One of the things that makes MSC Seaside stand out is its emphasis on outdoor spaces and connecting passengers with the ocean. That design extends to the ship’s pools, which are spread across several decks rather than concentrated in one location.
MSC Seaside has four swimming pools, 13 whirlpools, and a multi-level water park featuring five water slides. Whether you want to spend the afternoon relaxing in the sun, enjoy the views from a pool overlooking the ship’s wake, or take the kids to the water slides, there are plenty of options.
The ship also has a Jungle Pool with a retractable roof, making it a useful alternative when the weather isn’t ideal.
What we particularly like about MSC Seaside’s design is that the pools offer distinctly different experiences. The main Miami Beach Pool has the traditional cruise ship atmosphere, while South Beach Pool sits much closer to the ocean at the back of the ship.
In this guide, we’ll walk through each MSC Seaside pool, explain the water slides and hot tubs, and share some practical tips for choosing where to spend your time.
MSC Seaside Pools at a Glance
MSC Seaside has four swimming pools, including one reserved exclusively for MSC Yacht Club guests.
Here’s where you’ll find each pool and the ship’s other major water attractions.
| Pool or Attraction | Deck | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Miami Beach Pool | 16 | Main outdoor pool and sunbathing area |
| South Beach Pool | 7 | Aft pool with panoramic ocean views |
| Jungle Pool Lounge | 18 | Swimming pool with retractable roof |
| MSC Yacht Club Pool | 19 | Exclusive pool for Yacht Club guests |
| Forest Aquaventure Park | 18-19 | Water slides and children’s splash area |
| Top 19 Exclusive Solarium | 19 | Aurea relaxation area with whirlpool |
| Public whirlpools | Various | Hot tubs around the ship |
| Yacht Club whirlpools | 19 | Two exclusive whirlpools |
Most of the ship’s swimming pools and water attractions are included in the cruise fare, although some areas have access restrictions.
MSC Yacht Club has its own private pool complex, while the Top 19 Exclusive Solarium is reserved for eligible Aurea guests.
Miami Beach Pool – MSC Seaside’s Main Pool
Location: Deck 16
Miami Beach Pool is MSC Seaside’s main outdoor swimming pool and the center of much of the ship’s daytime pool activity.
If you’re imagining a traditional cruise ship pool deck with sun loungers, music, people swimming, and passengers relaxing with drinks, this is the area you’re probably thinking of.
The pool is surrounded by a large sun deck with lounge chairs and open views of the ocean.
One of its distinctive features is the arrangement of loungers close to the pool, allowing passengers to relax near the water without needing to find a chair farther away on the deck.
Miami Beach Pool is also located near several of MSC Seaside’s dining and beverage venues.
Miami Beach Bar provides convenient access to refreshments, while Biscayne Bay Restaurant & Buffet offers a casual dining option nearby.
The ship’s specialty restaurants are also located on Deck 16, although those are more likely to be destinations later in the day.
What Is the Atmosphere Like at Miami Beach Pool?
This is the pool most likely to have the traditional cruise ship atmosphere.
During sea days, expect passengers sunbathing, swimming, listening to music, and spending time around the deck.
MSC can also use the pool area for organized activities and entertainment.
That makes Miami Beach Pool a good choice for passengers who enjoy being around the action.
However, the popularity of the main pool also means that loungers can be in high demand, particularly on warm-weather sea days.
If you’re looking for a quieter area or simply want a different view, we’d recommend checking out the ship’s other pools before settling in for the afternoon.
South Beach Pool – Ocean Views From Deck 7
Location: Deck 7
South Beach Pool is one of MSC Seaside’s most distinctive features.
Unlike most cruise ship pools, which are positioned high on the upper decks, South Beach Pool is located on Deck 7 at the very back of the ship.
This brings passengers much closer to the ocean and provides fantastic views of the ship’s wake.
The pool is surrounded by an outdoor relaxation area, with lounge chairs and seating positioned around the aft deck.
