Multigenerational trips are having a major moment in 2025, making it the perfect time for the debut of MSC Cruises‘ multi-gen friendly new ship MSC World America. I recently sailed on MSC World America’s inaugural cruise, and here’s what I think each generation will love about the new ship.
The second of MSC Cruises’ World Class ships, the 22-deck, 2,614-cabin vessel combines the brand’s signature European style with activities and experiences designed with American travelers in mind.
The new cruise ship departing from Florida’s PortMiami for its inaugural season is divided into seven districts to help give every passenger the vacation experience they desire. And with 19 dining venues, 18 bars and lounges, and a slew of activities and amenities for guests of all ages, it’s a vacation option that should please everyone in the family.
For the grandparents
We’re going to start with the grandparents, because they might be the ones footing the bill for the multigenerational family vacation. (Booking.com’s 2025 Travel Predictions noted that around 80 percent of Boomers are happy to pay for their kids and grandkids in order to travel together.) MSC World America departs from the brand-new and easy-to-navigate MSC Miami Cruise Terminal at PortMiami. The world’s largest and most advanced cruise terminal, it was designed to make check-in a breeze, with a six-level garage with more than 2,400 parking spaces and digital identity verification using advanced facial recognition.
For grandparents who appreciate the opportunity to escape from all the activity for a bit, the new MSC flagship boasts the Caribbean’s largest MSC Yacht Club, the brand’s luxury ship-within-a-ship area that’s only accessible by key card. The private enclave on MSC World America features enhanced suite options, butler service, and access to a private bar, restaurant, and pool facilities.
For the parents and other adults
Adults interested in a little time away from the kids can head to the many bars and lounges on MSC World America, including all-new venues like All-Stars Sports Bar and The Loft comedy club. A must-visit is The Gin Project, where you choose from a variety of craft gins, specialty tonics, and garnishes to create your own G&T. My other don’t-miss spots include British pub Masters of the Sea, with its own micro-brewery making some solid MSC signature beers; and the oh-so-elegant Fizz Champagne Bar, where you can sip a sparkling beverage overlooking the water.
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The ship also has a casino on board if that’s your thing. Or for a calmer vibe, head to the MSC Aurea Spa, which includes a Thermal Suite area with hot and cold rooms, or the adults-only Zen Area at the aft of the ship for a peaceful swim or sunbathing session (accompanied by a cocktail for maximum relaxation).
For the teens
Teenage passengers can get their daily caffeine fix at the buzzy Coffee Emporium or grab a fresh smoothie or juice at Zest Juice Bar. And much-loved teen-friendly eats like tacos, sushi, pizza, and gelato are easy to find onboard.
Thrill-seeking teens will want to line up for the Cliffhanger, the only over-water swing ride at sea (and just $5 to ride). Perched on the ship’s top deck, it swings brave riders back and forth more than 150 feet over the ocean below. For ground-level excitement, three Formula One simulators offer high-speed fun.
For the kids
The kids will find lots to love about MSC World America, whether they’re middle school tweens or members of the preschool set. They’ll want to spend lots of time in The Harbour area, home to a kid-sized rock climbing wall and play area modeled after the lighthouse at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line’s private island in The Bahamas. This is also the starting point for the Jaw Drop, one of the longest dry slides at sea where riders enter through the gaping jaws of a shark and spiral down 11 decks.
MSC World America boasts the cruise line’s largest and most technologically advanced kids’ club area yet, with seven different rooms for ages zero to 17. Its partnership with the LEGO Group features prominently in the spaces for younger kids, and kids can also see LEGO characters in action during the LEGO Parade that takes place once each sailing.
For the whole family
The whole family can play together at The Harbour, where everyone can take on the two-level ropes course or race down the waterslides. You’ll also find the LEGO Family Zone in this area for some collective creativity. Your whole crew can compete as Master Builders in MSC’s first-ever LEGO Family Game Show, and bumper cars and arcades add more opportunities for family fun.
All MSC World America cruises include a stop at MSC’s private island in The Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve. Ideal for a relaxed family beach day, the island features multiple beaches and a calm, crystal-clear lagoon perfect for young swimmers. The whole family can also kayak or snorkel at Ocean Cay, where MSC is working to help restore coral reefs in the 64-square-mile area around the island. And if your itinerary includes an overnight stay at the island, the lighthouse show will be a hit with the kids.
Back on board, there are lots of great places to gather together for a family meal throughout the day. You can opt for something casual and laidback at the two buffets or Luna Park Pizza & Burger (conveniently located near game and entertainment hub Luna Park).
Or you can plan a memorable family dinner at one of the ship’s six specialty restaurants, which include MSC favorites like Butcher’s Cut steak house and Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki. MSC World America also has two new specialty restaurant concepts: the charming Paxos Greek restaurant and the only Eataly restaurant at sea.
And if your kids are like my daughter, whose day isn’t complete without dessert, you can indulge in a sophisticated treat at Jean Philippe Chocolat & Café. But if you really want to lean into the vacation vibes, I say an over-the-top milkshake or a make-your-own ice cream bar at Sweet Temptations is the way to go.
