While MSC Meraviglia actually launched in 2017, the ship just made its North American debut this October. With the ship sailing a couple Canada/New England cruises before transitioning to its new homeport in Miami, we were able to step aboard this beautiful vessel for a day tour while it was docked in Boston, MA. MSC Meraviglia has a capacity of over 5,500 passengers and a gross tonnage of 170K+. In fact, MSC Meraviglia recently set the record for the largest ship to ever port in Manhattan and Boston! If you are considering a Caribbean/Bahamas cruise in the new year, we give you our 7 Reasons You’ll Love MSC Meraviglia.
7 Reasons You’ll Love MSC Meraviglia
Elegant Design
From the glamorous Swarovski staircase to the artfully themed Galleria Meravigilia, you will be surrounded by elegance in all design elements on this ship. Perhaps the most stunning example is the 5,000+ square foot LED dome that projects a digital sky over the 2-story promenade. Whether you are shopping, dining at one of the specialty restaurants, sipping a cocktail in one of the bars, or socializing and enjoying some live entertainment, you are sure to love Galleria Meraviglia and the rest of the luxurious touches throughout the ship.
Dining
Along with the traditional main dining room and buffet, MSC Meraviglia has several specialty venues for cruisers to indulge in various cuisines. Continuing the Mediterranean-influence, MSC Meraviglia is home to Hola Tapas Bar by Michelin-starred chef Ramon Freixa. Cruisers will also find the American-style steakhouse, Butcher’s Cut, serving up prime cuts, as well as the Ocean Cay seafood restaurant on this ship. Kaito Teppanyaki and Sushi Bar serves up Asian favorites in a lively atmosphere. Further, those with a sweet tooth will love Jean Philippe’s Crepes, Ice Cream, and Chocolate.
Entertainment
In addition to nightly live music and six different productions shows in the main theater, MSC Meraviglia also hosts two one of a kind Cirque du Soleil shows. The Carousel Lounge is a circular venue that is custom built to accommodate these theatrical performances. Guests can enjoy a dinner and a show experience of Viaggio and Sonor. Each of these shows has a unique concept, ambiance, storyline, and costumes. While we didn’t get to see the shows, cruisers claim they are not to be missed!
Spacious Pool Deck
With some of the most deck space per passenger on any modern cruise ship, MSC Meraviglia has a lounge chair with your name on it. The Atmosphere Pool, centrally located on the pool deck, offers plenty of space for those seeking the sun. The Horizon Pool, located aft on the ship, offers more poolside relaxation and some great Caribbean views. This area then becomes an outdoor entertainment hub by night. The Bamboo Pool is an indoor pool with a retractable roof that allows cruisers to still take a dip even if the weather is not cooperating. There is even a splash pool for the little ones to keep everyone in the family entertained.
Fun for All Ages
Speaking of keeping everyone entertained, MSC Meraviglia offers a diverse range of activities that are fun for cruisers of all ages. The Polar Aquapark features 3 waterslides. Thrillseekers will enjoy the Himalayan bridge, a ropes course suspended high up above the ship that offers a variety of challenges.There is an interactive XD cinema dark ride experience, a full size bowling alley, a flight simulator, F1 racing simulators, and the Sportplex. There are also multiple LEGO-themed activities for the little ones.
Ocean Cay
Beginning this month, MSC Meraviglia will sail 2 different 7-night Caribbean itineraries featuring popular ports of call like Ocho Rios, Jamaica; Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; and Roatan, Honduras. In addition to these Caribbean stops, MSC Meraviglia will call on the cruise line’s brand-new private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay. Boasting 8 sandy beaches, untouched beauty, and a variety of shore excursions to get up close and personal with the marine life, Ocean Cay is sure to be one of the hottest private island destinations in 2020.
Technology
Besides the technology behind the innovative stage productions and LED dome, MSC Meraviglia was MSC Cruises first innovative ship to feature the MSC for Me smartphone app. This app was designed to help guests get the most out of their vacation with the quick swipe of a finger. Using this MSC for Me app, cruisers have the ability to make reservations, find information on daily activities, stay connected with family and friends onboard the ship, and much more. Perhaps Zoe, the first virtual cruise assistant, will make an appearance on the ship in the near future as well.
Comments
Have you sailed with MSC Cruises? What do you love about MSC Meraviglia? Drop us an anchor below to share your thoughts on the newest MSC vessel to hit the Caribbean.
We’ll be on her the week of 11/24. Looking forward to it as we originally had planned to do Norwegian Encore but had to change because of a work event.