Last summer, I was so excited to take my kids on an MSC family cruise. This wasn’t the first time they had cruised, but it was the first one that they could remember. This vacation was completely funded and researched by my amazing mother; she went on the same cruise with my dad and her parents/siblings the summer before and new this would be a great idea for the kids and I.
Check out everything there is to do on the MSC Meraviglia with Kids.
Why Take a Bahamas Cruise with Kids?
Traveling with kids can feel like a logistical sport—snacks, naps, meltdowns, and the constant question of “are we there yet?” A Bahamas cruise takes the pressure off. Instead of juggling hotels, transportation, and daily planning, everything your family needs is already waiting for you… including the fun.
Booking a MSC Meraviglia with kids cruise to the Bahamas is a stress-free way to explore multiple destinations while providing your family with endless fun and educational opportunities. With the ability to unpack once while visiting beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and exclusive private islands, a Bahamas cruise blends relaxation with adventure for the whole family.
Educational and Cultural Benefits
Children can learn about marine ecosystems during beach stops, explore local cultures in Nassau, and discover maritime history through onboard activities and excursions. These immersive experiences spark curiosity and create valuable learning moments while having fun.
Convenience of Unpacking Once
Unpacking once is a small thing that makes a huge difference. Your cabin becomes a familiar home base where kids know where everything is—favorite pajamas, stuffed animals, bedtime routines. Meanwhile, parents get to enjoy exploring new destinations without repacking suitcases or negotiating bedtime in a new hotel every night.
Access to Kid-Friendly Destinations
From the soft white sand and calm waters of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve to the excitement of Port Canaveral’s family-friendly attractions, each stop feels designed with kids in mind. Think shallow beaches perfect for little swimmers, organized excursions that feel adventurous but safe, and moments where your kids are too busy having fun to ask for screens.
About MSC Meraviglia: What Families Need to Know
The MSC Meraviglia is one of MSC Cruises’ flagship vessels, offering family-friendly amenities, entertainment, and dining designed with kids in mind. With dedicated kids’ clubs, pools, and interactive experiences, the ship provides a perfect blend of structured activities and free play for children while parents relax.
Family-Focused Amenities on Board
MSC Meraviglia is packed with things to do for kids (and honestly, adults too). The Polar Aquapark is a huge hit, with twisting water slides, splash zones, and enough excitement to burn off all that extra dessert energy. Kids can also hang out at the Mini and Junior Clubs or spend time in the arcade, while families can bond over a full-size bowling alley—something we didn’t expect to love as much as we did.
When it comes to pools, there’s truly something for everyone. The main Atmosphere Pool on Deck 15 features two pools and whirlpools and is always buzzing with activity. The Bamboo Pool, also on Deck 15, has a retractable roof, making it perfect whether the weather is sunny or a little cooler (though it does get busy on colder days). For quieter moments and beautiful ocean views, the aft Horizon Pool on Deck 16 is a great spot to relax. There’s even an exclusive saltwater pool in the Yacht Club on Deck 19 for guests staying in that area.
Yes, the pools can get crowded at peak times—especially indoor ones—but there are plenty of loungers, poolside bars, and spots to settle in and enjoy the atmosphere. With family cabins and adjoining room options available, it’s easy for larger families to stay comfortable while taking full advantage of everything the ship has to offer.
Don’t forget to check out the Ultimate Family Packing List for a 7‑Day Summer Cruise to the Bahamas
Kids Clubs and Activities by Age
The ship offers age-specific kids’ clubs, including Baby Club (under 3), Mini Club (3-6), Junior Club (7-11), Young Club (12-14), and Teen Club (15-17). These clubs provide themed activities, arts and crafts, games, and supervised play, ensuring your children can socialize while parents enjoy quiet time or adult-exclusive activities onboard.
Dining Made Easy (and Actually Enjoyable) for Families
One of our favorite surprises on MSC Meraviglia was the dining experience. Instead of feeling rushed or overwhelmed, we kept the same waiter each night, which made meals feel relaxed and familiar. By the second night, they already knew what we liked—and chatting with the same person each evening became part of the fun.
The menu is large enough that everyone finds something they love. Our youngest is a picky eater, and the staff happily made small adjustments, while our oldest loved trying more adventurous dishes and taking recommendations from our waiter. The wine and cocktails (included in the drinks package) were fantastic, and the desserts were genuinely unforgettable—save room if you can.
What really stood out was how thoughtful the service was. The waiters remembered our preferences and offered spot-on recommendations based on what they’d learned about our family, turning dinner into something we actually looked forward to every night.
Itinerary Overview: 7 Nights from New York City
Our 7-night Bahamas cruise on MSC Meraviglia started and ended in New York City, which made planning surprisingly simple—even though we flew in from Ottawa. We booked a shuttle service straight from the airport to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, and honestly, it took a lot of the stress out of arrival day.
Check-in at the terminal was very organized. MSC uses timed entry windows, and sticking to your assigned time really does help keep lines short and things moving smoothly. At check-in, they took our photos and scanned IDs—since we’re Canadian, that meant passports for all of us. Even the kids had their pictures taken for their cruise cards, which they thought was pretty cool (and very official).
