MSC Meraviglia: A Frequent Flyer’s Review

by Sky Skylar | March 16, 2025 | 0 Comments

I’ve read countless reports about MSC Meraviglia‘s appeal, and the consensus often points to a solid 4/5 rating from over a thousand reviews. People praise its welcoming vibe, friendly crew, and noteworthy value, although some mention that the ship’s more European style might differ from the American-focused approach of other cruise lines. Personally, I find that uniqueness refreshing—it’s a chance to experience a bit of global flavor without a passport stamp.

A Distinctly European Cruise Experience

A Distinctly European Cruise Experience

I’ve always noticed that MSC Meraviglia brings a bit of European panache to the high seas. Many travelers have told me it feels like stepping into a vibrant European city, complete with lively lounges, multilingual crew members, and a certain cosmopolitan flair. The dress code shifts from breezy daytime casual to more polished evening attire, so it almost feels like attending a different party each night—a true mix of cultures that sets it apart from many North American-centric cruise lines.

In my experience, that international ambiance extends to every corner of the ship. You’ll hear a range of accents at the dinner table and encounter a variety of entertainment styles, from classical music recitals to upbeat dance parties reminiscent of Europe’s late-night club scene. According to industry data from the Cruise Lines International Association, over 30 million travelers are projected to set sail worldwide in 2025, and many are seeking out exactly this kind of globally inspired experience. It’s not just about going from point A to point B—it’s about immersion in a multicultural environment.

Boarding in New York adds another layer of excitement, as I’ve often compared it to spending the night in the city’s biggest hotel. The ship’s proximity to Manhattan means you can explore iconic city sights during the day and then return to a floating resort by evening. Itineraries to Bermuda and Canada/New England further reflect the ship’s commitment to broadening cultural horizons, offering fresh ways to blend tastes of international cruising with local North American attractions.

Modern Cabins and Public Spaces

Modern Cabins and Public Spaces

In my view, the cabins on MSC Meraviglia strike a balance between modern aesthetics and efficiency, although they might be a bit cozy for those of us who travel with a full array of gadgets. I’ve found that storing suitcases can become a bit of Tetris in these limited spaces, so rolling luggage that fits under the bed often helps. According to a recent poll by Cruise Critic, 62% of travelers prioritize comfortable bedding and smart storage solutions above all else in a cruise cabin, and I believe Meraviglia delivers decently on both fronts—just know what you’re getting into with the smaller closets.

One aspect I appreciate is the contemporary design, which includes sleek furniture, subtle LED lighting accents, and modern touches like USB ports near the bedside. However, I always pack my own toiletries (and even a few extra snacks) since the provided amenities can be somewhat minimal. For entertainment, the TV offerings are acceptable, but I’ve often found that exploring the public areas of the ship is far more engaging.

Speaking of public spaces, Meraviglia really turns on the charm. The indoor promenade with its LED rooftop often features mesmerizing sky displays, multicolored light shows, and even occasional digital fireworks. I’ve spent hours just strolling and people-watching there. The upper decks host a range of activities from exhilarating waterslides to serene spa treatments, ensuring there’s something for every pace and mood. Even when the ship is at full capacity, I’ve found pockets of tranquility—like cozy nooks in lounges or a window seat in a quiet café—to watch the ocean roll by.

Entertainment, Dining, and Service

Entertainment, Dining, and Service

My favorite part of cruising is sampling the dining options, and MSC Meraviglia doesn’t disappoint in terms of variety. There’s everything from fresh pastries in the morning to artisanal pizzas and pastas that remind me of Italy’s culinary scene. Specialty restaurants, particularly those within the Yacht Club’s more exclusive setting, go the extra mile by offering gourmet plates and impeccable tableside service. I’ve heard from fellow travelers that the buffet can get crowded right before showtime, so I like to plan my meals early to avoid the rush. According to a 2025 study by the World Food Travel Association, nearly 70% of vacationers prioritize gastronomic experiences when choosing their travel. This ship’s wide range of cuisines fits that trend perfectly.

Entertainment spans musical productions, acrobatic shows, and even interactive game nights that can get surprisingly competitive among guests. I’ve found that if you’re someone who loves a good spectacle, MSC Meraviglia’s lineup offers a blend of classic Vegas-style revues and more innovative performances using big-screen visual effects. Last year, I caught a piano-driven show in the main theater that felt both intimate and grand. The staff’s enthusiasm was evident, reflecting an overall warmth that resonates with many guests.

As for service, it can be brilliant on some days and slightly delayed on others, especially during peak lounge hours. I’ve experienced the occasional wait for a cocktail, but the genuine friendliness of the crew usually makes up for it. One tip: Watch out for extra charges on certain amenities and specialty dining. When you board, be sure to check the official daily program or ask the guest services desk which events or restaurants carry additional fees. Staying informed helps ensure you don’t get any unwelcome surprises on your final bill.

