There are trips you book… and trips you dream of.
My week aboard MSC World America, departing from Miami and heading to Roatán, Costa Maya, Cozumel and Ocean Cay, was exactly that: a perfect mix of spectacular ship and Caribbean postcard stops.
Here is my logbook, day by day — with practical tips and unmissable highlights.
As soon as you arrive at the port of Miami and see it for the first time, you immediately understand that MSC World America is not just any ship. It’s imposing, futuristic, elegant. But the real surprise is not only the aesthetics: it is the overall experience.
It is a ship designed for the American market, but with the touch of design and European refinement that distinguishes MSC. The spaces are large, airy, bright. Nothing is left to chance.
Two symbolic attractions define the most fun soul of the ship.
A swing suspended in the void that swings beyond the edge of the ship, several bridges high above the ocean.
You literally find yourself swaying in the blue.
Incredible panorama. Heart that accelerates. Memorable experience.
The iconic slide that wraps around the back of the ship.
A scenic spiral structure that connects several bridges: you enter a transparent tube and slide down with an ocean view.
It’s fun, very fast and super Instagrammable.
In the evening, illuminated, it is even more spectacular.
The suspended Ropes Course is perfect for those who like to test themselves. You walk between walkways and obstacles with the sea below you.
The infinity pools, the outdoor promenade, the relaxation areas and the sunbeds overlooking the ocean make every moment outdoors similar to a floating Caribbean resort.
The ship is large, but incredibly well organized: you never perceive confusion and the spaces are intelligently distributed
One of the things that struck me the most was the level of staff.
The service is:
Careful but never intrusive
Friendly but professional
Quick but neat
From waiters in restaurants to bar staff, from pool attendants to cabin stewards, training and attention to detail are perceived.
The staff manages to maintain a perfect balance between American efficiency and Mediterranean warmth.
They call you by name, remember your preferences, are smiling even in moments of greatest attendance.
The cabin is impeccably arranged every day, with almost “luxury hotel” order.
The quality of the food is above the average of many Caribbean cruises.
In the main restaurants:
Specialty restaurants further raise the level:
It’s a ship where you can eat really well.
The shows in the theater are Broadway style, with digital sets, acrobatics and international cast.
There are then:
The ship manages to offer fun without becoming chaotic. The atmosphere is lively but always refined.
For those who want an even more exclusive experience, there is the MSC Yacht Club.
A real “ship in the ship” with:
It is ideal for those who want privacy, silence and ultra-personalized service, without giving up the attractions and the life of the ship.
Before boarding (or on your return) it is worth stopping for at least 2 days. Find out more here.
Miami is pure energy: Latin, colorful, solar.
Perfect days to enjoy:
Authentic and still little built Honduran island.
Unmissable:
Relaxed atmosphere, real nature.
I recommend:
Archaeological site immersed in the jungle, less crowded than Tulum or Chichen Itza but extremely suggestive.
Alternatively:
Cozumel is more touristy but very pleasant.
Tour in the center with shops and murals
Beach club with incredibly transparent water
Snorkeling or diving (among the best in the world)
Perfect for an easy day between sea and cocktails.
Last day for:
The grand finale.
Ocean Cay is an MSC private marine reserve in the Bahamas.
Unreal water, white sand, neat and relaxing atmosphere.
To do:
It’s the perfect way to close the cruise.
This cruise with MSC World America is ideal for those who want a spectacular ship, for those looking for a mix between fun and relaxation, for those who love and alternate Mayan culture with the Caribbean sea, for those who want a luxury experience with Yacht Club
It is a balanced itinerary: 3 different ports, 2 days of navigation, private island.
If I had to summarize it in three words:
Modern, sunny, complete.
If you want to discover an alternative in the Antilles click here.