Latest news with #MSCWorldAmerica
Forbes
27-05-2025
- Lifestyle
- Forbes
MSC World America Dining Guide - Everything You Need To Know
MIAMI, FLORIDA - APRIL 09: Guests enjoy ice cream at the Jean-Philippe Maury Chocolate Cafe onboard MSC Cruises' new ship, MSC World America in Miami on April 09, 2025 in Miami, Florida. (Photo byfor MSC World America) Getty Images for MSC World America A new era of cruise dining is here, and it tastes absolutely incredible. MSC World America is more than just delivering global destinations on a luxurious cruise line. It's a gastronomic destination in its own right, long before it drops anchor or touches land. Once upon a time, cruise food was synonymous with piles of buffet fare and rigid dining schedules that felt more like a college campus dining hall, where quantity often overshadowed quality. But those days are gone. Today, dining aboard a cruise is an invitation to embark on a world-class culinary adventure that redefines what is possible at sea. MSC World America is leading the charge, blending European sophistication, global flavors, and American favorites into a dining experience that's nothing short of unforgettable. Imagine indulging in authentic Mediterranean dishes crafted with the freshest ingredients, followed by perfectly prepared steaks or American comfort foods reimagined with a modern twist. The ship's diverse restaurant offerings cater to every craving, from specialty dining venues with unique cuisines to casual yet elevated options perfect for the whole family. As someone who has been called a "foodie" more times than I can count (and happily so), experiencing this level of culinary creativity is a dream come true. Food isn't just fuel—it's a passion, and MSC has transformed dining at sea into an art form. Here's why MSC World America is steering culinary traditions into bold, exciting new waters. And why you'll want to be on board for this delicious journey. TBD MSC World America Say goodbye to boring buffets and scheduled meal windows; MSC World America is all about flavor, freedom, and fun. Craving comfort food? Feeling adventurous? Need vegan-friendly vibes? They've got it all. With flexible dining packages, you're in the driver's seat. Eat what you want, when you want, where you want. And the best part? Transparent pricing means no nasty surprises, just delicious food without the drama. From elegant European fine dining to bold global flavors that pack a punch, the specialty restaurants onboard are a foodie's dream. Think authentic Italian pasta worth writing home about or Asian-inspired dishes so good they might just ruin takeout for you forever. Pair it all with expertly crafted cocktails or perfect wine pairings, and you've got meals that feel more like celebrations. Bon voyage and bon appétit, your taste buds are in for a wild ride! Here's a glimpse of the outstanding restaurants onboard: Eataly is new to MSC World America Ivan Sarfatti Making its debut on MSC World America, Eataly takes you on a true Italian culinary adventure. Featuring authentic, high-quality ingredients sourced from Italy, every plate embodies Italian tradition. From freshly made pasta to perfectly paired wines, Eataly is your onboard immersion into Italian culture. Paxos Greek Restaurant delivers flavors straight from the Aegean on MSC World America. Ivan Sarfatti For Mediterranean lovers, Paxos Greek Restaurant delivers flavors straight from the Aegean. Fresh seafood, traditional moussaka, and lamb kleftiko combine with stunning decor to create an idyllic escape while at sea. Paxos is a true taste of the Mediterranean. Kaito Sushi Bar and Teppanyaki (MSC World America) Ivan Sarfatti Love Asian cuisine? Kaito Sushi Bar and Teppanyaki serve expertly crafted dishes, blending traditional flavors with contemporary techniques. Enjoy fresh sushi or watch skilled chefs sizzle premium ingredients tableside for an interactive dining adventure. MSC World America - Butcher's Cut Ivan Sarfatti When it comes to American classics with a fine-dining twist, Butcher's Cut Steakhouse delivers. Serving premium angus beef aged to perfection, alongside bold New World wines. MSC World America - Sweet Temptations Ivan Sarfatti Satisfy your sweet tooth at Sweet Temptations, where dessert becomes an art form. From crazy-shakes and handmade gelato to pick-and-mix candy and make-your-own ice cream bars, this venue is as fun as it is delicious. MSC World America surpasses expectations with these standout specialty restaurants, each a gastronomic gem that adds a meaningful layer to your cruise experience. MSC World America gives you dining freedom like never before. Here's how they're spicing things up: For the grab-and-go crowd, Paxos on the Go and Luna Park Pizza and Burger have you covered with eats so good, you'll wish you ordered seconds (perfect fuel for your next adventure—maybe on the beach?). When it comes to dining options, we introduced more grab-and-go dining options throughout the ship for those looking for a quick, satisfying bite. We also curated an ideal blend of European flavors and American favorites to deliver a diverse and delicious onboard