Cruise
The MSC Meraviglia: Seven Days of Fun, Flavor, and Discovery
Article by Daniel Smajovits, photography by Michael Morcos
Family vacations come in all shapes and sizes, but few match the excitement, variety, and convenience of a cruise. Sailing aboard the MSC Meraviglia from Brooklyn, our family discovered just how magical life at sea can be. From Broadway-style entertainment to delicious dining, from playful pool days to awe-inspiring excursions, the Meraviglia created the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation for every generation.
Brooklyn Cruise Terminal
The Brookyln Cruise Terminal is an easy drive from anywhere in the Northeast. While we opted to drive into the area the night before, with ample on-site parking ($45/day) and less congestion on Sundays, cruisers can easily leave home the morning of embarkation. For travelers flying in, Newark Airport (EWR) is a short 30 minute drive from the port.
Once at the port, check-in is a breeze: with the MSC app pre-loaded on your phone, cruisers can go from their car to the ship within 30 minutes.
Entertainment: Lights, Music, and Laughter at Sea
Entertainment is one of the ship’s strongest suits, with options that rival what you’d find on land. During the days, live music reverberated throughout. The daily schedule was packed with interactive games: from karaoke to trivia and even a variety of dance classes, every minute from sail away until disembarkation was accounted for.
Once the sun set, each night felt like an event. Broadway-style shows were held in the main theater and jaw-dropping Cirque du Soleil at Sea performances took place in the Carousel Lounge (paid). On our sailing, we were also joined by a hypnotist, comedian and vocalist, each providing a unique and worthwhile entertainment experience.
For the night-owls, theme parties anchored each evening. From MSC’s famous White Party to a Silent Disco, these evenings began just before 11 pm either indoors in the ship’s main promenade or on deck.
Friendliest Kids Program at Sea
Attention all parents! Included with your cruise fare is MSC’s LEGO-themed kids’ club, a must for all pint-sized cruisers. The kids club allows children to immerse themselves in creative building challenges, interactive games, and group activities designed to spark imagination. One Sea Day also becomes a dedicated LEGO Day where the entire program centers around the world-famous bricks.
The Sportsplex, adjacent to the kids club, is a hidden gem for teenagers. Basketball, pickleball, soccer, and even dodgeball tournaments run throughout the day, allowing kids to let loose and make new friends from around the world.
Open for most of the day and even late into the evening, the Kids Club welcomes children of all ages. Parents have the option to drop off their children anytime and staff will even accompany children for meals or pick them up from the main dining room to allow parents to enjoy their evenings.
Dining: A Global Feast for All Ages
Food is at the heart of cruising, and the MSC Meraviglia delivers with flair. With its Italian heritage, MSC shines in its pasta and pizza offerings, but the ship’s culinary choices spanned the globe.
The main dining rooms offered multicourse meals each night, ranging from creamy risottos and Mediterranean seafood to American-style steaks and chicken tenders for picky eaters. The attentive waitstaff quickly learned our family’s preferences, bringing Lemonade for the kids and surprising the adults with recommendations every night.
For casual meals, the buffet became a family favorite. Regardless of the meal, MSC guarantees endless variety from around the world, making everyone happy. Children are especially thrilled by the Kids Only station, which had food tailored to their distinctive tastes. Unlike some other lines, the buffet is open nearly all day and night, ensuring snacks are almost always available.
Specialty dining adds an extra layer of excitement for foodies. Butcher’s Cut, the ship’s American-style steakhouse, offers perfectly grilled ribeye, while sushi lovers are in paradise at the Kaito Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar, where chefs dazzle with fiery tricks while cooking.
Things to Do Onboard: A Floating Playground
The MSC Meraviglia is often described as a floating city, and it truly felt that way. Days at sea were never dull thanks to a dizzying array of activities.
For families, the aquapark, with its twisting slides, splash zones, and pools, will become a second home. Hours will disappear as kids race down slides, play in the pools or challenge themselves on the ropes course.
Indoors, the ship was just as lively. The paid arcade and virtual reality experiences transport passengers into futuristic worlds, while the bowling alley and 4D cinema offered thrills in a more compact space. Fitness enthusiasts had their pick of a fully equipped gym, yoga classes, and even dance lessons. For early risers, the Meraviglia also offers a running track, which does double as a sun deck later in the day.
For adults needing a recharge, the Aurea Spa offered peace and pampering. From Balinese massages to thermal pools, it was the ideal counterbalance to the high energy onboard.
Shopping along the Galleria Meraviglia added another layer of discovery. From designer boutiques to MSC souvenirs, there was always something to tempt. One highlight is the LED ceiling that shifted from sunny skies to starry nights, making even a simple stroll felt like an event.
Ports of Call:
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
MSC’s private island is paradise. With shallow lagoons, soft sand, and safe swimming zones, it’s designed for both relaxation and family fun. Kids can snorkel in calm waters, build castles on powdery beaches, or join eco-focused activities that introduce them to marine life. Adults appreciate the laid-back vibe, with cabanas for shade and easy access to food and drinks. In the evening, the island transforms into something magical with a family-friendly lighthouse show of music and lights. Make sure to reserve your seat and umbrella (paid) in advance.
Cape Canaveral, Florida
This stop combines space-age excitement with classic Florida charm. Families can tour the Kennedy Space Center, where kids marvel at rockets, astronauts, and even the chance to touch a moon rock. Those preferring something more relaxed can spend the day at Cocoa Beach, playing in the surf and enjoying classic boardwalk treats. While Orlando is an hour-drive away, the timing is usually too tight to visit any of the theme parks.
Nassau, Bahamas
Nassau bursts with color, sound, and Caribbean flair. Families can choose from a wide range of kid-friendly adventures, from dolphin encounters to glass-bottom boat rides that reveal the underwater world without needing to snorkel. Atlantis Resort is always a hit with families, offering water slides, aquariums, and a sprawling water park. For those seeking a quieter day, a stroll through the Straw Market or sampling local conch fritters provides a fun, cultural touch.
Why the MSC Meraviglia Works for Families
Looking back on the week, what stands out most is how well the MSC Meraviglia balanced the needs of every family member. Kids had endless energy outlets, teens had independence, parents had both fun and relaxation, and grandparents had comfort and elegance.
The ship itself was a destination, offering more than enough to keep all guests entertained, but the ports added that extra spark of discovery. Dining was both adventurous and comforting, and entertainment tied everything together, turning each evening into a celebration.
For families looking to combine adventure, convenience, and togetherness, the MSC Meraviglia is a perfect choice. It offers not just a vacation, but a tapestry of experiences stitched together by the sea.
