MSC World Europa - The Yacht Club

By Cruising With Honey - 15:37

MSC World Europa – Day 5

The ship-within-a-ship concept is not something unique to MSC World Europa, but their premium Yacht Club experienced has a few unique concepts – and I’m not just talking about the blindingly beautiful Swarovski Crystal staircase

MSC Yacht Club

The first thing I noticed when I entered the Yacht Club areas about World Europa was the smell – or rather the delicious scent. The wonderful thing about being is just how much our senses play in creating, and re-living memories. With the slightest whiff, our olfactory sense can transport us to a moment in time, bringing with it an influx of memories. I can’t quite explain the scent, but it was fresh and clean and not overpowering – and exclusive. Does that make sense?

While the Yacht Club is not for everyone, having the option to stay in premium suites, have access to exclusive and private areas of the ship, 24-hour butler service, culinary experiences, priority embarkation/debarkation and much, more, appeals to cruisers who want a more luxurious experience.

Before touring the restaurant, I had the chance to check out the private pool/outdoor areas. Imagine you’re at a super-elite resort with gorgeous canopy beds and poolside service. I just wanted to jump onto the luxe bed, grab a cocktail and watch the ocean.

The exclusive large sundeck with pool and whirlpool bath is a massive 1,793 sqm large and spans two decks (deck 21 and 22) at the front of the ship. On Deck 22 there’s a stunning pool and solarium area - the largest of any MSC Yacht Club on the fleet and features a forward-facing, secluded whirlpool bath.

On Deck 21, there’s the MSC Yacht Club Sundeck & Bar and the MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar. The perfect spot to sip some champagne and watch the sunset.

Fine dining and sparkly stairs

I really did feel like Lady Muck being greeted at the door at the MSC Yacht Club Restaurant on Deck 20 by the livery-clad butlers. The room was stunning. Lots of fresh flowers, drenched in sunlight and that shiny Swarovski staircase stole the show.

The private fine-dining restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner with an a la carte menu with chef’s specials, and a wide choice of gourmet dishes complemented by an extensive wine list.

We were spoilt with an afternoon tea with an array of delectable desserts. I get the appeal as to what cruisers would want this exclusive, top-end experience.

Sweet suites

Have you ever seen Bulgari toiletries in ship stateroom? Neither had I until I’d toured one of the MSC Yacht Club suites.

Watch my room tour here of the Deluxe Suite on Deck 19.

Roomy, modern and so sumptuous. Did someone say marble bathroom?

That extra-special cruise experience

As I gobbled down my last fruit tart and took my last look around the Yacht Club dining room, I understood why some cruisers choose to cruise in this more exclusive manner.

It’s not for everyone and yes, the price is higher, but for those who crave privacy or are not drawn to the communal activities on cruise ships, being a guest in the ship-within-a-ship they get all the amazing experiences of being on a ship PLUS the exclusivity of a truly personalised holiday.

It’s one of those things you might aspire to or save up for a special occasion. And to that I say, why not! Life is for living and you should eat the cake.

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MSC World Europa – The Naming Ceremony

By Cruising With Honey - 18:48

MSC World Europa – Day 4

World Europa’s Naming Ceremony

Fireworks, drones and a spectacular light-projection show and MSC World Europa was officially named.

Never in my wildest could I ever imagine I’d be at such a momentous occasion, among MSC executives, dignitaries and the who’s who of Qatari elite.

I walked the Blue Carpet along Doha's brand new Grand Cruise Terminal, I was mesmerised by my surroundings. Qatar Airways crew lined the walkway as an Arabic calligrapher created beautiful art. An older woman weaved intricate craft and a serene older gentleman built traditional Qatari boat models with his aged hands.

I yearned for time to stand still so I could soak in this moment. The air was festive and guests smiled in their resplendent attire.

Making my way to the media seating, I looked up at the stunning ship which glowed against the inky sky and waited for the formalities to begin.

A class of her own

As the most innovative and environmentally advanced cruise ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, World Europa has made ground-breaking advances in terms of reduction of emissions and energy efficiency.

