Meraviglia & MSC general questions

[NJsharon]

Well I am cruise lover, but normally NCL (can see the others in my signature).  I am going to be booking my first MSC cruise this week & have so many questions. I did search this forum, but couldn't find all the answers.  Sorry.

 

A lot of questions, sorry.  Just answer 1 or 2 if you can. Thanks.

Meraviglia out of NY for 7 nights, do they have dining package for maybe 3 nights, or generally how are the restaurants (maybe the hibachi place) priced? Is it easy to get reservations? 
Do they do a soda package with unlimited sodas/soft drinks, do you know the rough cost of that?

Theater shows, do they do any Broadway style shows or moreso things like acrobats, comedians etc
What is the Yacht Club that everyone keeps talking about?! Is that a cabin class or a package you can buy?

It looked like 3 levels of the formal type dining room? Do you get assigned to one or can choose any? Do they all serve the same food?

Do they do formal nights, or is that a thing of the past?  It has been several years since I cruised thanks to Covid!

Casino, is it non-smoking throughout?  Do you use your room key to play at the slots or need cash?

Can you use your room key to charge things around the ship?

Probably will do lowest level of oceanview. Is there a better deck/location, any areas to avoid as they are noisy (we don't stay up late)?

Is there a library on board? Silly question but do they have board games to borrow?
Do they do bingo on the ship, any good prizes?

Any game shows with prizes?

Buffet, does it have the same food every day or they do specials?  Is there quieter times, or always generally busy?

Do they do any craft activities on board, any examples & is that a pay thing or free?

 

I went to the MSC website & then looked at the Meraviglia ship, watching the video.  I have to say the site is not very user friendly for me to find out information about the ship.  Still can't wait to cruise, just would like to know a bit more about MSC or the ship.

 

Thank you!

[JIMESOPUS]

@NJsharon

drink packages - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/dining-drinks/drinks-packages

dining packages - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/dining-drinks/dining-packages-specialty-restaurants

Yacht Club = Haven, with the exception that the YC has interior cabins

Main dining rooms, based on what experience you book will determine seating, MDR assignment, and what time you can eat https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise/experiences-staterooms

Did you complete the status match with MSC - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/manage-booking/msc-voyagers-club/status-match?utm_campaign=usa-en-sem-brand_general&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=msc+status+match&utm_content=branded&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8J6wBhDXARIsAPo7QA-jSje_E6P6-7oDThQDovjIQgw7ila4f2Ex0fioC2xCy_5a3DM3rgAaAnPAEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

We tried MSC last year and loved it, next year we are trying the interior YC.

There are a few old " live threads " that can be found here in the MSC boards that are packed with a lot of information

Jim

[ajoneen]

1 hour ago, NJsharon said:

 

Do they do formal nights, or is that a thing of the past?  kinda- about 1/3 of folks dressed up
 

Casino, is it non-smoking throughout?  Nope. Small nonsmoking sections.
 

Can you use your room key to charge things around the ship? Yes

 

Is there a library on board? Nope converted the space to the nonsmoking section of casino 

Silly question but do they have board games to borrow? nope

 

Buffet, does it have the same food every day (yes) or they do specials? (some)  Is there quieter times, or always generally busy? (back area is generally less busy)

 

If you’re ok with it get a TA they can answer most of your questions

 

Or search Youtube- tons of videos on every imaginable area and everything to do. 

 

 

[NJsharon]

6 hours ago, JIMESOPUS said:

@NJsharon

drink packages - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/dining-drinks/drinks-packages

dining packages - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/dining-drinks/dining-packages-specialty-restaurants

Yacht Club = Haven, with the exception that the YC has interior cabins

Main dining rooms, based on what experience you book will determine seating, MDR assignment, and what time you can eat https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise/experiences-staterooms

Did you complete the status match with MSC - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/manage-booking/msc-voyagers-club/status-match?utm_campaign=usa-en-sem-brand_general&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=msc+status+match&utm_content=branded&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8J6wBhDXARIsAPo7QA-jSje_E6P6-7oDThQDovjIQgw7ila4f2Ex0fioC2xCy_5a3DM3rgAaAnPAEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

We tried MSC last year and loved it, next year we are trying the interior YC.

