February 6, 2024 – Episode 63
Disembarkation
When it was finally time to walk off the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, the disembarkation process at Port Canaveral, Florida, was quick and efficient. Within minutes, I went from Deck 6 on the ship to my car in the garage at the cruise terminal.
January 30, 2024 – Episode 62
One Last View
As the sun was coming up on the morning of disembarkation from the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, I was up on deck to get one last view of the ship and Port Canaveral, Florida, before I had to head back down to the stateroom to grab the luggage and exit the ship.
January 23, 2024 – Episode 61
Alongside The Dock
In the early morning hours on disembarkation day for the MSC Meraviglia in Port Canaveral, Florida, in November 2022, I was up on deck as the crew members were bringing the ship alongside the dock.
January 16, 2024 – Episode 60
6:30 In The Morning
On the morning of disembarking from the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, I was up on deck at 6:30 in the morning with a view of Port Canaveral, Florida, before the sun came up.
January 9, 2024 – Episode 59
Almost Breakfast Time
While most of the passengers on the MSC Meravligia in November 2022 were still asleep, I was up and walking around in the cruise ship buffet before breakfast was even served. In episode 59 of the vlog from that solo cruise on the Meraviglia, it’s early morning, and the ship is coming into Port Canaveral at the end of the cruise.
January 2, 2024 – Episode 58
Extremely Early
At 5:45 AM on the morning of disembarkation from the MSC Meraviglia, I was up on deck as the ship was entering Port Canaveral, Florida, in November of 2022. I’m not usually up that early, but since this was a solo cruise, I thought it would be interesting to be on deck as the ship came into port.
December 26, 2023 – Episode 57
Last Night On The Ship
One of the downsides to a short cruise is just when you’re getting used to the ship, it’s time to disembark and go home. In episode 57 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November of 2022, it’s the last night on the ship, so I’m wandering around recording video while I still can.
December 19, 2023 – Episode 56
Indoor Sports Court
On the MSC Meraviglia, the indoor sports court is used for a wide variety of activities. In episode 56 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the Meraviglia in November 2022, I’m walking around on deck on the last night of the cruise, and some kids are using the sports court for a game of soccer.
December 12, 2023 – Episode 55
One Last Dinner In The Buffet
In November of 2022, as my 3-night solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia was coming to a close, I had one last dinner in the buffet. As a solo passenger, I was paired up with strangers for dinner in the main dining room on the second night, and after that awkward experience, the buffet seemed like the best option for the final night.
December 5, 2023 – Episode 54
Busy Galleria Meraviglia
On the last night of my solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November of 2022, the Galleria Meraviglia was quite busy with passengers enjoying one last night on the ship before we returned to Port Canaveral, Florida, the next morning.
November 28, 2023 – Episode 53
Passing The Lighthouse
With the MSC Meraviglia underway and headed back to Port Canaveral, Florida, in November of 2022, the ship passed by the famous lighthouse on the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.
November 21, 2023 – Episode 52
Moving Away From The Island
After a day spent on the MSC Ocean Marine Reserve in November 2022, all of the passengers are back on the MSC Meraviglia, and the ship is beginning to push away from the island and start the journey back to Port Canaveral, Florida.
November 14, 2023 – Episode 51
Another Dance Class
During my solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, it quickly became apparent that MSC Cruises loves its dance classes. In episode 51 of the vlog from that cruise, I’m back on board the ship after a day at the Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, and the Atmosphere pool is hosting yet another dance class.
November 7, 2023 – Episode 50
Back On The Ship
After a day exploring the MSC private island Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, it was time to get on board the MSC Meraviglia before the ship departed. In episode 50 of the vlog from this November 2022 solo cruise on the Meraviglia, we get a great view of the island from the upper deck of the ship.
October 31, 2023 – Episode 49
Heading To The Beach
Before I left the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in November 2022, I wanted to do a YouTube Livestream from the beach. There was no specific reason for it except that it’s what I usually try to do on a cruise. In episode 49 of the vlog from my solo cruise on the Meraviglia, it’s mid-afternoon, and I’m heading back out to the beach to get a good spot.
October 24, 2023 – Episode 48
Back To The Island
After lunch in the Marketplace Buffet on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, it was time for me to head back out to the MSC private island Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.
