msc yacht club ironing

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Yacht Club Laundry Service

By goaliemn , February 21, 2017 in MSC Cruises

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Hello. I'm doing the Yacht Club on the Speldidida in November and had a question on laundry service.. I thought I had read somewhere it was included with YC. Is that the case? Trying to plan some for packing for the trip and that would make a difference for us.

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it is not included but I believe they do have some discounts. I'm boarding the Divina YC on Saturday, and we pre-payed for the 40 item laundry package. It was $50. The package does not include dry cleaning, so if any pieces need that, I'll see what the Voyagers Club and Yacht Club discounts are offered.

Does this include pressing/ironing?

I know the package includes ironing and pressing, as that was our main concern, but we are also staying in Miami for a bit after our cruise, so we wanted some things freshened up. It would be great if the butlers just took care of pressing. My BF always worries about his dress shirts wrinkling!

Capricruiser

There are no Yacht Club discounts for laundry services EXCEPT for the long Grand Voyages (e.g. transatlantic crossings) when a 30% laundry discount is included. This discount is based on the list price of the laundry service price list which will be found in your YC suite wardrobe. Also there are no specific Voyagers Club laundry discounts.

Hmmm, when I bought the package it said in the fine print "not to be combined with Yacht Club or Voyagers Club discounts" that's why I thought there were some.

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BermudaBound2014

Hmmm, when I bought the package it said in the fine print "not to be combined with Yacht Club or Voyagers Club discounts" that's why I thought there were some.     Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

I questioned that very same language too. I think that's another language barrier issue. Unfortunately no additional specials/discounts offered. BUt- MSC pricing for laundry is so reasonable who cares :)

It really is! 40 items for $50 is a huge deal.

I know! Pricing is the single thing I love most about MSC. So nice to avoid the gouging

• 2 years later...

I don t want my laundry done by someone. Prefer to launder and iron myself for a fee, especially ironing. On Princess there are laundry stations with paid washing machines and free irons, it was grest. Does MSC have that? Hate to have laundry all over the bathroom and balcony, but never give my laundry out( the price does not worry me) we are in the yachtclub. 

On 10/23/2019 at 3:19 PM, Kangap said: Hi  I don t want my laundry done by someone. Prefer to launder and iron myself for a fee, especially ironing. On Princess there are laundry stations with paid washing machines and free irons, it was grest. Does MSC have that? Hate to have laundry all over the bathroom and balcony, but never give my laundry out( the price does not worry me) we are in the yachtclub. 

No self serve laundry on MSC.

There are no irons in the cabins either.   

I believe there is dry cleaning available, but for a steep fee, and not the day before you disembark. 

CruisingFox27

We're currently on Meraviglia, this is the laundry service list.

Hopefully it's clear enough to see the costs. 

1 hour ago, Zephyr173 said: There are no irons in the cabins either.    I believe there is dry cleaning available, but for a steep fee,

The laundry packages are cheap compared to many laundry/dry-cleaning stores in the US.

We pre-paid a laundry package on Meraviglia, the offers were for laundry and/or dry cleaning:

20 pieces $41 = $2.05 per piece

40 pieces $53 = $1.33 per piece

There is no way I would let DW wash & iron anything if we can have it done for $1.33 per piece.

We choose ‘on hanger’ while cruising and ‘folded’ before disembarking, worked perfect for us.

1 hour ago, SirWolf said: The laundry packages are cheap compared to many laundry/dry-cleaning stores in the US. We pre-paid a laundry package on Meraviglia, the offers were for laundry and/or dry cleaning: 20 pieces $41 = $2.05 per piece 40 pieces $53 = $1.33 per piece There is no way I would let DW wash & iron anything if we can have it done for $1.33 per piece. We choose ‘on hanger’ while cruising and ‘folded’ before disembarking, worked perfect for us.

YES!  Having laundry returned "folded" before disembarking is such a worthwhile amenity.  

grandgeezer

We were on the Seaside last week and prepaid $20 for 10 items. We sent just shirts, (including my white dress shirt) pants, and blouses. They all came back perfect, washed, ironed, and on hangers.

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MSC Cruises Laundry Services: Packages, Price Lists, and Alternatives

If you are taking a cruise with MSC you may be wondering if they have laundry services onboard. I’ve cruised with MSC 3 times and have used a range of laundry options onboard.

During this post, we will cover all options available.

Do MSC Cruises Have a Self-Serve Laundry?

None of MSC Cruises cruise ships have a self-serve laundry but they do all have laundries. Laundry services can either be purchased by paying a charge per item or laundry packages are available to buy.

There are also a number of free alternatives that are available should you not want to pay for laundry when onboard.

There is no laundry included for free in the MSC cruise fare but there is a lot included. To find out what is included when it comes to food and drink, check out this post: Do MSC Cruises Include Meals? Your Guide To What’s Included

How Much Does Laundry Cost on an MSC Cruise?

The laundry on an MSC Cruises cruise costs around €7.50 to wash and iron a jacket, trousers cost €5.90, a t-shirt €2.90, shorts €3.50, underwear €1.90, and a dress €9.00. Dry cleaning services are also available.

The data on the table below was taken from a number of ships and is designed to provide you with a rough guide as to the costs. The figures below shouldn’t be taken as being exact as they do vary and will change over time.

By looking at the above prices it should help you to work out if a laundry package would provide better value for money for you. A laundry package is where you pay a set price for a certain number of things to be laundered.

Which Laundry Packages Are Available on an MSC Cruise?

It’s worth noting that it’s usually cheapest to pre-pay for the packages than to purchase them onboard the cruise ship. The saving on my last MSC cruise was 15% if booked online. The below prices in euros include this 15% discount.

€10-€15 Package (For American cruises this package costs $28)

The basic laundry package costs between €10-€15 and includes the washing and ironing of 10 items. As you can see based on the prices above this is a MASSIVE saving. If you were to wash 10 dresses without the package this would cost €90 but with the package just €10-€15!

€20-€25 Package (For American cruises this package costs $38)

This package is the same as the basic package but included 20 items instead of 10.

Back Home 40 Package (For American cruises this package costs $49)

This package allows you to have up to 40 items washed and ironed.

It is possible to buy these packages multiple times so if you did want to launder 80 items you could buy the 40 items package twice.

The following terms apply to all three packages:

Terms (source) :

Dry cleaning is excluded from the above prices, both include washing and ironing only.

The package is bought for the cabin rather than an individual so can be shared between guests sharing the same cabin.

The items can be washed at different times or altogether.

Clothes are collected by 10 am and returned by 5 pm the next day.

The package also works on the last day of the cruise if collected before 9 am, these will be returned by 5 pm.

These packages aren’t available with any other offers or discounts.

Refunds are not available for any unused clothes. For example, if you purchased a 20 item laundry package and only washed 15 you wouldn’t be entitled to any refund.

Do MSC Do Baby Laundry?

MSC do have discounted packages for babies/young children’s clothes (aged 0-6). You can either purchase a 10 or 20-piece laundry package and the same terms as the adult packages apply.

The baby laundry isn’t washed with the adult clothes, it’s washed in special gentle cleansers.

For 10 pieces of baby laundry on an American cruise, this will cost around €23 for 20 pieces this costs approximately €35.

How do You Purchase a Laundry Package/Use The Laundry on an MSC Cruise?

Laundry packages can either be purchased pre-cruise or onboard. It is usually cheaper to do this pre-cruise.

There will be a laundry order form in the closet of the cabin which needs to be filled out and left with the laundry in the cabin. Your room steward will collect and return the laundry.

If there are any special offers with regards to laundry during your cruise these will be detailed in the daily schedule.

Free Alternatives to Cruise Ship Laundry

When cruising I often use free alternatives to avoid having to pay for laundry.

My favorite way to do this is to pack a small amount of travel wash and wash a few items of clothing in the sink. I like to use little sachets like this:

USA Recommendation

UK Recommendation

Washing clothing in the sink using sachets like this is really really easy and almost free! I wouldn’t recommend washing big items this way as they take longer to dry but if you do run out of t-shirts or socks and need a few more this can be a great option.

How to Use Travel Wash:

All you need to do is put the detergent in the sink with warm water, wash your clothes by hand and then make sure you rinse them with clean water before hanging them up to dry.

All cruise ships have little lines in the bathroom where you can hang your clothes so that they can dry.

These aren’t always obvious because you do have to pull out the line.

They are usually in the shower and the other end of the line clips into a holder on the other side. It isn’t recommended that you put clothing on the balcony to dry as it becomes dangerous if it blows away.

How to ‘Iron’ Clothes Without an Iron

On a lot of cruise lines, you’ll find self-service laundries with irons but this isn’t the case on MSC.

You cannot bring an iron on a cruise. They are banned on all cruise lines due to safety reasons and they will be confiscated from you when you try to board. All cruise ships scan your luggage on embarkation. They’re mostly looking for dangerous things or alcohol but also forbidden items such as irons.

Guests are not allowed to bring any alcohol or soft drinks on board an MSC cruise.

Top Tip: Let The Creases Drop Out

One of the trickiest things about packing for a cruise is keeping your clothes from becoming crinkled and creased. Nobody wants to wear a dress or a shirt that looks like it needs an iron!

