MSC Cruises Ocean Cruises: 14 nights from Lisbon with MSC Meraviglia
Oct 25, 2026

Funchal

The famous Portuguese poet, Júlio Dinis described Funchal as: ‘The sea on one side, the mountains on the other and between these two majestic splendours, the city smiles like a sleeping child, safe and warm, between its parents’. Funchal, the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira is the soul of Portugal. Settlers over 500 years ago were attracted to this sheltered place, which is structured like a natural ‘amphitheatre’. Gentle slopes, abundant greenery and flowers, rise above the pretty harbour for almost 1,200 metres. The port is located 15-minute walk from the city center, in Funchal's magnificent bay with its sparkling blue waters. Due to its strategic mid-Atlantic location, Madeira has been a stopover point for ocean-going ships for many years.

Ponta Delgada

Ponta Delgada

Boston

The Historic Heart of Boston

Boston, one of the United States' oldest cities, is a treasure trove of American history. Founded in 1630, it played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, evident in landmarks like the Freedom Trail—a 2.5-mile journey through historic sites that tell the story of the nation's founding. From the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill to the iconic grounds of Harvard University, Boston's rich past is intertwined with the American spirit of freedom and innovation, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Experiencing Boston's Distinctive Climate

Boston's climate offers a distinct experience of all four seasons. Spring blossoms in the Public Garden are a sight to behold, while summer brings warm, pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the city's waterfront and outdoor attractions. Fall in Boston is famously beautiful, with vibrant foliage transforming the city into a palette of fiery hues. Winters are cold and snowy, offering a picturesque, if brisk, landscape. This variety allows visitors to enjoy a different facet of Boston's charm, no matter when they visit.

Must-Visit Attractions in Boston

Boston's attractions are as diverse as its history is long. The Boston Common and Public Garden provide serene green spaces in the heart of the city. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum cater to art lovers, while Fenway Park offers a pilgrimage site for baseball fans. The historic North End neighborhood, with its winding streets and authentic Italian cuisine, showcases Boston's cultural diversity. These attractions make the city a fascinating destination for travelers and cruisers seeking a rich, immersive experience.

A Taste of Boston's Culinary Scene

Boston's culinary scene is a blend of traditional New England fare and contemporary cuisine. Seafood lovers can indulge in fresh lobster, clam chowder, and oysters, reflecting the city's coastal heritage. The North End, known as Boston's Little Italy, offers authentic Italian dishes, while innovative chefs throughout the city push the boundaries of culinary arts. From food trucks to fine dining, Boston's food landscape is a testament to its cultural melting pot.

Embarking on a Cruise from Boston

For those eager to explore the seas, Boston's port is a gateway to a variety of cruise destinations, including the picturesque New England coast, the rugged beauty of Atlantic Canada, and the historic cities of Europe. Embarking on a cruise from Boston not only offers a convenient starting point but also the chance to extend your stay in this historic city, blending the experience of America's rich history with the adventure of the open sea. With its combination of historic sites, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, Boston is an ideal embarkation point for a memorable cruise journey.

Boston

The Historic Heart of Boston

Boston, one of the United States' oldest cities, is a treasure trove of American history. Founded in 1630, it played a pivotal role in the American Revolution, evident in landmarks like the Freedom Trail—a 2.5-mile journey through historic sites that tell the story of the nation's founding. From the cobblestone streets of Beacon Hill to the iconic grounds of Harvard University, Boston's rich past is intertwined with the American spirit of freedom and innovation, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Experiencing Boston's Distinctive Climate

Boston's climate offers a distinct experience of all four seasons. Spring blossoms in the Public Garden are a sight to behold, while summer brings warm, pleasant weather, perfect for exploring the city's waterfront and outdoor attractions. Fall in Boston is famously beautiful, with vibrant foliage transforming the city into a palette of fiery hues. Winters are cold and snowy, offering a picturesque, if brisk, landscape. This variety allows visitors to enjoy a different facet of Boston's charm, no matter when they visit.

Must-Visit Attractions in Boston

Boston's attractions are as diverse as its history is long. The Boston Common and Public Garden provide serene green spaces in the heart of the city. The Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum cater to art lovers, while Fenway Park offers a pilgrimage site for baseball fans. The historic North End neighborhood, with its winding streets and authentic Italian cuisine, showcases Boston's cultural diversity. These attractions make the city a fascinating destination for travelers and cruisers seeking a rich, immersive experience.

A Taste of Boston's Culinary Scene

Boston's culinary scene is a blend of traditional New England fare and contemporary cuisine. Seafood lovers can indulge in fresh lobster, clam chowder, and oysters, reflecting the city's coastal heritage. The North End, known as Boston's Little Italy, offers authentic Italian dishes, while innovative chefs throughout the city push the boundaries of culinary arts. From food trucks to fine dining, Boston's food landscape is a testament to its cultural melting pot.

Embarking on a Cruise from Boston

For those eager to explore the seas, Boston's port is a gateway to a variety of cruise destinations, including the picturesque New England coast, the rugged beauty of Atlantic Canada, and the historic cities of Europe. Embarking on a cruise from Boston not only offers a convenient starting point but also the chance to extend your stay in this historic city, blending the experience of America's rich history with the adventure of the open sea. With its combination of historic sites, cultural attractions, and culinary delights, Boston is an ideal embarkation point for a memorable cruise journey.

New York

New York is an incredibly diverse and active place, which consists of an intricate mosaic of neighbourhoods, each has its own character and history, yet they merge together seamlessly.

New York is an urban island full of unparalleled art and architecture, lively ethnic neighbourhoods, thousands of shops and some of the best restaurants in the world. The main attractions are grouped in Midtown Manhattan, not far from the cruise port.

Drift down the Hudson River and discover unforgettable attractions, such as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. In the city that never sleeps there is no end of things to do, from the lights of Broadway and Times Square to world-class museums, shopping and a plethora of places to eat.