Top Picks for Frequent Flyers

Top Picks for Frequent Flyers

If you’re like me and prefer short getaways that pack in maximum excitement, MSC Meraviglia’s departure from New York is ideal. I’ve often utilized my frequent-flyer miles to hop into the city, then embarked directly on the ship for a low-hassle vacation. This synergy between air travel and cruising has become increasingly popular; according to a global traveler survey by Travelport, over 65% of frequent flyers look for seamless connections between flight and port to optimize their valuable time off.

Meraviglia’s modern technology helps cut down on the usual waiting lines. The embarkation process is fairly streamlined with digital check-in kiosks, and the interactive touchscreens onboard let you view daily schedules or make dinner reservations instantly. I’ve noticed this efficiency significantly reduces those stressful moments of rushing to a show or missing out on a fully booked restaurant. For tech enthusiasts, there’s even an option to sync your cruise card with a mobile app to keep track of onboard spending and activities.

One standout benefit for frequent flyers is the ship’s entertainment schedule, carefully curated to optimize shorter itineraries. Everyone from business travelers seeking a midweek break to families wanting a long-weekend getaway can find something appealing. And given that the cruise sails from a city as accessible as New York, you can easily tack on a day or two of big-city sightseeing before or after your voyage for a well-rounded travel experience.

Final Thoughts

Final Thoughts

After poring over countless reviews and chatting with fellow cruise enthusiasts, I consistently see MSC Meraviglia cater to a vast range of tastes. Families love the water slides and diverse dining, couples flock to the romantic corners and evening shows, and solo adventurers appreciate the lively social scene. The 4/5 rating remains a testament to the ship’s well-rounded approach—offering a dash of European flair along with homegrown comforts that U.S.-based travelers crave.

Yes, there can be service hiccups, especially on busy days, and not everyone will find the added fees palatable. However, I’ve found that clear planning—knowing which restaurants or shows may cost extra—can prevent unpleasant surprises. Boarding in New York is particularly handy for those aiming to combine frequent-flyer perks with a quick cruise escape, making the entire journey feel more cohesive and well-planned.

In my mind, MSC Meraviglia excels at creating an environment where you can slip into a distinctly European vibe while still enjoying a comfortable, familiar structure. If you’re someone who embraces cultural mash-ups and appreciates the convenience of big-city cruising, this ship deserves a spot on your shortlist.

Sky Skylar’s Take

I’m a big believer in blending technology and travel, and MSC Meraviglia’s high-tech approach—like those interactive screens and quick embarkation processes—feels like a glimpse into cruising’s future. I’ve observed that this also sets a precedent for other lines to follow, shaping what we might come to expect from all modern cruise experiences.

Success in travel is often about seamless integration of convenience and comfort, and from my vantage point, this ship exemplifies that balance. It practically invites you to step from a New York skyline into a cosmopolitan world at sea without missing a beat. While no cruise is perfect for everyone, Meraviglia comes remarkably close if you’re seeking a modern, international flare combined with the straightforward practicality of sailing from a major U.S. hub.

Follow us back to BoardingArea for more travel insights.

