yacht club msc cruises

How MSC’s private island experience is different for cruisers in suites

Do you enjoy large cruise ships but still want to feel like you're in the lap of luxury? Passengers booked in MSC Cruises' Yacht Club cabins and suites have access to high-end amenities – both on the ship and off.

Butlers, exclusive dining and a private pool delight guests on board, but perks also await on MSC 's private island, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve , in the Bahamas. You can expect dedicated trams, towel service and a chance to book the nicest cabanas on the island, among other extras.

Read on to find out how the MSC Yacht Club Ocean Cay experience differs from that of the average cruiser.

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MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club beaches vs. regular beaches

MSC's Ocean Cay Marine Reserve private island is home to seven (soon to be eight) beaches, and all are public, except one — Ocean House Beach, which is the Yacht Club's exclusive swath of sand. Beyond its exclusivity, the beach has a few other differences from the island's regular beaches.

There, use of lounge chairs and umbrellas is free. Chairs at the other beaches are also free and available on a first-come, first-served basis; however, umbrellas come with an extra cost.

Passengers must sign out towels on board the ship before heading ashore to Ocean Cay's main beaches. Yacht Club passengers can skip that hassle and ask for towels at the towel tent found on Ocean House Beach.

Interestingly, I found that several of the public beaches were less crowded than Ocean House Beach. At the latter, chairs were positioned much more closely to one another. If you're willing to walk or hitch a ride on one of the island's trams, you'll find fewer crowds on the farther beaches than if you stick close to the ship.

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club food vs. regular dining

Free lunch is included for all cruisers who visit Ocean Cay. For Yacht Club travelers, the Ocean House Restaurant — an exclusive waiter-served dining venue where passengers enjoy their meals on a shaded porch — exudes upscale beach vibes.

During my visit, the menu included starters like crab ceviche, charred octopus and a salad with romaine, tomatoes, jicama, a poached egg and candied bacon in a citrus dressing. Mains featured locally sourced blackened mahi-mahi, lobster roll, carne asada, a grilled portobello mushroom sandwich and one of the best burgers I've ever tasted during a cruise — a blend of Angus chuck, short ribs and grilled brisket with red onion jam and Monterey Jack cheese. Desserts consisted of creme caramel, mango cheesecake and chocolate cake with coffee sauce.

The meals at Ocean House are definitely superior to the fare found at the Seakers buffet, which is where cruisers not staying in the Yacht Club can go for a beach barbecue that serves hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, macaroni and cheese, red beans, roasted potatoes and a slew of salads, drinks and desserts.

The food is tasty, but lines can be long. An alternative is to head to one of several food trucks throughout the island. Some are free and dole out the same items offered on the buffet but with shorter lines. Others sell entirely different menu items — lobster grilled cheese, fried calamari, shrimp with watermelon, Caribbean ceviche and octopus salad — with the cost charged to cruisers' onboard accounts.

Additionally — and also for an extra fee — a stand near the ship offers specialty coffee and ice cream. (If you're a coffee lover, trust me when I say you won't want to miss the Coco-Nilla Latte.)

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club cabanas vs. regular cabanas

There are three types of cabanas on Ocean Cay: Ocean Cay Beach Cabanas, Ocean View Yacht Club Cabanas and Beachfront Yacht Club Cabanas. All three types are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

They can hold up to six people each and include cold water, beach towels and chairs, as well as floating mats for use in the water. As the prices increase, so does the number of inclusions. The last two types are only available for booking by Yacht Club passengers.

Ocean Cay Beach Cabanas, found on South Beach, North Beach and Bimini Beach, are the most affordable on the island at $250 for the day. They've got walls on three sides, and they're outfitted with cushioned couches. They include the basic amenities mentioned above, and anyone can rent them.

Next up are the Ocean View Yacht Club Cabanas, which cost $400 for the day and also entitle you to free lunch and drinks, as well as fresh fruit skewers, four sets of snorkel gear and four floating mats. They're found on the Yacht Club's private Ocean House Beach, so they're off-limits to non-Yacht Club guests.

The most expensive, however, are the Beachfront Yacht Club Cabanas, located in a different section of the Ocean House area. They carry a $450 price tag but offer all the same extras as Ocean View Yacht Club Cabanas.

The draw? They're closer to the water and, therefore, have better views. Although they aren't on the main part of Ocean House Beach, they are still in the exclusive area, near the restaurant, so you don't have to go far to grab food.

Ultimately, the only thing being in the Yacht Club affords you in this case is the option to book more expensive cabanas.

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club trams vs. regular trams

At 95 acres, Ocean Cay is sizable. If you're fit, you can walk from one end to the other in about 15 minutes, but if you don't have great mobility or if you're easily overheated, reaching some of the island's more remote beaches can be difficult on foot. That's why MSC offers tram shuttles.

Passengers in standard cabins will find tram stops with shaded waiting areas throughout the island. However, waits can be long, especially if many other people are also in need of a lift.

Yacht Club cruisers can take advantage of trams exclusively for the Yacht Club. They run between a special tent (with free cold water to sip while you wait) set up just inside the entrance to Ocean Cay and the Ocean House beach and restaurant area.

You can make special requests for stops, which the regular trams usually won't accommodate. For example, you might ask to go straight from the tent to South Beach for a volleyball game without stopping anywhere else first.

MSC Ocean Cay Yacht Club activities vs. regular activities

This is the one category where the island's public spaces beat the Ocean House area by a mile. If you're looking for something to do other than eating, drinking or lazing by the beach, you'll have to head back toward the ship because there's not much going on in the exclusive areas.

Everything from massages, lighthouse tours and water sports equipment rentals to beach parties, volleyball games and shore excursions takes place elsewhere. However, perhaps that's by design. The Yacht Club is generally quiet, even on board, and the line likely prefers to keep the raucousness to other locations.

Bottom line

The MSC Yacht Club experience is more exclusive than the standard one at Ocean Cay, with extras like butler service, dedicated trams, towel service, access to pricier cabanas and a private beach and restaurant with better food and shorter waits.

However, all of the action — shore excursions, pickup volleyball games, beach parties, the lighthouse show — happens in the areas that are accessible to everyone, which significantly levels the playing field.

Additionally, items like specialty coffee, ice cream and for-fee food truck orders cost extra for everyone — even Yacht Club passengers.

Overall, Ocean Cay offers a great day for anyone who enjoys the beach, regardless of cabin type.

