish baths, four swimming pools, a mini golf course, tennis/basketball/squash courts, a state of the art gym and a 1,700-seater show lounge – all spread over 18 decks. Did I mention the Formula 1 simulator?



Leaving the bustle of Dublin port behind me, I strode up the gangway and entered tranquillity on deck 5 into an impressive atrium, sprinkled with Swarovski crystals and a chandelier worthy of any royal palace. It's a sleek modern space and the ships central hub housing the reception, library and business centre. It also functions as a live entertainment area and lounge. The design is very welcoming. It induces feelings of anticipation, of excitement and satisfaction. It places the guest at ease. As first impressions go, it works for me. 
 

Walking the length of the ship brings something new each turn we take. We pass by an Italian piazza lined with gelaterias and aromatic cafes. We view the impressive show lounge where 1700 well fed guests can enjoy a post dinner show and imagine they're in Broadway. We’re shown the huge sports bar and I immediately imagine that cruising during the Euros would be a great holiday for the Mrs and me! Then I recall we've a 16mth old pirate of our own and my dream begins to fade. Luckily I'm immediately reinvigorated as we pass through the ‘Kids Corner’ and learn about all the wonderful places you can lose your children and sneak off to the sports bar!

A quick detour from Kids corner offers me the opportunity to view a balcony cabin. It's a compact space, very welcoming and is carefully designed for optimum comfort and storage. The bed looks inviting, and the balcony, while relatively small, is large enough to enjoy a morning coffee as you arrive in a new port, or a glass of something stronger under the stars as you leave another behind. I'm tempted to sneak under the bed as part of my plan to stowaway to the Med, but am disheartened to discover Splendida's not heading for NaplesMONACO,  or Barcelona – it's off to Cork. 



We continue walking through a maze of restaurants, discos and bars, before ascending to the upper deck's outdoor pool area. Here you'll also find the Aurea spa where a crack team of Balinese masseurs are on hand to pamper and re-energise. You really have everything and more to keep you well fed, well entertained, well rested, and well... just well. And if you're looking for better than just well, then the MSC Yacht Club should come in for serious consideration. Billed by MSC as a ship within a ship, it is an exclusive area with 24-hour Butler service, Private Concierge, private pool, luxurious suites and all-inclusive food and drinks. The Yacht Club product really is a worthy treat and would undoubtedly enhance your cruise experience. 



For those thinking of booking an MSC cruise I'd definitely recommend the Fantasia class ships, particularly if you desire choice and excitement. With an MSC cruise you're getting a European influenced cruising experience, with great facilities, good food, fantastic entertainment, and an excellent approach to cruising with something for everyone. Oh! And they have sports bars too. Ciao!


 

 

 

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