Set Sail on the Ultimate Family Adventure Aboard MSC's Spectacular World America!

Have you ever dreamed of a family vacation that combines adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable experiences all in one trip? Cruising is a fantastic way to explore iconic destinations, and with MSC's brand-new cruise ship, World America, your family can create memories that will last a lifetime. Departing from vibrant Miami, this state-of-the-art vessel will take you to breathtaking beaches and exciting ports of call, including Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, stunning Roatan in Honduras, and MSC's picturesque private island, Ocean Cay—a haven that also serves as a Marine Conservation Headquarters.

Are you ready for a journey filled with exhilarating adventures and family bonding? Join us as we explore why cruising with MSC offers a uniquely American experience wrapped in timeless European tradition!

For a bit of background, this specific trip included my entire immediate family: my parents, my two siblings, their spouses, my nephew (9 months), my husband, my daughter (1 year and 8 months), and myself.

The Charm of MSC's World America

World America stands out in the world of cruising. It seamlessly blends luxury with a focus on environmental sustainability, making it perfect for families eager for enriching experiences. With features like spacious, modern designs and family-oriented activities, there is something for everyone, from toddlers to grandparents.

Upon boarding, you’ll notice how the ship captures the essence of the sea. Imagine your kids splashing in an expansive splash pad (or pools if they're out of diapers) while adults participate in cooking classes or attend wellness sessions. The ship's diverse entertainment options include interactive games, live performances, and educational workshops that make learning fun!

The MSC World America docked in Cozumel

Destinations that Inspire Adventure

Miami: The Starting Point

Miami is a fantastic launchpad for your cruise adventure. With its iconic skyline, diverse culture, and beautiful beaches, the city has something for everyone.

Be sure to explore local favorites like the vibrant Wynwood Walls, an outdoor museum showcasing stunning street art. For families traveling with young children, the Miami Children’s Museum offers hands-on exhibits that spark curiosity. Did you know that Miami’s South Beach attracts over 10 million visitors annually? It’s a great place to soak up the sun before your cruise begins!

Our group stayed at the Holiday Inn Miami Beach-Oceanfront by IHG. It’s a slightly older property but very clean and family-friendly. We spent the days leading up to our embarkation hanging out by the pool. There’s a beach just steps across a path behind the property. This hotel is also just three lots down from the iconic Fontainebleau Miami Beach. We visited their beach bar, La Côte, which was a very cool experience.

Costa Maya, Mexico

As our journey continued to Costa Maya, we enjoyed incredible views, especially of Cuba and clear turquoise waters. This destination is a family-friendly paradise, perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

Families can visit the ancient Mayan ruins of Kohunlich, where kids can stand in awe of structures that have stood for centuries. I visited the ruins when I was much younger (in 2011, when I was 11 years old). My older siblings and I still remember our tour guide pulling off a piece of tree bark and telling us it was used to make gum. Fourteen years later, we still talk about this excursion. For a splash of adventure, consider a snorkeling excursion in the world-famous Mesoamerican Reef, home to 500 species of fish and vibrant coral. With thrilling options like these, you can turn an ordinary day into an extraordinary one.

Costa Maya also has a beautiful cruise port that my family and I never left. Don’t get me wrong—excursions can be amazing, especially if you’re very interested in them. We just had two small children in our group, so our options were limited. There are several bars, including a swim-up bar, multiple pools, numerous shops, and a beach area. The beach area does not have ocean access. We rented a cabana in the beachy area for $100 cash, and it was the best decision. The cabana’s seating was the size of a twin bed, so the kids could play or crawl around, and when nap time came, they had a breezy bed to lie on.

Port Tip: There is a pool not shown on the map. If you walk through the gelato shop or around to the perimeter, you can reach a more secluded pool. Most people don’t know about this area, especially because it’s not advertised or on the port map, but it still has pools, a bar/restaurant, and lounging areas without the crowds from the ship.

Costa Maya Port Map

Roatan, Honduras

Roatan is a gem of the Bay Islands. Known for its pristine coral reefs, it offers great opportunities for snorkeling, diving, or simply relaxing on beautiful beaches.

Why not experience the island from above? Families can take a thrilling canopy tour and zip-line through lush green treetops, enjoying breathtaking views of the landscape below. Or visit Gumbalimba Park, where you can encounter local wildlife like monkeys, sloths, and parrots. According to tourism statistics, Roatan sees an average of 1.5 million visitors each year, drawn to its natural beauty and fun activities. In Roatan, there’s an excursion where you can see monkeys and sloths. People used to be able to hold these animals, but as of April 1, 2025, this is no longer allowed. My sister-in-law’s favorite animal is a sloth, and they really wanted to do this excursion, but after learning you could no longer hold them, they decided not to go.