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I tried a ship-within-a-ship cruise experience and it was worth it for the endless perks—here’s why

The MSC Yacht Club affords travelers a totally different cruising experience, but you’ll have to splurge.

I heard tales of luxury from people about the ritzy MSC Yacht Club , the ship-within-a-ship concept where discerning passengers enjoy their own area of the cruise ship that includes a dedicated restaurant, private lounge, separate pool and sundeck as well as private butlers and concierges to take of any whim while cruising. The elevated Yacht Club boasts priority everything while sailing MSC.

I sailed on a four-night cruise on the new MSC Seashore, a glitzy ship with Italian flair intermingled with references to New York City at every turn. Although the ship was well-appointed and had amazing dining, drinking and entertainment venues, and a bountiful Top Sail main buffet, thousands of passengers made the ship feel crowded at times, elevators were slow, and as I strolled through the general pools, they were boisterous and crowded.

RECOMMENDED: 10 things about cruising on an adults-only ship that might surprise you

Switch gears to MSC Seashore’s Yacht Club, passkey-protected for lucky guests, and is a 180 from the ship’s general spaces. Once you scan your handy Yacht Club wrist badge, or your room key, you’re instantly given entrance to a breathtaking retreat of 131 staterooms and suites. All this luxury does come at a price. Cruise fares will vary based on destination, time of year, and cabin category, but generally speaking you can expect to pay double for the Yacht Club. And from my experience, it’s worth it. Read more about why you should splurge.

You’re fast-tracked through everything

The Yacht Club’s exclusivity and impeccable service standard started from the moment I got dropped off at the Port Canaveral cruise terminal. There were hundreds of people waiting to board at 1pm on embarkation day. I saw in the distance a canopy that said MSC Yacht Club. My husband and I wheeled our carry-on luggage to the representative under the canopy. I gave her my name and within two seconds, she gave me a sticker to wear and up we ascended on the escalator to check in. Just five minutes later, I was directed to the dedicated check-in area for Yacht Club guests. To my right, I saw about 1,000 people serpentine through ropes to do general check-in. I felt a sense of relief; who wants to wait in that line? Five minutes later, a butler from the Yacht Club insisted on wheeling my luggage to board the ship and I was in my room in a total on 12 minutes from the time I stepped foot out of the car to my stateroom in the Yacht Club.

Relaxing and streamlined

In addition, Yacht Club guests have the freedom to get off the ship first for excursions. Your butler will happily escort you off the ship with a smile. Guests also can disembark on the last morning first, which is a big convenience. Your butler walks you right to the place you disembark, bypassing crowds and hassles. Port Canaveral is about an hour away from Orlando International Airport, and we took a 10 am flight home. We didn’t have to linger around until the afternoon for our flight home.

Another perk is that there’s a special seating area in the theater for shows. All the shows were excellent during my voyage. All other ship passengers have to make reservations in advance for shows but that’s not the case for the privileged Yacht Club passengers. As long as you arrive about 10 minutes before any show you choose, a crew member from the Club will allow you entry into a special roped-off section. Again, no rushing through dinner—you have the flexibility to plan your evenings your way.

Your Yacht Club package is packed with remarkable value

The price tag may sound daunting, but there’s lots of value there. All Yacht Club cabins and suites include a premium drink package that covers beverages up to $15. You can use this perk both in the Yacht Club and throughout the ship. In addition, your package includes a two-device Wi-Fi package, which worked well during my sailing. Finally, you get access to the thermal spa suite, which is a place to indulge after a day in port or a sea day. Commonly, there’s a taboo regarding mini-bars, but not in the Yacht Club. It’s stocked each day with the beverages you want; just tell your butler and consider it done.

You get perks ashore too

If your sailing includes a call to Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island, Yacht Club guests get an elevated experience there too. Yacht Club guests enjoy a private area, and a dedicated restaurant called the Ocean House. While other ship guests were hosted to a buffet of predictable fare, I enjoyed a lobster roll, and my husband chose carne asada. In my opinion, one thing that could be improved was the tram service to the Yacht Club’s private area. We were told the last tram back was 3:30pm if we didn’t want to trek a 15-minute walk in the heat. Since we were docked in Ocean Cay for the evening and weren’t sailing, I was a bit dismayed by this logistical quirk. I felt like I was keeping an eye on my phone to make sure I didn’t miss the last tram.

You have private areas with curated food and drink and outdoor spaces

Within the Yacht Club complex, there’s the Yacht Club Restaurant, Top Sail Lounge and the One Pool Buffet, which are all exclusive to Yacht Club guests. Obviously, the food and service are steps above other dining venues of the ship, I can vouch for that. Although the food is delicious, if you don’t want to pay extra to dine at the specialty restaurants or fuss in the main buffet, eating three meals a day in the Yacht Club restaurant can get a bit monotonous. The breakfast is the same daily, and lunch and dinner offer a menu with daily specials plus a few standby selections like a hamburger or pasta each day. Although the Yacht Club Restaurant concept is desirable, I would strongly suggest dining in other venues on board, especially for dinner. I thoroughly enjoyed specialty dining in Ocean Cay Restaurant, Butcher’s Cut, and Kaito Teppanyaki. I also want to mention that late afternoon high tea is offered daily at the Yacht Club Restaurant. It was one of the nicest I have experienced at sea.

Also available exclusively to Yacht Club passengers is the Top Sail Lounge, which offers panoramic water views and has chef-curated selections from morning through late night. We enjoyed popping into the lounge at all hours to try finger foods and sweets. The One Pool Buffet offers a more casual option for breakfast and lunch by the pool. The buffet has grilled fish, sandwiches and lots of delicious options if you want to dine outside.

There’s also an exclusive area with a private pool and two whirlpools for Yacht Club guests only. The sun deck loungers are very comfortable and I never had to worry about finding a lounger, there are ample. One issue I had was that there was almost no shade on the sun deck; there were shaded day beds for Royal Suite and Owners Suite guests, but beyond those, I couldn’t find any shade, which was disappointing.

You can justify the price at the end of your cruise

Overall, the best way to explain my enthusiasm for my MSC Yacht Club experience is this: it’s better to book an interior stateroom in the Yacht Club than a luxe cabin outside the Yacht Club. It’s worth the splurge and you return home feeling truly pampered and it’s money well-spent. And I make this prediction: Once you try a ship-within-a-ship concept like the MSC Yacht Club, you won’t want cruise any other way. Bon Voyage!