There are a few old " live threads " that can be found here in the MSC boards that are packed with a lot of information

Jim

 

 

Thank you for the time to answer my questions & the links. I appreciate it!  Going to check out the links now.  Yacht Club sounds interesting though.  Thanks!

 

[NJsharon]

6 hours ago, ajoneen said:

 

Thanks, that helps a lot!  Appreciate it!

[NJsharon]

7 hours ago, JIMESOPUS said:

@NJsharon

drink packages - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/dining-drinks/drinks-packages

dining packages - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/dining-drinks/dining-packages-specialty-restaurants

Yacht Club = Haven, with the exception that the YC has interior cabins

Main dining rooms, based on what experience you book will determine seating, MDR assignment, and what time you can eat https://www.msccruisesusa.com/cruise/experiences-staterooms

Did you complete the status match with MSC - https://www.msccruisesusa.com/manage-booking/msc-voyagers-club/status-match?utm_campaign=usa-en-sem-brand_general&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_term=msc+status+match&utm_content=branded&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjw8J6wBhDXARIsAPo7QA-jSje_E6P6-7oDThQDovjIQgw7ila4f2Ex0fioC2xCy_5a3DM3rgAaAnPAEALw_wcB&gclsrc=aw.ds

We tried MSC last year and loved it, next year we are trying the interior YC.

There are a few old " live threads " that can be found here in the MSC boards that are packed with a lot of information

Jim

 

 

Okay, looked at the links, which were very helpful, just left me with a few more questions!
Have you ever received a free cruise through another casino on MSC?  Thinking a lot of these experiences might be different then for me, as that is what I will be doing.  Not sure the Yacht is an option.
For the dining package, do you know the rough cost for the 1 or 2 specialty meals?  I can't book it yet as I will be completing our booking this week, so no reservation number.
I will probably do the non-alcoholic beverage package as I rarely drink.  What is the cut off for the kids drink package, do you know?  My daughter will be 19 then, so thinking it is 12 & under or 16 or under?
Oh & I am Gold on NCL (7 more points for Platinum!), but that is 68 reward points, so don't think it translates well (if the points count the same), as I would be the base level with MSC.
Thank you so much!
 

 

 

 

Edited March 31 by NJsharon

[Tierun]

Even the silver level of VC will get you 5% discount on your booking. Do the status match no matter the level.

[NJsharon]

2 hours ago, Tierun said:

Even the silver level of VC will get you 5% discount on your booking. Do the status match no matter the level.

 

I will be doing a comp cruise though, so that perk doesn't help me too much.  😞

 

[Crown Vic]

If possible, think about getting to the terminal in Red Hook by ferry. Driving and parking, near by, can be challenging. Enjoy!

[sbcs5390]

6 hours ago, NJsharon said:

 

I will be doing a comp cruise though, so that perk doesn't help me too much.  😞

 

They give you the equivalent points when matching so you get a jump start on diamond.  Definitely worth doing. YC is superb if you go that way. 

[JamieLogical]

On 3/30/2024 at 10:09 PM, NJsharon said:

Well I am cruise lover, but normally NCL (can see the others in my signature).  I am going to be booking my first MSC cruise this week & have so many questions. I did search this forum, but couldn't find all the answers.  Sorry.

 

A lot of questions, sorry.  Just answer 1 or 2 if you can. Thanks.

Meraviglia out of NY for 7 nights, do they have dining package for maybe 3 nights, or generally how are the restaurants (maybe the hibachi place) priced? Is it easy to get reservations? 
Do they do a soda package with unlimited sodas/soft drinks, do you know the rough cost of that?

Theater shows, do they do any Broadway style shows or moreso things like acrobats, comedians etc
What is the Yacht Club that everyone keeps talking about?! Is that a cabin class or a package you can buy?

It looked like 3 levels of the formal type dining room? Do you get assigned to one or can choose any? Do they all serve the same food?

Do they do formal nights, or is that a thing of the past?  It has been several years since I cruised thanks to Covid!

Casino, is it non-smoking throughout?  Do you use your room key to play at the slots or need cash?

Can you use your room key to charge things around the ship?

Probably will do lowest level of oceanview. Is there a better deck/location, any areas to avoid as they are noisy (we don't stay up late)?

Is there a library on board? Silly question but do they have board games to borrow?
Do they do bingo on the ship, any good prizes?

Any game shows with prizes?

Buffet, does it have the same food every day or they do specials?  Is there quieter times, or always generally busy?