experience. Guests onboard have the choice to dine at Paxos, a new authentic Greek restaurant, which sits right across from the new All-Stars Sports Bar — created specifically with our American guests in mind — which captures the spirit of a classic all-American bar, from the lively atmosphere, sports programming, games and menu." Food is a universal language that has the power to bring people together, and MSC fosters this connection with its thoughtfully curated menus, perfectly balanced flavors, and inviting ambiance. You could be laughing and bonding over tacos (and how much you spilled in your lap) at Hola Tacos and Cantina or grabbing some gelato to enjoy the breathtaking ocean views, every meal feels like a shared celebration of good food, good company, and unforgettable experiences. With over 20 dining options on board, including specialty restaurants and casual eateries, MSC World America offers something for every palate. Bernhard Stacher, SVP of Shipboard Hospitality Operations at MSC Cruises, put it best by saying, 'Dining isn't just about eating; it's about creating moments.' On MSC World America, those moments are the heart of the journey. Ready to savor the world's finest flavors? Step aboard MSC World America and discover cruise dining like never before. With a wide variety of dining options, from international cuisines to specialty restaurants, every meal feels like an adventure in itself. MSC World America - MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar Ivan Sarfatti PRO TIP: Not a fan of big crowds or prefer a more exclusive voyage? The MSC Yacht Club is your perfect escape. Picture this: a luxurious, private oasis within the ship, complete with its own secluded decks, personalized butler service, and exclusive dining options that elevate your entire cruise experience. Escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the best that MSC World America has to offer. It's truly the best of both worlds!
Scottish Sun
26-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Scottish Sun
The Caribbean private islands you can enjoy on a cruise from Cayman Islands to Bahamas
We look at existing private islands you can cruise to SPLASH OUT The Caribbean private islands you can enjoy on a cruise from Cayman Islands to Bahamas IT doesn't get more exciting than sailing in style to a paradise Caribbean private island. And even more cruise lines are now going all out to host passengers on their own islands. Advertisement 4 Splash out at Thrill Waterpark at Perfect Day Credit: Supplied Royal Caribbean last week announced its second Perfect Day destination off Mexico, opening in 2027, which will include a waterpark with 30 slides, the longest lazy river in the world, adults-only beach clubs and a host of bars and restaurants. Lisa Minot looks at existing private islands you can cruise to. ROYAL CARIBBEAN IT was Royal who upped the ante with the launch of its revamped Perfect Day at Coco Cay in 2019. The £185million transformation of its Bahamas island included a new pier, thrill rides and chill zones. Advertisement There are seven beaches to laze beside the warm waters and six pools, including Oasis Lagoon, the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean with swim-up bar and in-water loungers. The Thrill Waterpark has 14 slides including the tallest in North America while Splashaway Bay and Captain Jill's Galleon are perfect places for the kids to play. There's complimentary food at four restaurants as well as a host of bars and shops. The adult-only Hideaway Beach opened in January last year and, for an extra charge, over-18s can enjoy a private beach, two pools, seven bars and two restaurants. Advertisement Also available to book for an extra charge are overwater cabanas, a zipline and tethered hot air balloon as well as kayak tours and snorkelling excursions. GO: A week full-board on Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas is from £1,064pp, sailing from Miami on November 8 and calling at St Maarten, St Thomas and Perfect Day at Coco Cay. Inside the huge new cruise ship coming to the US next year - with waterpark, bumper cars, and 20 bars onboard See MSC CRUISES WITH its signature stripey lighthouse and two miles of white sand beaches, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas is a regular port of call for MSC cruise ships. Advertisement They sail from their new private terminal in Miami as well as Port Canaveral in Florida and New York, including MSC World America, which made its debut in April. 