Many families book cruises to enjoy an all-inclusive environment where kids can laugh and play all day in activities tailored to them, while parents relax with adult-only amenities and *finally* get some time to themselves. The international clientele on MSC Cruises get that, plus something that separates their cruises from others: their own unique experience on a private island in the Bahamas.

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve was designed as a part of the cruise line’s commitment to the environment. A former mining site, the nearby ocean life was at a decline before it opened in 2019. MSC has helped restore it, and bring back the sea life and avian life it had been missing. It is much more than a private island, it is a unique marine reserve where people and nature thrive in harmony. There, guests can learn about the protection of the oceans and the importance of preserving coral reefs first-hand, you can go snorkeling with the colorful fish or try scuba diving with an expert guide. The goal: for guests to leave Ocean Cay with a deep respect and understanding for land and sea, a sense of environmental stewardship, and feeling relaxed and refreshed on its eight white sand beaches through the use of its spa. At twilight, enjoy a fun lighthouse show set to music (think laser Floyd!) YOU can also support this aquatic oasis through the MSC Foundation gift shop. This

Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve Restoration Project

Departing Ports of Call

On the ship, unique experiences abound there, as well. MSC Meraviglia will sail year-round from New York City beginning April 2023. If you can’t wait until Spring Break for your next getaway, a quick flight to Orlando and drive to Port Canaveral can get your family on board for a relaxing cruise of the Carribean and Bahamas for a trip of two to fourteen nights.

Pools, Water Slides, and More

On MSC Cruises, guests won’t be just surrounded by water, but in it. In addition to their main mid-ship pool, there is a Horizon pool with panoramic sea views, an indoor pool, and several hot tubs as well. For thrill-seekers of all ages, there’s an aquapark with four action-packed water slides and a safe splashy play area just for children. An innovative Himalayan Bridge attraction will delight adventure seekers, who can attach themselves to a rope and cross the stern of the ship, 250+ feet above the ocean.

Food and Drinks

When the fun makes you hungry, the myriad dining options make meals a no-brainer: There are buffets, as well as indoor and outdoor dining options, with various types of cuisine sure to please international tastes, as well as even the smallest – and pickiest — of eaters.

MSC Cruises Kids Club

Families can take advantage of dedicated kids clubs segmented by age group, with personalized activities and live entertainment, as well as elements tailored to each age group. For younger kiddos, there’s a day care center that’s open all day long, featuring the latest toys, including Legos and Chicco toys, and a nap room. For older kids, a key feature is a ‘super amusement park’ with sports zone, bowling alley, 4D Cinema, arcade, and more. 

There’s also a kid lounge set up like a real TV studio with cameras, a stage and greenscreen facilities. Many of the activities undertaken there will be broadcast live around the ship to big screens and cabin TVs so other guests can check out the fun. And for technologically-inclined younger guests, they can visit the DOREMI Lab, with the latest and future tech like 4D printing, VR gaming, and 3D product scanning. The ship also offers a lounge specifically for teens where they control the music, and can send digital messages, book teen activities, and share their vacation experience on their social networks.

Relax with a Massage or Sweat if Out at the Gym

While the kids are busy with their clubs and activities, you can sneak away to The MSC Aurea Spa. Complete with a thermal area, beauty salon and nail boutique, you won’t regret taking time on your vacation to be pampered from head to toe.

Equipped with state-of-the-art cardio and strength-training equipment, the panoramic gym on MSC Meraviglia offers a wide range of innovative fitness courses and training programs designed to suit guests of all ages and abilities.

Stef Ark-Baynes co-wrote this story with Sarah Bond.