My favorite way to iron clothes without iron is to have a hot shower and then hang any clothes that need ‘ironing’ in the bathroom. The steam usually drops out the creases. It isn’t as good as using an iron but it’s definitely better than not doing anything.

I usually leave the clothes in the bathroom overnight for maximum effect.

To improve the efficiency of how well the creases drop out you can purchase crease release spray. I’ve got to be honest and admit that I have no idea how this actually works, but it does! Maybe it’s a little bit of magic.

Is It Worth Paying For Laundry on an MSC Cruise?

If you are only going to need small things washed like t-shirts and socks I’d recommend buying some of the travel wash mentioned above and doing these yourself. It’s very easy and can save you lots of money.

However, if you have one or two items of clothing that you would like washed it might be worth just paying for these to be laundered.

Once you purchase 3/4 items it’s usually cheaper to buy a package so if you are unsure how many items you’d need I’d recommend you buy the package ahead of time.

I personally always prefer to know how much things cost upfront, rather than having a surprise when I open the bill on the last night!

What Else do You Need to Know to Cruise With MSC?

If you’re taking an MSC cruise you’ll probably want to know about the dress codes, formal nights, and what’s included in your cruise fare! This information can be found below:

MSC Cruises Dress Code: Photo Guide With Examples

MSC Cruises Formal Nights: Everything You Need To Know

Taking a Cruise: Recommendations and Resources Book a Cruise Get Travel Insurance Emma Cruises Shop My Favourite Bags – Mia Tui

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• MSC Cruises

Yacht Club laundry

By rojojacko , November 13, 2018 in MSC Cruises

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I've searched but can't find the answer. We're sailing in the Yacht Club, our first time, next April on Preziosa's transatlantic crossing and no doubt will need some laundry as it's about a 3 week voyage. A recent email from MSC invited us to pre-book items, including laundry, and save money.  However, when investigating it says that 'this cannot be combined with Yacht Club offers'. Does anyone know what YC offers there may be on laundry, I do realise that it's not included in the YC package. 

Many thanks. 

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CruisingFox27

There are YC laundry offers onboard, usually a discount on dry cleaning or ironing for individual items. We investigated and asked exactly the same question for a transatlantic on Preziosa. The YC offers do not relate to the pre booked laundry packages, assuming you mean the 20/30 items washed and ironed deals.  We sail next week so I'll add it to my list of things to check out.

1 hour ago, CruisingFox27 said: There are YC laundry offers onboard, usually a discount on dry cleaning or ironing for individual items. We investigated and asked exactly the same question for a transatlantic on Preziosa. The YC offers do not relate to the pre booked laundry packages, assuming you mean the 20/30 items washed and ironed deals.  We sail next week so I'll add it to my list of things to check out.

I would love some info on this as well.  Trying to figure out if there's a benefit to purchasing the laundry package ahead of time, or wait until we board Seaside.  We'll also be in YC and have status matched to Black.  Are there any laundry discounts for Black card members?

16 minutes ago, jules815 said:   I would love some info on this as well.  Trying to figure out if there's a benefit to purchasing the laundry package ahead of time, or wait until we board Seaside.  We'll also be in YC and have status matched to Black.  Are there any laundry discounts for Black card members?

We were on in March, and prepurchased a package.  It was cheaper than buying it on board.  There were no significant discounts offered during the cruise, and no discount specifically for YC or Black card.  It really was quite cheap for the package.

11 minutes ago, JAGR said: We were on in March, and prepurchased a package.  It was cheaper than buying it on board.  There were no significant discounts offered during the cruise, and no discount specifically for YC or Black card.  It really was quite cheap for the package.

Great, thank you.  Yes, I thought the packages looked very reasonable too.

We will be going on the Divina (YC) for 21 days which are actually back to back Caribbean cruises.  I just looked online and there are no precruise laundry packages offered for our cruise.  

CarolnLarry

1 hour ago, Hlitner said: We will be going on the Divina (YC) for 21 days which are actually back to back Caribbean cruises.  I just looked online and there are no precruise laundry packages offered for our cruise.     Hank

Keep looking Hank there are packages on that BTB as we did them in Jan/Feb and bought the largest package.  It is a good deal and they do a good job on shirts and slacks.  

Thanks for all of your advice. I am leaning towards pre-purchasing a laundry package but will hold off for a week or so to hear what cruisingfox's experience is. Very much looking forward to our first YC experience, laundry or not!

eastoftheboston

There aren't any special YC-only laundry packages. That text has just been there since they days when they did have YC laundry deals. Pre-buying one of the packages is your best best, and they do a great job with your laundry on board! 

Thanks eastoftheboston (surely that's the UK!). I will go with the package on offer. 

No YC deal offered at sea Divina nov 2018. We did not check precruise  

• 1 month later...

Just back from YC on Preziosa, there were a couple of offers on dry cleaning but no other specials. We got on really well with our pre booked laundry package, worked really well and very good value.

Thanks for that cruising fox. We’ve booked a laundry package. Looking forward to our time on board.

3 hours ago, CruisingFox27 said: Just back from YC on Preziosa, there were a couple of offers on dry cleaning but no other specials. We got on really well with our pre booked laundry package, worked really well and very good value.

Completely off topic, but can you confirm whether or not the sun beds in YC sundeck have cushions. All videos/photos I have seen suggest not, and without them it looks somewhat uncomfortable. Meraviglia has identical sunbeds, but cushions are placed on them for your comfort!

No cushions on the sunbeds I'm afraid. Did get a little uncomfortable after a while. 

1 hour ago, CruisingFox27 said: No cushions on the sunbeds I'm afraid. Did get a little uncomfortable after a while.   

Thanks for that, my wife has a back problem so now I need to find something portable to take with us that will provide more comfort!

What about a yoga mat which you could fold over or a lilo, if you partially inflated it it would bend and provide support? 

Captain-John

What on earth are they thinking about by not providing cushions? And of course, MSC are consistently inconsistent across the fleet...

CF - hope you had a great cruise.

Linda the Book Lover

I purchased the 40 piece laundry package as someone else suggested this package as a good deal and none offered onboard matched it. We are thinking of doing a short land vacation after the cruise so this was perfect for us to use toward the end of the cruise. We wish the Platinum free laundry offer on NCL was also a Black offer on MSC.

I read on another thread that laundry has to be sent in 20-item batches.  Is that correct?  So if I get a 40-item laundry package, I essentially get 2 shots at 20 items each ?  Would like to know as we will do a 21 day TA in November 2019. 👕

Lovely Captain, I'll be getting to the review shortly. 

We had the 20 pieces package and sent on batches of 5, 5 and 10 so I don't think you're got to send 20 each time.

16 minutes ago, CruisingFox27 said: Lovely Captain, I'll be getting to the review shortly.    We had the 20 pieces package and sent on batches of 5, 5 and 10 so I don't think you're got to send 20 each time.

JohnJayJotaJames

On MSC Preziosa in YC (December 2016) the laundry package was promoted in cabin as $5 less than price on MSC system. They explained that it was impossible to charge the advertised lower price!!! I "must" pay the high amount and they would "see what they could do". Got a call later saying they had found a solution. A full refund of laundry charges! Crazy. but made me very happy. Sometimes there's no logic with MSC. 

On 11/13/2018 at 8:45 PM, CarolnLarry said: Keep looking Hank there are packages on that BTB as we did them in Jan/Feb and bought the largest package.  It is a good deal and they do a good job on shirts and slacks.  

Thought we would post a follow up

from the Divina YC.  There are no special packages other then the usual 20/30 piece deals.  Of course this could vary from cruise to cruise but it’s the way it is for our back to back voyages.  That being said our laundry service was excellent with even underwear being nicely folded.

23 hours ago, CruisingFox27 said: What about a yoga mat which you could fold over or a lilo, if you partially inflated it it would bend and provide support? 

Yes, these are options, thanks for that. We board Prez in Barbados, with a couple of days pre-cruise so we will look to try and purchase something suitable there. It beggars belief that the incredibly comfy cushions provided in Meraviglia YC are not available across the fleet YC's.....very poor form!

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Photography An on-board Photo Service is available throughout your cruise. Professional photographers will capture the highlights of your cruise both on board and ashore, and record anniversaries, weddings, quinceañeras, and other special moments . You can view their work at your leisure in The Hub – Photo & Digit@l. The Hub Manager will also be happy to discuss any specific requirements you may have. Discover more about our Photo Packages and take advantage of our discounted prices vs onboard by clicking Manage Your Booking .  Portraits Our photographers can also create portraits of you and your family or friends using a variety of high quality studio backgrounds or setting up at key iconic locations throughout the ship, such as the Grand Staircase,  The Bridge of Sighs or the Swarovski Staircase. Discover all the unique photo spots on board Ships . No appointment is required. All portraits will be displayed in The Hub – Photo & Digit@l and are available for you to purchase during the cruise. Retail products A wide range of products to satisfy all your photographic needs can be purchased in the The Hub – Photo & Digit@l. As well as memory cards, batteries, and other accessories, there is a wide selection of digital cameras and video cameras at duty free prices. Our photo team is available to offer advice, answer your questions and help you select the right equipment for your needs and budget.