4 Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas is a regular port of call for MSC cruise ships Credit: Supplied The Italian cruise line has transformed a former sand excavation site in the last ten years, planting more than 75,000 trees and bringing back marine life and birds. A newly-opened conservation centre on the island allows guests to discover their achievements and includes a land-based coral nursery and fully-equipped bio-lab. Advertisement But cruise guests will also appreciate the island's laid-back vibe with food trucks and restaurants offering Bahamian specialities, barbecue classics, snacks and oodles of ice cream and beach bars serving tropical cocktails. There's a chance to explore the underwater wonders with snorkelling, kayak, paddle board and windsurfing excursions. For a bit of luxury, you can relax in a cabana or take a sunset champagne cruise. GO: Seven nights' full-board on MSC World America is from £649pp. Advertisement Sailing from Miami on September 13, the cruise calls at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico. See HOLLAND AMERICA/CARNIVAL ONE of the original private island pioneers, the Holland America line first started calling at RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas in 1997 and it has been expanding its presence there ever since. In summer next year, a major upgrade will see a new beach club and lunch venue on its original facilities on the south of the island's stunning two-mile crescent of powder-soft white sand as well as a new pier at the north end of the beach that will be used by both Holland America and its sister cruise line Carnival. Advertisement 4 The Holland America line first started calling at RelaxAway at Half Moon Cay in the Bahamas in 1997 Credit: Supplied Thrill-seekers can enjoy horseback riding along the shore, snorkelling, jet skiing, and stingray encounters. Families will love the Half Moon Lagoon Aqua Park, while nature enthusiasts can explore eco-tours and birdwatching. Unique experiences include glass-bottom boat tours and a pirate ship-themed bar. Advertisement With beach sports, shopping and complimentary barbecue lunches, this is a high-end island escape for cruisers. GO: A 14-night full-board Western & Eastern Caribbean cruise on Holland America's Zuiderdam is from £1,379pp, departs Miami on November 8 and calls at Half Moon Cay, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Cozumel, Mexico, Miami, Bahamas, Amber Cove, Dominican Republic, Turks & Caicos. See DISNEY MICKEY Mouse and pals now have two private islands to enjoy in the Bahamas. Advertisement Their original, Castaway Cay, opened in 1998 as part of the launch of the new cruise line. 4 Mickey Mouse and pals now have two private islands to enjoy in the Bahamas Credit: Disney Parks And last year, they opened Lookout Cay. As you would expect, there is a huge amount of fun activities for kids including kids' clubs for three to 17-year-olds. Advertisement The family beach features plenty of umbrellas, chairs and hammocks plus tube and float rentals and an all-you-can-eat lunch buffet. Water babies will love Pelican Plunge, a huge floating platform featuring water slides and cannons. Spring-a-Leak is a water play area with freshwater jets. Adults get their own Serenity Bay stretch of pristine sands as well as a restaurant and bar. Advertisement The island features a 12-acre snorkel trail dotted with sunken treasures including the submarine from the classic Disney attraction 20,000 Leagues Under The Sea and there are miles of paths to explore on foot or bicycle. Over at Lookout Cay, there's more of a focus on nature and celebrating the island's Bahamian location with a cultural centre where you can learn about traditions and crafts. GO: A four-night full-board cruise on Disney Wish to the Bahamas, including calls at both Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay is from £920pp, based on two adults and two children sharing. The cruise departs August 17. Advertisement See
Miami Herald
21-05-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
MSC Cruises takes another bold step in its ambitious growth plan
MSC Cruises' answer to Royal Caribbean's Icon Class is only getting started. After the Switzerland-based global cruise line launched its newest megaship, MSC World America, from Miami last month, some might have thought the cruise line would take a breather before moving on to another mega-sized announcement. Related: Royal Caribbean unveils its biggest and boldest innovation yet Like Royal Caribbean's giant Icon of the Seas, MSC World America is a huge ship, accommodating more than 6,700 passengers, and it's making a big impression on cruisers as it joins Icon of the Seas in sailing seven-night Caribbean cruises from Miami. A market leader in Europe, MSC Cruises designed MSC World America to sail with its own unique style that blends European sophistication with American comfort. And the cruise line has big plans to introduce more Americans to its signature style of cruising as it continues to grow its presence in North America and throughout the globe. MSC Cruises already has another World Class ship in development for the North American market, along with one for Europe. And now, the cruise line is making plans for even more World Class ships to come. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter to save money on your next (or your first) cruise. MSC is ordering two more World Class ships to complement the four already delivered or under construction. With the addition of two more ships to its pipeline, the MSC Cruises fleet will expand to 27 ships by 2030. The two new ships, the fifth and sixth in the World Class, are expected to be delivered in 2029 and 2030. Each will be designed to build upon the innovation of the World Class, which combines advanced environmental technology with the latest advancements in passenger experiences. MSC Cruises has not yet revealed where these two ships will sail, or whether either of them will sail in North America. Related: A way too early review of MSC World America They will follow the existing World Class ships, MSC World Europa and MSC World America, as well as two more already under construction at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire in France - MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic. Although many cruisers may assume MSC World Asia is being built to sail in Asia like MSC World America was built for the American market, that's actually not the case. MSC Cruises' World Class ships are named for the continents and oceans of the world, and their names don't necessarily indicate where they will be deployed. The naming convention is meant to showcase that the global cruise line sails in all parts of the world. Be the first to see the best deals on cruises, special sailings, and more. Sign up for the Come Cruise With Me newsletter. MSC World Asia will offer Mediterranean cruises upon its launch in late 2026, and MSC World Atlantic will sail from Port Canaveral, Florida beginning in 2027. As the cruise line accelerates its global expansion, North America continues to be a key growth market. In addition to adding MSC World America and MSC World Atlantic to sail from Florida, the cruise line is also preparing to launch its first cruises from Texas. Related: MSC's Ocean Cay is different from what other cruise lines offer Beginning in November, MSC Seascape will move from Miami to its highly anticipated new homeport of Galveston. Sailing from a brand-new terminal that's currently under construction at the Port of Galveston, MSC Seascape will offer cruises to the Western Caribbean. For its Galveston debut, MSC Seascape will sail with some new Texas-inspired touches featured alongside the cruise line's signature blend of European style and American comfort. Further emphasizing its focus on North America, MSC Cruises will also launch its first Alaska cruises in 2026. MSC Poesia will homeport in Seattle for the summer 2026 Alaska cruise season. (The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.) Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@ or call or text her at 386-383-2472. Copyright 2025 The Arena Group, Inc. All Rights Reserved
Travel Weekly
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Travel Weekly
Seeing stars at MSC World America's 'Hall of Fame' show
ONBOARD THE MSC WORLD AMERICA -- When I need an energy boost, a good Spotify playlist usually does the trick. But every so often, that's not good enough. I'm craving something more. I'm craving, specifically, the Jennifer Lopez and Shakira Super Bowl halftime performance of 2020. I've watched it on YouTube so many times that I've memorized the transitions between songs, the exact moment J Balvin will pop out and the precise way that Lopez and Shakira turn to the camera at the end, grinning ear to ear, gasping for air after a 14-minute dance spectacle. Up until April 11, I'd never seen a version of the performance live and never imagined I would. Thank goodness for the MSC World America's "Hall of Fame" show. Entering the World Theatre, all I knew was that the show intended to present awards show-style performances by pop legends. It was an intriguing concept, but impersonating the greats is always a tough bar to clear. I see Beyonce on tour religiously, so when cruise director Eversen Bevelle introduced the show and said the 35-time Grammy winner would be a part of it, I was officially nervous. A disappointing Beyonce impersonation would be worse than none at all. Then the curtains opened and "Jennifer Lopez" strutted out and proceeded to perform a version of the very Super Bowl performance I've been addicted to for years. All doubts turned into exhilaration. What followed was a whirlwind of a show that I became convinced someone had created just for me. The performer playing Beyonce not only did a version of the Coachella performance I've listened to countless times but nailed Beyonce's live persona, including her runs and banter with the audience. A Justin Timberlake medley had excellent choreography. A Whitney Houston impersonator received a standing ovation midshow, something I'd never experienced outside of a Broadway theater. A Whitney Houston impersonation during the MSC World America's "Hall of Fame" show. Photo Credit: Courtesy of MSC Cruises Nailed it! I later learned that the connection I felt with the material was exactly what the creative team behind the show had intended. "We feel this show is particularly relatable for audiences who may have watched this type of performance on national TV, particularly during music award shows or sporting events, like the Super Bowl," said Stephanie Jansen, MSC's director of creative and theatrical entertainment, in an interview conducted via email. "We hope that experiencing this live will be truly special for them." Putting it together involved collaborating with