October 17, 2023 – Episode 47
Ocean Cay In 360
When you’re walking around a beautiful Caribbean island like the MSC Ocean Marine Reserve, an Insta360 camera is perfect for capturing everything around you. In episode 47 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, my 360 camera is recording while I’m getting some exercise walking the private island.
October 10, 2023 – Episode 46
Pizza
One of the most popular items on any cruise ship is pizza, and the MSC Meraviglia has you covered. In the Marketplace Buffet on Deck 15 of the Meraviglia, you’ll find a station dedicated to the creation of pizza!
October 3, 2023 – Episode 45
Almost Lunchtime
When the MSC Meraviglia was docked at the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in November of 2022, many of the passengers came back on the ship for lunch in the buffet before returning to the island in the afternoon. In episode 45 of the vlog from that solo cruise, I’m at an empty Atmosphere pool before moving inside the buffet at the start of the lunch.
September 26, 2023 – Episode 44
The Lighthouse
MSC’s private island in the Bahamas, the Ocean Cay Marine Reserve, is absolutely gorgeous. One of the most prominent features on the island is the Lighthouse, where a light show after dark is quite spectacular. In episode 44 of the vlog from a solo cruise in November 2022, I’m walking around the island with my Insta360 camera.
September 19, 2023 – Episode 43
Walking The Island
In November 2022, MSC Cruises was offering short 3-night cruises to the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas. I decided to take the plunge and go on one of these cruises as a solo traveler. When the ship finally made it to the island, a day late, I got off the ship and spent a few hours walking around the island.
September 12, 2023 – Episode 42
Ocean Cay
The main attraction for my solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022 was a stop at the breathtaking MSC Ocean Cay marine reservation. The marine reserve in the Bahamas is a true paradise with crystal clear waters, pristine beaches, and a vibrant coral reef. The white sandy beaches are perfect for sunbathing and relaxing, and the beachside bars and restaurants offer delicious drinks and exquisite local cuisine at the beachside bar and restaurants.
September 5, 2023 – Episode 41
Fountains In The Pool
While the MSC Meraviglia was docked at the Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in November 2022, I was up on deck walking around the area that overlooks the Atmosphere pool. Most of the passengers were off the ship enjoying the island, so I eventually grabbed my camera gear and went off to explore the island myself.
August 29, 2023 – Episode 40
Morning At The Reserve
After the MSC Meraviglia was delayed by a day in November 2022, the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve was finally available to the passengers. In episode 40 of the vlog from that solo cruise, Patrick is on the top deck of the Meraviglia with an excellent view of the island.
August 22, 2023 – Episode 39
Hello Marine Reserve
At long last, the MSC Meraviglia arrived at the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in November 2022. This was a short 3-night solo cruise where the ship was to have docked at the marine reserve around lunchtime on the 2nd day of the cruise, but due to high winds and the narrow approach to the island, the 2nd day of the cruise turned into a regular sea day as the ship circled the island.
August 15, 2023 – Episode 38
Dance Party At Night
Nighttime on the MSC Meraviglia by the Atmosphere pool during a Caribbean cruise usually means the passengers will be entertained by the crew members on the main stage next to the pool. As I discovered during my solo cruise on the Meraviglia in November 2022, this can be very entertaining to watch.
August 8, 2023 – Episode 37
Horizon Pool At Night
On my second night on the MSC Meraviglia during a solo cruise in November 2022, I was walking the running track at night, recording some video because what else was I going to do? While the Atmosphere pool area was busy with crowd entertainment, I would discover that the Horizon pool area at the back of the ship was deserted.
August 1, 2023 – Episode 36
Upper Deck At Night
On a beautiful night in November 2022, I was walking around the upper deck of the MSC Meraviglia, observing the party going on at the stage for the Atmosphere pool. This was a solo cruise and my first time on an MSC Cruise, and I had a fantastic time.
July 25, 2023 – Episode 35
Broadway Theatre
When I booked a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia for November 2022, I was assigned a table in the main dining room for dinner each night of the cruise. On the first night of the cruise, I arrived at the dining room a little early and was able to talk my way into dining by myself at a random table, and the experience was very nice. On the second night of the cruise, I went to my assigned table and had a rather awkward experience with dinner.
