MSC Meraviglia: Sports, Gym & Running Track Reviewed

How good is the fitness and sports offering on the MSC Meraviglia? We took a close look at the running track, gym, courses, swimming and more, and rated them.

⭐ Sport-Ahoi Score: 3.5 / 5 😊

Note on the Sport-Ahoi rating: This rating focuses solely on the sporting opportunities on board and is not an overall review of the ship. Even with a lower rating, a ship can still be a great choice for a sporty holiday when combined with active excursions and exercise ashore.

🏃‍♂️ Running & Cardio – 5/5

The running track on Deck 16 is one of the biggest highlights of the MSC Meraviglia for active guests – and compared to the competition, that is far from a given. At around 330 metres per lap, it is above average in length, and what makes it truly special is the separate lane for runners and one for walkers. Traffic on the deck is pleasantly quiet compared to other ships – you can run and walk without much disturbance, even during the day. Tempo runs are even feasible as long as you take care on the bends.

The gym on Deck 16 also impresses with a lovely view forward toward the pool area. It's very well set up for cardio training: 14 treadmills, several cross trainers, and bikes are available.

👉 For runners and other cardio training, the MSC Meraviglia is a very good option.

🏋️‍♂️ Gym & Strength Training – 3/5

The modern Technogym equipment makes a high-quality impression. When it comes to strength training, though, the gym shows a slight weakness: compared to other ships, the selection of equipment is fairly small. Available are a small free weights area with three benches, a bench press station, a cable station, and various Technogym strength machines. When it's busy, you may run into wait times – particularly at the free weights benches and strength machines.

👉 Sufficient for general training – more ambitious strength athletes should expect some limitations.

🧘 Sports Courses – 3/5

Various courses can be booked on board: yoga, Pilates, Zumba, and spinning are on the program. These courses, however, typically come at an extra charge. Anyone wanting to take part in courses regularly should factor that into their budget.

👉 Good selection, but few free alternatives.

🏊 Swimming – 2/5

There's no classic sports pool on the MSC Meraviglia. The larger main pool is divided in the middle, which only allows for very short laps. This makes it barely suitable for athletic swimming.

👉 Fine for recreational bathing – not suitable for real swim training.

🏀 Ball Sports – 4/5

The MSC Meraviglia scores well when it comes to ball sports. It has the MSC Sportsplex, a nice indoor sports court on board. Unlike on many other ships, use isn't weather-dependent. Basketball, football, and volleyball are all possible there.

👉 A lovely multi-purpose hall.

🚴 Active Shore Excursions – 2/5

MSC's active excursion program varies significantly depending on the destination. Bike and hiking tours are offered far less often than with AIDA or TUI Cruises. Anyone prioritizing active shore excursions will find more choice with other cruise lines.

👉 Independent planning is recommended for active shore-goers – for example via GetYourGuide or Viator.

🧖 Recovery & Relaxation – 3/5

Several whirlpools are available free of charge around the ship – a plus point for recovery after training. The MSC Aurea Spa, with saunas, steam rooms, an ice room, and a hydro pool, comes at an extra charge, however: access is granted to Aurea Experience holders, Yacht Club guests, or those who book a day or week pass.

👉 Free relaxation is possible – the premium spa only at an extra cost.

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🧠 Overall Conclusion

The MSC Meraviglia particularly impresses with:

✅ An outstanding running track with separate lanes

✅ A strong cardio area with 14 treadmills

✅ A weather-independent indoor sports court (MSC Sportsplex)

✅ Free whirlpools

Weaknesses show up in:

❌ Possible limitations in the strength training offering

❌ No dedicated swimming sports pool

❌ Sports courses typically at an extra charge

❌ Generally weak active excursion program

👉 Sport-Ahoi Score: 3.5 / 5 😊

The MSC Meraviglia is one of the best cruise ships on the market for runners — the running track on Deck 16 is exceptionally good. Anyone placing particular value on extensive strength training or a free course offering should expect some limitations.

Note: All information reflects the personal opinions of the Sport-Ahoi authors. It is based on our own experience or careful research. Factual details, such as the number of available machines or facilities, are provided without guarantee. If you notice an error, we'd be happy to hear from you via our contact page.