Do they do any craft activities on board, any examples & is that a pay thing or free?

 

I went to the MSC website & then looked at the Meraviglia ship, watching the video.  I have to say the site is not very user friendly for me to find out information about the ship.  Still can't wait to cruise, just would like to know a bit more about MSC or the ship.

 

Thank you!

 

Reservations for specialty restaurants can only be made onboard. You will get information about where to go to make reservations in the Welcome Aboard flyer you receive at check-in in the terminal. I think the Specialty Dining packages have gone up in price since I got one. I find the a la carte prices at Hola! and Kaito Sushi to be reasonable enough without a package. I think Butcher's Cut, Ocean Cay, and Teppanyaki are all around $65 for their "tastings" menu if you don't have a dining package.

 

Theater shows are productions with singing, dancing, and acrobatics. Usually pretty high energy. But they don't really have a "story" so much as just a theme. Also, there is no dialog, because MSC caters to a very international crowd so dialog limited to one language would probably not appeal to a large audience.

 

Yacht Club is MSC's "ship within a ship" concept that is roughly the equivalent of NCL's Haven.

 

There are four main dining rooms on the Meraviglia. You will be assigned a dining time, table, and room at check-in. It will be printed on your keycard. Only Aurea gets anytime dining. If you are Bella or Fantastica, you will be assigned a time. Fantastica allegedly gets priority when choosing a dining time preference, but there are still no guarantees you will get the time you want.

 

They do gala nights, one of which will include filet and lobster in the MDR. On those nights, you can dress nicer than usual, but it is not required. The main requirement in the dining room is no shorts and no tank tops or open-toed shoes for men.

 

Unfortunately, there is smoking allowed in much of the casino and the smoking and non-smoking sections are not well delineated.

 

Your keycard is used to charge anything onboard from drinks to stuff in the shops.

 

No library. There used to be a space labeled as a library on the deck plans, but it was basically empty shelves. They have now put more slot machines in that are and it is non-smoking.

 

There are definitely game shows with prizes and trivia and such.

 

Buffet breakfast is the same every day. Lunch and dinner will have some specials and themed sections. It can get VERY busy depending on what time you go.

 

They do have crafts, usually during the daytime in the Meraviglia Lounge. I saw things with coloring, origami, beads, and such.

 

 

[If_this_is_tuesday]

There is or was a tiny library area, basically a single book shelf on deck 6 i think by the photo shop and displays and i seem to recall a kids board game or two. Maybe a half dozen paperbacks and it could have been a impromptu library since there wasn't any sign.

This was almost a year ago.

[alserrod]

On 3/31/2024 at 4:09 AM, NJsharon said:

Well I am cruise lover, but normally NCL (can see the others in my signature).  I am going to be booking my first MSC cruise this week & have so many questions. I did search this forum, but couldn't find all the answers.  Sorry.

 

A lot of questions, sorry.  Just answer 1 or 2 if you can. Thanks.

Meraviglia out of NY for 7 nights, do they have dining package for maybe 3 nights, or generally how are the restaurants (maybe the hibachi place) priced? Is it easy to get reservations? 
Do they do a soda package with unlimited sodas/soft drinks, do you know the rough cost of that?

Theater shows, do they do any Broadway style shows or moreso things like acrobats, comedians etc
What is the Yacht Club that everyone keeps talking about?! Is that a cabin class or a package you can buy?

It looked like 3 levels of the formal type dining room? Do you get assigned to one or can choose any? Do they all serve the same food?

Do they do formal nights, or is that a thing of the past?  It has been several years since I cruised thanks to Covid!

Casino, is it non-smoking throughout?  Do you use your room key to play at the slots or need cash?

Can you use your room key to charge things around the ship?

Probably will do lowest level of oceanview. Is there a better deck/location, any areas to avoid as they are noisy (we don't stay up late)?

Is there a library on board? Silly question but do they have board games to borrow?
Do they do bingo on the ship, any good prizes?

Any game shows with prizes?

Buffet, does it have the same food every day or they do specials?  Is there quieter times, or always generally busy?

Do they do any craft activities on board, any examples & is that a pay thing or free?

 

I went to the MSC website & then looked at the Meraviglia ship, watching the video.  I have to say the site is not very user friendly for me to find out information about the ship.  Still can't wait to cruise, just would like to know a bit more about MSC or the ship.