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Europe: EC Regulation 1889/2005 states that: “Any natural person entering or leaving the Community and carrying cash of a value of Euro 10,000 or more shall declare that sum to the competent authorities of the Member state through which he is entering or leaving the Community in accordance with this Regulation”. Please consult your travel agent and/or the relevant authorities (embassies, consulates or other local authorities) to find out whether there are any other restrictions to carrying cash on your itinerary. For further information on travel please consult the Important Travel Advice page

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Cruising Italian-Style on the MSC Yacht Club

Finding the intimacy of a yacht on a large ship

As soon as we stepped out of the taxi at the port in Barcelona to embark on our Mediterranean cruise, Vishesh, the stately head butler of the Yacht Club on the MSC Divina, greeted us warmly by name. He led us to the check-in desk inside the terminal as our bags were whisked away.

At the desk, we were offered a drink, photographed before receiving cruise identification/keycards, and introduced to our cabin butler, Edwin, who took over from there. He led us to the Yacht Club reception desk on Deck 15 of the ship. Unlike the lengthy check-in process typical on most large ships, this one took no more than ten minutes from start to finish.

Edwin introduced us to the concierge and led us to our cabin, where a complimentary bottle of chilled Prosecco was waiting, and our bags arrived simultaneously with our bodies (also unusual on large ships).

The Big Ship

Not well known to the North American market, Naples-based MSC is the only privately owned Italian cruise line. Launched in May 2012, Divina is the company’s newest in a fleet of 12 ships. Divina has two sister ships in the same Fantasia class: the MSC Fantasia and the MSC Splendida, launched in 2008 and 2009, respectively. Each of these ships offers an exclusive enclave of Yacht Club suites.

Although not a megaship, Divina would definitely be classified as a big ship. It is 333 meters (approximately three football fields) long spread over 18 decks. It can accommodate some 4000 passengers and 1300 crew, and has multiple restaurants, coffee bars, cocktail lounges, shops, and indoor and outdoor swimming pools and whirlpools. It also has a full-service spa, gym, cybercafé, 1600-seat theater with lavish nightly shows, lectures, 4D cinema, Formula 1 simulator, water slide, bowling alley, discotheques, power walking track, and more.

The dramatic mauve and black onyx décor of the ship’s six-level atrium is accented with sparkling stainless trim, cylindrical glass elevators, and solid-glass steps embedded with dazzling Swarovski crystals. The boat is kept immaculately clean throughout and looks brand new, even in areas that are in constant use. The boat was remarkably stable, too, even in bad weather.

The Ship Within

The Yacht Club, MSC Divina’s “ship within a ship,” is targeted to cruisers who prefer an intimate, small ship experience, without having to give up the amenities available on larger vessels. The experience is distinctly different from the rest of the ship: There is more space, privacy, pampering, and personal service, akin to the perks associated with a concierge floor at a five-star luxury hotel.

The Yacht Club is located on portions of three decks: Decks 15, 16 and 18, all towards the bow of the ship. (Similar to buildings in the U.S. without a 13th floor, there is no 17th floor because Italians consider the number 17 to be unlucky.) The three-floor enclave with 69 suites in total has its own eye-catching spiral stairway with Swarovski crystal steps and an exclusive elevator that provides private access to the spa. Club entry is restricted to “members,” accessible only with their keycards.

The club’s virtual living room is the spacious Top Sail Lounge and Bar on Deck 15. Furnished with curved brown banquettes and loveseats, it has a serene ambiance, which is never crowded and has unobstructed, 180-degree views of the sea. Waiters circulate offering guests hot or cold drinks or snacks. A circular concierge desk (staffed 24/7) is adjacent to the lounge.

On Deck 18, guests can swim in the private pool or use two dedicated whirlpools. Lounge chairs are always available on the sundeck, and they are more generously spaced compared to those elsewhere on the ship. The Yacht Club-dedicated La Muse Restaurant is located on Deck 15 at the ship’s stern.

While excursions, spa treatments, and transportation to and from the ship are extras, passengers aren’t nickel-and-dimed for bottled water, sodas, specialty coffees, cocktails, or wine with dinner. The premium you pay for the luxury of the Yacht Club (approximately twice the cost of a regular balcony suite) translates into more comfortable cabins, no loud announcements, no crowds at the pool or sundeck, no lines or waits, higher ratios of (better trained) crew to passengers, and hassle-free embarkation and disembarkation. For example, each butler serves only four guest cabins, not only responding to but also anticipating requests. On the rest of the ship, a steward is responsible for as many as 20. In fact, crew goes out of their way to anticipate and respond to any reasonable request.

Our Stateroom

We stayed in Cabin 15013, a deluxe suite, and the most affordable of three stateroom categories in the Yacht Club. The room wasn’t as spacious as some suites on small luxury ships but it was comfortable and didn’t feel confined because of its design and use of mirrors. Larger suites with pullout couches were available to accommodate small families.

Our room was attractively furnished with mauves, browns, and dark woods. It included a sleeping area, sitting area with a desk, walk-in closet with ample drawer space, and sliding glass doors leading to a balcony with two chairs. The in-room safe was at eye-level and easy to access.

The bathroom had a single marble-topped sink, attractive hardware, sufficient shelf and cabinet space, and a combined shower/bath with a half-glass panel that kept water in and allowed light inside. Toiletries were MSC-branded rather than luxury brands.

Housekeeping services in our cabin were flawless over the 11-day voyage. While the ship didn’t have a self-service laundromat, laundry could be sent out for washing and ironing, and returned the next day at a reasonable cost (30 pieces for 25 Euros).

Dining Options

Guests in the Yacht Club can eat all their meals within the club, totally bypassing the traditional buffet lines and main dining rooms. The Top Sail Lounge serves buffet breakfasts and lunches, traditional high tea service, and small plates accompanied by soft drinks, bottled water, wines, beers, cocktails, snacks, and excellent specialty coffees throughout the day. (At no additional charge, except for premium wines and liquors). The lounge is conveniently located only steps away from the cabins, so it is an inviting place to sit, chat, read, or listen to soft, live piano music.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at La Muse, the peach-hued formal restaurant, which has two fixed seatings. The room is shaped in a long arc, allowing plenty of space and privacy between tables. Overall, the entrees were somewhat limited in number compared to other cruise lines. Traditional southern Italian dishes, including fresh pastas, were the most appealing and tasty choices; continental dishes were often disappointing (either overcooked or of poor quality) and not up to par with luxury cruise dining, although the wait staff was professional, engaging and solicitous.

One logistical drawback is that La Muse is located at the opposite end of the ship from the Yacht Club. This means that guests need to trek through busy (and often smoky) bars, lounges, and shops on Deck 6, or follow the narrow labyrinth of cabin-lined hallways on Deck 13 to get there. Perhaps, the boat’s architect intentionally chose this location to help passengers work off a few calories before and after dinner.

Weather permitting, a lovely, hot and cold lunch buffet with waiter service is set up daily on the Deck 18 sundeck, just steps from the pool. Drinks are also available throughout the day at the pool bar.

The minibar in each cabin is generously stocked with complimentary juices, spirits, soda, bottled water, and nuts—and a fresh fruit bowl is replenished daily. Another minor disappointment: 24-hour room service is also limited in terms of menu choices and doesn’t offer course-by-course delivery.

Personal Service

Wherever you turn, Yacht Club crew is there to greet you or extend help. The butler assigned to each stateroom makes sure the guest experience is seamless. Instead of having to call an anonymous reception desk for problems or requests, the butler is unobtrusive but always available. He can help guests unpack, connect to the Internet (which, incidentally, was the best Wi-Fi connection we’ve ever experienced on any ship), or make reservations for activities on the boat, or for excursions or transportation on shore.

On port days, the butlers accompany small groups of guests off the boat and directly to the doors of waiting vehicles so there is no confusion or long waits in the disembarkation process. Unfortunately, the small feel of the Yacht Club is totally lost and forgotten on excursions. Although well-organized and on time, tours tended to be comprised of large groups from all areas of the boat, with guides simultaneously explaining sights in more than one language.

Is the MSC Yacht Club for You?

With a predominance of European passengers on board, Divina is staffed by a multilingual, international crew fluent in five languages, English, German, Spanish, French and Italian. But the ship’s service, style, and décor are decidedly Italian: Most of the food is provisioned in Genoa; the pastas, espresso and cappuccino are heavenly; and it’s hard to resist the piece of Venchi chocolate left on your pillow each night.

In terms of age, MSC cruise passengers skew about a decade younger than many other lines. (Children, ages 11 and under, cruise free and children under the age of 17 sail at a reduced rate.) Several young couples in the Yacht Club raved about the ease of cruising with small infants, being able to retreat to the comfortable, crowd-free Top Sail lounge for a bite between meals, or being able to call a butler to warm a baby bottle. Four complimentary kids clubs (each geared toward different ages) allow multigenerational families to enjoy the solitude of the club while older children are well cared for and entertained.

