Great video! I’m going MSC in 2026 to Bermuda. I couldn’t care less about bad reviews that I’ve heard, mostly related to the food. The price alone has convinced me to give MSC a try. Based on your watching your video it seems like purchasing specialty dinning is the way to go!
Just on the ship this week. Their chocolate is amazing, and made in-house. They offer samples too!! I was skeptical at first because a customer was raving about it to us, but when we were offered a sample.. we bought some on the spot!!
Liked the video, as someone who cruises MSC all the time just a couple of comments, first I appreciate you releasing an honest opinion so much so I just see never ending bashing of this cruise line for no reason, but into the review I have sailed meraviglia before and it is a very nice ship definitely more geared to different weather than Caribbean, you would be so much more satisfied with The “sea” class ships such as Seascape as they were designed for Caribbean cruises with an absolute ton of outdoor deck space (they also have an amazing water park/slide/kids area on the ship many people love, also on the charge for the second meal, that is just a test on two cruise ships right now on certain itineraries so definitely not the norm across the line, you can get multiples of anything you want even the Surf and turf with lobster which I know lots of lines charge you for the lobster even on the first dish, the thermal area does get crowded just because anyone in the Aurea suites have unlimited anytime access to it and on sea days it’s especially crowded, I do wish they could make those spaces bigger, Hopefully their app does keep getting better as that is definitely a low point, hopefully you will have another great time on MSC in future and you definitely should try the Yacht Club as it costs about the same as other mainstream cruise lines Balcony Cabins at some points in time and definitely cheaper than Disney with Amazing Service included I have been in Yacht Club before a couple times
Thank you for your video. Do you know if you are able to "walk-in" to the specialty restaurants without purchasing a package ? Would you still have to make reservations ? I love the idea of going to Hola Taco when we arrive but unsure about reservations needed or not. Thanks in advance for you information.
I love your positive attitude. Even in spite of the negative points, you still had a very nice time. Looking forward to sailing on this ship next year. Great tip about the umbrella rental. 😊
Don't have a clue what you mean about selecting your dining time....I was able to select early dine time (5:30pm - 7pm window) when I booked cruise online. This was part of the Fantastica class/selection - maybe you booked the cheaper "Bella" class?? Which is why you couldn't book online?
I loved this video. You were very positive and helpful. I took a lot of notes. You have gained a new subscriber. Sailing MSC Meraviglia in January 2025. 😎
Hi Jen! Great video!!! One question if I may.. My wife and I bought the dining package for three meals.. Are you able to make all three reservations at one specialty dining location, or do you need to visit each one individually? Do you recommend one that may not have a long line right off the bat? I will be able to get on the ship pretty quickly and hearing what you went thru to book your meals is awfull :-( Thanks much for your help!!!
Great video. I believe MSC is great. Excellent value compared to RCCL. Please, to all cruise lines: Keep the kids out of the hot tub! It is for adults.
If you don’t want kids in “your” hot tub, go on an adults only cruise, or go to the adults only area on the ship. Kids are passengers too, and deserve to use the amenities!!!
@@JH-ld9jk There are reasons that every health club and fitness centers have posted signs that say no children in hot tubs. If you want your kids to go in hot tub, then you should take them to the kiddie area.
@@dougbredeson8665 I don’t have kids, I just wanted to defend the kids that are rightfully in the hot tub. We all pay the same fare. Stop acting like you are better than any other paying passenger! If you don’t like kids, everyone would be better off if you stuck to the adult only areas of the ship…. Or just stayed home!
Kids are forbidden to be in the hot tub rules are posted on every ship and I wish all the lines had adults only itineraries I do not want to vacation with children. all inclusives have adults only but only one cruise line for adults
@@thebraz21 sounds like you found your new cruise line. Stay off the cruises with kids. Nobody likes cranky curmudgeons bugging their kids, when the kids are just trying to have fun like the rest of us!
Great video! Any tips for how to pay on the cruise? Do you load cash or attach a credit /debit card once you board? There are 5 of us and we want to make sure to load our own money
This was very informative, thank you!. I will be cruising in August for the first time and i am excited, but i am trying to find out everything helpful i can before going. The smoking thing will definitely bother me, and i WILL say something if this is done around me. lol. But this review was very helpful.