South Beach Bar is nearby, making it easy to enjoy a drink while spending time in the area.
One of the more interesting features is the pair of panoramic elevators connecting the lower aft area with the upper decks.
The elevators provide another opportunity to enjoy ocean views while moving between decks.
Why Is South Beach Pool Different?
The biggest difference is the location.
At Miami Beach Pool, you’re relaxing high above the water in a traditional upper-deck environment.
At South Beach Pool, you’re considerably closer to the ocean, which creates a different experience.
The views over the ship’s wake can be particularly enjoyable while sailing.
For passengers who love spending time outdoors and watching the ocean, South Beach Pool would be one of our first stops when exploring MSC Seaside.
The pool and surrounding sunbathing area are smaller than the main Miami Beach Pool area, so seating can still be limited during busy periods.
It’s also worth checking the onboard signage for any age or access restrictions, since South Beach Pool has been described as an adults-oriented swimming area.
Even if you don’t spend an entire afternoon here, we think the location makes it worth visiting.
Jungle Pool Lounge – The Pool With a Retractable Roof
Location: Deck 18
Jungle Pool Lounge offers another completely different swimming experience.
The defining feature is its retractable roof, which allows MSC to enclose the pool area when outdoor conditions aren’t ideal.
This is especially useful during cruises that experience rain, cooler temperatures, or windy weather.
Instead of relying entirely on outdoor pools, passengers have another place to enjoy swimming and relaxing.
The Jungle Pool is surrounded by seating and lounging areas, with a tropical-inspired design that gives it a different atmosphere from Miami Beach Pool.
Jungle Bar is also located here, providing convenient beverage service.
Is Jungle Pool a Good Choice for Families?
Yes. The Jungle Pool area can be particularly convenient for families because of its proximity to Forest Aquaventure Park and the youth facilities on Deck 18.
Parents with children interested in the water park may find this part of the ship convenient.
The retractable roof is another advantage.
When the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor swimming, the Jungle Pool provides an alternative that may remain more comfortable than the exposed pool decks.
However, the roof doesn’t guarantee that the pool will always be open. Pool hours, maintenance, and other operational restrictions still apply.
It’s also worth remembering that this area may become busier when passengers are looking for an alternative to the outdoor pools.
For us, having a pool with a retractable roof is a major advantage, especially on cruises where the weather may not cooperate every day.
Forest Aquaventure Park – MSC Seaside’s Water Slides
Location: Decks 18 and 19
Forest Aquaventure Park is MSC Seaside’s dedicated water park and one of the ship’s biggest attractions for families.
The multi-level water park features five water slides, along with an interactive water-play area designed for younger children.
The park has a forest-inspired theme with colorful structures, elevated walkways, water sprays, and slides.
It’s a substantial attraction rather than simply a couple of small slides positioned beside the main swimming pool.
MSC Seaside’s water park is designed to appeal to different age groups, with larger slides for guests looking for more excitement and smaller play areas for children.
MSC Seaside Water Slides
MSC advertises five water slides at Forest Aquaventure Park.
The attraction includes a mix of twisting slides, racing-style experiences, and smaller slides for younger passengers.
Some of the larger slides extend around the ship’s upper-deck structures, creating a much more adventurous experience than a traditional pool slide.
One feature associated with MSC Seaside is Slideboarding, an interactive water-slide concept that combines sliding with game elements.
The original experience used a specially equipped board that allowed riders to interact with illuminated targets while traveling through the slide.
However, individual slide features and interactive systems can change over time. We recommend checking onboard to confirm which slides and features are operating during your cruise.
For families with children who enjoy water parks, Forest Aquaventure Park could easily become one of their favorite parts of the ship.
Children’s Splash Area
Not every attraction at Forest Aquaventure Park is designed for thrill seekers.
The park also includes a children’s water-play area with smaller slides, sprays, and interactive features.
This makes it more appealing for families with children of different ages.
Younger passengers can enjoy the splash attractions while older children may prefer the larger slides.
