MSC Meraviglia: European Touches on the Eastern Seaboard

I recently had the pleasure of completing a ship tour on the MSC Meraviglia. She had traveled from her home port in New York and was in Port Canaveral for the day, allowing sailors to visit Central Florida. I must say, after spending the day exploring the Meraviglia, I would be happy to sail with her.

Ship Layout and Amenities

The MSC Meraviglia is a beautifully designed ship with a glitzy, modern feel. As one of MSC’s flagship vessels, it offers a variety of amenities that cater to diverse interests. The main promenade, known as the Galleria Meraviglia, is the heart of the ship—a 315-foot-long, LED-lit ceiling showcasing digital displays and acting as a hub for shops, bars, and restaurants. The promenade feels like a shopping district, ideal for evening strolls or socializing.

Meraviglia’s pools are among the ship’s highlights. The Atmosphere Pool is spacious with plenty of loungers, while the Horizon Pool at the aft of the ship is perfect for those looking for a more relaxed setting with a view of the ocean. The Solarium, an adults-only retreat, adds a level of tranquility that many appreciate. The Meraviglia also boasts a state-of-the-art fitness center, a luxurious spa, and the MSC Yacht Club—a private area offering premium suites, a lounge, dining, and exclusive access to other VIP areas for those wanting an elevated experience. The ship also features an exciting water park and sports complex for active travelers.

Cabins

The cabins on the MSC Meraviglia are comfortable and come in a range of styles, from standard interior rooms to lavish suites in the Yacht Club. The decor is slightly dated but soothing, with a neutral color palette and plenty of natural light in ocean-view and balcony cabins. Space is efficiently utilized, though some guests might find the layout slightly more compact compared to cabins on other cruise lines. Family cabins are available with interconnecting options, a great choice for those traveling with children or larger groups.

Yacht Club suites stand out for their spaciousness, private butler service, and access to exclusive areas on the ship. Balcony cabins are a popular choice, offering beautiful views and outdoor space, while interior cabins are cozy and affordable for those spending more time exploring the ship’s amenities.

Entertainment

Entertainment on the MSC Meraviglia is a blend of European and American influences, providing something for everyone. The ship is known for its shows, including Carousel Productions at Sea, a unique experience with a custom-built theater. These shows are an extra cost and involve impressive acrobatics and artistry. The main theater hosts a variety of performances, from musicals to dance shows, suitable for all ages.

The entertainment team also offers a lineup of daily activities, including dance classes, trivia, and game shows. There are lively parties on the promenade in the evenings, and the live music in various bars adds to the ship’s ambiance. For families, the Meraviglia has a kids’ club with themed activities, catering to different age groups, including the Baby Club, Mini Club, Juniors Club, Young Club, and Teens Club.

Food

Dining on the MSC Meraviglia offers a variety of choices but may vary in quality depending on the venue. The main dining rooms serve Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, and the menu changes daily. The food is generally well-prepared with dishes that appeal to European and American palates. Specialty dining is where the Meraviglia shines. Eataly offers authentic Italian options, the Butcher’s Cut serves up premium steakhouse fare, and Kaito Teppanyaki is a fun, interactive Japanese grill experience.

The Marketplace Buffet is open long hours and offers an extensive range of foods, including international options, pizzas, and freshly made pasta. (MSC imports their pizza dough from Italy, and I can honestly say it's one of the best pizzas I've had at sea!) It can be crowded during peak times, but the quality is impressive, especially for quick meals. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are available but may require a bit of planning.

Comparison to Other Cruise Lines

Compared to other cruise lines, MSC Meraviglia has a distinctly European flavor, making it unique in the mainstream cruise market. It’s a fantastic option for those looking for an international vibe without leaving the Eastern Seaboard. Unlike Royal Caribbean and Norwegian, which lean toward a more Americanized cruising experience, MSC brings European-style design, dining, relaxation, and service onboard. This can be refreshing for those looking to try something different.

In terms of amenities, the Meraviglia holds its own with major competitors. Its variety of entertainment and specialty dining, rivals the offerings of Royal Caribbean and Norwegian. However, MSC’s service style can feel less personable compared to Disney or Celebrity, which have a reputation for high-touch service. Pricing on MSC is generally more affordable than Disney or Celebrity, providing excellent value for money, especially with promotions that often include drink packages and/or WiFi.

The Meraviglia’s kid-friendly programs are robust and in line with other family-oriented cruise lines, although Disney still has the edge in terms of themed experiences. For luxury seekers, MSC’s Yacht Club rivals suites on other lines, providing an exclusive experience similar to The Haven by Norwegian or Royal Caribbean’s suite program but often at a lower price point.