The terminal itself was easy to navigate. All the signage was clearly marked, and there were plenty of staff members around to point us in the right direction and guide us through the correct hallways and onto the ship. From start to finish, boarding felt calm, efficient, and family-friendly—exactly what you want before a week at sea.
Ports Visited on the Cruise
- New York City (Brooklyn), New York (embarkation and disembarkation)
- Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida
- Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas
- Nassau, Bahamas
Each port provides unique family-friendly experiences, from beach days on Ocean Cay to exploring NASA’s Kennedy Space Center near Port Canaveral.
Tips for Managing Embarkation with Kids
Arrive at the port early to allow time for security and check-in. Have documents and snacks ready, and bring a small day bag with essentials like swimsuits and sunscreen if you plan to explore the pool on the first day. Explaining the boarding process to your kids can reduce stress and turn embarkation into part of the adventure.
Day 1 & 2: Departure from New York City
Our family adventure aboard MSC Meraviglia kicked off at the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal, and right from the start, the kids were wide-eyed as we sailed past the Statue of Liberty with the New York City skyline behind us—it was such an exciting way to begin our trip!
Best Pre-Cruise Activities in NYC with Kids
If you get into NYC a day early like we did, it’s a great chance to squeeze in some family fun before the cruise. We loved letting the kids run around Central Park, exploring the dinosaur halls at the American Museum of Natural History, and checking out the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. It’s a perfect way to burn off some energy before boarding—and sneak in a little learning along the way.
Boarding Tips and What to Expect
Arrive at your scheduled boarding time with all travel documents ready, including passports and health forms if required. Use the family priority line if available, and pack a carry-on with swimsuits, sunscreen, and snacks so your kids can enjoy the pool or splash zone while waiting for your cabin to be ready.
Exploring the Ship on the First Sea Day
Day 2 of our cruise was a sea day, which was perfect for getting to know the ship. The kids were instant fans of the pools and water slides, and they spent hours exploring the sports complex and trying out the LEGO play areas. We signed them up for age-appropriate kids’ club activities, which gave them a chance to make new friends and burn off some energy. Meanwhile, we snuck away to book specialty dining and a little spa time—finally a moment to relax while the kids settled into their cruise routine.
Day 3: Port Canaveral (Orlando), Florida
Port Canaveral offers families the chance to explore Orlando attractions or enjoy nearby beaches while your MSC Meraviglia with kids itinerary continues to deliver fun and learning opportunities.
Family Excursion Options in Orlando
Depending on your interests and the time available, you can opt for family excursions to Disney World, Universal Studios, or Kennedy Space Center. These excursions are organized to align with the ship’s schedule, providing a seamless day trip to some of Orlando’s top attractions.
Kennedy Space Center…Or Not?
The Kennedy Space Center is definitely on our family’s “must-see” list—it’s full of interactive exhibits, astronaut meet-and-greets, and hands-on STEM activities that kids love. Normally, it would be an awesome outing. But we landed fairly late in the day, around 1 p.m., which meant we’d only have about two hours before closing. With the shuttle ride there and back plus the entrance fees, it didn’t make sense for us to rush through.
Instead, we decided to stay on board and explore the ship while many other families went off on excursions. Honestly, it turned out to be a great choice. The kids enjoyed discovering new corners of the ship, testing out pools and games, and having a relaxed “day at sea” vibe without the usual cruise-day hustle. Sometimes, a slower pace is exactly what everyone needs!
Tips for Returning to the Ship Smoothly
Allow extra time to return from your excursion to ensure you’re back on board before the all-aboard time. Pack water, hats, and sunscreen for your family, and bring small snacks for younger children. Re-entering the ship is straightforward, and staff will assist with strollers and family needs during re-boarding.
Day 4: Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas, designed for a relaxed, family-friendly beach day with safe, clean facilities and educational activities for children.
What Makes Ocean Cay Special for Families
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is everything you want in a tropical getaway—seven pristine beaches spread across two sandy miles, calm turquoise waters, and cabanas everywhere for kicking back in comfort. We rented a cabana at North Beach, complete with umbrella and two chairs, and it was the perfect base for our day. The lagoon there is crystal-clear and super inviting, making it ideal for kids to splash around safely while parents soak in the views.
We also grabbed a floating mat to drift in the water, which was such a hit. We had planned to try the aqua tricycle, but the winds were too strong that day—safety first! Luckily, there are food trucks serving amazing options and bars dotted around the island, so grabbing lunch or a refreshing drink while the family swims is easy.
After exploring North Beach, we took the short path to Bimini Beach to swim in the Atlantic. The water was stunningly clear, and we were lucky enough to spot sea turtles and stingrays—it felt like a real-life nature documentary. The area wasn’t too crowded, and you don’t need a reserved chair to enjoy yourself. A couple of tips from experience: reapply sunscreen often (the water reflects the sun like crazy!) and bring water shoes—Bimini Beach has a rocky shoreline that can be tricky for little feet.