Keep in mind that individual attractions have safety requirements, and not every slide will be suitable for every child.
Height, age, and other restrictions may apply.
Adventure Trail
Another outdoor attraction associated with MSC Seaside’s upper decks is the Adventure Trail.
Located on Deck 20, Adventure Trail features elevated bridges and climbing-style obstacles.
Although it isn’t a water slide, it’s worth mentioning because it complements the ship’s outdoor activity offerings.
Passengers looking for something more adventurous than swimming may enjoy exploring this attraction when it’s operating.
Availability and restrictions can vary, so check onboard before making plans around a particular activity.
Are MSC Seaside Water Slides Free?
Yes. Access to Forest Aquaventure Park and its water slides is included in the cruise fare.
You don’t need to purchase a separate water park admission ticket.
However, individual slides may have height or other safety requirements, and the water park can close temporarily because of weather or maintenance.
The water slides also operate on scheduled hours rather than remaining available throughout the day and evening.
We recommend checking the daily schedule for opening times, particularly if your children are excited about spending time at the water park.
MSC Seaside Hot Tubs and Whirlpools
MSC Seaside has 13 whirlpools located around the ship, including two reserved for MSC Yacht Club guests.
That leaves 11 whirlpools outside the Yacht Club area, although not all are necessarily accessible to every passenger.
Whirlpools provide an alternative to the swimming pools, particularly for guests who would rather sit and relax in the water.
You’ll find whirlpool facilities associated with the ship’s pool and outdoor relaxation areas.
Like the swimming pools, hot tubs can become popular during sea days, especially when passengers are spending much of their time onboard.
There are a few things worth remembering.
First, whirlpools have capacity limits, so you may need to wait if they’re already occupied.
Second, children may face additional restrictions depending on the specific whirlpool.
Finally, operating hours and availability can vary.
If relaxing in a hot tub is a priority for your cruise, we’d recommend exploring the ship’s pool areas early so you know which options are available.
Top 19 Exclusive Solarium – Deck 19
Location: Deck 19
MSC Seaside also has the Top 19 Exclusive Solarium, a dedicated outdoor relaxation area for eligible Aurea guests.
This space is designed to provide an alternative to the busier public pool decks.
It includes sunbathing areas and a whirlpool, allowing guests to relax outdoors without necessarily spending time around the main swimming pools.
The Aurea Bar is also located nearby.
One important distinction is that Top 19 isn’t another swimming pool.
It’s primarily a sunbathing and relaxation area with whirlpool facilities.
Access is restricted to eligible guests, so passengers booking standard cabins should not assume they can use the space.
For travelers considering the Aurea Experience, access to an exclusive outdoor relaxation area may be one of the benefits worth evaluating.
We’d especially consider this feature if spending time outdoors without the main pool crowds is important to you.
MSC Yacht Club Pool – Deck 19
Location: Deck 19
MSC Yacht Club guests have their own exclusive swimming pool and outdoor relaxation area.
The Yacht Club pool complex includes a private swimming pool, two whirlpools, dedicated sunbathing space, and access to MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar.
Rather than spending the day at the main public pools, Yacht Club passengers can enjoy a separate pool environment reserved for guests staying in this premium accommodation category.
The private sundeck provides lounge chairs and ocean views, while the nearby bar and grill offer convenient food and beverage service.
This is one of the major benefits of booking MSC Yacht Club.
While the ship’s public pool areas can be busy, Yacht Club provides a more exclusive environment with dedicated facilities.
Of course, Yacht Club guests can still visit the public swimming pools and water park elsewhere on the ship.
However, the private pool complex gives them another option that isn’t available to passengers staying in standard cabins.
If you’re considering upgrading to Yacht Club, the exclusive pool area is one of the amenities worth factoring into your decision.
Which MSC Seaside Pool Is Best?
One of the advantages of MSC Seaside is that the different pools serve different purposes.