For today’s value-conscious traveler, the Yacht Club offers the feeling of a luxury small ship with all the advantages of large vessel cruising. And each time you use your keycard to enter, you’re reminded that you’ve found a yacht-like sanctuary away from the density and anonymity of a large ship.

Visit the website of MSC Cruises for more information on ships, itineraries and prices.

[This article was previously published in  The Huffington Post  on January 28, 2013.]

*Read my colleague Janice Mucalov’s article on “ship within a ship” cruises on Sand In My Suitcase. 

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We didn’t do the yacht club, but did enjoy our MSC on the western Med. It was fun and different because there were very few Americans, mostly Italians. Our dinner mates were two couples from Ireland. I guess they thought we spoke the language. If they were talking to us, we could understand them, but if they were talking to each, we didn’t have a clue. The funny thing was they discovered they lived about 10 miles from each other. It’s a small world.

It is a very small world, Cathy. We recently met a friend of my cousin sitting next to us in the restaurant at the top of the Eiffel Tower!

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Extend the relaxation  after a wonderful long holiday by returning home with your shirts and trousers washed, dried and ready to put away

Take advantage of our laundry packages any time, even the last day of your cruise. That's why we offer several Laundry Service Packages to choose from. For a modest single charge, you and every traveller in your cabin can use the service whenever you like for up to 20 items per cabin per cruise. 

Simply leave your items for collection before 9am on any day except the last day of your cruise, and they’ll be returned freshly laundered by 5pm on the very same day.  Now isn’t that a clean sight better? Take advantage of our pre-boarding rates now!

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I tried a ship-within-a-ship cruise experience and it was worth it for the endless perks—here’s why

The MSC Yacht Club affords travelers a totally different cruising experience, but you’ll have to splurge.

I heard tales of luxury from people about the ritzy MSC Yacht Club , the ship-within-a-ship concept where discerning passengers enjoy their own area of the cruise ship that includes a dedicated restaurant, private lounge, separate pool and sundeck as well as private butlers and concierges to take of any whim while cruising. The elevated Yacht Club boasts priority everything while sailing MSC.

I sailed on a four-night cruise on the new MSC Seashore, a glitzy ship with Italian flair intermingled with references to New York City at every turn. Although the ship was well-appointed and had amazing dining, drinking and entertainment venues, and a bountiful Top Sail main buffet, thousands of passengers made the ship feel crowded at times, elevators were slow, and as I strolled through the general pools, they were boisterous and crowded.

RECOMMENDED: 10 things about cruising on an adults-only ship that might surprise you

Switch gears to MSC Seashore’s Yacht Club, passkey-protected for lucky guests, and is a 180 from the ship’s general spaces. Once you scan your handy Yacht Club wrist badge, or your room key, you’re instantly given entrance to a breathtaking retreat of 131 staterooms and suites. All this luxury does come at a price. Cruise fares will vary based on destination, time of year, and cabin category, but generally speaking you can expect to pay double for the Yacht Club. And from my experience, it’s worth it. Read more about why you should splurge.

You’re fast-tracked through everything

The Yacht Club’s exclusivity and impeccable service standard started from the moment I got dropped off at the Port Canaveral cruise terminal. There were hundreds of people waiting to board at 1pm on embarkation day. I saw in the distance a canopy that said MSC Yacht Club. My husband and I wheeled our carry-on luggage to the representative under the canopy. I gave her my name and within two seconds, she gave me a sticker to wear and up we ascended on the escalator to check in. Just five minutes later, I was directed to the dedicated check-in area for Yacht Club guests. To my right, I saw about 1,000 people serpentine through ropes to do general check-in. I felt a sense of relief; who wants to wait in that line? Five minutes later, a butler from the Yacht Club insisted on wheeling my luggage to board the ship and I was in my room in a total on 12 minutes from the time I stepped foot out of the car to my stateroom in the Yacht Club.

Relaxing and streamlined

In addition, Yacht Club guests have the freedom to get off the ship first for excursions. Your butler will happily escort you off the ship with a smile. Guests also can disembark on the last morning first, which is a big convenience. Your butler walks you right to the place you disembark, bypassing crowds and hassles. Port Canaveral is about an hour away from Orlando International Airport, and we took a 10 am flight home. We didn’t have to linger around until the afternoon for our flight home.

Another perk is that there’s a special seating area in the theater for shows. All the shows were excellent during my voyage. All other ship passengers have to make reservations in advance for shows but that’s not the case for the privileged Yacht Club passengers. As long as you arrive about 10 minutes before any show you choose, a crew member from the Club will allow you entry into a special roped-off section. Again, no rushing through dinner—you have the flexibility to plan your evenings your way.

Your Yacht Club package is packed with remarkable value

The price tag may sound daunting, but there’s lots of value there. All Yacht Club cabins and suites include a premium drink package that covers beverages up to $15. You can use this perk both in the Yacht Club and throughout the ship. In addition, your package includes a two-device Wi-Fi package, which worked well during my sailing. Finally, you get access to the thermal spa suite, which is a place to indulge after a day in port or a sea day. Commonly, there’s a taboo regarding mini-bars, but not in the Yacht Club. It’s stocked each day with the beverages you want; just tell your butler and consider it done.

You get perks ashore too

If your sailing includes a call to Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island, Yacht Club guests get an elevated experience there too. Yacht Club guests enjoy a private area, and a dedicated restaurant called the Ocean House. While other ship guests were hosted to a buffet of predictable fare, I enjoyed a lobster roll, and my husband chose carne asada. In my opinion, one thing that could be improved was the tram service to the Yacht Club’s private area. We were told the last tram back was 3:30pm if we didn’t want to trek a 15-minute walk in the heat. Since we were docked in Ocean Cay for the evening and weren’t sailing, I was a bit dismayed by this logistical quirk. I felt like I was keeping an eye on my phone to make sure I didn’t miss the last tram.

You have private areas with curated food and drink and outdoor spaces

Within the Yacht Club complex, there’s the Yacht Club Restaurant, Top Sail Lounge and the One Pool Buffet, which are all exclusive to Yacht Club guests. Obviously, the food and service are steps above other dining venues of the ship, I can vouch for that. Although the food is delicious, if you don’t want to pay extra to dine at the specialty restaurants or fuss in the main buffet, eating three meals a day in the Yacht Club restaurant can get a bit monotonous. The breakfast is the same daily, and lunch and dinner offer a menu with daily specials plus a few standby selections like a hamburger or pasta each day. Although the Yacht Club Restaurant concept is desirable, I would strongly suggest dining in other venues on board, especially for dinner. I thoroughly enjoyed specialty dining in Ocean Cay Restaurant, Butcher’s Cut, and Kaito Teppanyaki. I also want to mention that late afternoon high tea is offered daily at the Yacht Club Restaurant. It was one of the nicest I have experienced at sea.

Also available exclusively to Yacht Club passengers is the Top Sail Lounge, which offers panoramic water views and has chef-curated selections from morning through late night. We enjoyed popping into the lounge at all hours to try finger foods and sweets. The One Pool Buffet offers a more casual option for breakfast and lunch by the pool. The buffet has grilled fish, sandwiches and lots of delicious options if you want to dine outside.

There’s also an exclusive area with a private pool and two whirlpools for Yacht Club guests only. The sun deck loungers are very comfortable and I never had to worry about finding a lounger, there are ample. One issue I had was that there was almost no shade on the sun deck; there were shaded day beds for Royal Suite and Owners Suite guests, but beyond those, I couldn’t find any shade, which was disappointing.

You can justify the price at the end of your cruise

Overall, the best way to explain my enthusiasm for my MSC Yacht Club experience is this: it’s better to book an interior stateroom in the Yacht Club than a luxe cabin outside the Yacht Club. It’s worth the splurge and you return home feeling truly pampered and it’s money well-spent. And I make this prediction: Once you try a ship-within-a-ship concept like the MSC Yacht Club, you won’t want cruise any other way. Bon Voyage!

• Erica Lamberg

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Unveiling the Ultimate Luxury: Inside the Exclusive MSC Yacht Club

Experience the ultimate luxury and exclusivity on MSC Cruises with the MSC Yacht Club, offering private suites, personalized services, exclusive spaces, and all-inclusive benefits.

MSC Yacht Club Overview

The MSC Yacht Club offers an exclusive private sanctuary on MSC Cruises, providing guests with a premium and indulgent cruise experience. This exclusive enclave within the larger MSC cruise ships is designed to cater to discerning travelers seeking elevated levels of luxury and personalized service. For example, guests staying in the Yacht Club enjoy access to luxurious suites with 24/7 butler service, a private restaurant, and a secluded pool deck, ensuring that their every need is taken care of with the utmost attention and care.

MSC Yacht Club guests can enjoy specialty restaurants among the other cruisers onboard, but also enjoy their own designated Yacht Club restaurant.

Moreover, the MSC Yacht Club perks extend beyond accommodations, encompassing priority embarkation and disembarkation, a dedicated concierge team, and room service, all aimed at providing guests with a hassle-free and sophisticated cruise journey. For example, the Top Sail Lounge, private sun deck, and exclusive access to Ocean House Beach are additional features that set the Yacht Club apart, offering an upscale and serene environment for guests to unwind and enjoy their time at sea.