 

Thank you!

 

 

Hi, let me enlarge information. I will try not to repeat what it has already been answered

 

- Drinks package

With your reservation number you will see costs here (I have payed in euro, I do not know exact amount in dollars)

https://www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/dining-drinks/drinks-packages

 

If you want anything extra, menu price plus 15%

If you have the Easy Pack (includes alcohol), for all drinks over minimum you pay de difference plus 15% (instead of full price)

 

- YC is an area with less than 100 cabins

 

- MDR times. It is important to know if you have booked "Experience Bella, Fantastica or Aurea".

AFAIK:

- Bella: MSC decides for you dinning time (it can be nice, it cannot be)

- Fantastica: You decide one dinning time for all the cruise

- Aurea: You have a separated area and you can choose dinning time for each day. You may book that day via app but it is very easy

 

 

- Formal nights.... people travel more and more casually. A long time ago a tie for men was almost compulsory. Nowadays... things have changed

Just try to go "ellegant".

 

- There are few smoking areas, not in the casino AFAIK

 

- card and key. You can use your card for EVERYTHING. and you can avoid your wallet. Just take care not to join card and mobile because it will be reset.

In addition you can buy bracelets that replace your card for everything except for going to the port. This is... key for the cabin, as payment in everywhere in the ship. They can be quite useful if you are in swimming suit in the pool and you want a soda or a beer. You will have your bracelet there....

Just remember Card is compulsory to enter into the ship (not enough with the bracelet). So keep it in your wallet when doing an excursion

These bracelets costs 5$ (or 5€ depending of your cruise)

or 15$ if you want to be located inside the ship with a lot of accuracy (quite useful for kids)

 

 

 

 

[JamieLogical]

2 minutes ago, alserrod said:

- There are few smoking areas, not in the casino AFAIK

 

 

There is definitely smoking in the Meraviglia casino. It is highly unpleasant for us non-smokers who prefer not to come back to our rooms smelling like an ashtray. I have toughed it out there many a night, though. I do love my slot machines! The new banks of slot machines that they put in across from the Champagne Bar are non-smoking, so that is a nice area, though they are all newer video slot machines.

[Cruzinforpeace***]

19 hours ago, Crown Vic said:

If possible, think about getting to the terminal in Red Hook by ferry. Driving and parking, near by, can be challenging. Enjoy!

We had no issues with parking this past February; plenty of parking at least for our cruise.  It also wasn’t a long drive into the port.  We arrived around 10am with minimal traffic.

 

Here’s my review if you want other MSC Meraviglia info:

 

It was also our first MSC cruise.  We loved it.

 

[NJsharon]

37 minutes ago, alserrod said:

 

 

Hi, let me enlarge information. I will try not to repeat what it has already been answered

 

- Drinks package

With your reservation number you will see costs here (I have payed in euro, I do not know exact amount in dollars)

https://www.msccruisesusa.com/on-board/dining-drinks/drinks-packages

 

If you want anything extra, menu price plus 15%

If you have the Easy Pack (includes alcohol), for all drinks over minimum you pay de difference plus 15% (instead of full price)

 

- YC is an area with less than 100 cabins

 

- MDR times. It is important to know if you have booked "Experience Bella, Fantastica or Aurea".

AFAIK:

- Bella: MSC decides for you dinning time (it can be nice, it cannot be)

- Fantastica: You decide one dinning time for all the cruise

- Aurea: You have a separated area and you can choose dinning time for each day. You may book that day via app but it is very easy

 

 

- Formal nights.... people travel more and more casually. A long time ago a tie for men was almost compulsory. Nowadays... things have changed

Just try to go "ellegant".

 

- There are few smoking areas, not in the casino AFAIK

 

- card and key. You can use your card for EVERYTHING. and you can avoid your wallet. Just take care not to join card and mobile because it will be reset.

In addition you can buy bracelets that replace your card for everything except for going to the port. This is... key for the cabin, as payment in everywhere in the ship. They can be quite useful if you are in swimming suit in the pool and you want a soda or a beer. You will have your bracelet there....