The port in Roatan is completely redone and absolutely great. We spent all our time at the far-left bar on the map, called Blue Parrot. Our daughter fell asleep in her stroller and slept the entire time we were in port. She woke shortly after boarding the ship, which meant it was time for the splash pad. Back to the port itself, though—Blue Parrot was the farthest point from the entrance/exit, but it was well worth the 5-7 minute walk after getting off the ship. It was recommended to us by a port worker because of the breeze it gets. He said most people stop early and crowd those bars. Blue Parrot was very open. It was right next to a shallow pool, so you could sit at your table and watch your children splash around, just a couple of feet away. It also had amazing views of the ship.

View of the Revamped Port in Roatan from the Stateroom.

Cozumel, Mexico

Cozumel is a cultural hotspot packed with activities perfect for families eager to dive into local traditions. You can visit the San Gervasio ruins, where children can learn about Mayan history while exploring fascinating archaeological sites.

Water sports abound in Cozumel! Families can snorkel in the crystal-clear waters or kayak along the coast. Local markets offer a taste of Mexican culture, with fresh tacos and handcrafted souvenirs.

Something I didn’t know about the Cozumel port, despite all my research, was that there are two ports: the main port and an alternate one. We were at the alternate port, so my research went out the window. However, I loved this port. We got off the ship, walked down the pier, and were instructed to go up the stairs (or take a very scary elevator with our stroller). After that, you walk across a bridge and end up at the beginning of a two-story, U-shaped complex with many stores and a couple of bar/restaurant options. The stores included jewelry, souvenirs, ice cream shops, and handmade items like magnets, Christmas ornaments, and wooden surfboards with popular logos.

At the port, we made our way downstairs to a spot called Alberto’s. We had the best time. Again, our daughter was napping, which gave us a good reason to get off the ship. (My brother’s family and my parents did not disembark.) This port has no pools or activities for children. Alberto’s was great—we stayed there for a couple of hours, hanging out and having some beers. After that, we headed to the famous Señor Frog’s for one beer before returning to the ship. We had a great time there as well. After that one beer, the five of us got back on the ship and headed into a sea day.

Ocean Cay: A Private Island Paradise

Our cruise concluded on a high note at Ocean Cay. This MSC private island is dedicated not only to relaxation but also to environmental awareness.

With over 2 miles of stunning beaches, families can soak up the sun or try various water sports. Ocean Cay offers eco-friendly activities designed to teach kids about marine life. Here, they can see vibrant coral reefs and even participate in conservation efforts, nurturing a love for our oceans.

Ocean Cay is very long and still under construction, but it’s not noisy and doesn’t hinder your experience in any way. My mom booked a cabana for the whole family, located on Bimini Beach, which is on the opposite side of the island from where the ship is docked. It was a 10-minute walk, but well worth it. This beach has an unobstructed view of the ocean. Most other cabana or seating options are in a lagoon or face the other side of the beach.

The cabana was very nice, with a long couch, two chairs, tables, and a cooler. One thing many people with cabanas weren’t aware of was that the four lounge chairs in front of the cabana are also included in the rental. Workers on the island say that people taking these chairs is a big problem—they’ll walk up, steal them, or even sit on them right outside your cabana. So, know that those lounge chairs are yours.

Welcome Point on Ocean Cay, an environmentally conscious paradise for families

Creating Unforgettable Memories

Family trips are all about creating lasting memories, and World America offers countless ways to do just that. With activities designed for all ages, your days aboard will overflow with laughter and joy.

From Broadway-style shows to themed family games, there’s something for every preference. The culinary offerings are equally impressive, featuring a blend of international options and local flavors to satisfy even the pickiest eaters. Imagine enjoying a delicious meal while sharing stories of your day’s adventures.

Your Next Family Adventure Awaits

Your experience aboard MSC's World America is set to redefine family travel. With stunning itineraries, engaging experiences, and a commitment to sustainability, this cruise stands out from typical family vacations.

Whether exploring ancient ruins in Costa Maya, zip-lining in Roatan, or basking on the sun-kissed shores of Ocean Cay, you and your family are bound to create memories that will stay with you forever. So, are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? Get on board and let the journey begin!

Contact me today to start planning your next adventure! I am a travel advisor who works strictly on commission, which means you pay absolutely nothing for my services! My email is veronicamonettetravel@gmail.com.