Wondering if that US$5,00 upcharge only applies to USA-based itineraries. Was on a Mediterranean itinerary last Xmas and it certainly did not apply. Either different rules for different markets or a test of things to come in the near future fleetwide. MSC is VERY inconsistent with policies and I have seen lots of weird situations and pretty stupid rules since I started cruising with them back in 2010. Good I take it all with a grain of salt and still enjoy the experience if I know what to expect and manage to deal with some odd moments. 😅
I’m booked on MERAVIGLIA at the end of June.. Your review makes me look at this vacation a little differently now.. I’d like to cancel my trip.. Would you say that I’m screwed ? Sounds like there are so many upcharges that should be included. A Vongool
Absolutely not. We had a great time and you can do plenty without paying extra. Cruise lines will always offer additional experiences at a cost but they are optional.
One thing I disagree the gym was inadequate not enough machines for the amount of people not enough supply for the demand I do agree The coffee was outstanding...I had THE decaf at night lol...all n all a beautiful ship the marketplace buffet does wear on u tho after like the 4th day. Ocean cay man made beach terrible water made me itch ran back to ship n went in pool
I wouldn't do any arguing during the vacation---just dispute it with your credit card when you get back and then you'll likely get it refunded. Done. I'm embarking on an MSC cruise soon to New England and Canada, first time on a cruise (although I travel fairly extensively for work, but on planes).
THANKYOU for your concise exploration of this cruise, but after watching numerable videos on MSC ... the cons outweigh the pros, so no matter what cost (they are cheaper) I wont risk an 'ordinary' holiday but will book tried and true cruise lines, like Princess or Celebrity and have an outstanding holiday !!!
Wow you really sold that cruise…straight into the bin.. We were thinking g of doing aMSC cruise…but like you mentioned we already heard lots of your gripes.. Standing in a queue to organise your dining… Forget it….most cruise lines have an app to do that on… ✅ of our looking at list. Ocean Kay…what a rip off…..
Msc is alot cheaper that other cruises and is a great deal considering the price. Of course if money isn't a concern then go on a better one. But this is a great ship and you get alot for your money.
You can pick early or late seating- the two times we've made it to dinner we figured they will seat you anyway, unless you completely miss it...meaning dinner, not the time slot
All ships run into plumbing issues at times, they didn't change your dinner time you just didn't get the one you hoped for. When you book they ask you preferred time that they try to accommodate but it's known it's not guaranteed.
I started carrying an aluminum golf seat if I am going to be waiting in any line or if I want to go for a walk. It is so light weight. I do not care what people think about it. I think it is a smart thing to do. I have a steele rod in my back. I am not overweight so it does not look so attention grabbing. Too bad about the app. They should have adults only for the hot tubs. I used to smoke years ago, I cannot stand to be around it. I would ask for at least a partial refund. I would have beeen angry. Love your videos! Hope you do an Easter one!
No you can not. In the interest of health and safety, beverages and food (including partially eaten or home cooked items) may not be brought on board either. Exception: dry, packaged and commercially produced foods.
Fresh mozzerarella and basil pizza at every turn? Pasta was nice (Italian cruise line) Just got off Holland America Rotterdam, and my choices were open seating. Grow up! You get what you pay for!
![25 Things Cruisers MUST Know Before Your First MSC Cruise [MSC Cruise Tips 2024]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/k0NLxi5ZzMI/mqdefault.jpg)
![25 Things Cruisers MUST Know Before Your First MSC Cruise [MSC Cruise Tips 2024]](/img/tr.png)
This was helpful and I like the video style. Straight to the point!
The mozzarella was divine!
Good to see you again Jen! Sounds like it was over all a fantastic cruise!
Great video! I’m going MSC in 2026 to Bermuda. I couldn’t care less about bad reviews that I’ve heard, mostly related to the food. The price alone has convinced me to give MSC a try. Based on your watching your video it seems like purchasing specialty dinning is the way to go!
MSC ownership is Swiss, owned by the Aponte family and is headquartered in Geneva. The Company was founded in Italy.
Thanks for the video! Grateful to see it, considering that I'm looking at a sailing out of Brooklyn end of summer!
Same ship and sailing.
I would love to help you plan if you have not booked. You can reach me at jenbrennan@mickeyworldtravel.com
wow, me too
Omg that chocolate bar looks so amazing. I would be there so often!
Just on the ship this week. Their chocolate is amazing, and made in-house. They offer samples too!! I was skeptical at first because a customer was raving about it to us, but when we were offered a sample.. we bought some on the spot!!