The MSC Yacht Club caters to various luxurious onboard accommodations, ranging from interior cabins to Executive and Royal Suites, providing a diverse range of options to suit different preferences and budgets. For instance, the new 1,600-square-foot Owner Suites and Duplex Suites on the MSC Cruises fleet exemplify the commitment to offering opulent and spacious living spaces, ensuring that guests have access to a truly indulgent and comfortable stay during their cruise.

All-inclusive benefits such as a premium beverage package, high-speed internet, and thermal spa access further enhance the guest experience, allowing them to enjoy a wide array of premium amenities without additional charges. The signature dining, top-tier entertainment, and premium wellness experiences provide an extra layer of luxury and enjoyment, elevating the overall cruise experience and making the Yacht Club an appealing choice for travelers seeking a refined and upscale vacation.

Accommodations and Amenities

The MSC Yacht Club offers a detailed overview of the various luxurious onboard accommodations available, ensuring that guests have access to a diverse range of options to suit their individual preferences and needs. From intimate interior cabins to expansive Executive and Royal Suites, the Yacht Club provides a variety of choices to cater to different budgets and desires, ensuring that guests can find the perfect accommodation for their cruise experience. For example, the availability of spacious suites such as the 1,600-square-foot Owner Suites and Duplex Suites exemplifies the commitment to providing guests with opulent and lavish living spaces, setting the stage for an unforgettable cruise vacation.

In addition to the accommodations, the all-inclusive benefits such as the premium beverage package, high-speed internet, and access to the thermal spa suite add further value to the Yacht Club experience. These benefits are designed to provide guests with a seamless and indulgent cruise journey, ensuring that they have access to premium amenities without any additional charges. Furthermore, the signature dining, top-tier entertainment, and premium wellness experiences offer guests an array of elevated activities and offerings, allowing them to savor every moment of their cruise vacation in an upscale and luxurious setting.

Moreover, the Yacht Club experience is characterized by its personalized services, where dedicated butlers and a 24/7 concierge team are available to attend to guests’ needs and requests. This level of individualized attention ensures that guests’ preferences are catered to at every step of their cruise, creating a truly tailored and indulgent experience. Whether it’s making dinner reservations, organizing shows, or assisting with shore excursions, the personalized services within the Yacht Club set it apart as a haven for travelers seeking a sophisticated and seamless cruise vacation.

Yacht Club Perks and Benefits

The MSC Yacht Club offers a host of exclusive perks and benefits that truly elevate the guest experience, making it a sought-after choice for travelers seeking a premium cruise journey. For instance, the priority check-in and checkout feature ensures that Yacht Club passengers can seamlessly navigate the embarkation and disembarkation process, bypassing long queues and delays to start and end their cruise vacation with ease and efficiency. This sets the tone for a stress-free and enjoyable journey, allowing guests to focus on relaxation and indulgence from the moment they step on board.

In addition to priority embarkation and disembarkation, Yacht Club passengers also enjoy free premium alcohol and Wi-Fi packages, providing them with a carefree and indulgent experience throughout their cruise. This all-inclusive approach ensures that guests can stay connected and enjoy a wide selection of beverages without incurring additional costs, adding value to their overall cruise experience. Furthermore, the VIP access to various amenities, dining options, entertainment, and personalized experiences emphasizes the elevated level of service and luxury that Yacht Club guests receive, ensuring that they have access to the best offerings available on the cruise.

Moreover, the Yacht Club experience extends beyond the ship, offering access to Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island in the Bahamas. This exclusive destination provides Yacht Club guests with access to a secluded Yacht Club section and restaurant, ensuring that they can enjoy tailored shore excursions and experiences that align with their preferences. For example, activities such as snorkeling, gourmet dining, and relaxation on pristine beaches further enhance the value of the Yacht Club experience , providing guests with unique and unforgettable moments during their cruise vacation.

Exclusive Spaces within the Yacht Club

The dedicated bar, lounge, and restaurant within the MSC Yacht Club provide an intimate and upscale environment for guests to unwind and indulge in top-notch service and amenities. This exclusive enclave within the larger cruise ship ensures that Yacht Club cruisers have access to an elevated level of luxury and comfort, allowing them to enjoy a sophisticated and refined ambiance throughout their journey. For example, the private rooftop deck area exudes a beach club vibe, complete with a pool, hot tub, and complimentary breakfast and lunch buffets, creating an idyllic setting for guests to relax and savor their time in this exclusive sanctuary.

The special access to Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island in the Bahamas, further enhances the allure of the Yacht Club experience, providing guests with a secluded and upscale environment to create unforgettable memories during their cruise vacation. The private island destination offers exclusive shore excursions and experiences tailored to Yacht Club guests, allowing them to immerse themselves in a serene and indulgent setting that complements the luxury experience they enjoy onboard. Whether it’s unwinding at the exclusive beach club, indulging in gourmet dining experiences, or exploring the natural beauty of the island, Ocean Cay adds a distinctive dimension to the Yacht Club experience, ensuring that guests have access to unique and unforgettable moments during their cruise.

Yacht Club Accommodations

The MSC Yacht Club provides an array of luxurious accommodations, catering to different preferences and budgets. Guests can choose from a variety of options, including interior cabins, spacious suites, and new 1,600-square-foot Owner Suites and Duplex Suites on the MSC Cruises fleet. These opulent living spaces are designed to provide guests with a comfortable and lavish stay, ensuring that they have access to a truly indulgent cruise experience.

The cost of staying in the Yacht Club varies depending on the type of cabin, the duration of the cruise, and the destination, ensuring that guests have the flexibility to tailor their experience to their specific needs and financial considerations. Whether opting for a more intimate interior cabin or a lavish suite, guests can find accommodations that align with their individual desires and requirements, making the MSC Yacht Club an attractive choice for discerning cruisers.

The Yacht Club fares, while higher than standard cabins, are justified by the benefits and perks that make it worth the upgrade. The refined and upscale experience offered in the Yacht Club includes all Yacht Club suites coming with a premium drink package, WiFi package, access to the thermal spa suite, and a stocked minibar, ensuring that guests receive exceptional value for their investment. Furthermore, the Yacht Club butlers provide personal attention, making dinner reservations, setting up daybeds, and assisting with shows and shore excursions, adding an additional layer of luxury and convenience to the Yacht Club experience.

Value of Yacht Club Experience

When it comes to the value of the MSC Yacht Club experience, the perks and benefits truly set it apart. The comparison of Yacht Club fares with standard cabins emphasizes the benefits and perks that make it a desirable and worthwhile upgrade. The premium drink package, WiFi package, access to the thermal spa suite, and a stocked minibar for all Yacht Club suites ensure that guests receive exceptional value for their investment, providing them with an array of indulgent amenities and services throughout their cruise.

The Yacht Club experience offers a refined and upscale journey that is complemented by personalized attention from the dedicated butlers and the round-the-clock availability of the Yacht Club concierge. This level of individualized service adds to the overall value of the experience, ensuring that guests can make the most of their time on board and in port. Furthermore, the premium drink package, WiFi package, access to the thermal spa suite, and a stocked minibar for all Yacht Club suites ensure that guests receive exceptional value for their investment, providing them with an array of indulgent amenities and services throughout their cruise.

Moreover, the Yacht Club perks extend to Ocean Cay, the private island, with a separate section and restaurant for Yacht Club guests, providing them with access to a secluded and upscale environment where they can create unforgettable memories during their cruise vacation. This exclusive destination offers an array of unique shore excursions and experiences, enhancing the overall value of the Yacht Club experience and ensuring that guests have access to exceptional and tailored moments during their journey.

Personalized Services

The personalized attention provided by Yacht Club butlers is a hallmark of the MSC Yacht Club experience, ensuring that guests receive individualized and tailored care throughout their cruise. From making dinner reservations to assisting with shows and shore excursions, the butlers are dedicated to ensuring that guests’ preferences are catered to at every step, creating a seamless and indulgent journey for Yacht Club guests. This level of personalization sets the Yacht Club apart as a haven for travelers seeking a sophisticated and stress-free cruise vacation.

The 24-7 availability of the Yacht Club concierge further enhances the value of the experience, providing guests with continuous support and assistance at any time during their cruise. This ensures that guests can receive guidance, information, and personalized service whenever they need it, adding an extra layer of convenience and care to their overall Yacht Club experience.

Butlers can also assist with MSC Aurea Spa reservations and access to the thermal suite.

Yacht Club Destinations

In addition to the exclusive amenities and personalized services onboard, Yacht Club guests also benefit from access to Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island in the Bahamas. This secluded destination offers Yacht Club guests a separate section and restaurant, ensuring that they can enjoy tailored shore excursions and experiences that align with their preferences. For example, activities such as snorkeling, gourmet dining, and relaxation on pristine beaches further enhance the value of the Yacht Club experience, providing guests with unique and unforgettable moments during their cruise vacation.