The LNG-powered ship also paves the way towards the uptake of carbon-neutral synthetic and other alternative fuels as soon as they are available at scale.

Spanning 22 decks, with 215,863 GT’s, 47 metres wide, 40,000 m2 of public space and 2,626 cabins, MSC World Europa offers a veritable world of different experiences.

Oh, What a Night!

The official ceremony was hosted by comedian, producer and entrepreneur, Hamad Al Amari, and we were treated to performance by local artists, a preview of a fabulous show that will be performed on the ship and a light-tastic video-mapping projection onto the ship’s hull.

As the finale approached, international singer-songwriter Matteo Bocelli performed three spine-tingling songs as a mind-blowing drone show lit up the sky.

Afterwards, the Gala Dinner awaited, and the festive atmosphere continued aboard MSC World Europa. Delicious dishes, wonderful drinks and even better company cemented the evening as one of my best ever cruise experiences.

It was in the wee hours of the next morning when I finally head back to my cabin. Reflecting on the night, I smiled as I re-lived all the wonderful moments of this was truly memorable night.

As I closed my eyes, I thought about how far this humble blog has taken me.

My dream to cruise and write had come true and I was so privileged to be living this fabulous life.

World Europa's Upcoming Season

MSC World Europa will spend her inaugural season in the Middle East offering 7-night cruises to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE, Dammam, Saudi Arabia and Doha, Qatar.

Her season will commence on 20 December with a special 4-night sailing from Doha, Qatar to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Departing Dubai on 25 March 2023, MSC World Europa will head to the Mediterranean Sea for summer 2023, she will offer 7-night cruises calling the Italian ports of Genoa, Naples and Messina, as well as Valletta in Malta, Barcelona in Spain and Marseille in France.

Prices start at $514pp (twin share) for a 7-night cruise Barcelona to Barcelona, departing 3 November, 2023 and a 7-night cruise Doha to Doha, departing 26 January, 2023 from $1,064pp (twin share).

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MSC World Europa - Day 3

By Cruising With Honey - 14:13

MSC World Europa - Day 3

For someone who is not a morning person, my brain woke me with a start at 5:30am. It must have known what a busy day I had ahead, so there was no use fighting it. Up and at ‘em Honey.

The early Honey get the sweet coffee

The beauty of waking up early is that I could explore more of the incredible MSC World Europa, was that I could do some filming and take lot of photos of a virtually empty ship. First stop was the World Promenade (I keep getting drawn back to this area) WATCH MY LIVE STREAM HERE

There’s something really special about the World Promenade and I can only imagine how wonderful it would be to just sit out here while cruising and admire the wake.

As I still had a bit of time before the Coffee Emporium opens, I wanted to take a look at the Panorama Lounge on Deck 7. Sweet Scallops! What a stunning venue

WATCH MY LIVESTREAM HERE

The colours, the design and the expansive floor-to-ceiling windows are breathtaking.

And, now it was time for coffee. I’m naturally hyperactive so one cup of coffee can keep me going for two days, but I had to try the coffee at the Coffee Emporium.

And, naturally I picked the most indulgent beverage, the Nutella coffee! WATCH MY LIVESTREAM HERE Creamy, sweet and chocolatey, it was a delight! Did you know that MSC roast their own coffee beans, right on board?

World Europa scoops the big awards

There’s been a lot of talk (and action) about sustainability and the impact of cruising on the environment. I suppose, the silver lining of the pandemic was that cruise lines could accelerate technology and to not only reduce their emissions but actually help the environment. One thing that makes me very frustrated is the ignorance of some of the public (usually, non-cruisers) and the media that continue to pile on the cruise industry without actually understanding what lines are doing in sustainability.

This morning, I joined other media from around the world and trade partners for a special presentation, recognising World Europa’s achievements. Veritas awarded the 12 Golden Pearls award, for the highest notations and certification for Quality, Health, Safety and Environment (QHSE) in cruise vessels. It was pretty impressive and very enlightening. Click here to find out more about MSC’s Sustainability Programme

Cool Qatar

While we weren’t actually sailing anywhere, a shore excursion was still on the cards. After a inhaling a delicious frozen yogurt (calories don’t count on cruises and I’m sure my walking in the Qatari heat will burn them off anyway) I was back on land to explore the city.

