MSC Preziosa is the newest ship in the MSC fleet, carrying 3,502 passengers and launched in 2013. Polished Italian marble, glittering chandeliers and dramatic staircases embedded with sparkling Swarovski crystals sum up the mood of this elegant, tasteful ship, which sails in Brazil and the Mediterranean.

On deck, children will love the longest waterslide at sea, Vertigo, while adults will enjoy Top 18, a sunbathing area for grown ups, and the infinity pool. There are numerous bars and restaurants, not least the stylish Green Sax Jazz Bar and Eataly, an Italian-themed 'Slow Food' restaurant serving the very finest of Italian produce, some of which, for example, a bottle of aged balsamic vinegar, you can buy to take home.

We strongly recommend staying in the Yacht Club, a purpose-built enclave of suites forward on the ship, with stunning views from its private lounge and a pool, deck, hot tubs and restaurant exclusive to its occupants. The suites are beautifully appointed, with large balconies, and easily sleep a family of four; children travel free with MSC so it's easy to justify splashing out on a superior cabin. In the Yacht Club, you can have breakfast and lunch in the private lounge, where drinks are complimentary, too, and enjoy dinner in Le Palmeraie, offering international and Mediterranean cuisine.

Other facilities on board include an award-winning spa, a large gym, sports court on deck, and the impressive Platinum Theatre, three decks high, where entertainment is aimed at an international audience, with some dazzling acrobatics shows and genuinely brilliant magicians and illusionists.