Cruising!
I just sailed on the MSC Meraviglia for the fourth time, and I keep choosing this ship for one simple reason. The price from Brooklyn is hard to beat, especially during the months before the ship leaves for Europe. If you are looking for an easy, low-stress warm-weather getaway, this route is one of the most affordable options on the East Coast.
An Example of a Real Deal
A typical fare this season has been close to:
- Balcony cabin for two: about 1400 to 1600 dollars total for a seven-night cruise from Brooklyn.
- Interior cabin for two: often 900 to 1100 dollars total.
After that you add two predictable costs.
- Parking at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal: roughly 300 dollars for the week.
- Required gratuities: about 112 dollars per person for the week.
When you put it all together, that covers the entire vacation. Food, entertainment, transportation between ports, and your room are all included.
Optional Add-Ons We Skip
MSC charges extra for alcohol packages and internet. We skip both and save a lot of money that way. We do not buy travel insurance because our travel credit cards already include coverage, and after many trips this approach works for us. Your risk level may differ, so always check your card benefits and make an informed choice.
What We Do in Each Port
This itinerary includes three stops that are easy and relaxed.
Florida
We walk to coco beach from the ship. It is a simple walk, and once we get there we rent beach chairs and umbrellas. Low effort, warm weather, and no transportation needed.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
This private island is beautiful. We pay for an umbrella here since shade is limited. The water is calm, and you can space yourself out from the crowds. We park ourselves near snorkling, calm water, a bathroom, a bar, and a food truck.
Nassau
I recommend an excursion here because it is safer. We chose to walk to Margaritaville. The walk along the boardwalk is short and scenic. At the door they offered us a discount for buying tickets in person instead of online. The food was good, and it was an easy way to spend the day off the ship.
Why We Keep Going Back
The shows are solid, the food is reliable, and the service is consistent. But the biggest benefit is something every parent understands. For one week I do not cook, clean, make beds, or drive anywhere. It is warm at the ports, cold at home, and everything is handled for you. As a mom, that reset is worth a lot.
If you want a simple, affordable winter escape, cruising from Brooklyn on the Meraviglia is one of the most cost-effective choices I have found.
I paid for my own cruise and was not paid to write this.