Just remember Card is compulsory to enter into the ship (not enough with the bracelet). So keep it in your wallet when doing an excursion

These bracelets costs 5$ (or 5€ depending of your cruise)

or 15$ if you want to be located inside the ship with a lot of accuracy (quite useful for kids)

 

 

 

 

 

Thanks so much for the great information, that cleared a lot up!  The bracelets sound great to have.  I know they have them on many cruiselines, and seems like it would make it much easier.  You can use the bracelet to play & pay at slots too?  Yes I am a slot player.  lol

Both myself & my daughter like to dress up a bit for formal night, but I know she would hate to be out of place, so have to think about that.  Shame it is disappearing. 

 

Thank you!

 

 

 

[NJsharon]

34 minutes ago, JamieLogical said:

 

There is definitely smoking in the Meraviglia casino. It is highly unpleasant for us non-smokers who prefer not to come back to our rooms smelling like an ashtray. I have toughed it out there many a night, though. I do love my slot machines! The new banks of slot machines that they put in across from the Champagne Bar are non-smoking, so that is a nice area, though they are all newer video slot machines.

 

Thanks for that info.  Yes I like to play slots, but I hate the smoking.  Surprised they still allow it in there.  😞  I may have to jut tough it out.  lol

[alserrod]

1 hour ago, JamieLogical said:

 

There is definitely smoking in the Meraviglia casino. It is highly unpleasant for us non-smokers who prefer not to come back to our rooms smelling like an ashtray. I have toughed it out there many a night, though. I do love my slot machines! The new banks of slot machines that they put in across from the Champagne Bar are non-smoking, so that is a nice area, though they are all newer video slot machines.

 

 

 

Thanks Jamie. I didn't know it.

[alserrod]

42 minutes ago, NJsharon said:

 

Thanks so much for the great information, that cleared a lot up!  The bracelets sound great to have.  I know they have them on many cruiselines, and seems like it would make it much easier.  You can use the bracelet to play & pay at slots too?  Yes I am a slot player.  lol

Both myself & my daughter like to dress up a bit for formal night, but I know she would hate to be out of place, so have to think about that.  Shame it is disappearing. 

 

Thank you!

 

 

 

 

You can

 

1- Just pay the price for any game/slot/...

 

2- Buy credit for them.

If you buy credit you will have extra money as promotion but it is not refundable. In that case it will go to YOUR card (not to your daugther's card). She will be able to use it providing you are who pays.

 

 

 

[NJsharon]

30 minutes ago, Cruzinforpeace*** said:

We had no issues with parking this past February; plenty of parking at least for our cruise.  It also wasn’t a long drive into the port.  We arrived around 10am with minimal traffic.

 

Here’s my review if you want other MSC Meraviglia info:

 

It was also our first MSC cruise.  We loved it.

 

 

 

Good to know about parking.  We're in Hunterdon county NJ, so not a super long drive. I may drive & park in the terminal or may get my husband to drop us off.  How was the parking cost at the terminal?

I am reading your review & making notes, it is great!
I am typing questions & notes as I am going through your review, so this is going to seem long!
Really appreciate the review though. Being first time with MSC, same itinerary, it helps a lot.  I will pay it forward & write a review when I return too!



So, I guess a silly question, but all the walls are metal then & the magnets stuck to them no problem?  Never thought about the magnetic hooks = genius!

Did your ship stop at Miami, and that is where you took the excursion?  Ours will stop at Port Canaveral, Nassau & private island.  Okay, nevermind, just read it was a substitute port... so once it was announced, you were able to book your excursion pretty easily?  Kind of hope we stop at Miami instead of Port Canaveral as there is more to do!

I have to laugh about the McDonalds.  I remember one year we went to Nassau & my daughter just wanted McDonalds.  lol  Kids.  lol  My daughter did do honors Spanish & is great, so kind of hope we stop there so she can test it out!

The loudness my 19yr old daughter (18yrs old now) will hate.  It is so funny but she loves fireworks, but won't watch them live as she hates the sound.  I guess ear plus for her! So really appreciate the heads up there!

The spa, is that only available with the package you chose or if we did the Bella could we pay to go in?

Main promenade light displays look beautiful!

So cool about the cell phone lights with the Virgin ship! lol  I really want to take a Virgin cruise one day, just expensive... one day!

The comment about the 17yr old son.  My daughter is 18yrs old & must be the age.  She tells me I am allowed 1 photo a day when we are going somewhere.  So nice of her to grace me with that.  Sheesh.  Shhhh sometimes I get away with saying the previous photo I took didn't take.  lol

Is there anything to stop other passengers from hanging in that lounge space on the Aurea deck?  Or just for passengers with that level.  I know my daughter likes to read, journal or sketch, so finding quiet places will be great.