Rather than spending your entire cruise at the main pool, we recommend exploring the ship and finding the locations that best match what you’re looking for.
| What You’re Looking For | Pool or Area to Consider |
|---|---|
| Traditional cruise ship pool atmosphere | Miami Beach Pool |
| Ocean views from the aft of the ship | South Beach Pool |
| Swimming when the weather isn’t ideal | Jungle Pool |
| Water slides and family activities | Forest Aquaventure Park |
| Relaxing in a whirlpool | Public whirlpool areas |
| Exclusive Aurea relaxation | Top 19 Solarium |
| Private pool for Yacht Club guests | MSC Yacht Club Pool |
Best for Families
Forest Aquaventure Park is the obvious starting point for families with children who enjoy water slides and splash attractions.
Jungle Pool is another good option because of its convenient location near the children’s facilities and its retractable roof.
Miami Beach Pool is also worth visiting for families who enjoy a traditional outdoor swimming environment.
Best for Ocean Views
South Beach Pool would be our first choice for passengers who want to enjoy the ocean while relaxing.
Its position on Deck 7 puts it much closer to the water than the upper pool areas.
Miramar Bar and the other upper outdoor spaces can provide additional panoramic views, but South Beach Pool has a particularly distinctive setting.
Best for Relaxation
Passengers seeking a quieter environment may prefer exploring the ship’s whirlpool areas or, if eligible, Top 19 Exclusive Solarium.
MSC Yacht Club guests also have the advantage of their own private pool complex.
Keep in mind that no public pool is guaranteed to be quiet, particularly on sea days.
The atmosphere can change depending on the number of passengers onboard and the activities taking place.
Are MSC Seaside Pools and Hot Tubs Free?
Most of MSC Seaside’s public swimming pools, whirlpools, and water slides are included in the cruise fare.
There is no separate admission charge to swim in Miami Beach Pool, South Beach Pool, or Jungle Pool, subject to any applicable access restrictions.
Forest Aquaventure Park is also included.
However, some facilities are reserved for passengers with particular booking experiences.
Here’s a simple breakdown.
| Pool or Attraction | Included in Cruise Fare? |
|---|---|
| Miami Beach Pool | Yes |
| South Beach Pool | Yes, subject to access rules |
| Jungle Pool | Yes |
| Forest Aquaventure Park | Yes |
| Public whirlpools | Yes |
| Top 19 Exclusive Solarium | Restricted to eligible guests |
| MSC Yacht Club Pool | Yacht Club guests only |
| MSC Yacht Club whirlpools | Yacht Club guests only |
| Private suite whirlpools | Selected suites only |
| MSC Aurea Spa Thermal Area | Separate access rules or charges |
It’s important to distinguish between the public whirlpools and the thermal facilities inside MSC Aurea Spa.
The spa’s thermal area is a separate wellness experience and may require an additional purchase or qualifying booking benefits.
Tips for Enjoying MSC Seaside’s Pools and Water Slides
There are a few things we’d recommend keeping in mind before heading out for a pool day.
Explore All the Pools Early in Your Cruise
One of the most common things we see on cruise ships is passengers finding the main pool and spending every day there without exploring the alternatives.
On MSC Seaside, that would mean missing some of the ship’s most interesting outdoor spaces.
We recommend visiting Miami Beach Pool, South Beach Pool, and Jungle Pool early in your cruise.
Even if you don’t swim in every pool, it’s worth seeing the different layouts and deciding which atmosphere you prefer.
Expect Crowds on Sea Days
Sea days are naturally popular times for swimming and sunbathing.
The main Miami Beach Pool is likely to attract plenty of guests, particularly during warm-weather cruises.
If having a particular lounge chair or shaded spot is important, consider heading out earlier in the day.
You can also explore alternative pool areas rather than assuming the main pool is your only option.
MSC has rules governing the use of loungers, so avoid leaving personal belongings unattended to reserve chairs for extended periods.
Check the Water Slide Hours
The water park doesn’t necessarily operate on the same schedule as the swimming pools.
Slides may open later in the morning, close earlier in the afternoon, or operate on a modified schedule depending on conditions.
