MSC touts Seaside as survey finds beach and cruise appeal

Cruising has high appeal, too

The survey also found that 77% of parents have or would take a cruise with children ages 6-12 and 79% have or would take a cruise with children ages 13-17.

MSC Cruises is offering what it called 'the perfect all in one getaway' for the entire family on Caribbean-bound MSC Seaside. The ship operates two itineraries—Ocho Rios, Grand Cayman, Cozumel and Nassau, and San Juan, St. Maarten and Nassau—so families can island (and beach) hop with ease. At each stop cruisers can go beyond the beach on excursions that include water cavern tours, culinary tastings, biking trips and more.

More than 250,000 children forecast to sail

'With more than 250,000 children anticipated to set sail with their families on MSC Cruises this year alone, we know the importance of providing family-friendly activities on board,' said Roberto Fusaro, president of MSC Cruises USA.

The ship's outdoor space includes four pools, a waterfront boardwalk and the longest zip lines at sea. Youth programs take place in six distinct areas. Mini Club, for kids under 3, is equipped with the latest Chicco supplies and toys and late-night group babysitting for ages 1-3. Elementary-school-aged kids can go to the Mini Club LEGO Sailor and Junior Club LEGO Pirates play rooms.

Each evening from 11 p.m. until 2 a.m. parents can leave children in the kids’ areas for a small fee.

MSC Seaside has an Aqua Park, an entertainment zone with an interactive XD cinema, F1 Simulator, full-size bowling lanes and arcade games.

'Drinks on Us'

MSC Cruises USA continues its 'Drinks on Us' promotion. Passengers who sail on MSC Seaside get unlimited drinks, from a selection of bottled and draft beers, house wines by the glass, house brands of vodka, rum, gin, whiskey and non-alcoholic beverages, for the duration of the cruise.

'Drinks on Us' applies to any stateroom category with the Bella, Fantastica or Wellness Experiences. (The Aurea Experience and MSC Yacht Club already include all-inclusive beverage packages.)