MSC Meraviglia

MSC Meraviglia, meaning “wonder” or “marvel” in Italian, was the inaugural ship of MSC Cruises’ groundbreaking Meraviglia class. Launched in 2017, this ship pioneered features that have become hallmarks of MSC’s modern fleet, such as the stunning Galleria Meraviglia, an indoor promenade covered by an LED dome, and the Carousel Lounge, specifically designed for immersive shows (initially Cirque du Soleil at Sea, though it now hosts other productions). Designed for all-season cruising in various weather conditions, MSC Meraviglia combines innovative technology, extensive family entertainment options, and elegant design.

Attractions

MSC Meraviglia offers a “wonder” of activities and entertainment for its passengers:

1. Galleria Meraviglia: The vibrant heart of the ship, a 96-meter (315 ft) long indoor promenade under a spectacular 80-meter (262 ft) LED sky dome, lined with boutiques, restaurants, and bars.
2. Carousel Lounge: A circular, high-tech lounge at the aft with glass walls and panoramic views, currently hosting original MSC productions (replacing the former Cirque du Soleil at Sea shows).
3. Broadway Theatre: The main theatre, seating 985 guests, offering 6 different Broadway-style shows during a typical cruise.
4. Polar Aquapark: A water park featuring three waterslides, water features, and a pool, plus the nearby “Himalayan Bridge,” a ropes course suspended 80 meters (262 ft) above sea level.
5. Pools: Includes the Atmosphere Pool (the main outdoor pool with a giant screen) and the Bamboo Pool (indoor pool with a retractable roof).
6. Other Activities: Two F1 simulators, a full-size bowling alley, an interactive 4D cinema, a large Sportplex, the luxurious MSC Aurea Spa, casino, and kids’ and teens’ clubs with areas designed by LEGO® and Chicco.

Capacity (Technical Features)

MSC Meraviglia set new standards for MSC at her launch:

• Class: Meraviglia
• Gross Tonnage: Approximately $171,598$ GT
• Length: $315.8$ meters ($1,036$ ft)
• Beam (Width): $43$ meters ($141$ ft)
• Height: $65$ meters ($213$ ft)
• Decks: $19$ total (14 passenger-accessible)
• Passenger Capacity: Approximately $4,488$ (double occupancy) up to $5,714$ (maximum)
• Crew: Approximately $1,536$ members
• Environmental Technologies: Equipped with advanced systems for its time, such as exhaust gas scrubbers (EGCS) and advanced wastewater treatment (AWTS). (Not LNG-powered).

Food & Drink Venues

The onboard dining offering is extensive and varied, with options for all palates:

• Main Restaurants: Several included dining rooms serving high-quality Mediterranean and international cuisine.
• Marketplace Buffet: A huge buffet open 20 hours a day, with an incredible variety of food stations, visible kitchens, and panoramic views.
• Specialty Restaurants: (Approximately 10 dining options total) Include popular selections such as:
  • Butcher’s Cut: American-style steakhouse.
  • Kaito Sushi Bar & Teppanyaki: Authentic Japanese cuisine with sushi and teppanyaki show cooking options.
  • Hola! Tacos & Cantina: (Or equivalent depending on itinerary/refit) Casual Mexican and Latin American street food.
  • Ocean Cay: (Or equivalent) Fish and seafood restaurant.
• Bars and Lounges: A total of 20 venues, including:
  • Brass Anchor Pub: A traditional British-style pub.
  • Meraviglia Bar & Lounge: In the central atrium.
  • Champagne Bar: An elegant bar with a premium selection of champagnes and sparkling wines.
  • Sky Lounge: A sophisticated lounge with piano music and sea views.
  • Jean-Philippe Maury Chocolat & Café / Crêpes & Gelato: Creations by the French master pastry chef.

Accommodation

MSC Meraviglia offers a wide range of cabin types (12 distinct categories):

• Interior Cabins: Including Interior Studios for solo travelers.
• Ocean View Cabins.
• Balcony Cabins: The most abundant category.
• Family Cabins: Modular options accommodating up to 10 guests.
• Suites: Various categories, including Duplex Suites with two levels and a private whirlpool bath.
• MSC Yacht Club: The exclusive “ship within a ship” area with luxury suites, 24/7 butler service, concierge, private restaurant, lounge, and sundeck with pool.

In summary, MSC Meraviglia marked the beginning of a new era for MSC Cruises, offering a versatile all-season ship packed with entertainment, technology, and dining options, featuring an interior design centered around its spectacular covered promenade.