Check MSC for Me or the onboard daily program for the day’s operating hours.
It’s also worth visiting Forest Aquaventure Park earlier in your cruise, especially if your children are excited about the slides.
That way, a temporary closure later in the sailing is less likely to leave them disappointed.
Remember the Weather
Outdoor pools and slides can be affected by wind, rain, and other weather conditions.
The ship may temporarily restrict access when conditions aren’t suitable for safe operation.
Jungle Pool has a retractable roof, making it a useful alternative when the weather is less cooperative.
However, even an enclosed pool can be closed for maintenance or operational reasons.
Keep Pool Safety Rules in Mind
MSC has safety rules for its pools, whirlpools, and water attractions.
Children should always be supervised, and individual attractions may have age, height, or weight restrictions.
Swim diapers and other swimming-related rules should also be checked before bringing young children into pool areas.
For water slides, follow the instructions posted at the entrance and provided by the attendants.
These restrictions can vary between attractions and are intended to keep passengers safe.
Bring What You Need for the Pool
You’ll want the usual pool-day essentials, including sunscreen, sunglasses, and appropriate swimwear.
MSC provides pool towels onboard, but check the towel collection and return procedures for your sailing.
We also recommend bringing a cover-up or dry clothing if you plan to head directly from the pool to one of the ship’s indoor public areas.
Frequently Asked Questions About MSC Seaside Pools
How many pools does MSC Seaside have?
MSC Seaside has four swimming pools: Miami Beach Pool, South Beach Pool, Jungle Pool, and the exclusive MSC Yacht Club Pool.
Does MSC Seaside have an indoor pool?
MSC Seaside has Jungle Pool Lounge on Deck 18, featuring a retractable roof that allows the area to be enclosed when needed. It’s the ship’s primary indoor-outdoor swimming option.
Does MSC Seaside have water slides?
Yes. MSC Seaside features Forest Aquaventure Park on Decks 18 and 19, with five water slides and a children’s water-play area.
Are the water slides free on MSC Seaside?
Yes. Forest Aquaventure Park is included in the cruise fare, although individual attractions have safety restrictions and operating schedules.
Does MSC Seaside have hot tubs?
Yes. MSC Seaside has 13 shared whirlpools, including two reserved for MSC Yacht Club guests. Selected suites also offer private whirlpool baths.
Does MSC Seaside have an adults-only pool?
South Beach Pool has been described as an adults-oriented area, with some published descriptions identifying a minimum age of 16. Because access policies can change, check the current onboard rules before planning around that restriction.
Where is the main pool on MSC Seaside?
Miami Beach Pool is the ship’s main outdoor swimming pool, located on Deck 16.
Is the MSC Yacht Club pool open to everyone?
No. The Yacht Club pool, whirlpools, and private sundeck on Deck 19 are reserved for guests staying in MSC Yacht Club.
Final Thoughts on MSC Seaside Pools, Water Slides and Hot Tubs
MSC Seaside offers a good variety of swimming pools and water attractions, with enough differences between them to make exploring the ship worthwhile.
Miami Beach Pool provides the traditional cruise ship pool experience, with sun loungers, outdoor activities, and a lively atmosphere.
South Beach Pool is one of the ship’s most distinctive features, thanks to its lower position at the aft and impressive views of the ocean.
Jungle Pool provides another option with its retractable roof, making it particularly useful when the weather isn’t ideal.
For families, Forest Aquaventure Park is a major highlight, with five water slides and water-play attractions for younger children.
And for passengers who prefer relaxing, the ship’s whirlpools, Top 19 Exclusive Solarium, and MSC Yacht Club pool complex provide additional choices.
Our recommendation is simple: don’t automatically settle at the first pool you find.
Take some time to explore MSC Seaside’s different pool areas, particularly South Beach Pool and Jungle Pool. You may discover that your favorite place to relax isn’t the main pool deck at all.
With four swimming pools, plenty of whirlpools, and a large water park, MSC Seaside has something for just about every type of cruiser.