Not all family-friendly cruise ships cater to toddlers. As a mother to two tiny, strong-willed humans seeking constant movement, exploration, and independence, I seek out particular amenities—from kids’ clubs designed for ages younger than five to pools and outdoor attractions that they can enjoy safely.
MSC Cruises has always catered to families with babies and toddlers, and its new MSC World America ship takes this commitment to the next level. After spending some time on board, I find it hard to beat the value for these five reasons:
1. I’ve never seen so much attention to detail in a kids’ club (outside of Disney).
(…and I’ve been on myriad ships across all mainstream cruise lines.)
A panoply of partnerships with big names like LEGO and Chicco sets the tone for Doremiland. At more than 10,000 square feet, it’s one of the largest kids’ clubs at sea and includes a Mini Club for ages three to six and Baby Club for those younger than three years old.
The Mini Club is what I’d describe as STEAM inspired. It offers a robust program of arts and enrichment while also encouraging hands-on learning. LEGO building stations (with toddler-safe bricks that are smaller than those in the older-age rooms) and an adorable honey comb-themed space that delves into the science of bees, with an educational puzzle wall, round out the highlights.
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In the Baby Club, an open space with high-quality baby toys and games as well as padded climbers provides a perfect environment to learn and play.
2. There’s an outdoor deck especially for families, with seven days’ worth of fun.
Tucked away from the main pools, The Harbour is open to all, but toddlers are far from an afterthought. They get a generous slice of dedicated attractions, including a kids’ pool, splash pad, and water slide for potty-trained littles as young as three, as well as a dry playground with a tube slide accessible from the deck’s iconic lighthouse.
Tall kiddos who measure at least 48 inches can chase thrills on the Adventure Trail ropes course and additional water slides.
3. All 19 dining venues offer children’s menus for picky eaters.
From global cuisines like Japanese and Mexican, to Eataly pizza, steak, and more casual pub fare, MSC World America’s 19 dining venues satisfy every craving. But we all know that variety might not be enough to impress some of the most discerning diners: toddlers.
Rest assured: Every restaurant on the ship offers a children’s menu. Parents and caretakers don’t have to sacrifice where they want to dine, and picky eaters are accommodated—it’s a win-win.
The buffet also has a “Just for Kids” section, with chicken tenders, pizza, and other traditional quite bites.
4. Did I mention MSC will pick up your kids after they’re done eating, so you snag some alone time?
There’s no guilt in taking advantage of the MSC Happy Dinners Program, through which kids’ club staff will pick up your fidgety toddler once they’re done eating, so you can indulge in some alone time. Available for ages three to 11, the program allows youngsters to play in the kids’ club while their parents or caretakers finish dinner.
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The kids’ club staff also hosts children’s group dinners at the buffet, so their grownups can have the ultimate date night.
5. The LEGO Family Zone is one of my favorite, “mommy and me” hangout spots.
MSC Cruises responded to parents and caretakers’ requests for an indoor space that would allow them to play with their children, by introducing the LEGO Family Zone. (Note: Parents aren’t allowed to stay and play in kids’ clubs for security and safety reasons—a rule that is universal across the industry.)
This new space, easily accessed from The Harbour outdoor family deck, comprises small LEGO-building stations and nooks. You and your kiddos can build everything from flower bouquets to cafes thanks to a vast collection of bricks.