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

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• MSC Cruises

Aurea vs Yacht Club

By wdwcoltsfan , August 28, 2018 in MSC Cruises

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wdwcoltsfan

I have cruised several times, but new to MSC. I am trying to find the differences between Aurea and YC. I can get a little info on the MSC website, but not all of it loads.

We are looking at an itinerary on the Seaview out of Cannes that has no sea days, so wondering which would be the best choice.

Happy Cruising!

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YC is a far superior 'Experience' to Aurea. It's in a separate area to the rest of the ship. It has a dedicated restaurant where you choose the time you'd like to dine with better cuisine; lounge, where snacks are available all day, including items specifically for light breakfasts and lunches; pool deck with grill serving breakfast and lunch, should you choose not to go to the restaurant, along with concierge and butler service. Included is access to the Spa thermal area and the Deluxe all-inclusive drinks package, with only Super Premium drinks being excluded. Mini-bar and room service items, including pizza, are also included. Priority disembarkation at ports and for tenders is also included.

Aurea cabins are within the main ship area. You get a massage, access to the Spa thermal area and private sundeck and MyChoice dining in one of the MDRs. You also get the basic all-inclusive drinks package.

Both get priority boarding, with YC guests being escorted onboard by a butler.

kodesthemoose

On the itinerary we booked (seaview, 2019, no sea days) YC was not much more than Aurea so we went with YC. Private restaurant/lounge/pool really sold it. I don't really need the butler service, but the top sail lounge looks amazing, and seems like a great place to unwind after long port days. We have kids, so any port day is going to feel long. (I think we will actually choose a couple of days to just hang out on the ship).

Aurea benefits include a massage for two. I hate massages, so I don't mind giving that up.

YC is sold out for our dates and I think we got one of the last suites when I booked a month or two ago. We were originally going to do Haven on NCL, but made the switch because of price - and YC seems the most similar to Haven.

joeyjeremiah

you may want to look at

https://www.msccruisesusa.com/en-us/compare-experiences.aspx

https://www.msccruises.com/en-gl/Discover-MSC/MSC-Yacht-Club.aspx

Aurea gives you a free massage (2 per cabin), classic all inclusive drink package, any time dining in the main dining room, access to the adults only sun deck

Yacht club gives you deluxe drink pkg, access to the yacht club restaurant, access to the yacht club pool and sun deck, yacht club you have access to a concierge and you have a butler.

Both give you priority boarding and access to the thermal suite

that's just a brief summary of the differences between them. So it really depends on you as to which one you will prefer more. Last year on the divina we were in aurea and upgraded our drink pkg but we were sailing with other people so we didn't want to be in yacht club so we could all spend time together so instead opted for the massages with aurea. I've never cruised yacht club so can't comment on it personally.

Having experienced both YC and Aurea, I would highly recommend the former over the latter. There's really no comparison.

Happy Cruiser 6143

Well, I tried to book YC for a last-minute cruise. They would not let me book it as a single even though there were three YC1s available at the time. Ended up booking an Aurea suite. So will get to compare the two when I take my next YC cruise.

:) This is a question those of us who have sailed YC but not Aurea are never going to be able to answer. Never going to sail anything less than YC. :)

Thanks for the responses! This is very helpful. It pretty much confirms what I was thinking—YC is worth it. We are going for hubby’s birthday and the private areas sound relaxing and enjoyable for this cruise.

YC is the way to go.

So YC includes the room service pizza at no extra cost??? Even better!

According to reports I've read on here, it's even better than what's served in the buffet (as I don't eat pizza, I can't offer an opinion on the subject).

Best Cat Mom

We ordered the pizza via YC room service. Hot and delicious! I am gluten free so I ate the toppngs off of my husband's pizza and never had any adverse reaction, either. I had heard it was good and took the chance -- no regrets at all. :)

For ships that offer both the Y/C and Aurea there is no comparison, Y/C is the way to go if pricing doesn't hold you back on selection. However MSC has plenty of ships that the Y/C experience isn't available so the next best thing is Aurea. We will be on the Opera come May and we had no choice except the Aurea.

GOLDENBONNY

I have cruised several times, but new to MSC. I am trying to find the differences between Aurea and YC. I can get a little info on the MSC website, but not all of it loads.       We are looking at an itinerary on the Seaview out of Cannes that has no sea days, so wondering which would be the best choice.     Happy Cruising! Rachel

I would not book YC in Europe for simple reason we never on board . We leave first thing in morning and come back close to departure. Most of breakfasts and all lunches we ate in ports ,we simply can not skip food in Italy and Spain LOL .If you cruise in summer, so probably less people in YC is a good thing,but if its in April you would not care. .Just see what YC offer and how much of it you will use during your cruise.

sverigecruiser

For us it's the opposite! We are much more onboard in Europe than in the Caribbean!

That's what I am talking about. We all have different needs. I am in Canada and the only reason I go to Europe its to see it,to go local restaurants for beautiful food we don't have on this side of Pound , to see historical places. On Caribbean I have no problem to stay on board in some ports .

For me a cruise is mostly about the ship and not very much about the ports. When we cruised last year we stayed on the ship in Marseille and Naples. In the Caribbean we stay on the ship in Nassau.

We have selected Aurea for our next cruise aboard the Meraviglia simply because we were very interested in one of the new Aurea Duplex Suites. The cost between this type of accommodation and an entry level YC suite were almost the same. But we are traveling with small children, and having a larger loft type suite with a separate bedroom on the second floor, dining table, sitting area, and a large forward facing balcony with a private hot tub, not to forget 2 bathrooms, one in each floor, seemed like the wiser choice for the needs of our family. I feel that it will be great to unwind in our loft suite after a long day of exploration rather than being crammed into a smaller suite for the sake of YC benefits.

With that said, if only my wife and I were traveling, most likely I would’ve selected a YC suite!

Sent from my iPhone using Forums

We have selected Aurea for our next cruise aboard the Meraviglia simply because we were very interested in one of the new Aurea Duplex Suites. The cost between this type of accommodation and an entry level YC suite were almost the same. But we are traveling with small children, and having a larger loft type suite with a separate bedroom on the second floor, dining table, sitting area, and a large forward facing balcony with a private hot tub, not to forget 2 bathrooms, one in each floor, seemed like the wiser choice for the needs of our family. I feel that it will be great to unwind in our loft suite after a long day of exploration rather than being crammed into a smaller suite for the sake of YC benefits.   With that said, if only my wife and I were traveling, most likely I would’ve selected a YC suite!     Sent from my iPhone using Forums

I really do love the wide array of options MSC has.