I have never hid or found a cruising duck.  I know it was a thing a while ago when I was cruising.  Nice to know it is still going!  I may have to do that!  My daughter & I like to look for geocaches, that is fun too.  May try on land & see if that is overseas too.

 

Nassau, is it still crazy when you get off the ship with people bugging you for hair brading, taxi rides etc? I haven't been to the straw market for years & avoided it.  It was so crowded, did not like the people bugging you to buy at their stall, and worry about pickpockets.  Is it any better then?

Snow picture is funny.  We are in Flemington, so yep!

My daughters (have twin girls, but just taking one on the cruise, other one does not want to go!!!) have been going on cruises since they were tiny too! I am so happy they've had those experiences & at least Emily (who will come with me) knows how lucky she is to have experienced all that!  The sleeping photo is funny, I have a few of my girls like that.  It is kind of nice to see that & that they are just a kid.  lol

My daughter & I absolutely love arts & crafts. Sad to see the paper mosaic though, as that looks so very basic for us.  I do scrapbooking, cardmaking, diamond dots.  Daughter does painting, sketching, paper crafting. Did they have any other craft sessions you remember?

 

Their mascot is a little lame, I have to say.  lol
Hash browns is a huge favorite of my daughter (dunkin has browns are her favorite) so she will enjoy those.  lol
Did they have a crepe station by chance?
My daughter also loves watermelon, so she is going to be happy!

Did they have bingo, quiz nights, anything else like that?

Thank you so much!!!!!

 

 

 

[alserrod]

1 hour ago, NJsharon said:

 

 

Good to know about parking.  We're in Hunterdon county NJ, so not a super long drive. I may drive & park in the terminal or may get my husband to drop us off.  How was the parking cost at the terminal?

I am reading your review & making notes, it is great!
I am typing questions & notes as I am going through your review, so this is going to seem long!
Really appreciate the review though. Being first time with MSC, same itinerary, it helps a lot.  I will pay it forward & write a review when I return too!



So, I guess a silly question, but all the walls are metal then & the magnets stuck to them no problem?  Never thought about the magnetic hooks = genius!

Did your ship stop at Miami, and that is where you took the excursion?  Ours will stop at Port Canaveral, Nassau & private island.  Okay, nevermind, just read it was a substitute port... so once it was announced, you were able to book your excursion pretty easily?  Kind of hope we stop at Miami instead of Port Canaveral as there is more to do!

I have to laugh about the McDonalds.  I remember one year we went to Nassau & my daughter just wanted McDonalds.  lol  Kids.  lol  My daughter did do honors Spanish & is great, so kind of hope we stop there so she can test it out!

The loudness my 19yr old daughter (18yrs old now) will hate.  It is so funny but she loves fireworks, but won't watch them live as she hates the sound.  I guess ear plus for her! So really appreciate the heads up there!

The spa, is that only available with the package you chose or if we did the Bella could we pay to go in?

Main promenade light displays look beautiful!

So cool about the cell phone lights with the Virgin ship! lol  I really want to take a Virgin cruise one day, just expensive... one day!

The comment about the 17yr old son.  My daughter is 18yrs old & must be the age.  She tells me I am allowed 1 photo a day when we are going somewhere.  So nice of her to grace me with that.  Sheesh.  Shhhh sometimes I get away with saying the previous photo I took didn't take.  lol

Is there anything to stop other passengers from hanging in that lounge space on the Aurea deck?  Or just for passengers with that level.  I know my daughter likes to read, journal or sketch, so finding quiet places will be great.

I have never hid or found a cruising duck.  I know it was a thing a while ago when I was cruising.  Nice to know it is still going!  I may have to do that!  My daughter & I like to look for geocaches, that is fun too.  May try on land & see if that is overseas too.

 

Nassau, is it still crazy when you get off the ship with people bugging you for hair brading, taxi rides etc? I haven't been to the straw market for years & avoided it.  It was so crowded, did not like the people bugging you to buy at their stall, and worry about pickpockets.  Is it any better then?

Snow picture is funny.  We are in Flemington, so yep!