the London-based production company Only Child Collective and individuals who had worked with major pop artists including Kylie Minogue and Dua Lipa, she added. "Following this, we embarked on a global audition tour to discover top talent for the shows, which was succeeded by a three-week rehearsal period and a four-week installation phase," she said. I found the choreography to be a central part of what makes the "Hall of Fame" experience so delicious. You'll see the same dancers who grooved '60s style in "Dirty Dancing the Concert" reborn as strutting, flipping, backup for the pop icons. They move in and out of boxy jungle gym-like set pieces and behind screens in silhouette. The show is performed in the ship's auditorium-style World Theatre. Photo Credit: Courtesy of MSC Cruises The choreography doesn't try to perfectly re-create the performances the show emulates; you won't see Lopez's viral "Love Don't Cost a Thing" dance break, for example. Instead, you get to see a clever, creative production team that flexed its muscles to bring us new versions of dances and, most impressively, often seamless and invigorating transitions between the pop stars. Lipa's section brought us to Elton John's via a duet of "Cold Heart" with its "Rocket Man" sampling. A quick segment of Beyonce's "Break My Soul (The Queens Remix)," which samples Madonna's "Vogue," then brings us to the Madonna portion of the show. Jansen said lighting was an important part of the design. From where I sat, it truly did transform the theater into a real concert venue. I suppose MSC's entertainment team didn't actually hack into my YouTube history when creating "Hall of Fame." The Lopez-Shakira Super Bowl performance now has more than 325 million views, and as much as I'd like to, I can't claim them all. Instead, the team accomplished what it set out to do: identify some of the best and most beloved modern pop performances and let people like me pretend for a moment that we're experiencing them in a stadium for the first time. My only regret was that I was bopping and singing from my seat rather than standing and dancing throughout the performance. I might have been the only one to do so, but if the show inspires others to get up on their feet at future performances, then "Hall of Fame" would capture that concert experience even more than it already does.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Review: Colossal MSC World America cruise ship seems familiar, but has unique offerings
It's hard to not compare MSC Cruises' World Class ships and its largest-ever offering, the MSC World America, to similarly massive ships sailed by Royal Caribbean. But while World America may look like its competitor's ships, it has touches that set it apart. The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The main pool along with several whirlpools and bars can be found in the Aqua Deck district on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Cliffhanger is a swing ride that juts out over the side of the ship 160 feet above the water on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Aquapark has a drop slide, side-by-side races and a tube ride with optional virtual reality on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) "Dirty Dancing in Concert" is the main theatrical production on board MSC World America. Performers put on a sneak peek at the ship's naming ceremony at PortMiami on April 9. (Courtesy Ivan Sarfatti for MSC Cruises) The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) A chandelier hangs large in the World Galleria district on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Jaw Drop twisting dry slide takes riders down 11 decks to the World Promenade district on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The 11-deck Jaw Drop twisting dry slide has riders climb into an open shark mouth, but the slide tube comes out the other on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The High Trail Ropes Course has two optional ziplines among three levels of challenges on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The High Trail Ropes Course has two optional ziplines among three levels of challenges on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The main pool along with several whirlpools and bars can be found in the Aqua Deck district on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Miami skyline can be seen in the background from the Family Aventura district on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, docked in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) There are 20 pools and whirlpools on board the MSC World America including some indoors. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) A digital America flag is projected along the ceiling of the World Galleria district on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Riders on the Cliffhanger swing ride get a view of Miami 160 feet above the water line on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC Sportsplex transforms into a bumper car arena on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) A chocolate bald eagle sculpture is seen within sweets shop Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Doremiland kids area offers a bevy of Lego activities on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Lego characters join a parade on the World Promenade district on board the MSC World America on Friday, April 11, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Doremiland kids area offers a bevy of Lego activities on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC Sportsplex hosts a variety of activities on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Gin Project makes custom gin drinks on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Live music can be enjoyed from both the Masters of the Sea venue and the Gin Project that share a two-deck space on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Dirty Dancing in Concert is one of several titles that feature music and dance in the main theater on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café has a large selection of gelato flavors on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café has treats galore on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café has a small section carved out to make unique cofees on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Mixed-drink venue Elixer on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Luna Park Pizza & Burger is a free quick service food option in the World Galleria on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Unique coffees can be found in the Coffee Emporium on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Coffee Emporium on board the MSC World America features a hands-on section that allows travelers to smell the scents used in various types of coffee flavors. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Kaito Sushi is one of several dining options along The Terrace district on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Bars and restaurants pepper two levels called The Terraces, one of the districts on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) An old telephone booth is the entrance for a secret speakeasy bar on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) An 80s-themed party takes over the Luna Park venue on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC Yacht Club has its own sun deck on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The observation deck within the MSC Yacht Club on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC Yacht Club has its own lounge and observation deck on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Mirrored surfaces are replete on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Gin Project venue takes the top deck while beer-focused Master of the Sea pub takes the lower deck in a shared space on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Gin Project venue on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) A seagull rests atop a closed shade umbrella with the MSC World America docked in the background at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Jake Butters/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Jake Butters/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Jake Butters/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Jake Butters/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Michel Verdure/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Michel Verdure/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. The global cruise industry sailed with a record 34.6 million passengers in 2024, and despite global political change and economic question marks, the projections are pointing up in 2025. (Michel Verdure/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Michel Verdure/MSC Cruises) Show Caption1 of 55The Jaw Drop dry, twisting slide takes riders on an 11-deck trip on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)Expand The 22-deck, 6,764-passenger, 216,638-gross-ton ship arrived in April in PortMiami and has settled into year-round, seven-night Caribbean itineraries. Just like Royal's Icon and Oasis-class ships, World America is so big, that the line carves its space up into neighborhoods, although MSC calls them districts. They're filled with nearly 40 restaurants, bars and lounges, so it feels like a little city at sea. In fact, from behind, people would be hard-pressed to tell the difference between an Oasis-class ship from World America with both featuring a multi-deck, twisting dry slide as a centerpiece of an open-air deck. One thing the brand does successfully, though, is lean into its European identity, especially the Italian flair of its founders. 'We're not trying to be an American cruise line only for Americans,' said new MSC Cruises USA president Lynn Torrent. 