That sounds great for your family!

I am excited for my first solo cruise on MSC Seaside in a YC inside. I am platinum on NCL and solo in their Haven starts about twice that!

Just a point to note the Aurea does not come with an Adult only sun deck and certainly not on Seaside.

Not an “adults only” sun deck per se, but Aurea does offer access to a private sun deck exclusive to Aurea guests. Can’t comment on the Seaside, but on the Meraviglia, the private sun deck is located at the top of Deck 19.

Hi Tapi ... Long time no see, MSC realised that they would find it difficult to stop parents taking their kids to the Aurea sundeck as they were staying in Aurea cabins! we saw a few last Xmas and in April on Seaside but there was no issue with any of them though I have read on here and on other forums of people complaining about kids in the YC.

CelebrationFamily

We have selected Aurea for our next cruise aboard the Meraviglia simply because we were very interested in one of the new Aurea Duplex Suites. The cost between this type of accommodation and an entry level YC suite were almost the same. But we are traveling with small children, and having a larger loft type suite with a separate bedroom on the second floor, dining table, sitting area, and a large forward facing balcony with a private hot tub, not to forget 2 bathrooms, one in each floor, seemed like the wiser choice for the needs of our family. I feel that it will be great to unwind in our loft suite after a long day of exploration rather than being crammed into a smaller suite for the sake of YC benefits.   With that said, if only my wife and I were traveling, most likely I would’ve selected a YC suite!     This is us, exactly. We'll be first time MSC cruisers in March on the Meraviglia. We're sailing with our son, so the Duplex Suite, with it's extra bathroom and hot tub balcony sold us on aurea, rather than YC. Fingers crossed that we don't regret that decision! :cool:

We have booked the YC for June 2019 on the Seaview out of Rome. I can't wait! Thanks for all of the insight!

SweetsugarNL

We have booked the YC for June 2019 on the Seaview out of Rome. I can't wait! Thanks for all of the insight!     Happy Cruising! Rachel

May i ask what price you paid for it?

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This Brand-new Ship Has One of the Largest Yacht Clubs in Its Fleet, Endless Adventure, and a Glass-bottomed Bridge

MSC Seascape just set sail — here's what it's like on board.

Christine Burroni

The MSC Seascape may share many similar — or even identical — features with its predecessors, but when it comes to luxury, the fleet’s newest vessel certainly leveled up. The new ship sailed on its inaugural journey with guests from Rome to New York City this past weekend and will go on to sail out of Miami to the Caribbean for future trips.

While the European cruise line has become known for its luxury ship-within-a-ship concept, called Yacht Club , the Seascape boasts one of its largest clubs with 131 suites — with five categories to choose from — taking up 32,000 square feet. Located at the front of the ship, most exclusive Yacht Club spaces, like the private dining area or pool deck, are afforded sweeping ocean views.

Courtesy of MSC Cruises

In addition to a private restaurant with a regularly changing menu, and both indoor and outdoor lounge space, passengers who make a Yacht Club reservation are treated to expedited embarkation, 24-hour butler and concierge service, and access to the spa’s Thermal Suite where a sauna, steam room, and whirlpool awaits. Members will also have access to the ship's Top Sail Lounge for coffee, tea, and light bites at any time of day.

Yacht Club guests also enjoy the ship's premium drink package, an unpacking or packing service, a morning newspaper delivery of their choice, and the ability to select a specific pillow for customized comfort.

Sailing the blue water of the Caribbean while tucked in a super-exclusive setting may seem exceptionally relaxing, but the MSC Seascape also offers just the opposite for those looking for a bit of an adrenaline rush — with an extreme thrill ride and virtual reality experiences.

Adrenaline junkies can take a ride on the ship's Robotron , an attraction unique to the ship that will bring riders nearly 175 feet above water and flip upside down, moving in all directions to offer unobstructed 360-degree views. 

Those looking to keep their feet on the ground can still get their adventure fix with a walk across the Bridge of Sighs, a 72-foot-high glass-bottomed bridge.

The MSC Seascape is also home to a variety of virtual reality experiences. Riders can choose from Formula 1 racing, a flight simulator, and motorcycle riding.

“ MSC Seascape is an exciting addition to our fleet of Seaside Class ships with its elevated onboard experiences that will surprise and delight all ages," Ruben Rodriguez, President, MSC Cruises USA exclusively told Travel + Leisure. " From one of the largest and most luxurious Yacht Clubs in our fleet to interactive, high-tech experiences like the first Robotron at sea and immersive VR experiences, MSC Seascape brings unparalleled entertainment and thrills to our guests.”

Elsewhere on board, the ship’s interior is very similar to that of MSC’s other vessels, like the line's one-year-old MSC Seashore, including its Times Square–inspired décor, Swarovski crystal–adorned staircases, and Atrium space where live entertainment takes place.

Fans of the ship's fleet will also recognize its signature restaurants including Butcher's Cut steakhouse, Ocean Cay seafood restaurant, and more. Its lively sports bar is the perfect spot to catch any game around the world — and there are 18 other bars and lounges on board, some of which offer live music.

MSC Seascape journeys set sail from Miami to the Caribbean where passengers can visit the company's private Bahamas island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.

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MSC Yacht Club

Welcome to a world of ultimate luxury at the MSC Yacht Club. Accessible only by key card, guests will enjoy lavishly appointed accommodations and refined service, private dining, lounge and pool areas, free drink package, access to the Thermal Suite, and more exclusive benefits. Discover a ship within a ship, a place where you can savor exclusivity and privacy in a world of choice. Indulge in the luxury of a private club while enjoying access to a myriad of recreation and entertainment possibilities that the ship has to offer. Lavishly appointed suites, exclusive 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge are just the beginning of these exclusive cruise experiences. The MSC Yacht Club also boasts a range of superb private areas, from the elegant Top Sail Lounge, stylish restaurant, and the One Pool Deck complete with private swimming pool, whirlpool baths, sun deck and bar.