Also on BoardingArea
The Bulkhead Seat
WestJet Adds Interline Agreement With Saudia
WestJet has been adding lots of interline and codeshare agreements recently. Earlier this month,… The post WestJet Adds Interline Agreement With Saudia appeared first on The Bulkhead Seat.
Your Mileage May Vary
No Free Night, Higher Fee—So Why Is the Hilton Surpass Still in My Wallet?
When I wrote about whether or not the World of Hyatt Credit Card was still worth keeping, I mentioned that we’ve been focusing most of our credit card spending on…
Frequent Miler
Virgin Atlantic substantially increases fees on award tickets
Late last week, Thrifty Traveler reported that Virgin Atlantic substantially increased surcharges on their own flights, hiking the charge displayed as “taxes & fees” by 50% or more. There are still opportunities to get a good deal when mileage prices are at their least expensive, but there is no doubt...
ATX Jetsetter
Is Southwest Planning Major Changes to Its Popular Companion Pass?
Southwest Airlines is reportedly considering changes to its popular Companion Pass perk as part of a broader loyalty program change. The post Is Southwest Planning Major Changes to Its Popular Companion Pass? appeared first on ATX Jetsetter.
View from the Wing
Huge Passenger Win: American Airlines Finally Restores In-Person Standby at the Gate—Starting Tomorrow
As part of a more customer-centric focus, one of the key things I've been suggesting American should do is reverse this policy. Now the airline shares that all customers will once again be able to be added to standby in-person with an agent. Continue reading Huge Passenger Win: American Airlines...
One Mile at a Time
Miles Meets Jet, And Now I’m Going To Need Four Award Seats
I always like to share life updates on the blog — this is one of those, so if that doesn’t interest you, by all means skip this post (I won’t be offended, I promise!).
Your Mileage May Vary
The 3 Most Common Fourth of July Travel Disruptions
According to AAA, roughly 72.2 million Americans are expected to be traveling at least 50 miles from home during the 4th of July holiday. And the TSA says they’re expecting…
Monkey Miles
A first year Chase Sapphire Reserve triple dip on “The Edit”
One of the benefits of the newly revamped CSR and the brand new CSR for Business is a $500 annual “The Edit” credit broken into 2 semi annual $250 credits. I was recently approved, but sadly haven’t received, the business version of the card. Upon logging into my account, I...
Frequent Miler
Hilton for Business promo: Earn 2k bonus points for each employee you add (limit 10k points)
Update 6/30/25: This promotion was originally scheduled to end on June 28th but has been extended to now end August 1, 2025. Hilton for Business launched a new promotion last week, offering 5,000 bonus points per stay on your next three stays booked through the program, with a limit of...
Live and Let’s Fly
Introduction: A Dark Trip To Germany With A Detour To The City Of Lights
Welcome to my next trip report, a brief series that will recount my autumn trip to Germany and France, with flights on Virgin Atlantic and JetBlue and a nice stay at Hôtel du Louvre in Paris. Autumn Trip To Germany, Switzerland, France On Virgin Atlantic, Eurowings, JetBlue A very dear...
Monkey Miles
Turkish – Fly to 6 continents and get 1 million miles…with a catch
Turkish has jumped on the bandwagon of crazy promotions that require an extensive and creative amount of travel to achieve the bonus. This one is a big fat pass as you have to pass through Istanbul every single time and do so by 10/27/25. You can take a look at...
ATX Jetsetter
Review: Hilton Mall of Istanbul
The Hilton Mall of Istanbul is one of the closest hotels to the new Istanbul Airport, though it is still a 25 minute drive away. The post Review: Hilton Mall of Istanbul appeared first on ATX Jetsetter.
The Gate with Brian Cohen
How to Safely Use Escalators and Travelators
Don Mueang International Airport in Bangkok was the scene of a woman whose leg was forced to be amputated after it was stuck in a moving walkway called a travelator on Thursday, June 29, 2023 — which prompted the question of how to safely use escalators and travelators. Travelators are common...
You Are Travel
More Sun and Fun in the Balearics – Destination by Hyatt Welcomes the Sarena de Muro Resort Mallorca
Tl;dr – Hyatt adds to its expansive footprint on the island of Mallorca, and the Balearic Islands generally.…
Wingtips
Oman Air’s Alliance Era Takes Off Today
Oman Air has officially become a member of the Oneworld alliance today, 30 June 2025, a slight delay… The post Oman Air’s Alliance Era Takes Off Today appeared first on Wingtips.
Wingtips
Budget Beds, Big Station: Travelodge Joins the Liverpool Street Crew
Budget-hotel bruiser Travelodge is parking its suitcase smack opposite London Liverpool Street, the UK’s busiest rail hub, and… The post Budget Beds, Big Station: Travelodge Joins the Liverpool Street Crew appeared first on Wingtips.
View from the Wing
Most Travelers Never Notice The Amex JFK Lounge’s Secret Room With Premium Bar—Here’s Exactly Where It Is
I'd take the Capital One lounge over this one in a heartbeat. The coffee here is going to be better than in the Chase lounge or Delta Sky Club. It's decent as far as airport lounges go but I wouldn't go out of my way to seek it...
Miles To Memories
Southwest Companion Pass on the Chopping Block?
A recent survey sent to some Southwest customers suggests the Companion Pass might be on the chopping block. The post Southwest Companion Pass on the Chopping Block? appeared first on Miles to Memories.
One Mile at a Time
Amex Gold Card: Ideal For Anyone Who Loves To Eat
American Express Membership Rewards is one of the most popular transferable points currencies, and there’s arguably one best personal card for earning Amex points — the American Express Gold Card (review). In this post, I want to take a closer look at why this card should be in most points collectors’...
One Mile at a Time
Amex Gold Card: Ideal For Anyone Who Loves To Eat
American Express Membership Rewards is one of the most popular transferable points currencies, and there’s arguably one best personal card for earning Amex points — the American Express Gold Card (review). In this post, I want to take a closer look at why this card should be in most points collectors’...
{Tech} for Travel
Find My Now Built Into Nomad Leather Mag Wallet
The latest Nomad Leather Mag Wallet is crafted from Horween leather and features integrated Apple Find My for easy tracking on the go. The post Find My Now Built Into Nomad Leather Mag Wallet appeared first on {Tech} for Travel.
Your Mileage May Vary
I Could’ve Moved AMEX Points to Alaska via Hawaiian. Here’s Why I Didn’t
If it hasn’t already happened, today was likely the last day you could transfer American Express Membership Rewards points to Hawaiian Airlines. I’ve written about this before, since HawaiianMiles could…
Frequent Miler
Will Southwest nerf the Companion Pass next?
Reports came out over the past few days about a Southwest Airlines survey indicating that the airline is considering major changes to its famed Companion Pass, with the benefit potentially becoming a top-tier elite member benefit. To be clear, no changes have been announced but rather this was simply a...
Miles To Memories
Alaska Airlines Card: Earn 30,000 Bonus Mile + $300 Statement Credit
Bank of America has a new and offer for the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card. You can earn a bonus of 30,000 miles, plus a $300 statement credit when you apply and are approved for this card and complete the spending requirement. The post Alaska Airlines Card: Earn 30,000 Bonus...

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Categories

Our Bloggers