Do you love the sea? I certainly do. It fills me with energy, restores balance, and gives that rare feeling of inner peace. Now imagine, escaping the noise of the city for just a few days, setting off on a cruise where the horizon becomes your home and the waves rock you to sleep better than any meditation ever could.
Recently, I had the chance to embark on a journey with MSC Cruises, and it’s an experience I’ll never forget. MSC Cruises sails across the globe – from the Mediterranean and the Caribbean to Northern Europe and South America. My voyage took me through the Mediterranean, departing from Rome with stops in Palma de Mallorca and Barcelona. But for those who prefer to skip the visa hassle, the company also offers visa-free itineraries, for instance, across the Persian Gulf, with stops in Dubai, Doha, Bahrain, Abu Dhabi, and Sir Bani Yas Island.
I’ll admit, before the trip, I was a little nervous because I’m one of those people who can get motion sickness even in a car. So, naturally, I stocked up on seasickness pills, mentally preparing for the rocking waves. But to my surprise, I didn’t need a single one. The ship’s stabilisers worked perfectly, and the sea was calm, as if breathing in sync with us. And then – the journey began! The first thing that struck me was the sheer size of the ship, a real floating city. Each deck bore the name of a sea or an ocean, and each felt like its own little world. My cabin was spacious and wonderfully cosy – but the true treasure was the balcony.
Every morning, I’d wake up early, order breakfast, and greet the day with a cup of coffee and a view of the pink dawn rising above the sea. The cruise exceeded every expectation. A zip line, theatre, aqua park, spa, boutiques, and even a casino, all top-notch. But what impressed me most was the glass Bridge of Sights. Standing there, looking down at the shimmering waves, time seemed to disappear. In those moments, the sea felt infinite, and I was a part of it. Being a theatre lover, I couldn’t miss the evening shows. They were surprisingly vibrant and professional, even at sea! Afterwards came the nightclub, dancing, and that light-hearted feeling that the holidays bring.
So, that cruises are only for retirees is an old myth. Forget it! The ship was full of young couples, families with children, and groups of friends – all simply looking to switch off and recharge. Interestingly, between 2019 and 2024, the average age of MSC Cruises passengers dropped by 11 years. Seems the sea has a rejuvenating effect on everyone. And, of course, I can’t skip the ship’s dazzling icon, the legendary Swarovski crystal staircase. It connects four decks and sparkles with every step, as if inviting you to dance. Dining on board was another adventure.
Dozens of restaurants for every taste, from casual bistros to fine dining. As a seafood lover, I was captivated by Ocean Cay, with its fresh oysters, scallops, and mussels. And when I wanted something quieter, I’d slip into L’Atelier Bistro, a refined French café. This is a perfect setting for reflection with an Americano, waves outside the window, and my notebook open. This journey will stay with me forever. There’s a certain magic to cruising, when your mornings begin without an alarm, to the gentle sound of the sea; when the horizon changes every day, and you find yourself slowing down, breathing deeper. Back on land, I realised one thing: the sea truly heals, simply by being there.