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*Terms and Conditions

Cruise Privileges Program Cruise Privileges Program (“CPP”) benefits are valid only for new CPP bookings made with participating cruise lines through American Express Travel. CPP benefits are valid only for eligible U.S. Consumer and Business Platinum and Centurion ® Card Members (Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Card Members are not eligible). CPP bookings must be made using the eligible Card. CPP benefits are non-transferable. Participating cruise lines and program benefits are subject to change. The benefits of an onboard credit and amenity are valid for new CPP bookings of at least five nights and require double occupancy; the eligible Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked; the total cost of the CPP booking must be paid using an American Express ® Card in the eligible Card Member's name. Onboard credits and amenities cannot be combined with other offers unless indicated; blackout dates, category and fare restrictions may apply. Onboard credits and amenities may not be available to residents outside of the 50 United States. Onboard credits and amenities apply per stateroom, with a three-stateroom limit per eligible Card Member, per cruise. For new CPP bookings with Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International, eligible Card Members receive an onboard credit (in USD) of: $100 for inside and outside staterooms, $200 for balcony, verandah, and mini-suite staterooms, and/or $300 for suites. For new CPP bookings with Cunard, eligible Card Members receive an onboard credit (in USD) of: $300 for all Queen Mary ocean-view staterooms category EF or higher, and/or Queen Victoria or Queen Elizabeth ocean-view staterooms category FA or higher. For new CPP bookings with Ama Waterways, Oceania, Regent, Azamara, Seabourn, Silversea, Uniworld, Windstar and Explora Journeys, eligible Card Members receive an onboard credit of US$300 for all stateroom categories. For new CPP bookings, Centurion Members receive an additional US$200 onboard credit on Explora Journeys, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, Seabourn, and Silversea. Onboard credits will be applied at checkout upon completion of the cruise; credit amounts in local currency may vary due to foreign exchange rates; credits are subject to cruise line terms and policies; credits cannot be used for casino charges, gratuities, or other similar charges. Any unused portion of a credit is non-refundable and is not redeemable for cash. Other restrictions may apply. Onboard amenities vary by participating cruise line and are not available on Silver Explorer, Silver Galapagos, and Silver Discoverer. Onboard credits and amenities are not available on Celebrity Cruises Galapagos sailings.

Extra Membership Rewards ® points: CPP-eligible Card Members that are Membership Rewards program-enrolled will receive one (1) extra Membership Reward ® point per eligible dollar spent on new CPP bookings made with participating cruise lines through American Express Travel; separate airfare and other charges associated with such bookings are not eligible. CPP bookings must be made using the eligible Card (described above). The extra points will be credited to the Card Member’s Membership Rewards account 8-12 weeks after completion of the CPP cruise. For more information visit membershiprewards.com/terms .

Platinum Destinations ® Vacations Platinum Destinations ® Vacations (“PDV”) benefits are valid only for new bookings made with participating suppliers through American Express Travel. Participating suppliers and PDV benefits are subject to change. Benefits cannot be combined with other offers unless indicated. Benefits are valid only for eligible U.S. Consumer and Business Platinum and Centurion ® Card Members (Delta SkyMiles ® Platinum Card Members are not eligible). PDV bookings must be made using the eligible Card and eligible Card Member must be traveling on the itinerary booked. PDV-eligible Card Members that are Membership Rewards program-enrolled will receive one (1) extra Membership Reward ® point per eligible dollar spent on PDV bookings; separate airfare and other charges associated with PDV bookings are not eligible. Extra points will be credited to the Card Member’s Membership Rewards account within 8-12 weeks after completion of the PDV travel. For more information visit membershiprewards.com/terms.

Membership Rewards Program Terms and Conditions for the Membership Rewards ® program apply. Visit membershiprewards.com/terms for more information. Participating partners and available rewards are subject to change without notice.

The value of Membership Rewards points varies according to how you choose to use them. To learn more, go to www.membershiprewards.com/pointsinfo .

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21 Important Things to Know About MSC Cruise

A re you going on a cruise on MSC cruise? Here are some essential cruise tips and important things to know about MSC cruises that will help you maximize your cruise vacation.

Texting is free at MSC Cruise! You can text for free via the MSC Cruise app chat feature. The best part is you don’t even have to be subscribed to their WiFi plan. You can just connect to their free MSC WiFi hotspot to access the cruise app for texting. It’s a great feature to have so you can easily communicate and make plans with family and friends during your cruise. The only downside is that they won’t let kids join the chat feature for privacy reasons so my 12 year old son was always left out of the family group chat. 

White Party

Don’t forget to pack your white outfit for the White Party on MSC. The White Party is a well-loved event on MSC cruises. 

On the night of the White Party, you’ll spot a lot of people dressed in white for dinner. This popular event takes place on the pool deck after dinner. The atmosphere is fun and family-friendly, with black lights making your white clothes glow. 

The cruise staff even organizes group dances to get everyone up and dancing. While it’s not mandatory to wear white, joining in the fun adds to the experience. Besides, it’s the perfect opportunity to capture a family photo after dinner, with everyone decked out in white attire.

Dinner Assignment

At MSC Cruise, you will receive your table, restaurant, and dining time assignment on the first day of your cruise. This information will be printed on your cruise key card. 

If you’re not happy with your dinner assignment, you should go to the designated food and beverage staff on the first day, who will handle any changes.

Main Dining Room

When you board the ship, find out which dining rooms have three seatings. You want to be seated in the dining room with only two seatings; otherwise, you will feel rushed during dinner. 

If you end up being assigned to the dining room with three seating areas, see if you can switch to another dining room on the first day.

It’s Not all Pizza and Pasta

You’ve probably read reviews praising the pizza and pasta on MSC cruise ships since it’s an Italian cruise line. While the pizza and pasta are undeniably good (the lasagna is even better than the pizza), you’ll also find a range of sophisticated food options on MSC cruises. 

Some of the stand-out dishes on MSC cruises are braised short ribs, osso bucco, fried calamari, Japanese karaage chicken, Caprese salad, shrimp cocktail, French onion soup, and vegetable spring rolls. 

Make sure you have cake for dessert at your next MSC cruise! Their cakes have been consistently delicious. 

The carrot cake is delicious, and the Grandma’s Chocolate cake is amazing.

Delicious Caesar Salad

The Caesar salad on MSC Meragvilia is amazing. It’s, without a doubt, the best Caesar salad I’ve ever had on any cruise ship.

It’s so good that my son, who never eats vegetables, got hooked. He can’t get enough Caesar salad! 

I don’t know if this is unique to MSC Meragvilia or if the Caesar salad is equally amazing on all MSC cruise ships. (I sure hope so!)

