My first cruise — the dream that became a beginning
Some journeys stay with you because of the places, others because of the people. Sometimes a journey brings it all together and changes how you see the world.
The beginning of a twenty-year dream
For almost twenty years I had dreamed of taking a cruise. In March 2024, that dream finally came true. We travelled from Sofia to Rome, and our first great sea adventure began in Civitavecchia. Seeing MSC World Europa, I knew a whole new world awaited us.
The first hours on board
The ship felt like a floating city, with restaurants, pools, bars, a theatre, music and countless places to discover. The first walk around the ship, the view of the sea and the excitement of departure are memories I still treasure. Best of all, every morning we would wake up somewhere new.
Palermo — our first stop
Sicily welcomed us with Palermo's colourful character. We wandered through the streets, admired the buildings and soaked up the atmosphere. Back on the ship, the celebration continued. I began to realise that a cruise is two journeys at once: one through the cities and one on board.
Malta — Valletta and Mdina
Arriving in Valletta was spectacular: stone fortifications, beautiful buildings and a harbour steeped in history. We also visited Mdina, with its narrow streets and medieval atmosphere. The panoramic viewpoints were magnificent. In the evening, more music and fun awaited us on board.
A day at sea
A day without a port turned out to be a pleasure of its own. We had time for pools, cocktails, walks along the decks and evening shows. On a ship like this, the question is not what to do, but how to fit everything in.
Barcelona — love at first sight
Barcelona captivated me almost immediately. Its morning streets, cafés, beautiful façades and lively neighbourhoods made every corner feel like another discovery. We returned tired but happy, ready for another festive evening on board.
Marseille — another world
Marseille welcomed us with the atmosphere of its Old Port and the distinctive rhythm of southern France. That evening we enjoyed one of the most entertaining events on the ship: a silent disco, where everyone danced to their own music.
Genoa and our final evening
The morning view of Genoa from our cabin looked like a painting. Another stop, more stories and photographs. Then came the final evening, with shows, dancing and the strange feeling that seven days had flown by. The people we shared the journey with mattered as much as the places.
After the cruise — three days in Rome
After disembarking in Civitavecchia, the adventure continued in Rome. We explored the Colosseum, Roman Forum, Trevi Fountain, squares, narrow streets and Italian food. The Vatican, its museums and St Peter's Square made a lasting impression. Three days were not enough, but enough to want to return.
An ending that was really a beginning
I came home with far more than photographs: new friendships, emotions and the conviction that dreams should not be postponed for years. My first cruise became the beginning of many more adventures.
My first cruise was more than a holiday. It was the beginning of a new way of discovering the world.
← All my journeys