Article by Michelle Gordon

As a mother, creative entrepreneur, and someone deeply invested in creating beautiful experiences for families, I recently had the honour of being a guest on the maiden voyage of MSC World America. 

Mine was a front-row, ocean view seat to the future of family travel… and at the end of my short 3-day journey, I’m sufficiently impressed.

We began at MSC’s brand new state-of-the-art cruise terminal in Miami, that honestly feels more like a chic airport lounge than a typical port. Eye scans and smiles were the order of the day as the newest high-tech check-in systems and seamless boarding set the tone for my trip ahead. 

I literally cruised on board while humming along to Freddie McGregor’s hit song ‘Big Ship Sailing‘.Now, the ship is big. Humongous, actually—22 decks and can accommodate up to 6,762 guests. That’s a lot of people, but at no time did I ever feel lost at sea (pun intended). 

MSC World America is among the largest cruise ships in the world, and I was particularly impressed with its bold blend of luxury and innovation. MSC’s commitment to environmental responsibility is a promise, and while I read about it in their brochures, I actually saw it.

MSC World America is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), one of the cleanest marine fuels available today, which means reduced carbon emissions and a quieter, smoother ride.

But while I couldn’t see the inner workings of the engine room, I did notice the thoughtful details—digital check-in processes, refillable water stations and smart lighting systems that conserve energy. The ship invites guests to explore the world in a way that honours and helps to preserve it. For me, as a mother who has always thought about the world we’re leaving behind, that commitment felt personal.

Celebrity endorsements and family focus

Actor Orlando Bloom and child star Drew Barrymore star in MSC’s new campaign, where elevated European style meets laid-back American ease. It’s a perfect balance of timeless elegance without the stiffness, and family-friendly luxury that knows how to have fun—a seamless reminder that travel can be both refined and real.

Now, if you remember Drew Barrymore, she endeared herself to the world as the quintessential ‘cutie pie’ next door in American films. Today, as the multi-faceted ‘BossMom’ that she is, she speaks candidly on the value of creating a safe, nurturing space for her children, something she’s been intentional about building in her own journey as a parent.

Drew was named the ‘godmother’ of MSC World America, and brings a grounded and refreshingly honest perspective to parenting.

In speaking about the unique experience of cruising, she described it as an opportunity to “scaffold as a parent”—to support, structure, and share in your children’s growth while also allowing room for your own joy and reset. 

Her approach to motherhood embraces both presence and grace—a gentle reminder that it’s okay to hold space for yourself, to grow independently of your children, without ever forgetting who you are to them or who you are to you.

That balance, between showing up for others and returning to yourself, is exactly what makes family travel on a ship like MSC World America so impactful. Her perspective underscores a broader message – one that I subscribe to wholeheartedly, that taking time for oneself and one’s family isn’t a luxury, but a necessity. By embracing opportunities that foster connection and growth, parents can create lasting memories and a strong foundation for their children’s development.

Something for everyone

It didn’t take me too long to realise that MSC World America is designed with all kinds of families in mind.

• For parents travelling with children, the Kids’ Club is a dream come true. It’s more than 10,000 square feet of daily activities tailored by age group. Staffed by trained caregivers, it offers themed playrooms and sports tournaments. For the parent needing to catch their breath and enjoy quiet time, knowing your child is supervised and having fun, is a gift in itself.

• For families looking to reconnect, the onboard attractions include waterparks and bumper cars, to a full roller-skate arena. The Cliffhanger is perfect for any daredevils in the family, and is a fun way to keep you on the edge of excitement. A great opportunity for bonding.

• For teens, dedicated hangout zones and interactive lounges strike the perfect balance between independence and safety.

• And for mothers travelling solo, like I was, this cruise became a beautiful act of self-care. I watched the sun rise and set over endless blue waters. I danced at the beach party without inhibition, and I dined alone and savoured every bite. And somewhere on that journey, I found joy in my own company.

A sustainable island escape

Our stop at Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island in The Bahamas, was really a beautiful example of environmental restoration. It used to be an industrial site, but now, with vision and expertise, the island has been transformed into a protected marine reserve, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature.

The beaches are absolutely pristine, and the water is beyond blue.

Families can relax, snorkel among coral reefs, explore marine life, or participate in educational conservation activities.

A vision for the Caribbean

As a proud Jamaican and passionate advocate for family empowerment, I couldn’t help but think about the incredible potential for a collaboration between MSC Cruises and Caribbean communities. 

When MSC World America docks in the Caribbean, the ripple effect of that big ship on the shore is an economic engine. I looked into the numbers, and in Jamaica alone, cruise tourism for the 2023/2024 season contributed close to US$198 million in visitor spending, supported nearly 4,000 local jobs, and generated over US$36 million in wages.

This kind of impact is felt in in the pockets of our local families. The beauty of cruise tourism is that it brings tangible opportunities for local entrepreneurs, especially women and mothers who are building businesses from their kitchens at home, backyards, and craft tables. A steady flow of international visitors means new eyes, new customers, and new possibilities.

As a mother and business owner myself, I love to see this dynamic. It is both inspiring and affirming, and it underscores the potential for growth and the importance of creating spaces where local talent can thrive.

I see vessels like MSC World America connecting cultures and injecting life into the local economy in powerful ways. It’s not just about stopping in Ocho Rios or San Juan, on the back end, it’s about the possibilities it creates for those on the ground who are poised to grow. Families benefit both on board and on land.

Why your family should consider cruising

MSC World America embodies family values, sustainability, and intentional design. It’s a place where the entire family – toddlers, teens, parents, and grandparents can each find joy, connection, and their own version of adventure.

In a world that often moves too fast, this ship reminded me to slow down, breathe deeply, and take in the view.

So whether you’re looking to celebrate a milestone, take a break from the chaos of daily life, or simply spend uninterrupted time alone, a cruise aboard MSC World America might be the answer you’ve been seeking.

Michelle Gordon is the founder of B3 Parenting Magazine & BossMom Network. Send comments and feedback to [email protected].