Restaurant Menu

Unlike other cruise lines, the restaurant menu at MSC Cruises is not printed. The waiters typically bring a few printed menus, but it’s never enough for everyone at the table. Guests are expected to scan the QR code on their table to access the menu electronically on their phones. 

It’s quite inconvenient. In my experience, we always end up sharing menus, which is not ideal and detracts from the dining experience. Also, not everyone has a phone, especially kids, so you’ll inevitably have to share menus from a tiny cellphone screen!

Free Juices

MSC Cruise serves complimentary lemonade, iced tea, and a selection of juices, including apple, pineapple, and mango. The best part is that these complimentary drinks are available all day, not just during breakfast. You can help yourself to these free beverages from the drink dispenser at the buffet.

Book Shore Excursions in Advance

If you want to save money, you should book your shore excursions in advance. It really is a lot cheaper to book it online on MSC’s website prior to boarding the ship. 

Do know that they close advance bookings two days before sailing. I tried to book the day before, and it didn’t work. So, don’t procrastinate on this. 

Even rentals on Ocean Cay, their private island, are cheaper if you book ahead. For example, if you book an umbrella rental in advance, it’s $19 per day, but if you wait until the cruise, it’s $29 per day.

Keycard on the Door

When checking in, instead of receiving your cruise keycard at the terminal like with other cruise lines, you’ll be directed to your cabin, where your keycards will be hanging on the door.

Cruise Card Kiosks

Before boarding your MSC cruise, you’ll have the option to link your credit card to your cruise card on the MSC cruise website. If you don’t, you can link your credit card on the cruise ship or pay in cash during the cruise. 

If you are worried you will have to stand in line at guest services just to link your credit card, don’t worry. The nice thing about MSC Cruise is you can easily link your credit card to your cabin keycard at the cruise card kiosks located throughout the ship. There is no need to waste your time standing in line at guest services!

MSC Cruise App

Don’t forget to download the MSC cruise app before you board the ship. You can also download it while you’re on the ship, but I think it’s easier and probably faster to do it using your home WiFi. 

The MSC cruise app is a must while you’re on board. It allows you to text other passengers, check your billing statement, and make theater reservations.

Daily Planner

Don’t be surprised if you don’t get a printed daily planner delivered to your cabin every evening. Instead, you’re supposed to use a QR code to access a digital version of the daily planner as a PDF. 

Personally, I find it a bit inconvenient because I’m always searching for the paper with the QR code on it. I really wish they would just print out the daily planner! Or at least give you the option to get a printed daily planner if you want. 

You’ll need to book theater reservations for your cruise. There are three seatings to choose from. 

A cruise staff member will be at the door to scan your cruise card so you cannot sneak into the theater. If you don’t have reservations, you can still watch the show. All you have to do is wait for the staff to leave and go in late. But do know, you will end up with bad seats. 

My advice is to reserve your theater seats for every evening using the MSC cruise app. It’s easy—just do it on the first day, and you won’t have to worry about it again.

You can register for the Kids Club on embarkation day. Complete a registration form, and your child will receive a wristband that they must wear throughout the entire cruise. This only applies to children under 12 years old. 

Those older than 12 don’t need to register and won’t get a wristband. They can just hang out at the teen club, which has video games, board games and foosball.

Adults Only Pool

There is an adults-only pool on MSC cruises. On MSC Meragvilia, the adults-only pool is at the back of the cruise ship. It’s an outdoor pool with a bar, hot tubs and plenty of lounge chairs. 

Do Online Check-In with a Camera

When checking in online for your MSC cruise, make sure to use a computer with a built-in camera. It’s important to have a camera because you’ll be required to take a picture of yourself during the check-in process. 

Also, make sure you are in a well-lit area. The website is very sensitive and will ask you to move to a brighter location to take your photo. 

Also, after completing your online check-in, make sure you have access to a printer so you can print out your cruise documents, which are needed at the cruise terminal on embarkation day. You will also need to print out your luggage tags for your check-in luggage. 

Different Levels

MSC Cruises is quite similar to Norwegian Cruise Lines in terms of having different classes for passengers. For Norwegian, there are haven and non-haven passengers, while MSC Cruise has the Yacht Club and non-Yacht Club passengers. However, MSC Cruise further divides non-Yacht Club passengers into 3 different classes. 

On MSC Cruise, the lowest class is the Bella Experience. This means you pay the cheapest fare, but you can’t select your cruise cabin; it’s like a guaranteed fare. As a Bella passenger, you’ll incur several extra fees, such as additional room service fees.

The next level up is the Fantastica experience, which is the second cheapest cruise fare. The main advantage is being able to choose your cruise cabin in advance. 

For both Bella and Fantastica passengers, the dining room seating is assigned. Upon boarding the cruise ship, you’ll be allocated a restaurant, table, and dining time. I honestly think there is not much difference between Bella and Fantastic Experience.

The next level up is the Aurea experience passenger. Aurea passengers pay more for their cruise but receive premium rooms, such as mid-ship cabins with larger balconies or cabins with jacuzzi in their private terraces. They also have access to the spa thermal area, the solarium, and they get priority boarding. 

The most significant difference is that they have anytime dining, allowing Aurea passengers to eat whenever they want, seated in a less crowded section of the main dining room. If you value the spa experience, then Aurea is worth it, but if not, you’ll be happy as a Fantastica passenger.

One thing to note is that the food menu remains the same for Aurea, Fantastica, and Bella passengers. Aurea passengers also go to the same buffet as Fantastica and Bella passengers.

Finally, the most expensive and most exclusive level on MSC Cruises is the Yacht Club. Yacht Club passengers receive the red carpet treatment, a suite with access to the exclusive Yacht Club restaurant, solarium, and Ocean House beach on Ocean Cay. They experience VIP treatment with a dedicated butler and perks like reserved seats at the theater. Plus, they receive priority embarkation, and everything is included, such as a premium beverage package, high-speed internet, and thermal spa access.

Room Service

If you’re sailing with MSC Cruises, be aware that there is a charge for room service. This is not unique to MSC since many other cruise lines also charge a fee for room service.

Continental breakfast room service is complimentary for Fantastica passengers, but if you order non-continental breakfast items like eggs, omelets, and breakfast meats, you will be charged a room service fee.

For Bella experience passengers, there is a room service charge regardless of whether you order continental or non-continental breakfast. It is much more expensive to order non-continental breakfast. 