In summary, the MSC Yacht Club offers an exceptional value and enjoyable atmosphere for travelers seeking a sophisticated and upscale cruise vacation. The all-inclusive benefits, personalized services, and exclusive access to amenities, dining, and entertainment ensure that guests have access to an array of indulgent offerings throughout their journey, setting the Yacht Club apart as a haven for discerning cruisers. With its opulent accommodations, unparalleled perks, and access to exclusive destinations such as Ocean Cay, the MSC Yacht Club stands as an ideal choice for travelers looking to elevate their cruise experience to new heights of luxury and indulgence.

• butler , club , cruise , cruise ship , luxury , msc , ship within a ship , spa , upgrade , yacht

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Everything you need to know about MSC Cruises cabins and suites

A relative newcomer in the North American market, MSC Cruises is equal parts elegant and kitschy. The line tends to appeal to a wide swath of cruisers, from Europeans who like to party into the wee hours of the morning to American families who book because of affordable fares and "kids sail free" pricing.

To satisfy its diverse passenger base, MSC offers accommodations to fit all types of travelers. Rooms include inexpensive inside cabins that sleep two people, midlevel staterooms with windows and balconies, and high-end suites that offer cruisers with larger budgets a private oasis in the form of the MSC Yacht Club .

A variety of connecting rooms and cabins with extra bunks accommodate larger groups and families who wish to share space.

Because your cruise cabin will be your home away from home for several days, it's important to book one that fits your needs. That's especially true if you're sharing it with several people.

Whether you're looking at an inside cabin for a cruise with friends, balcony accommodations for you and your significant other or a suite for your family, here TPG breaks down what you can expect when you book a room on one of MSC's ships.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

MSC Cruises cabin primer

MSC Cruises has become one of the fastest-growing lines in the cruise industry, with about two dozen ships in its fleet. The vessels fall into six classes : Lirica, Musica, Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World.

Although cabin offerings can vary from ship to ship and class to class, the standard types remain the same: inside, outside, balcony and suite.

Additionally, you'll find the same basic amenities in each room, unless otherwise noted below. They include two twin beds that can be joined to form a queen- or king-size bed; an in-cabin bathroom with a shower, a sink, a toilet and basic soap, shower gel and shampoo; a couple of nightstands; a chair or sofa; a desk/vanity; a closet; a safe; a hair dryer; a minifridge; a phone; USB outlets and a selection of both North American and European outlets.

On all ships except MSC Lirica, MSC Opera, MSC Sinfonia and MSC Armonia, you'll also find an interactive TV that allows you to view the daily schedule, check your onboard account and choose from a selection of live TV programs and movies.

Twice-daily room tidying is provided by a room steward assigned to each cabin, and room service is available throughout the day for an added fee.

One confusing aspect of MSC's bookings is that you'll have to select an experience package in addition to a cabin type. Package tiers determine things like your ability to choose a specific cabin and preferred dining time and whether you'll receive welcome amenities in your room. Certain cabin types are only available in conjunction with certain package experiences and vice versa. Those are noted in each respective section below.

Accessible cabins , including accommodations for wheelchair users, are available on every ship in MSC's fleet. In addition to more space, they feature wider doorways and lowered sinks and toilets in the bathrooms, as well as grab bars.

MSC Cruises' experience packages

Here's what you get when you book each of MSC's three experience packages, which determine the perks you'll receive on your sailing.

• Accommodations
• Complimentary food in the dining room and buffet
• Broadway-style theater entertainment
• Access to the onboard gym, pool and kids club
• MSC Voyagers Club points
• One for-fee change to your cruise booking (with some restrictions)
• Drink package discount at time of booking
• All Bella perks
• Choice of specific cabin and location
• One free change to your cruise booking (with some restrictions)
• Ability to choose between early and late seating for dinner
• Room service (complimentary for breakfast, but fees apply for other meals)
• Discount on pre-cruise specialty dining package
• All Fantastica and Bella perks
• Flexible My Choice dining, which lets you eat at any time you choose between set hours
• Free 24-hour room service delivery
• Pillow menu
• A welcome package, including Prosecco and chocolates
• Complimentary access to your ship's solarium and thermal area
• A 10% discount on all spa treatments purchased on board
• Special Balinese massage offer when booked pre-cruise
• Complimentary use of bathrobe and slippers
• Priority boarding and luggage drop-off

Inside cabins on MSC Cruises ships

Inside cabins — rooms with no windows — are available on all ships in the MSC fleet. Ranging from 140 to 301 square feet (depending on the ship), they make for great sleeping because they're so dark. They're also ideal for passengers who are on a budget.

In addition to the standard amenities mentioned above, they provide room for anywhere from two to four passengers to sleep. (Rooms that sleep more than two feature bunks that pull down from the ceiling.)

These cabins are available with the line's Bella and Fantastica experiences.

If you're sailing solo, some MSC vessels offer cabins for one outfitted with a twin bed that converts into a couch. These interior studio accommodations are only available with the Bella package on MSC Meraviglia , MSC Bellissima and the line's World Class ships.

Ocean-view cabins on MSC Cruises ships

Ocean-view rooms are similar to insides in that they provide basic amenities — but with a view.

Offering 129 to 269 square feet of space (depending on the specific ship and ocean-view category), these staterooms allow you to see outside through a porthole or a window that doesn't open.

MSC's outside cabins are available to passengers who book Bella and Fantastica packages.

Additionally, if you're traveling with your family or another group, several of MSC Cruises' ships — particularly those in the Meraviglia and Seaside classes — feature space for as many as 10 passengers via a series of connecting rooms. Options are available at the ocean-view and balcony levels.

Balcony cabins on MSC Cruises ships

You might be surprised to discover that most of MSC Cruises' balcony cabins provide less interior square footage than what's available in inside or ocean-view staterooms.

Balcony rooms run anywhere from 129 to 205 square feet, but their key feature is, of course, a private balcony, which does add an extra 32 to 129 square feet, depending on the vessel and specific type of balcony room booked. These cabins are bookable in conjunction with MSC's Bella, Fantastica and Aurea experiences.

Although balcony cabins offer upgraded amenities, including MSC's brand of hand lotion and toiletries, they are largely the same as inside and ocean-view accommodations.

MSC's newest ships — including those in the Meraviglia, Seaside and World Classes — house connecting balcony rooms that can sleep up to 10 in the same group traveling together.

Additionally, on its World Class ships, the line has introduced inward-facing balconies, similar to the ones Royal Caribbean pioneered in 2009 with the debut of its Oasis Class vessels . On World Europa, for example, they overlook the ship's promenade, offering views of the activity below, rather than the ocean.

MSC Cruises suites

All ships in MSC's fleet have suites that can be booked as part of the Fantastica and Aurea packages, but it's Aurea that offers the largest number of perks, as outlined above.

The several types of suites vary by ship in terms of size and amenities. Some come with balconies, while others only offer floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows.

Junior Suites

Although this room type is listed as a suite, it's essentially a balcony cabin with a bit more space — 183 square feet of interior accommodation with a balcony that ranges from 140 to 183 square feet.

Standard suites include rooms with huge balconies larger than the cabin's interior space and ones with private whirlpool tubs. They run from 269 to 355 square feet, with balconies measuring 32 to 409 square feet.

Grand Suites

Coming in between 377 and 420 square feet, with balconies spanning from 32 to 495 square feet, Grand Suites — found on Seaside and World Class ships — come in two types. They include standard one-bedroom Grand Suites, as well as two-bedroom varieties.

The latter has one bedroom with a queen-size bed and another with two twins. It sleeps up to five passengers and offers two bathrooms — one with a shower and the other with a bathtub.

While most suites are designed for double occupancy, some suite accommodations on MSC Bellissima, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Virtuosa and MSC Magnifica can sleep up to five people.

MSC Yacht Club suites on MSC ships

All cabins located in the MSC Yacht Club — an exclusive, gated area on select ships — are called suites, even the smallest and least expensive, which don't have windows or balconies.

Yacht Club suite types range from insides to two-deck duplexes, all of which come with butler and concierge services, luxuriously appointed furnishings (such as real marble finishes, memory foam mattresses and Egyptian cotton sheets) and access to members-only restaurants, bars (alcohol is free there), lounges, pools and sun decks.

The Yacht Club features seven different types of rooms. Ships that have the MSC Yacht Club on board include MSC Bellissima, MSC Divina, MSC Fantasia, MSC Grandiosa, MSC Meraviglia, MSC Preziosa, MSC Seaside, MSC Seascape, MSC Seaview, MSC Seashore, MSC Splendida, MSC Virtuosa and MSC World Europa.

Note: Not all Yacht Clubs have the same suite types available.

MSC Yacht Club Interior Suites

Although these 161- to 226-square-foot cabins don't offer a view or fresh air, they are elegantly decorated and include all the Yacht Club benefits mentioned above.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suites

These Yacht Club digs are the equivalent of a balcony cabin — but in a dedicated area that includes all the exclusive perks. They run 236 to 366 square feet and have balconies ranging from 54 to 86 square feet, so they also come with a bit more space, both inside and outdoors.

MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Grand Suites

Similarly, Deluxe Grand Suites are like the Yacht Club equivalent of booking a Grand Suite with more perks. Depending on the ship, they offer anywhere from 269 to 463 square feet of space, plus 65- to 129-square-foot balconies. Some Grand Suites also have two bedrooms instead of one. Further, these rooms on Seaside Class ships include bathrooms with bathtubs, as well as separate living areas.

MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suites

Rising two decks, MSC's duplex staterooms measure 495 to 635 square feet and come with 65- to 334-square-foot balconies. They feature living rooms with two-person sofa beds downstairs and master bedrooms upstairs, which also sleep two passengers.

Each of these accommodations comes complete with two walk-in closets and two bathrooms — one with a bathtub and one with a shower. Most duplexes on Meraviglia and World Class ships also have their own private whirlpool tubs.

MSC Yacht Club Executive and Family Suites

The line's Executive and Family Suites, available only on Fantasia Class vessels, are an excellent choice for anyone who wants to stay in the Yacht Club with a family or other group of more than two people.

This option, which is one type of suite (despite its confusing name), has space for up to five cruisers via a combination of bunk beds, sofa beds and beds that pull down from the ceiling, depending on the ship. The suites clock in at around 431 to 549 square feet, depending on the vessel.

The only drawback is that these staterooms have no balconies and no in-room dining areas, but they do include all the perks you'd find in Yacht Club cabins.

MSC Yacht Club Royal Suites

Although they only occupy one level, at 388 to 667 square feet, MSC's Yacht Club Royal Suites are right up there with the Duplex Suites in terms of space. They offer the second-largest amount of square footage after the Owner's Suites. They come with huge balconies comprising 355 to 753 square feet of outdoor area.

Additionally, bathrooms in these suites offer bathtubs on Fantasia, Meraviglia, Seaside and World Class ships, and the latter three have private whirlpool tubs, as well. All four classes' Royal Suites also include separate living room areas.

MSC Yacht Club Owner's Suites

The largest and most impressive of all MSC's cabins are the Owner's Suites found in the Yacht Club. Offering an impressive 840 to 1,119 square feet — larger than some land-based apartments — plus 269- to 670-square-foot balconies, they're some of the most luxurious rooms afloat.

Specific amenities vary by ship, but as an example, Owner's Suites on MSC World Europa offer floor-to-ceiling windows and walk-in closets. These accommodations on both the line's Seaside and World Class vessels also feature bathrooms with separate showers and bathtubs, as well as private whirlpool tubs and separate living room areas.

Bottom line

Although MSC Cruises' cabin types are straightforward, the line's add-on experiences can complicate things a bit.

Overall, what's key to remember is that MSC Cruises offers a wide variety of rooms and pricing to meet just about any budget or style of cruising. Each ship will offer accommodation choices from the least expensive, bare-bones interior rooms to the priciest suites, which come with butler and concierge services.

When you sail with MSC Cruises, you can expect function, style and comfort, regardless of the cabin type you book.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

1st look: 5 things I liked about the new MSC Euribia cruise ship — and 2 I didn’t

If you don't like spending more than 24 hours in Las Vegas , can you enjoy a cruise on a ship that's clearly inspired by that neon-lit oasis of excess? The answer, surprisingly, is yes.

When I stepped aboard MSC Euribia, the newest ship in Europe-based MSC Cruises ' fleet and the fifth vessel in its Meraviglia class , I knew that megaships weren't exactly my comfort zone. And this ship, which accommodates 4,838 guests (6,327 at full capacity), is definitely mega.

Would I be able to see beyond the crowded elevators, the endless barrage of clinking glasses and loud laughter, the flash of a gazillion LED lights and, ultimately, the sheer mass-market-ness of it all? I had my doubts as I boarded the ship for a short three-day cruise from Amsterdam to Copenhagen that culminated with the ship's christening by godmother Sophia Loren.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

But as I got to know Euribia, I realized that overstimulation can be kind of fun if you're willing to lose yourself in the spectacle — all 184,000 gross tons of it.

That said, there were definitely things I liked, even loved, about this vibrant 19-deck siren named for Eurybia, the ancient Greek goddess who harnessed the natural elements to master the sea. There were also things I didn't like, though they weren't enough to make me lump this ship, the most eco-friendly in the MSC fleet, in the reject pile with my least-favorite U.S. city.

What I liked

Carousel lounge.

During my first night on board, I followed the after-dinner crowds to the Carousel Lounge, a Deck 7 aft performance venue on all Meraviglia-class ships that has been beautifully reinvented on Euribia. When the space debuted in 2017 on Meraviglia, it was designed in the round with overhead rigging for Cirque du Soleil performances. Now freed from the constraints of circus-like acrobatics, the reimagined, opened-up Carousel is classy, sophisticated and social.

The new vibe is mainly due to Big Band at Sea, a superb 19-piece orchestra with a pair of dynamic vocalists whose repertoire includes crooner-era classics, hit Broadway tunes and modern chart-toppers. They perform three sets each evening and draw an appreciative, if somewhat mature, audience.

Yes, there's a dance floor, but there are also a large bar and cozy groupings of sofas set around a glowing fireplace. A red-felt pool table is popular with younger guests.

By day, with shades and screens lifted and the space's floor-to-ceiling windows revealed, the Carousel Lounge is a comfortable place to read or converse. Outdoor terraces on both the port and starboard sides also offer a quiet spot to enjoy fresh air and sunshine.

The 5 pools

One thing I do appreciate about big ships is the options they offer, including multiple pools. Euribia has five of them, four outdoors and one indoors (with a retractable roof).

The pools are strategically placed around the ship, although two are adjacent on Deck 15. The spacious resort-style Main Pool is lined with cushioned sun beds and features two crescent-shaped hot tubs. The indoor Bamboo Pool offers a much smaller pool and hot tub. While ideal for cruising in chillier northern climates, the latter can get noisy when the roof is closed.

Two pools are located aft. The infinity-edge Horizon Pool on Deck 16 has an amphitheater-style design with multiple levels of sun beds. It also has a bar and transforms into a nighttime entertainment space.

Related: The 6 best cruise ship waterslides and watery fun zones

The kid-friendly, reef-themed Ocean Cay Aquapark features vibrant waterslides and a splash pool. It's located on Deck 19, and if you're cruising without kids, you might not even realize it's there.

The fifth pool isn't open to everyone. It's located forward on Deck 19 within the Yacht Club , the cruise line's elevated "ship within a ship" enclave of 103 staterooms and suites featuring exclusive spaces and amenities. I wasn't booked into the Yacht Club, but I did tour its pool deck. I could see myself spending a sea day there, sipping an Aperol spritz and nibbling on snacks served from the nearby grill.

Helios: Wine Maker

Wine and technology prove to be a perfect pairing in Helios: Wine Maker. This new bar concept on Euribia takes a not-so-novel concept — machine-dispensed wine, 96 options, in fact, in small, medium and large pours — and adds a cool interactive twist.

During any of four sommelier-led master classes, which are each priced at 35 euros ($38) per person, guests are seated around a first-of-its-kind touchscreen table that helps guide them through a sampling of four wines with details on tasting notes and the winemaker's story. Pay attention: There's a pop quiz at the end.

Master class topics include New World versus Old World wines; biodynamic and organic wines; and a revelatory wine and glass pairing with wine glass company Riedel that I enjoyed my first evening on board. But even without a sommelier-led tasting, guests can easily consult touchscreens for more information about the wines they've selected.

Yes, self-dispensing wine bars can be impersonal. What worked for me here was that it made tasting a variety of wines easy and informative. I could read all about a wine before I tried it or, in the case of the master class I attended, discover interesting facts and tasting notes as I sipped. (Yes, that minerality I detected was legit.) The sommelier was there to lead me through layers of information on the touchscreen beneath my wine glasses, making a high-tech process delightfully engaging, as wine tasting should be.

The Galleria

When I first encountered The Galleria, I had flashbacks of being swept up in a crowd of ceiling-gawking tourists in The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace. This gargantuan, two-level promenade on decks 6 and 7 features faux-marble balconies and the longest LED "sky dome" on a cruise ship, which arches overhead like a time-warp hybrid of the Sistine Chapel and a Times Square billboard.

The entire space, which pulses with eye-popping graphics, is home to all specialty restaurants, plus several bars and a whopping 13,756 square feet of shopping opportunities.

Related: The ultimate guide to MSC Cruises ships and itineraries

To my surprise, my initial dislike that first evening quickly turned to fascination as I marveled at The Galleria's bold, chameleon-like quality. What might have been just a two-level shopping mall at sea was transformed into a captivating work of art. Maybe it was all the wine I'd sipped, but the massive LED mosaic overhead was hypnotic ... and helped orient me toward specialty dining venues, bars and, most importantly, the right elevator bank to reach my stateroom.

The irony isn't lost on me that I'm giving the most Vegas-like thing on board Euribia an enthusiastic thumbs up.

The eco-conscious message of the hull artwork

A painted hull isn't exactly novel. Norwegian Cruise Line has been doing it since 2002. But the artwork that adorns Euribia — MSC's second ship powered by liquified natural gas, its most energy-efficient vessel and the first to sail a net-zero carbon-emission maiden voyage using bio-LNG fuel — has an important message: #savethesea.