If you’re looking for more serene spots, Paradise Sands Beach is perfect for quiet reflection after a spa session. Lighthouse Bay Beach offers epic views of Ocean Cay’s iconic lighthouse, with beanbags, fire pits, and plenty of seating to get cozy. And if you’re staying in the Yacht Club, Ocean House Beach provides a more upscale, exclusive experience.
All in all, Ocean Cay is easy to navigate, family-friendly, and packed with opportunities for both adventure and relaxation. For us, North Beach and Bimini Beach alone were enough for a full, memorable day in the sun.
Beach Activities and Water Play for Kids
Families can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, kayaking, and sandcastle building on Ocean Cay. The protected waters are perfect for children learning to swim or explore marine life with supervision. Beach toys and snorkeling gear can be rented or brought along for your day on the island.
Eco-Learning Opportunities for Children
Ocean Cay also offers eco-focused activities and ranger-led programs teaching kids about marine conservation and the island’s efforts to protect local wildlife. These activities can help your children learn about coral reefs, marine animals, and the importance of protecting ocean ecosystems while having fun on their beach day.
Day 5: Nassau, Bahamas
On Day 5, your MSC Meraviglia with kids itinerary brings you to Nassau, a vibrant port where families can experience culture, adventure, and beautiful beaches.
Top Family-Friendly Excursions in Nassau
Nassau offers a range of family-friendly excursions including beach days at Blue Lagoon Island, snorkeling adventures, and historical tours of the city. MSC-organized excursions ensure a seamless return to the ship while providing structured, kid-appropriate experiences.
Atlantis Aquaventure with Kids
Consider spending your day at Atlantis Resort’s Aquaventure Water Park, where kids can enjoy slides, lazy rivers, and splash areas. The park’s marine habitats, including aquariums and dolphin encounters, provide educational opportunities paired with fun water play.
Exploring Local Markets Safely
For a cultural experience, visit the Straw Market to browse local crafts and souvenirs. Keep children close in crowded areas, carry small cash for easy purchases, and enjoy a quick taste of local flavors while exploring Nassau’s downtown safely with your family.
Day 6 & 7: Sea Days Back to NYC
The last two days of your MSC Meraviglia with kids cruise are sea days, allowing your family to relax, explore the ship, and enjoy final onboard activities before returning to New York City.
Onboard Entertainment for Kids
Sea days on MSC Meraviglia are packed with ways to keep kids busy—and happy. The kids’ clubs are a hit, with sports competitions, interactive workshops, and themed activities that let children make new friends while having a blast. Meanwhile, adults can sneak in a little downtime knowing the kids are well entertained.
Evenings are another highlight. Every night after dinner, there’s a full Broadway-style show with singing, dancing, and lots of energy—the kids couldn’t get enough. There was also a family-friendly comedian, plus some really unique events like Guinness World Records challenges, where guests could try their hand at breaking a record (we even saw one succeed!).
For families who enjoy a little friendly competition, there’s bingo with cash prizes or even a free cruise up for grabs. The crew is very clear that children can play, but parents must claim any winnings, since it’s technically considered gambling. It’s all part of the fun, and the mix of games, shows, and special activities makes each sea day feel exciting for everyone.
Pool and Water Play Zones
Spend time at the ship’s pools and splash zones, ensuring kids get plenty of active play before heading home. Early mornings and late afternoons are typically less crowded, providing a calmer environment for family water play.
Relaxation Tips for Parents on Sea Days
While kids enjoy the clubs, parents can relax at the spa, attend a cooking class, or enjoy a quiet coffee on deck. Sea days are perfect for unwinding with a book, strolling on the promenade, or enjoying family downtime at the buffet without the rush of excursions.
Returning to New York City: Disembarkation Tips
Your family adventure aboard the MSC Meraviglia with kids concludes as you return to the Brooklyn Cruise Terminal. With some planning, disembarkation can be smooth and stress-free for your family.
What Time to Book Return Flights
To allow for customs and potential delays, it’s best to book return flights from NYC in the afternoon or evening. This provides ample time to disembark, clear immigration, collect luggage, and travel to the airport without rushing your family.
Managing Luggage with Kids
Use the MSC luggage tag system for your checked bags, keeping a day bag with essentials like snacks, entertainment, and travel documents for your kids. Consider using backpacks or small rolling bags for easy navigation through the terminal.
Making the Most of Your Last Morning
Enjoy a final breakfast onboard and let your children say goodbye to the ship and the friends they’ve made during the cruise. Keeping your morning relaxed will help your family transition smoothly from cruise mode back to your travel plans in New York City.
Final Thoughts: Creating Family Memories in The Bahamas
Cruising aboard the MSC Meraviglia with kids is more than just a vacation; it is an immersive learning experience and a chance to create joyful family memories in a stress-free environment. From the thrill of exploring Nassau and the tranquility of Ocean Cay’s beaches to the excitement of onboard activities, your family will discover the beauty of the Bahamas while enjoying comfort, safety, and fun at every stage of your journey.
Whether it’s building sandcastles on a private island, watching the NYC skyline fade into the horizon, or sharing laughter during a family-friendly show on board, these moments will stay with your children for years to come. Your 7-night Bahamas cruise is a perfect way to inspire curiosity, deepen family bonds, and embrace the adventure of travel together.