If your cruise stops at Ocean Cay, MSC Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas, you shouldn’t miss it! It’s an incredibly beautiful private island, arguably one of the best among cruise line private islands. 

The water is stunning turquoise, and the sand is incredibly soft and white. The island has over seven beaches, ranging from secluded private beaches to the exclusive Ocean House beach for Yacht Club passengers and lagoon-facing beaches. The best part is there is no need for tender boats to get to Ocean Cay; the cruise ship can dock directly at the island!

There’s also a lighthouse on the island, and at night, there is a beautiful evening lighthouse show. If you’re on the starboard side of the cruise ship, you can even catch the lighthouse show from your balcony cabin. Check out 22 Things to Pack in Your Cruise Private Island Beach Bag (Free Packing List)

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MSC PREZIOSA

The classic design of beautifully crafted MSC Preziosa includes spectacular features such as a real stone piazza, sweeping Swarovski crystal staircases and a magical ‘infinity’ pool. There’s all this and more to discover at your own pace on board, enjoying every moment to the full as you voyage to some of the world’s most beautiful destinations.

ITINERARIES

NORTHERN EUROPE

Get ready to dive into one of our pools, let your hair down at the themed parties, treat yourself to something delicious in one of our amazing restaurants, and much more!  

MAin Features

Family & kids.

From the splash-filled fun and games of the Doremi Castle kids’ aqua park and the high-speed thrill of Vertigo, one of the longest water slides on the seas, to the teens-only disco and video arcade, there’s a world of enjoyment for children of all ages.

MSC Yacht Club

The most discerning guests may opt for the secluded luxury of the MSC Yacht Club , a “ship within a ship” consisting of exclusive suites, butler service, and dedicated facilities like a panoramic bar, à la carte restaurant and private pool and sun deck.

MSC Aurea Spa

The award-winning MSC Aurea Spa is a haven of peace and pampering onboard, offering beauty and wellness treatments to melt the tension away. The solarium provides an open-air alternative, for complete relaxation while you soak up the sun.

STATEROOMS & SUITES

From interior and balcony staterooms to staterooms for families and luxurious suites, MSC Preziosa offers a superb choice of elegant accommodations.

• Comfortable king bed that can be converted into two single beds on request
• Sitting area with sofa
• Spacious closet
• Bathroom with shower or bathtub, vanity area and hairdryer
• Interactive TV, telephone, safe and minibar
• Wi-Fi access available ($)
• Approx. 151 - 205 ft 2  with a balcony that is approx. 32 - 129 ft 2   Choose the stateroom type that best suits you: Balcony Aurea (best location, approx. 194 ft 2 , deck 11) Premium Balcony (approx. 194 ft 2 , decks 8 - 13)*  Junior Balcony (approx. 151 ft 2 , decks 9 - 13)  Deluxe Balcony with Partial View (approx. 194 – 205 ft 2 , decks 8 - 13)  * Some staterooms have metal balustrade or half glass half metal balustrade. The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).
• Window with sea view
• Relaxing armchair
• Bathroom with shower, vanity area and hairdryer
• Approx. 129 - 215 ft 2   Choose the stateroom type that best suits you: Premium Ocean View (approx. 215 ft 2 , deck 5)  Deluxe Ocean View (approx. 183 ft 2 , decks 8 - 13) Junior Ocean View (approx. 129 ft 2 , deck 8)  The image is representative only; the size, layout and furniture may vary (within the same stateroom category).

ENTERTAINMENT

From the splash-packed fun and games of the Doremi Castle kids aqua park, to Vertigo, the longest single-rider water slide on the seas, there’s something for everyone from babies to teens.

Bars & Lounges

Dotted around MSC Preziosa you’ll find a variety of chic themed bars and lounges. Serving a mix of classic and original cocktails, international wines and beers, soft drinks and live music, there’s a venue to satisfy every taste and match every mood.

Safari Lounge

Preziosa bar, diamond bar and library, il cappuccino, the green sax jazz bar, el dorado piano bar, galaxy lounge, top sail lounge, turquoise bar, aurea spa bar, phoenician plaza, millennium star casino, la playa preciosa, the one bar, restaurants & buffet.

There’s a gourmet voyage of discovery to enjoy onboard MSC Preziosa, from the ever-changing menus of the main restaurants, creative all-day dining in the Galaxy Lounge and much more.

Butcher's Cut

This American-style steak house serves select Linz Heritage Angus beef, the gold standard in high-end Angus beef thanks to the best genetics in breed. The highest quality product custom cut by master butchers and aged to perfection. The menu is inspired by the great plains and it is accompanied by bold New World wines and cocktails with swagger.

Le Palmeraie

L'arabesque panoramic restaurant, the golden lobster, galaxy kaito.

Ranked by the Berlitz guide as “the best sushi at sea”, this charming venue offers deliciously authentic Asian cuisine prepared on the spot with only the freshest, highest quality ingredients. The menu includes Japanese dishes composed of nigari, sashimi, maki, futomaki, tempura, teriyaki and much more.

Use the deck plans to select your ideal stateroom. The plan allows you to pinpoint the locations, while the colors distinguish the stateroom category.

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• 6. Diamante
• 10. Tormalina
• 13. Ametista
• 14. Smeraldo
• 15. Cristallo
• 16. Acquamarina
• 18. Topazio
• Deluxe Interior
• Junior Ocean View
• Deluxe Ocean View
• Premium Ocean View
• Deluxe Balcony with Partial View
• Junior Balcony
• Premium Balcony
• Deluxe Balcony Aurea
• Deluxe Suite Aurea with Sealed Window
• Premium Suite Aurea
• Grand Suite Aurea
• MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Grand Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Executive & Family Suite
• MSC Yacht Club Royal Suite

B:  Stateroom with bathtub ° Sealed panoramic window. • All staterooms have one double bed convertible to two single beds. • 3rd bed available in all categories except for Junior Interior, Junior Ocean View, Junior Balcony, Junior Suite Aurea with sealed window. • 4th bed available in all categories except for Junior Interior, Junior Ocean View, Junior Balcony, Junior Suite Aurea with sealed window and MSC Yacht Club Deluxe Suite.

• Our ships offer the possibility of combining 2 or 3 connecting staterooms based on the ship class. Call our Contact Center to choose the best accommodation for you. Ship configuration, data and descriptions may be subject to change depending on the season and on the destination and must be verified at the time of booking.