The luxury coaches drove us through the city and I was amazed by the futuristic architecture. Every building was unique and interesting. I'd never seen a skyline like this before.

We drove past the massive dugong sculpture, a giant public art installation on the Doha Corniche by acclaimed American artist Jeff Koons. The 21m high and 31m wide shiny steel sculpture at Al Masrah Park is part of the 40 sculptures installed across the country ahead of the FIFA World Cup Qatar. I couldn’t help but wonder how they got this artwork over here!

On we drove through the modern city which would soon host the World Cup. There was still a lot of construction yet to be completed – but it seemed to be going at a super-fast pace.

At Kotara Cultural village, we had the chance to explore the intricate mosque and walk around the amphitheatre before driving around The Pearl - a man-made island that sits on 4 million sqm of reclaimed land.

Bustling with hotels, cafes and restaurants, luxury boutiques, the area boast a lavish residential community. Every second car we passed was a luxury vehicle, Rolls Royce, Bentley, BMW. This county is rich, rich, thanks to its oil and gas reserves and I can only imagine how much more it will grow.

Camels and falcons and perfumes, Oh My!

Never in my wildest dreams would I ever imagine what I saw next. Through the heat haze and the golden sunset streams, an army of camels, languidly marched by their rocking gait. Rubbing my eyes, I raced over to the bus window and indeed dozens of camels with tradition headressed-adorned riders make their way across the lawn of an official looking building.

I was too mesmerised to pay much attention to our tour guide who explained what the building was ( some Ministry building) but apparently the camel procession takes place twice a day and we were just lucky to be at the right place at the right time.

Moments later, we arrived at the Souk Waqif. Literally translating to ‘Standing Market’ I was so super excited to uncover treasures of spices, garments, traditional handicrafts and more. And, it would be a great place to practise my Arabic. However, before I could get lost in the meandering alleyways, the entrance we were dropped off at was a type of pen for camels.

I squealed as I ran over to pet the camels – my absolute favourite animals – and their keepers graciously allowed us to cuddle the creatures and take lots of selfies.

As l bade my goodbye, I looked back at the chewing camels juxtaposed against the futuristic ombre sky, marvelling at the beauty and strangeness of this moment.

The next few hours, I was in heaven! The sights and sounds and scents were intoxicating. I entered a falcon shop and hospital, tested the patience of a perfume seller and zig-zagged my way through spice, gold and copper shops. It was not only visually beautiful but clean and friendly.

And, I cannot stress this enough, incredibly SAFE. All vendors were professional and friendly and not once put the hard to make a purchase. Yes, I haggled a bit, but prices were reasonable. I wish I could have stayed there all night.

That night, I dreamt I was in the dessert, riding a camel over the dunes, traversing the waves of golden grains and connecting to a time and place that was innately familiar.

Maybe it wasn’t a dream, but a memory of a past life.

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MSC World Europa – Day 2

By Cruising With Honey - 15:03

MSC World Europa – Day 2

Breaking Fast

There are so many things that I’m grateful for when cruising, but without hesitation, having food prepared for me is probably one of, if not, the thing that I’m most grateful for.

Food has always been my love language, and like many people, I enjoy preparing meals to serve my family and friends. But we all need a break, and cruising offers me the luxury of sitting back and enjoying many, many meals. And, as I’ve said before, I’ve had some of the best meals of my life at sea.

Waking up with a grumble in my stomach, I headed up to explore the Il Mercato Buffet (Deck 18). I was greeted by friendly crew at the door and entered the chic restaurant. The warm timber decor was inviting, and I headed over to the wash basins to clean my hands. The buffet has two sides, however only one side was open as both were not necessary, I’m guessing due the number of passengers currently aboard.

You know that moment when you just know your eyes will eat more than your stomach and you wish you could somehow fit more than humanly possible in your tummy space? Well this one of those moments. Here are some of the highlights:

• The restaurant is massive. There was no shortage of tables and booths.

