Fresh from my first two cruises, I’m not (yet) an expert. But, I’d safely call the brand-new MSC World America a unicorn: She brings five-star sophistication, diverse palate-pleasers, uninterrupted zen, world-class talent, adrenaline rushes and uninhibited parties. She really has it all.
The ultramodern, 6,762-passenger MSC World America made her inaugural journey on April 12, 2025, following a glamorous ribbon-cutting by her Godmother, Hollywood star Drew Barrymore.
The thoughtfully refined, family-friendly on-board experience brings completely different vibes through seven neatly compact districts. Building on sister ship, MSC World Europa (est. 2022), MSC World America offers a fusion of elegant European design (think: crystal chandeliers, marble floors and sexy curves) and North American comfort. This means new additions: All-Star Sports Bar, The Loft comedy club and Eataly — the first at sea.
Eataly’s comforting Italian goodness comes with a backdrop of dreamy sea views, lush greenery and an open-concept kitchen. The 94-seat restaurant features a breezy seaside terrace and menu highlights like creamy burrata, Ozaki wagyu beef carpaccio, seafood risotto and roasted suckling pig. Naturally, Eataly’s famous tagliatelle, mandilli and tonnarelli pastas — crafted on board — and pizzas are a given. The indulgent black truffle tagliatelle and a breaded veal chop are exclusive to this Eataly instalment.
Other specialty dining venues include the seafood-forward Paxos Greek Restaurant (which features a fresh fish counter), Kaito Sushi Bar, Kaito Teppanyaki, Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse and Latin street food-inspired spot Hola! Tacos & Cantina. Don’t miss the gelato from the Jean-Philippe Chocolate & Cafe, milkshakes at Sweet Temptations and cotton candy from Promenade Bites (you’re on vacation). Tip: Get to Coffee Emporium and Zest juice bar early to avoid morning lineups.
Twenty bars include Masters of the Sea British pub and microbrewery, which features a new range of beer from brewmaster Teo Musso; The Gin Project, which boasts 20 craft gins and next-level G&Ts; and beloved craft cocktail spot Elixir, which is best experienced on the terrace with its famous strawberry daiquiri in hand. A sultry invite-only speakeasy awaits those who can find it (hint: look for an iconic British symbol).
Each night on board can mean a different vibe — from tequila and tacos, comedy, karaoke and lively casino action to elegant eveningwear, five-star dining, bubbles at Fizz champagne bar, a Dirty Dancing musical and slow dancing to live yacht rock. A bustling bar and high-energy DJ make the main pool the afternoon party spot. Meanwhile, the adults-only Zen Area or the Botanical Garden Pool — with its greenery-covered whirlpools — offer peaceful vibes. Serenity also awaits at Aurea Spa and its stunning thermal suite.
For the luxury-only set, MSC Yacht Club offers an exclusive sanctuary on the boat that's an escape-within-an-escape, with butler service, gourmet private dining, a pool and other perks. But don’t get too comfortable: The ship’s thrilling over-water swing, 11-deck spiral slide, water park and ropes course beckon to offer an unforgettable seaside adrenaline rush that completes a versatile vacation.