July 18, 2023 – Episode 34
Broadway Theatre
During a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, I walked into the Broadway Theatre for a moment before a show was getting ready to start, and I was struck by the metallic design of the Theatre. With a large amount of chrome and black and white colors, it was certainly different from what I’m used to on a Royal Caribbean cruise.
July 11, 2023 – Episode 33
Infinity Atrium
The Infinity Atrium on the MSC Meraviglia is a marvel to behold. Standing at a towering three stories tall, it’s hard to fathom the sheer grandeur of this magnificent architectural masterpiece without experiencing it first-hand. During my solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, I realized this is one of the most popular areas on the ship, and for good reason.
July 4, 2023 – Episode 32
Nighttime On The Meraviglia
On Deck 6 of the MSC Meraviglia, the Galleria Meraviglia is filled with restaurants, bars, and shopping. In this video from my second night on the ship, I’m touring through some of the stores to see what merchandise is for sale and how the Meraviglia’s shopping experience measures up to what I’ve seen in the past on other cruise ships.
June 27, 2023 – Episode 31
Arcade & Bowling Lane
In November 2022, I sailed on the MSC Meraviglia as a solo passenger, and the horizon pool was definitely one of the highlights. The layout of the pool area works well during the day or in the evening when there is entertainment from a band or a Dj. The wake view from this area is exceptional and the ideal spot for recording video when the ship is entering or leaving port.
June 20, 2023 – Episode 30
Arcade & Bowling Lane
I had such a blast on the MSC Meraviglia – they have an arcade and bowling alley on board! In this video from my solo cruise in November 2022, I’m walking around the ship on a personal tour. The arcade had all kinds of classic games and some new ones too, and the bowling alley was really nice – it felt just like being at an actual bowling alley on land. I love that the ship has many great activities to entertain everyone.
June 13, 2023 – Episode 29
Atmosphere Pool Deck
During a 3-night solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, I spent most of the cruise walking around, exploring the ship, and recording videos to document the various aspects of the ship. One area that I found intriguing was the Atmosphere Pool Deck. A large, open, and inviting space, this is seemingly the center of attention on the ship.
June 6, 2023 – Episode 28
Galleria Meraviglia
In November 2022, I embarked on a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia from Port Canaveral, Florida. The Galleria Meraviglia on the ship was truly impressive! The stunning architecture, beautiful lighting, and fantastic artwork made it a mesmerizing experience. I was impressed by the variety of shops and restaurants offered and the overall ambiance. It’s a must-visit spot for anyone onboard the ship.
May 30, 2023 – Episode 27
Carousel Lounge
During my November 2022 cruise on the MSC Meraviglia, I visited the Carousel Lounge located on Deck 7. The colorful decor and ample seating options create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere. The highlight of the lounge, however, is undoubtedly the carousel stage. The unique addition elevates the entertainment experience to new heights. Overall, I highly recommend the Carousel Lounge as a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a fun and unforgettable night out on the MSC Meraviglia.
May 23, 2023 – Episode 26
Overlooking The Atmosphere Pool
During my November 2022 solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia, the Atmosphere pool was an absolute feast for the eyes. The pool is encircled by exquisite lounge chairs and cabanas, creating a perfect haven to bask in the sun and unwind. The atmosphere is both vibrant and serene, making it an ideal spot for both families and couples alike. The ship’s crew was incredibly welcoming and attentive, ensuring that everyone was at ease and had their needs met. This pool is definitely the center of fun on the ship.
May 16, 2023 – Episode 25
Cruise Ship Buffet
The Atmosphere Pool on the MSC Meraviglia is used for a variety of different events during a cruise. In episode 25 of the vlog from a solo cruise in the Meraviglia in November 2022, a dance class is being held on the stage in front of the pool on the morning of the second day of the cruise.
May 9, 2023 – Episode 24
Cruise Ship Buffet
On the MSC Meraviglia, the cruise ship buffet located on Deck 15 is a little hard to navigate during busy times such as the peak of breakfast or lunch but offers a nice selection of food. In episode 24 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the Merviglia in November 2022, I’m trying to record video in the buffet while not getting in the way of the other passengers.