Before boarding Euribia, every guest will spot this hashtag painted in vivid turquoise on both the port and starboard sides and surrounded by stenciled blue sea creatures. The hull artwork, a first for the cruise line, was created by German artist Alex Flämig and chosen by MSC to represent twin goals: to have MSC's entire fleet generate net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and to protect coral and other endangered sea life via its MSC Foundation.

Euribia isn't close to net zero yet, mainly because bio-LNG fuel isn't widely available, but this massive ship is already 44% more efficient than MSC vessels built just 10 years ago. This statistic and other eco-minded onboard practices helped me put a check in the "like" column.

What I didn't like

The stateroom decor and amenities.

I felt hopeful as I swiped my keycard and opened the chic wood-like door, but when I saw my 189-square-foot stateroom, I was shocked — and not in a good way. The carpet, bulky sofa and oversized headboard were all dark brown, while the walls and furniture were beige. The patterned curtains and throw pillows were, you guessed it, brown and beige.

If brown is the new gray, I say no thank you. At least gray can lift and lighten a small space, while brown, especially the espresso-like shade used here (for practicality, I assume), is heavy and somber.

Then there was the artwork: an eel rendered in white dots against a brown ocean and a swirling orange sky. Where were the inspiring #savethesea blues of the hull? A few splashes of turquoise would surely have helped save this stateroom.

More importantly, where were the tissues and body lotion? I discovered that MSC supplies neither. The bathroom itself was a cramped, get-in-and-out-quickly kind of space, but thankfully, there was plenty of hot water eco-consciously generated by heat recovered from the engines.

Related: I got what I paid for: My cheap family cruise on MSC Seashore

That night, I also discovered that the bed with its fluffy duvet and two pillow options was quite comfortable. I slept well — and with the lights off, the monochromatic brown didn't bother me as much.

The lack of Italian food on board

On day two around 4 p.m., I began craving gelato. Bring on the Venchi! But Euribia, along with its Meraviglia-class siblings, features the French-inspired Jean-Philippe Maury Chocolat & Café and Jean-Philippe Crepes & Gelato instead of Venchi, the Italian brand offered on MSC's Seaside-class ships.

For those not in the know, Venchi has been making fine Italian chocolates since 1878, plus various kinds of gelato in traditional Italian flavors since 2007. The latter, in particular, is quite delicious.

My sweet tooth was begging, so I ordered two scoops of Jean-Philippe Maury's gelato: one scoop of pistachio and another of chocolate. Both were tasty, but something was slightly off. What was missing, I decided, was Venchi's transportive Italian authenticity.

This sentiment mimicked my overall feeling about the food on Euribia. Despite having a few delicious bites, the cuisine somehow fell short of expectations.

MSC has steadily improved its culinary offerings over the past several years, and most of what I ate — especially the mozzarella made fresh daily in the Marketplace buffet, as well as the tender gnocchi and slice of well-made margherita pizza I had during my cruise — was satisfying. The standout, however, was a white asparagus appetizer with a tangy Italian blood orange sauce served at the Gala Dinner in the Aurora Borealis main dining room.

As for the extra-charge specialty restaurants, the sample bites I tried in Hola! Tacos & Cantina didn't inspire me to head back for a full meal. The tuna and salmon rolls and robatayaki-style grilled eggplant served family style at Kaito Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar were OK but not outstanding. (I didn't get a chance to try Le Grill, the French brasserie-inspired steakhouse that has replaced Butcher's Cut on Euribia.)

Ultimately, nothing besides that small portion of tender white asparagus (which I would gladly have eaten multiple servings of) was truly memorable. I have sailed with MSC several times and know it's a mainstream line that fills its massive ships by offering enticingly low cruise fares, but I always find myself hoping the dining will be better given the company's Italian ownership.

As it turns out, food inspired by that heritage is what MSC does best.

Bottom line

MSC Euribia, which will cruise northern Europe through late 2024, is designed for affordable family fun, as it offers plenty to keep kids and teens occupied. There are complimentary kids clubs, a Sportsplex for court games and an arcade area for virtual reality fun.

That said, those traveling sans kids will not find themselves out of place. Couples will enjoy the ship's sophisticated spaces and nightly entertainment.

Regardless of who you're traveling with, you can expect an international (mostly European) passenger mix, announcements made in six languages and service that's slower than you're used to.

Give the ship a chance. After a few days, you might, like me, find yourself forgiving Euribia's superficial flaws and embracing the ship's megaship eco-warrior personality.

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• The 5 best cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• How to get a deal on a cruise

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Albrecht Golf Guide

Golf Club Ulm e.V.

Wochenauer Hof 2, D-89186 Illerrieden, Germany

Phone: +49 7306 929500 , Fax: +49 7306 9295025

[email protected] www.golfclubulm.de

18-Hole Course

• Driving Range & Practice area

Yes - every day.

Season: April - October

90 - 110 € / 18 Holes

Characteristics

It is no secret that the golf course in the former "Gräflich von Fugger'schen Hofgut Wochenau" (The Wochenau manor farm of the Fugger Counts) is one of the most beautiful golf courses in southern Germany, and Ulm’s primary address for golfing. This golf course, which is located approx. 20 kilometres from Ulm Münster (Ulm Minster), is the only one in the region to be listed as one of the "Leading Golf Clubs of Germany". This is a seal of quality which guarantees optimum playing conditions, professional club management and high-quality catering.

The Golf Club Ulm e. V., founded in 1963, is a registered non-profit association, which is currently managed by its Honorary Board. With its economically-sound basis and its sporting tradition obligations, the Board perceives as its tasks the fulfilment of the demands of members and guests for new playing results, and the orientation towards the future of the Association. The 18-hole golf course provides players of all standards with challenges, our forest course in particular demands accurate long playing or the right strategy. Trees, bunkers and orchid biotopes characterize the golf course, on which plenty of good players have had to work hard to prove their skills.

Over 55 years of tradition which obligates us – the Golf Club Ulm e. V.!

Known for forest lined fairways on the parkland course

Course without tee time reservation

Mainly flat terrain, characterised by its woods, streams and biotopes

Family friendly

Venue of the 2013 IAM International Amateur Ladies’ Championships

Home of rare orchids and butter-flies

Dog-friendly golf course

Teaching with state-of-the-art tools (Trackman 4)

Catering: regional specialities without using preservatives and flavor enhancers

Opened in 1963

Terrain: Flat with water hazards

Technical difficulty: Moderate - Hard

Practice Facilities

• Driving Range (20 tees, 5 covered)
• Putting Green
• Pitching Green
• Chipping Green
• Practice bunker

Visitors are welcome every day. A valid handicap certificate from player’s home club is required. Handicap limit: 54

VcG-Players are admitted.

Softspikes required.

Dogs on leash permitted. Mobile phone permitted on course.

GPS devices approved.

Juniors and Students receive a 50% discount.

Driving Range

Club amenities.

• Conference room
• Locker rooms
• Car park for dog owners
• Birdie card
• Club accepts credit cards

Phone: 07306/92950-50 Credit cards accepted. Closed: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Sven Kattentidt Phone: 07306/92950-60

• Clubs for hire
• Trolley for hire
• Electro-cart for hire

Golf tuition

Torben Baumann Phone: 0151 / 124 24 354 [email protected] www.torbenbaumann.de

General Information

Founded : 1963 Membership : Available

Nearby Courses

Gc reischenhof.

Wain (13 km)

4.8 of 5 stars (11)

New GC Neu-Ulm

Neu-Ulm (14 km)

2.9 of 5 stars (7)

GC Donau-Riss e.V. Ehingen-Rißtissen

Ehingen-Rißtissen (17 km)

3.6 of 5 stars (9)

Other Recommendations

German golf academy – ihre golfschule mit golfkursen weltweit.

Palma de Mallorca/Polígono Son Oms, Spain

User Reviews

4.2 of 5 stars 12 Reviews

Most Recent Reviews

• Automatic translation

Top Golf Course

5.0 of 5 stars Reviewed July 6, 2021

I played here for the first time on July 5th, 2021 and my expectations were clearly exceeded. Interesting and varied course in very good condition. Green fee is adequate. The friendly staff in the secretariat / restaurant is also positive. I will definitely be back.

Translated by Google .

Response from Frank Steyer, Club Manager at Golf Club Ulm e.V.

Thank you very much for the very positive feedback! :-) We are looking forward to your visit. Kind regards from Ulm, Frank Steyer More

Thank you very much for the very positive feedback! :-) We are looking forward to your visit. Kind regards from Ulm, Frank Steyer

Hello sunyog

5.0 of 5 stars Reviewed September 17, 2019

The GC ULM has since March a new tenant with outstanding gastronomy. That's why the commentary amazes me at the moment ("played last year ...)

Golf Anlag Top - Gastronomy Flop

1.0 of 5 stars Reviewed September 17, 2019

In the past, gastronomy was a true culinary treat. When we wanted to eat well there last year, we were bitterly disappointed. Since every beer garden has a better supply of food. Incomprehensible that such a great facility with a dreamlike terrace does not offer more than a few snacks to eat. Grade 6 If there is again a good kitchen, we are back again.

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