My daughters (have twin girls, but just taking one on the cruise, other one does not want to go!!!) have been going on cruises since they were tiny too! I am so happy they've had those experiences & at least Emily (who will come with me) knows how lucky she is to have experienced all that!  The sleeping photo is funny, I have a few of my girls like that.  It is kind of nice to see that & that they are just a kid.  lol

My daughter & I absolutely love arts & crafts. Sad to see the paper mosaic though, as that looks so very basic for us.  I do scrapbooking, cardmaking, diamond dots.  Daughter does painting, sketching, paper crafting. Did they have any other craft sessions you remember?

 

Their mascot is a little lame, I have to say.  lol
Hash browns is a huge favorite of my daughter (dunkin has browns are her favorite) so she will enjoy those.  lol
Did they have a crepe station by chance?
My daughter also loves watermelon, so she is going to be happy!

Did they have bingo, quiz nights, anything else like that?

Thank you so much!!!!!

 

 

 

 

 

Hi, I will sail on MSC Seaview with all my family (50th anniversary of my parents' wedding). My oldest daughter is 18.

 

I have glanced but didn't found many things for teens in MSC. I just know they have some activities and many of them love them

 

You can consider more storage in the cabin with magnetic stuck even with other like this one for shoes

 

 

 

 

 

Spa is available for everyone.... providing you pay for it.

 

I think you can reach any corner of the ship except YC and the Aurea solarium on the top.

 

 

[Cruzinforpeace***]

19 minutes ago, NJsharon said:

 

 

Good to know about parking.  We're in Hunterdon county NJ, so not a super long drive. I may drive & park in the terminal or may get my husband to drop us off.  How was the parking cost at the terminal?

I am reading your review & making notes, it is great!
I am typing questions & notes as I am going through your review, so this is going to seem long!
Really appreciate the review though. Being first time with MSC, same itinerary, it helps a lot.  I will pay it forward & write a review when I return too!



So, I guess a silly question, but all the walls are metal then & the magnets stuck to them no problem?  Never thought about the magnetic hooks = genius!

Did your ship stop at Miami, and that is where you took the excursion?  Ours will stop at Port Canaveral, Nassau & private island.  Okay, nevermind, just read it was a substitute port... so once it was announced, you were able to book your excursion pretty easily?  Kind of hope we stop at Miami instead of Port Canaveral as there is more to do!

I have to laugh about the McDonalds.  I remember one year we went to Nassau & my daughter just wanted McDonalds.  lol  Kids.  lol  My daughter did do honors Spanish & is great, so kind of hope we stop there so she can test it out!

The loudness my 19yr old daughter (18yrs old now) will hate.  It is so funny but she loves fireworks, but won't watch them live as she hates the sound.  I guess ear plus for her! So really appreciate the heads up there!

The spa, is that only available with the package you chose or if we did the Bella could we pay to go in?

Main promenade light displays look beautiful!

So cool about the cell phone lights with the Virgin ship! lol  I really want to take a Virgin cruise one day, just expensive... one day!

The comment about the 17yr old son.  My daughter is 18yrs old & must be the age.  She tells me I am allowed 1 photo a day when we are going somewhere.  So nice of her to grace me with that.  Sheesh.  Shhhh sometimes I get away with saying the previous photo I took didn't take.  lol

Is there anything to stop other passengers from hanging in that lounge space on the Aurea deck?  Or just for passengers with that level.  I know my daughter likes to read, journal or sketch, so finding quiet places will be great.

I have never hid or found a cruising duck.  I know it was a thing a while ago when I was cruising.  Nice to know it is still going!  I may have to do that!  My daughter & I like to look for geocaches, that is fun too.  May try on land & see if that is overseas too.

 

Nassau, is it still crazy when you get off the ship with people bugging you for hair brading, taxi rides etc? I haven't been to the straw market for years & avoided it.  It was so crowded, did not like the people bugging you to buy at their stall, and worry about pickpockets.  Is it any better then?

Snow picture is funny.  We are in Flemington, so yep!

My daughters (have twin girls, but just taking one on the cruise, other one does not want to go!!!) have been going on cruises since they were tiny too! I am so happy they've had those experiences & at least Emily (who will come with me) knows how lucky she is to have experienced all that!  The sleeping photo is funny, I have a few of my girls like that.  It is kind of nice to see that & that they are just a kid.  lol

My daughter & I absolutely love arts & crafts. Sad to see the paper mosaic though, as that looks so very basic for us.  I do scrapbooking, cardmaking, diamond dots.  Daughter does painting, sketching, paper crafting. Did they have any other craft sessions you remember?