• Ideal location on Deck 18 (aft). The doors head out to the deck. A plus when wanting a quick meal or snack after sitting out enjoying the pool.

• Most stations are served. Only a few dishes are self-service.

• The selection is huge. From all the traditional Western dishes to Middle Eastern, Asian and Indian offerings.

• Numerous drink stations – however crew will approach you very shortly after you’re seated to bring you your drink of choice. I had a fresh apricot juice every morning.

• The crew/servers/waitstaff are very efficient, very friendly and there are so many smiling faces to wish you a good day.

Everything was delicious, the right temperature and I was constantly amazed at the different dishes. No two days were the same, with delicacies enticing me to just try one more bite. As cruise ship buffets go, I rate Il Mercato very high.

The food journey continues

Boarding World Europa at night I was eager to see this shiny new ship in the shiny day light. Instead of trying to see everything in one day, I thought that I’d split it up into categories, and today was Restaurant Exploration Day. Like most, if not all cruise ships these days, MSC World Europa features both included (complimentary) and speciality restaurants.

As this was a special event, everything was included for the invited guests. All meals, all drinks, all everything. Talk about being spoilt! But, despite all my best intentions, I just knew that with 13 restaurants and 20 bars and lounges I couldn’t experience it all. Luckily, there was the genius idea to put on Daily Tasting at the speciality restaurants.

Specialty restaurants

• Hola! Tacos & Cantina – Deck 7. Fresh, vibrant, colourful. Mexican and Latin American dishes. Loved the fresh fruit drink selection, the artwork and the fun vibe WATCH MY LIVESTREAM HERE

• The Butcher’s Cut – Deck 7. Steakhouse with a warm, inviting ambiance. I also met my favourite chef here. Michael is fabulous. I had the best filet mignon - mouth watering and indulgent. Also has a huge wine selection. WATCH MY LIVESTREAM HERE and HERE

• Chef’s Garden Kitchen – Deck 8. Scandinavian-inspired gastronomy. Absolutely awe-inspiring seasonal cooking and hydroponic microgreens grown and harvested on board. WATCH MY LIVESTREAM HERE

• La Pescaderia – Fish Market – Deck 8. A wide selection of seafood and mezze, set in a casual, nautical-inspired eatery. There's also has an al-fresco area. WATCH MY LIVESTREAM HERE

• Kaito tepanyaki and sushi bar - Deck 7. If you love sushi and Japanese nosh, this hits the spot. I was gob smacked at the size of my meal. WATCH MY LIVESTREAM HERE

Included restaurants

Was there any way I could somehow evolve in the next 12 hours as I would really like a second stomach. Ugh. There were so many eateries still to try, and each had something unique to offer. Here are just some of the other places I (over) filled my tummy:

• Luna Park Pizza & Burger – Deck 6. If pizza and soft focaccia and wings and burgers and pretzels and nuggets and hotdogs are your jam, this place hits the spot. And the best thing about this place is that it is open super late. One night I fell asleep at 7pm, only to wake past midnight. I then proceeded to stuff my face with the best pizza ever. WATCH MY LIVESTREAM HERE

• La Foglia restaurant – Deck 5. One of the main dining rooms, there were a few teething problems the first night with service, but that’s totally understandable for a new ship which as yet hasn’t had any passengers. The food however was inventive and great portion sizes. I loved the fresh quinoa tabbouli.

• Pizza and Grill – Grab and GO – Deck 18. Don’t feel like a sit-down meal? Conveniently located by the main pool, it’s a great place to have a bite. The best thing is the included gelato bar. Yum!

After a full day of eating, the only thing left to do was to dive into the beckoning pool for a refreshing swim, enjoy the glorious sunset and try to sleep a little earlier than usual.

Jet lag was still throwing me off a bit, so a restful night was the best thing for this very spoiled lady. I fell asleep thinking about the delights of the day I’d savoured, and saying another prayer of gratitude and thanking all the hands that went into preparing all the food. l was quite satisfied.

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