'We do have this European DNA and that's real, and we need to own it and lean into it. But we need to have our American guests feel comfortable. So it really is a balance.' So in the hallways, for instance, are historical black-and-white photos of space shuttle launches, but they were labeled as 'Kennedy Space Centre.' Pool depths are in both meters and feet. Elevators are called lifts. A family area on the top decks is called 'The Harbour.' But at least restrooms are no longer labeled 'WC' for 'water closet,' something one would find on earlier MSC ships. Perhaps the most European thing is the bumper cars with the steering wheel on the right. And while the ship may have many similarities, the interior leans into a modern design that has been a hallmark of the MSC ships before it. Mirrors are everywhere. And a lot of the ships sparkle. At the same time, a digital ceiling that stretches down the entire World Galleria entertainment district occasionally quite often displays a massive American flag. Taking a closer look, travelers will find World America isn't a clone. It has its own identity. Here are some of the best features on board: The Cliffhanger: Who knew a simple little swing could be such a thrill? A pair of two-seater swings juts out over the edge of the ship 160 feet above the water with just a simple T-bar keeping riders safe from sliding out. 'That's it?' exclaimed Lindsay Bonfanti before holding on for the less-than-minute-long ride that drew a few more exclamations questioning her decision-making. For those who love heights and a hit of adrenaline without putting in any work, this ride fits the bill. More thrills to be found: The Family Aventura district has other fast-paced options including a ropes course with two small zip lines built in. One swings riders out over the chasm of the open-air aft section of the ship more than 11 decks below. The small water park has five slides including a speedy drop slide that shoots riders down as if being dropped out bomb-bay doors. There's also a pair of timed, side-by-side slides that allow for healthy competition and a tube ride with an option virtual reality headset that makes for a trippy, wet trip through the jungle. Just remember to not be laughing out loud with your mouth open when you hit the bottom. Over in the sports court, the line breaks out bumper cars for some healthy head-on collisions. But for those who don't mind climbing into an open shark mouth, the Jaw Drop twisting slide is a welcome, free offering, the tube of which is transparent for much of the ride offering great views on the way down. Dirty Dancing: It's music and dancing that most people know. Baby gets put in a corner momentarily. The choreography is spot on. The dancers nail the lift. They had the time of their lives, and fans of the film will likely walk away from the short production in the main theater with a hit of nostalgia. The line also doubles down on the partnership by airing the film and putting on its own dance party themed to the 1980s hit film that itself used music from the summer of 1963. Dialing into other nostalgic, but popular music, the line has a show playing the hits of Queen, marrying a live rock band with orchestral and aerialist accompaniment in the Panorama Lounge. Another main stage show 'Hall of Fame' pulls from a variety of pop legends such as Beyonce and Justin Timberlake. So many flavors: MSC goes beyond simple vanilla, chocolate and swirl. Think gelato. Think multiple venues around the ship. Think massive selection. One of the best tempts travelers walking down the main World Galleria section of the ship within the Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café venue, which also features hand-crafted chocolates, 14 flavors of macarons and a tidy little coffee bar tucked in the back. But 16 gelato and sorbet flavors from pistachio to hazelnut to mango to stracciatella. There's some pretty rich vanilla and chocolate too. When in doubt: Pizza. The ship has plenty of dining options including the first Eataly-branded Italian specialty restaurant and a Greek venue with fresh seafood called Paxos. But perhaps the most satisfying dish on board is free. Freshly made pizza made in authentic stone ovens is a must-have from Luna Park Pizza & Burger, plus it's open beyond normal dining hours, so a great place to wander into after a few drinks. Or before dinner. Or between lunch and dinner. Pour another one: Champagne bar: Check. Mixed drinks: Check: Hand-crafted beer. Check. The line has 18 bars and lounges, but one of the most interesting is The Gin Project venue, taking up the upper level of a space shared with the Masters of the Sea pub, both of which share a view of a live music stage. The level of detail on the history of gin with old photos and antiques filling the walls amid the nooks and alcoves of the bar is similar to the feeling you get the first time you walk into a TGI Fridays and marvel at all the crazy stuff on the wall. Plus coming up with your own libation from among 70 types of gins is a fun game of choose your own adventure. Start with an 'earthy' or 'fruity' or 'grassy' gin for instance. Then choose a tonic style from among several options, and then finally the décor and flavor enhancements. And it's worth mentioning that coffee fans won't find a Starbucks, but can get that caffeine high in a new, one would dare say, more adventurous way at the Coffee Emporium, pulling from Mediterranean beans and styles including French, Italian, Turkish and Moroccan. Cheers to that.