• Gross tonnage: 139,072 tons
• Number of passengers: 4,345
• Crew members: 1,388
• Number of staterooms: 1,751, incl. 45 accessible staterooms
• Length/Beam/Height: 1,094 ft. / 124 ft. post panamax / 222 ft.
• Maximum speed: 24.21 knots

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MSC Cruises

Have you tried snuba? This cruise line's private island offers a unique experience

• Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a private island in the Bahamas owned by MSC Cruises.
• The island was the site of industrial mining of aragonite sand before it was abandoned.
• MSC is restoring the island and has planted 75,000 plants and shrubs and 5,000 trees and palms.

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Kimberly Semien knows how to seize a beach day. The 47-year-old lives far from the sea in Moore, Oklahoma, so when she visited Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in the Bahamas in May, she made the most of it.

Semien, who was on a week-long MSC Cruises sailing with her husband Phillip, spent the day reading under an umbrella, taking naps on the beach and swimming. “This water was crystal clear,” she said. “Like, I could see all the way down to my feet and tell what color my nail polish was.”

She appreciated the simplicity of the destination, which is devoid of the thrill rides and big water slides some other cruise line private islands have. “I could go to ( Six Flags Hurricane Harbor Oklahoma City ) or Frontier City and do the other stuff, but having the ocean, that's something we don't have here, so I take advantage of that,” said Semien, who works as an electric company switchboard operator.

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The focus on nature is intentional. “We don't have huge theme parks, we don't have water parks,” said Ocean Cay Managing Director Andrew Brett. “We're all about the natural beach day experience.” But there’s more to the 103-acre island than what passengers might see at first glance.

Ocean Cay is also the site of scientific work aimed at addressing the impacts of climate change on marine habitats. The island is ramping up educational opportunities for guests in the coming months, offering more than just fun in the sand and sun.

"Sustainable tourism is the way to go," said Brett. It's the future, and I think it's what consumers and our guests want."

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How is MSC restoring Ocean Cay?

The island was the site of industrial mining of aragonite sand before it was abandoned. MSC signed a long-term lease on the island in 2015, with the agreement they would uphold conservation work, and began cleaning it up. The company removed over 7,000 tons of scrap metal and moved 400 hard coral colonies from debris on the ocean bed to a place where they could grow.

The Bahamian government designated Ocean Cay and the surrounding waters a marine reserve in 2020.

Restoring coral reefs at the site is a key focus for the MSC Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the MSC Group, which owns MSC Cruises. Through its Super Coral program, the foundation is growing critically endangered coral to be outplanted within a 64-square-mile area surrounding the island.

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“According to conservation scientists, the key to reversing the rapid decline in coral reefs lies in assisting coral’s natural selection process by establishing certain hardy species and varieties, dubbed ‘Super Coral’, which are more resilient to severe environmental stresses like extreme heat,” the foundation’s website reads.

Marine heat waves caused mass coral bleaching – a sign of stress – and die-offs in the Florida Keys and the Caribbean in 2023. Many of the reefs at Ocean Cay were impacted but have remained “very healthy” overall, according to Dr. Owen O’Shea, Marine Research Program Manager at the foundation.

Those events also provide useful intel. “Essentially, we monitor the reefs here and look for signs of bleaching, disease and increased mortality as part of our holistic marine management, so when we see a reef that has experienced significant bleaching and yet there remains colonies of seemingly healthy and living corals despite what the overall reef has experienced, we then source fragments from these surviving colonies.”

The island’s nursery corals experienced bleaching as well, but 100% survived. “This is evidence – albeit anecdotal – that our selection process for nursery specimens is valid and that our proof of concept is working, that is, selecting for those genotypes that may be exhibiting a greater (adaptation) to increased water temperature,” he said.

MSC also planted 75,000 plants and shrubs and 5,000 trees and palms, 95% of which are native to the Caribbean, in an effort to create a “natural infrastructure,” he added. Native plants can help conserve water, prevent erosion and provide food and shelter for animals.

The team has seen birds return to the island and turtles come back to nest.

“So I think nature is also vindicating that what MSC has done is sustainable in the long term,” O’Shea said.

Last year, marine conservation nonprofit Mission Blue – led by oceanographer Dr. Sylvia Earle – named Ocean Cay a "Hope Spot," a site deemed critical to the ocean’s health. “This recognizes its comprehensive restoration efforts and commitment to protecting marine biodiversity,” Earle said in a video announcement .

What can guests do at Ocean Cay?

MSC largely lets nature do the talking at Ocean Cay, with many activities taking place in or near the water. Visitors can go snorkeling, paddleboarding and kayaking, or play beach soccer and volleyball. Guests can climb a lighthouse that offers sweeping views and a light show at night. Ships stay at Ocean Cay from at least early morning through sunset, and often overnight.

Of course, relaxing beach days are also on the menu, with cabana rentals and loungers available. Guests can also snack on Bahamian cuisine, sip drinks, and visit an on-site shopping village.

Semien and her husband spent their day in an area exclusive to guests of the Yacht Club, MSC’s ship-within-a-ship concept . They also had access to a private restaurant. 

O'Shea noted that the island's walking pathways were also designed to steer people away from sensitive areas so that vacations and conservation efforts could coexist.

What's coming to Ocean Cay? 'We all have a piece to play'

MSC plans to further integrate those in the coming months. A marine conservation center on Ocean Cay will host both working scientists and students, and educational opportunities for guests, with pavilions, coral exhibition tanks and a lecture hall. The facility is expected to be accessible to cruise passengers in March 2025.

While many current tours take place in the water, guests will be able to take a new land-based tour and hear about the island’s transformation, see wildlife like iguanas, pelicans and egrets, and learn about the marine ecosystem beginning later this month (the tour will incorporate a visit to the conservation center upon its completion). Snuba – a cross between scuba diving and snorkeling that doesn’t require certification – will also allow visitors to see corals that are deeper underwater starting in mid-September.

MSC has taken other steps to minimize Ocean Cay’s carbon footprint, such as barring single-use plastics from the island and utilizing mostly solar power. The company added a third solar farm this year as part of enhancements.

And while sustainability is still a work in progress for the cruise industry, including MSC, only the line’s newer, more energy-efficient ships stop at the destination.

When guests visit the management building on the island, Brett said he relishes sharing the details of those efforts with them “and how we all have a piece to play in replenishing the natural world and the environment that we take so much from.”

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

The Key Points at the top of this article were created with the assistance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and reviewed by a journalist before publication. No other parts of the article were generated using AI. Learn more .