Cruising for families and kids with MSC Cruises

Photos courtesy of MSC Cruises

Great for families
MSC Toddlers Club

MSC Cruises – family fun with European flair

Good

4 Stars

Kids’ Clubs

4 Stars

Entertainment

4 Stars

Dining

3.5 Stars

Cabins

4 Stars

Itineraries

4 Stars

Value

4 Stars

Atmosphere

4 Stars

Multigen Fit

4 Stars

A truly successful family holiday captivates every member, from the youngest children to the most discerning teenagers. MSC Cruises excels in this regard, crafting an immersive environment where family adventures unfold amidst sparkling seas and the warmth of Italian hospitality.

It is a place where parents can relax, knowing their children are not just entertained, but truly captivated by experiences designed just for them. From the moment a family steps aboard, the atmosphere is one of welcome and excitement, promising a voyage that is as effortless as it is memorable.

What is MSC Cruises like for families?

MSC Cruises excels at creating a vibrant, welcoming environment for families. It blends world-class entertainment with thoughtful, practical design to ensure every moment of the journey is seamless. The ships feel like floating resorts, buzzing with energy yet offering quiet corners for families to reconnect. Onboard, the sound of laughter echoes from the aqua parks, while inside, children’s imaginations are sparked in colourful, dedicated clubs. It is this balance of high-energy fun and genuine hospitality that makes MSC Cruises a standout choice for a family holiday.

MSC Baby Club
MSC Baby Club

Kids’ clubs

The Doremiland kids’ clubs are the heart of the family experience on MSC Cruises, and they are nothing short of exceptional. Rather than a one-size-fits-all approach, the clubs are thoughtfully divided into age-specific groups, ensuring activities resonate with every child. For the youngest guests, MSC’s partnership with baby-care brand Chicco provides a safe and nurturing environment filled with stimulating toys.

Older children can immerse themselves in sprawling LEGO play zones, building everything from fantasy castles to futuristic ships. For teenagers, the clubs transform into cool, parent-free hangouts with their own gaming tournaments, film nights, and even dedicated disco parties. The whole operation is run by a professional, multilingual team who foster a sense of fun and inclusion, allowing children to make new friends from around the world.

MSC Teen Zone for 12-17 year olds
MSC Teen Zone for 12-17 year olds

Family dining

Mealtimes on an MSC cruise are relaxed, flexible, and designed to please even the fussiest of eaters. The main dining rooms retain a sense of occasion without feeling formal, offering dedicated family-friendly menus filled with favourites like fresh pasta, pizza, and simple grilled dishes.

For a more casual experience, the buffet is a treasure trove of choice, open almost around the clock and perfect for grabbing a quick snack or a varied dinner. Speciality restaurants add another layer of fun to the dining experience. At Hola! Tacos and Cantina, the atmosphere is vibrant and informal, while the Kaito Sushi Bar offers a brilliant opportunity for more adventurous children to try something new. MSC understands that dining is a central part of the family holiday, and its relaxed approach ensures mealtimes remain a pleasure, not a challenge.

Kid's speciality dining with MSC
Kid’s speciality dining with MSC

Family cabins

Accommodation is cleverly designed with families in mind. The standout option is the Super Family Cabin, which connects two or three separate cabins to create a single, expansive living space. This is ideal for larger families or those travelling with grandparents, providing both privacy and a shared central area.

On newer ships like MSC Virtuosa and MSC Euribia, family suites offer balconies and generous storage, making it easy to keep the space organised. Throughout the fleet, practical touches such as bunk beds that fold away, comfortable sofa beds, and interconnecting doors demonstrate a deep understanding of what makes family travel easier and more comfortable.

Activities and fun

When it comes to onboard fun, MSC Cruises raises the bar. The AquaParks are a highlight, with twisting waterslides, splash zones, and pools that provide hours of entertainment for all ages. Beyond the water, the ships are packed with attractions. Full-size bowling alleys, high-tech F1 racing simulators, and immersive virtual reality arcades ensure there is never a dull moment.

In the evenings, the theatre hosts spectacular shows designed to captivate the whole family, from dazzling acrobatic displays to musical productions. The main pool decks are often the scene of lively deck parties and events, while quieter spots, like the elegant promenade cafés, offer a perfect place to unwind and watch the world go by.

Kids entertainment onboard MSC
Kids entertainment onboard MSC

Top tips

  1. Register children for the Doremiland kids’ club as soon as possible after boarding, as popular sessions on sea days can fill up quickly.
  2. Look out for the family disco events. They are usually held in the early evening and are a wonderful way for the whole family to have fun together.
  3. For more space and comfort, consider booking a Super Family Cabin or a pair of interconnecting rooms.
  4. Pack swimwear in your hand luggage. The pools and the AquaPark are open on embarkation day, offering a perfect start to the holiday.
  5. Do not miss the special events run in partnership with LEGO, as they are consistently a favourite among younger children.