 

Their mascot is a little lame, I have to say.  lol
Hash browns is a huge favorite of my daughter (dunkin has browns are her favorite) so she will enjoy those.  lol
Did they have a crepe station by chance?
My daughter also loves watermelon, so she is going to be happy!

Did they have bingo, quiz nights, anything else like that?

Thank you so much!!!!!

 

 

 

You can thank JamieLogical 😀 for the magnet ideas and yes most of the walls and doors are magnetic.

 

I ordered some fancy earplugs for our upcoming July cruise and they are soooo comfortable and cute:

https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0CNGFS1T8?psc=1&ref=ppx_pop_mob_b_asin_title
 

The Miami excursion was super easy to book. They gave us the alternative options right away and we booked it on the app if I remember correctly.  Very reasonable pricing too.

 

The spa is included in the Aurea experience and extra for any levels below Aurea.  We loved the Aurea level experience; totally worth the upgrade.  We loved the priority embarkation; basically walk right on (other than the bowling ball debacle we had).  We loved being able to go eat in the dining room anytime we wanted to between 6-9pm (or around that time; I cant remember the exact time frame).  The special outside Aurea deck is only for Aurea.  If you need quiet you may want to think about an upgrade.  The spa is very quiet and the outside Aurea deck as well.  Your daughter will not be able to access the spa until she’s 18.  Something to consider.

 

We didn’t feel any hassling in Nassau.  I like the bargaining in the Straw Market but it’s not for everyone.  We just use common sense in any tourist town.  Be aware of your surroundings and don’t have your purse or wallet hanging out in view for all the see.

 

They also had a Dream Catcher craft and origami.  I think there was another one besides those two and the coloring.  It’s all free.  It was fun to get to meet other cruisers.

 

They have a crepe cafe in the main promenade area but is for a fee.  I didn’t find the “snacky” type places to be too expensive.  I can’t remember the prices but I don’t recall anything looking exorbitant.

 

I remember seeing Bingo and Quiz competitions as well.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[noshoobie]

On 3/31/2024 at 10:56 AM, NJsharon said:

 

I will be doing a comp cruise though, so that perk doesn't help me too much.  😞

 

We have cruised twice with MSC on a casino comp cruise. Both times we were comped a bella inside cabin but were upgraded to a balcony. The comp also included free drinks while playing in the casino. We will be cruising on Meraviglia again the end of April and were not upgraded this time. We loved the Meraviglia and can't wait to be sailing on her again! We are from South Jersey and take a train to Penn Station then Uber to Red Hook. Parking at the pier is $45 a day!

[Anastas617]

As you are new to MSC, I thought I would mention that they have several theme nights each cruise and have "parties" for them.

 

Their signature party is for 'White Night" and A LOT of cruisers will come prepared to dress in all white that evening. It is the one party with a huge amount of people dressed to the theme.

 

My last cruise they also had a tropical party, carnaval party, space party and a retro party (not sure if that was the actual name, but it was 70s-80s inspired).

 

These are held (usually 10:45pm on sailings from NYC) either in the promenade or on Deck 15 near the pool (weather permitting) and are pretty fun with the music and dancing.

[JamieLogical]

4 minutes ago, Anastas617 said:

As you are new to MSC, I thought I would mention that they have several theme nights each cruise and have "parties" for them.

 

Their signature party is for 'White Night" and A LOT of cruisers will come prepared to dress in all white that evening. It is the one party with a huge amount of people dressed to the theme.

 

My last cruise they also had a tropical party, carnaval party, space party and a retro party (not sure if that was the actual name, but it was 70s-80s inspired).

 

These are held (usually 10:45pm on sailings from NYC) either in the promenade or on Deck 15 near the pool (weather permitting) and are pretty fun with the music and dancing.

 

I second this! Even though the theme parties themselves aren't until pretty late, for White Night, a lot of people will be changed into white clothing by dinner time and you will feel very out of place if you aren't wearing white. I remember my first White Night on MSC when I was unprepared, I was riding the elevator and I was literally the only one without white on with ten other people in there with me. I was very self-conscious!