A Cruise Adventure Like No Other
Our recent cruise on the
MSC Meraviglia wasn’t just a vacation—it was an unforgettable adventure filled with unexpected twists, family fun, and new memories. Picture this: driving through the night to Brooklyn in freezing weather, a boarding mishap that left two people in our group behind, and unforgettable moments like a light show on the promenade ceiling. Intrigued? Read on for the highs, the lessons, and the stories that made this journey truly unique.
The Journey to Brooklyn: A Bumpy Start
We left for Brooklyn with excitement and a van full of family: Cameron, me, Aunt Sandy, Jerry, Angie, Marty, Haylee, and her kids (our “Rental Grandkids”), Jonas, Janaya, and Rainna. Cameron and Marty powered through the night drive, and by the time we arrived at the port, the bitter cold hit us like a ton of bricks.
Unfortunately, the day began with some drama—Aunt Sandy’s birth certificate wasn’t state-issued, and Cameron had forgotten his passport. Yes, the travel agent forgot his passport! 🤣 While Cameron’s enhanced ID saved the day for him, Aunt Sandy and Jerry weren’t so lucky. They had to drive home, leaving us short two passengers and causing a scramble for return plans. Lesson learned: always double-check your travel documents!
Onboard MSC Meraviglia: A Gluten-Free Dream
Once onboard, the trip improved dramatically. This was my second MSC cruise, and as someone with Celiac Disease, their gluten-free accommodations didn’t disappoint. Every night, the head waiter personally ensured my meals were safe, though the desserts didn’t quite hit the mark. Thankfully, strawberries and whipped cream became my go-to treat, and I didn’t miss out on the indulgence!
Our server, Jay, went above and beyond for our group, especially with the kids, making every meal a delight. This level of service is one of the reasons MSC continues to impress me.
Family Fun, Spades, and Rocking Waters
The days onboard were filled with family fun, even when the waters were rough. A chilly day at the water slides had us shivering but laughing, and Janaya’s scrape on one of the slides was quickly cared for by a kind attendant. The kids club was also a big hit with the “Rental Grandkids,” with Janaya even making a new friend.
However, the trip wasn’t without its challenges. Jonas fell sick and was quarantined to his room for a short time. The crew went above and beyond, delivering meals to his room and providing complimentary movies to help pass the time. When he finally felt better and was out of quarantine, Jonas was thrilled to rejoin the fun—but he wished he had a balcony for some fresh air during the ordeal!
When I wasn’t battling a migraine (a pesky travel companion), we played countless games of spades, laughed at comedian Ken Boyd’s ever-changing crowdwork, and danced our hearts out at the ship’s silent disco—a group favorite. For a less crowded view of the promenade light show, we discovered that heading up a floor made all the difference.
The Return Home: Travel Lessons Learned
Returning to Brooklyn, we faced another logistical hurdle: Angie and Marty needed a rental car since Aunt Sandy and Jerry had to drive home earlier. Fortunately, Ryan’s family discount with Enterprise helped offset the cost.
Navigating rides from the terminal also proved tricky. Beware of unofficial “Uber” or “Lyft” drivers offering rides—they often charge exorbitant fees, including their tolls back to the terminal. Stick to the apps for a safer, more reliable option.
Reflections and Memories
Despite the bumps along the way, this trip was filled with special moments, from Cameron bonding with Rainna (who had everyone thinking he was her dad!) to the heartwarming service that made every meal and activity enjoyable. These are the stories we’ll cherish and share, along with lessons to better prepare for future adventures.
What About You?
- Have you ever sailed on the MSC Meraviglia? What was your favorite part?
- What’s your go-to tip for ensuring smooth boarding for a cruise?
- If you’ve had a gluten-free dining experience on a cruise, how did it compare?
We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences! Share your stories in the comments below and let’s keep the conversation going.
Happy cruising! 🌊