Liked the video, as someone who cruises MSC all the time just a couple of comments, first I appreciate you releasing an honest opinion so much so I just see never ending bashing of this cruise line for no reason, but into the review I have sailed meraviglia before and it is a very nice ship definitely more geared to different weather than Caribbean, you would be so much more satisfied with The “sea” class ships such as Seascape as they were designed for Caribbean cruises with an absolute ton of outdoor deck space (they also have an amazing water park/slide/kids area on the ship many people love, also on the charge for the second meal, that is just a test on two cruise ships right now on certain itineraries so definitely not the norm across the line, you can get multiples of anything you want even the Surf and turf with lobster which I know lots of lines charge you for the lobster even on the first dish, the thermal area does get crowded just because anyone in the Aurea suites have unlimited anytime access to it and on sea days it’s especially crowded, I do wish they could make those spaces bigger, Hopefully their app does keep getting better as that is definitely a low point, hopefully you will have another great time on MSC in future and you definitely should try the Yacht Club as it costs about the same as other mainstream cruise lines Balcony Cabins at some points in time and definitely cheaper than Disney with Amazing Service included I have been in Yacht Club before a couple times
I would love to try the yacht club someday! Everyone love it!
Thank you for your video. Do you know if you are able to "walk-in" to the specialty restaurants without purchasing a package ? Would you still have to make reservations ? I love the idea of going to Hola Taco when we arrive but unsure about reservations needed or not. Thanks in advance for you information.
I love your positive attitude. Even in spite of the negative points, you still had a very nice time. Looking forward to sailing on this ship next year. Great tip about the umbrella rental. 😊
Thank you. I try to go with a "I'm just happy to be here" attitude. You will love it, the ship is gorgeous!
Thank you for the video! Love the good and the bas. Very honest. Appreciate this very much❤
Great video I don’t have patience for all this waiting ..
I enjoyed this ship embarkation flowed well. Id go again.
Glad you had a nice time! It definitely sounds like there are areas for improvement!
Yes always room to improve but we still had a great time!
Don't have a clue what you mean about selecting your dining time....I was able to select early dine time (5:30pm - 7pm window) when I booked cruise online. This was part of the Fantastica class/selection - maybe you booked the cheaper "Bella" class?? Which is why you couldn't book online?
@@jibbityjab2469 this is for specialty dinning. Our main dining was scheduled daily for 5:30
@@journeys_with_jen Oh, ok...thanks for clarifying.
Thank you for your timely review. Have a reservation on hold, but will release it. Overall, just sounds too stressful.
I was not that bad. We had a great time.
I loved this video. You were very positive and helpful. I took a lot of notes. You have gained a new subscriber. Sailing MSC Meraviglia in January 2025. 😎
Thank you so much. I am glad that you found it helpful :)
I’m will be taking my first cruise ever on MSC in January 2025 . I can’t wait
Same! March 2nd 2025! Meraviglia
Hi Jen! Great video!!! One question if I may.. My wife and I bought the dining package for three meals.. Are you able to make all three reservations at one specialty dining location, or do you need to visit each one individually? Do you recommend one that may not have a long line right off the bat? I will be able to get on the ship pretty quickly and hearing what you went thru to book your meals is awfull :-( Thanks much for your help!!!
Great video. I believe MSC is great. Excellent value compared to RCCL. Please, to all cruise lines: Keep the kids out of the hot tub! It is for adults.
If you don’t want kids in “your” hot tub, go on an adults only cruise, or go to the adults only area on the ship. Kids are passengers too, and deserve to use the amenities!!!
@@JH-ld9jk There are reasons that every health club and fitness centers have posted signs that say no children in hot tubs. If you want your kids to go in hot tub, then you should take them to the kiddie area.
@@dougbredeson8665 I don’t have kids, I just wanted to defend the kids that are rightfully in the hot tub. We all pay the same fare. Stop acting like you are better than any other paying passenger!
If you don’t like kids, everyone would be better off if you stuck to the adult only areas of the ship…. Or just stayed home!
Kids are forbidden to be in the hot tub rules are posted on every ship and I wish all the lines had adults only itineraries I do not want to vacation with children. all inclusives have adults only but only one cruise line for adults
@@thebraz21 sounds like you found your new cruise line. Stay off the cruises with kids. Nobody likes cranky curmudgeons bugging their kids, when the kids are just trying to have fun like the rest of us!
I would like to see some picture or video about all the items you didn’t enjoy. Great video very informative. Thank you!!!!!!
Great video! Any tips for how to pay on the cruise? Do you load cash or attach a credit /debit card once you board? There are 5 of us and we want to make sure to load our own money
Jen,Im glad you are well...I was worried about you.
Hi Charlene! I am doing well. Just really busy this time of year. I hope that you are well :)
loved the video -thx.
