First, I have to say, my biggest mistake was waiting this long to try an MSC Cruise. For reasons still not clear to me, I severely underrated the MSC Cruise experience. Now that I’ve sailed on MSC, I hope I can help you avoid this! MSC Cruises is a European company, and as such has its own “European quirks” that may take a little getting used to by the American cruiser. As a first-time MSC cruiser, I made several mistakes, not major but I’ll know better next time. If you’re planning your first MSC cruise, learn from my experience. These are the biggest mistakes I made on my first MSC cruise and the lessons that will help you sail smoother.
Not Checking My Dining Time Assignment
A major oversight was not paying attention to my dining time. When I booked, I didn’t realize MSC assigns fixed dining times unless you request otherwise. I ended up being assigned late seating at 9:00 PM. You also eat at the same table and with the same people every night
This meant I was eating dinner very late every night and struggled to fall asleep after heavy late-night meals. It also limited my evening activities since I was tied to the dining room schedule. But the nice part was that I met great people!
What I wish I knew: Check and request your preferred dining time (early or late) immediately after booking. Many people prefer early seating (around 7 PM) if they have excursions or want to enjoy shows afterward. If you miss the window, you can try changing it onboard at guest services, but it’s not always possible. This small detail made a huge difference in my daily flow.
Skipping the Drink Package (A Surprisingly Expensive Decision)
I decided not to purchase a drink package to save money. “I’ll just buy drinks as I go,” I thought. Big mistake.
MSC’s individual drink prices add up incredibly fast. A simple cocktail was $12–$15 before gratuity, and specialty coffee or bottled water felt like a luxury after a few days. By the end of the cruise, I spent significantly more than the drink package would have cost. I’m not a big drinker, but I enjoy a glass of wine with dinner. This plus an extra cocktail ended up costing me just as much as a drink package, which included specialty coffees and soft drinks.
What I recommend now: Carefully compare the MSC drink package options before sailing. Consider your drinking habits honestly. Even if you’re not a big drinker, the convenience and savings on non-alcoholic packages (great for coffee lovers and families) can be worth it.
Overpacking Like It Was My First Trip Ever
I overpacked, again. Not only that, I packed the wrong type of clothing. Even though I only brought a carry-on, I had several formal outfits, way too many shoes, and enough clothes for a couple of weeks instead of a 7-night cruise.
MSC ships have plenty of storage space, that wasn’t the problem. Apparently, they don’t allow irons or steamers that you can use in your cabin, you must use their laundry service. I had several linen items that just were too wrinkled to wear.
Pro tip for future cruises: Follow the MSC dress code but pack light. Pack wrinkle resistant clothing if you don’t plan on using the laundry. Focus on versatile pieces, comfortable walking shoes for port days, and layers for changing sea weather.
Not Booking Transportation After the Cruise
Disembarkation day chaos hit me hard. My ride (son) flaked on me, and I hadn’t pre-booked transportation from the port back to the airport. After waiting in a long line for customs and collecting luggage, finding a reliable taxi or transfer at peak time was stressful and expensive.
MSC offers official transfers, but they sell out or become limited closer to the sailing date. I ended up paying more for an uber after waiting for an hour and a half.Smart advice: Book your post-cruise airport transfer or hotel transportation at the same time as your excursions. It gives peace of mind and often saves money compared to port-day scramble.
Other First-Time MSC Cruise Mistakes I Made
Beyond the big ones, smaller errors added up:
- Not downloading the MSC for Me app before boarding (it’s essential for reservations and navigation).
- Underestimating how busy the buffet gets during peak hours.
- Forgetting to bring a power strip (outlets are limited).
These MSC cruise mistakes taught me valuable lessons about planning, budgeting, and pacing myself.
Final Thoughts: Turn Mistakes into Better Cruises
My first MSC cruise was still wonderful, the food was delicious, the ports were great, and the crew was friendly. But even though I’m an experience cruiser, I still made these mistakes that created unnecessary stress and extra expenses I could have avoided.
If you’re preparing for your first MSC cruise, take time to research thoroughly. Book key add-ons early, pack smart, and set a realistic budget. With better planning, you’ll focus on enjoying the incredible experience instead of fixing avoidable problems.
Happy Sailing! Evie
Read my full review of the Galveston Cruises: 7 nights on the MSC Seascape. A Stunning Ship with Italian Flair