May 2, 2023 – Episode 23
Walking The Track
One of the best ways to try and stay in shape during a cruise is to spend some time on the running track. In episode 23 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, I’m walking on the track from the back of the ship to the front of the ship to head back to my stateroom and drop the camera equipment before some breakfast in the buffet.
April 25, 2023 – Episode 22
Credit Card Kiosks
The buffet on the MSC Meraviglia has plenty of seating but a strange layout that doesn’t work well during a busy morning rush for breakfast. In episode 22 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, it’s day 2 of the cruise and I’m witnessing a single file line at the buffet during the morning breakfast rush.
April 18, 2023 – Episode 21
Credit Card Kiosks
As a cruise line based in Europe, MSC Cruises has a few operating procedures that are unusual compared to the other mass-market cruise lines that operate in the United States. In episode 21 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the Meraviglia in November 2022, I have to make a trip down to the guest services desk to deal with a credit card issue.
April 11, 2023 – Episode 20
Latin Dancing
On deck 6 of the MSC Meraviglia, the Jean-Philippe Chocolate & Coffee store will tempt you with every variation of chocolate you can imagine. In episode 20 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, I’m surveying the assortment of chocolate but resisting the urge to purchase any of it.
April 4, 2023 – Episode 19
Latin Dancing
On the MSC Meraviglia, the Galleria on Deck 6 is what you might consider the heart of the ship, with plenty of shopping, bars & lounges, and the Infinity Atrium. In episode 19 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the Meraviglia in November 2022, I’m on deck for the last part of the ship’s sailaway from Port Canaveral before heading down to the Galleria.
March 28, 2023 – Episode 18
Polar Aquapark
One of our favorite aspects of a cruise is the embarkation when the ship slowly starts to pull away from the dock and the vacation has officially begun. In episode 18 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, we’re finally starting to move as the evening turns to night and Port Canaveral looks amazing.
March 21, 2023 – Episode 17
Polar Aquapark
November in Port Canaveral Florida can often be the perfect start to a cruise, with great scenery and equally great weather. In episode 17 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia, It’s late afternoon on embarkation day and I’m walking around the ship’s track with my Insta360 camera.
March 14, 2023 – Episode 16
Polar Aquapark
On the upper deck of the MSC Meraviglia, the Polar Aquapark is an exciting water park at sea featuring three twisting slides, a Himalayan Bridge, and a range of pools. In episode 16 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, we’re walking around the upper decks of the ship checking out the aquapark.
March 7, 2023 – Episode 15
Beautiful Evening In Port Canaveral
From the upper deck of the MSC Meraviglia in Port Canaveral, the view is amazing. In episode 15 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, it’s embarkation day and we’re close to our scheduled departure time.
February 28, 2023 – Episode 14
Chaos At The Muster Drill
In this video, we’re covering part 2 of how not to run a muster drill. This is episode 14 of the vlog from a solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022. Similar to the previous episode in this vlog series, I have a strong negative opinion of how MSC Cruises operates its muster drill on the MSC Meraviglia.
February 21, 2023 – Episode 13
A Poorly Designed Muster Drill
In the 21st century, smartphones have ushered in an era of convenience, especially for the modern cruise passenger, except on MSC Cruises apparently. In episode 13 of the vlog from my solo cruise on the MSC Meraviglia in November 2022, I’m discovering that MSC Cruises still operates with a safety drill from earlier days of cruising, even though some of its competitors like Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean have figured out the secret to using the modern cell phone to streamline the muster drill process. It should be noted that I have a strong negative opinion of the safety drill process used by MSC Cruises on the Meraviglia.
February 14, 2023 – Episode 12
I Must Return To My Stateroom
In November 2022, I cruised as a solo traveler on the MSC Meraviglia on a 3-night cruise to the MSC Ocean Cay Marine Reserve in the Bahamas. In episode 12 of the vlog from that cruise, I’m discovering that MSC Cruises has a very poorly designed muster drill that apparently requires me to return to my stateroom by 5pm. It should be noted that I have a fairly strong negative opinion of how MSC Cruises conducts its safety drill on the Meraviglia.