This was very informative, thank you!. I will be cruising in August for the first time and i am excited, but i am trying to find out everything helpful i can before going. The smoking thing will definitely bother me, and i WILL say something if this is done around me. lol. But this review was very helpful.
Good review,
can you tell me more about your bed ,is the mattress firm or soft? Food salty?
Wondering if that US$5,00 upcharge only applies to USA-based itineraries. Was on a Mediterranean itinerary last Xmas and it certainly did not apply. Either different rules for different markets or a test of things to come in the near future fleetwide. MSC is VERY inconsistent with policies and I have seen lots of weird situations and pretty stupid rules since I started cruising with them back in 2010. Good I take it all with a grain of salt and still enjoy the experience if I know what to expect and manage to deal with some odd moments. 😅
I’m booked on MERAVIGLIA at the end of June.. Your review makes me look at this vacation a little differently now.. I’d like to cancel my trip.. Would you say that I’m screwed ? Sounds like there are so many upcharges that should be included. A Vongool
Absolutely not. We had a great time and you can do plenty without paying extra. Cruise lines will always offer additional experiences at a cost but they are optional.
@@journeys_with_jen ok, great.. Thank you Jen.
I was in it Feb 25th to Mar 3rd and they did have tge cups in the MSC shop. I wanted one but I didnt wanna pay 10.50 or to steal one.
One thing I disagree the gym was inadequate not enough machines for the amount of people not enough supply for the demand I do agree The coffee was outstanding...I had THE decaf at night lol...all n all a beautiful ship the marketplace buffet does wear on u tho after like the 4th day. Ocean cay man made beach terrible water made me itch ran back to ship n went in pool
Arent there 4 main dining rooms?
I wouldn't do any arguing during the vacation---just dispute it with your credit card when you get back and then you'll likely get it refunded. Done. I'm embarking on an MSC cruise soon to New England and Canada, first time on a cruise (although I travel fairly extensively for work, but on planes).
What did the Gelato cost?🐸
THANKYOU for your concise exploration of this cruise, but after watching numerable videos on MSC ... the cons outweigh the pros, so no matter what cost (they are cheaper) I wont risk an 'ordinary' holiday but will book tried and true cruise lines, like Princess or Celebrity and have an outstanding holiday !!!
Agree.
Wow you really sold that cruise…straight into the bin..
We were thinking g of doing aMSC cruise…but like you mentioned we already heard lots of your gripes..
Standing in a queue to organise your dining…
Forget it….most cruise lines have an app to do that on…
✅ of our looking at list.
Ocean Kay…what a rip off…..
Msc is alot cheaper that other cruises and is a great deal considering the price. Of course if money isn't a concern then go on a better one. But this is a great ship and you get alot for your money.
How much was the aurea spa massage?
What else was available on the island
Jen, aren’t you Italian ?
Could you book your Complimentary Dining time in advance? 🐸
No we could not.
You can pick early or late seating- the two times we've made it to dinner we figured they will seat you anyway, unless you completely miss it...meaning dinner, not the time slot
My experience was awful, they had plumbing issues, changed my dining time as well as a few other groups, and we got food poisoning.
Oh no! Sorry that you had such a bad experience!
All ships run into plumbing issues at times, they didn't change your dinner time you just didn't get the one you hoped for. When you book they ask you preferred time that they try to accommodate but it's known it's not guaranteed.
@@journeys_with_jen thanks, there were other as well who had the same experience
5:30, 19:39
I started carrying an aluminum golf seat if I am going to be waiting in any line or if I want to go for a walk. It is so light weight. I do not care what people think about it. I think it is a smart thing to do. I have a steele rod in my back. I am not overweight so it does not look so attention grabbing. Too bad about the app. They should have adults only for the hot tubs. I used to smoke years ago, I cannot stand to be around it. I would ask for at least a partial refund. I would have beeen angry. Love your videos! Hope you do an Easter one!
Thank you! I can't believe Easter is already coming up so soon!
one
Can you get decaf coffee?
Yes!
Yes
Sounds like a nightmare
Can you bring wine, beer or soft drinks onboard?🐸
No you can not. In the interest of health and safety, beverages and food (including partially eaten or home cooked items) may not be brought on board either. Exception: dry, packaged and commercially produced foods.
@@journeys_with_jen Well.."officially" you can't...but then again, no one is really opening your checked luggage to inspect it.
Fresh mozzerarella and basil pizza at every turn? Pasta was nice (Italian cruise line) Just got off Holland America Rotterdam, and my choices were open seating. Grow up! You get what you pay for!