Exploring Life Aboard One of the Largest Cruise Ships in the World

More than 500 years after Juan Ponce de Leon first landed in Florida, the Italian cruise line MSC has made waves with its latest vessel. The MSC World America, boasting 22 decks—excluding floors 13 and 17 due to superstition—offers an array of attractions including four thrilling water slides, 19 distinct dining options, and access to a private island. To accommodate the ship’s debut, MSC has also inaugurated a state-of-the-art terminal in Miami, spanning over 490,000 square feet, equipped with facial recognition technology to streamline the boarding experience.

The ship was officially launched last weekend, highlighted by a spectacular drone show and a live concert from Gloria Estefan. The actress Drew Barrymore, serving as the ship’s godmother, brought an exuberant vibe to the ceremony, alongside Orlando Bloom, who added a unique touch to the festivities. Their collaboration on a promotional ad during the Super Bowl, which reportedly cost around £13 million, has further elevated interest in the cruise.

Described as vibrant and full of life, MSC is the largest privately owned cruise line in the world, operating 24 ships. The Aponte family, hailing from Naples, ensures that the MSC World America serves as a floating tribute to Italian culture, with a gross tonnage of 216,638.

Despite the ship’s construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France and MSC’s headquarters in Switzerland, its Italian essence is undeniable. Guests at the Eataly restaurant on the eighth deck can indulge in authentic dishes like carpaccio and carciofi, enjoy gelato made from scratch in traditional flavors such as stracciatella and hazelnut, and choose from wines representing all 20 regions of Italy, as explained by MSC’s managing director, Antonio Paradiso.

Though it may not hold the title for the largest ship by gross tonnage—led by Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas—MSC World America features more decks and accommodates more passengers than any cruise ship I’ve experienced. As I explore its many offerings, I find myself in a labyrinth of technology and hospitality. From a stunning staircase adorned with crushed Swarovski crystals to a dedicated area for teens with drone relay races, and several swimming pools alongside a children’s zone with seven distinct play areas, every turn reveals something new. The ship’s atrium dazzles with dynamic LED displays, while the crew of 2,138 looks after the 6,764 guests on board.

To cater to the diverse preferences of its clientele, MSC identified seven primary passenger categories. Among them, adventurers seek action, while families are drawn to the Harbour area featuring four water slides. There are also spaces designed for tranquility, catering to those who want to relax. The Yacht Club, an upscale retreat located on the uppermost decks of the ship, offers exclusive amenities, including premium dining experiences, a private pool, and a concierge service for reservations.

Personally, I lean toward the zen experience, which culminated during our visit to Ocean Cay, an artificial island situated 65 miles from Miami, near Bimini, Bahamas. This island was developed in the 1960s by a dredging company for sand mining and was abandoned until MSC acquired a 100-year lease in 2015 to transform it into a slice of Italy in the Caribbean.

While cruise lines owning islands is not novel, Ocean Cay emphasizes conservation with initiatives like a thriving coral nursery.

The island evokes sun-soaked tranquility reminiscent of Tracy Island from the Thunderbirds, albeit with a more relaxed vibe. Set against a backdrop of relaxing music often overshadowed by the calls of laughing gulls, Ocean Cay features various beaches—including family-friendly areas, some with cabanas, and one exclusively for staff—along with a limited selection of jet skis and a significant lighthouse.

Italy’s influence here feels like a timely arrival, introducing well-crafted Aperol spritzes alongside traditional pina coladas. One passenger aptly remarked, “It’s like having a sea day, but on land.”

My deluxe cabin, measuring 183 square feet, includes a balcony and all the amenities one could desire, from hairdryers to numerous USB charging stations. Social media enthusiasts may find their perfect backdrop at Cliffhanger, a swing poised 165 feet above the sea, where I opted to watch rather than join the long queue. Meanwhile, Bloom shared his adventurous attempt at the Jaw Drop slide—a rapid descent spanning 11 decks—on social media.

A week-long round-trip voyage aboard the MSC World America, departing from Miami and visiting the Florida coast, Costa Maya, Cozumel, Honduras, and the Bahamas, starts at £624. This fare covers buffet meals throughout the day and dinners at à la carte restaurants. A drinks package is available for an additional £35 per day.

Although MSC World America feels distinctly Italian at first glance, as I delve deeper, it becomes apparent that flavors from other European countries are also thoughtfully represented. For instance, the Paxos restaurant offers delectable souvlaki and calamari, while French delights are available through Jean-Philippe Maury’s exquisite chocolates. The Masters of the Sea pub stands out with traditional fish and chips, and for music lovers, the Aprés show delivers some lively Alpine europop. Additionally, American influences come through at the sports bar and comedy club, enhancing the cruise experience.

Amidst conversations around global trade and economic concerns, this Italian-influenced cruise vessel offers a harmonious blend of cultures. Notably, a large warehouse in Florida has been stocked with essential supplies for the ship’s operations, indicating the company’s thorough preparation.