Planning to hit the treadmill or the squat rack with your teenager? On MSC Cruises, the fitness center isn’t just “open access.” Because the gym is managed as part of the MSC Aurea Spa ecosystem, it follows strict safety and liability protocols that differ significantly by age.
If you are looking for the full equipment list or the best times to avoid the crowds, be sure to check out our MSC Gym and Fitness Center Guide. But if you have kids or teens in tow, here is exactly what you need to know before you lace up.
The Official Age Tiers
MSC divides gym access into three clear categories. There is very little “wiggle room” here, as the staff is trained to verify ages via the cruise card or the MSC for Me app.
- Under 13: Strictly prohibited. Children aged 12 and under are not permitted in the gym, gym sauna, fitness classes, or personal training sessions, even with 1:1 parental supervision.
- Ages 13–15: Limited access. Teens in this bracket can use the gym and the gym sauna, but they must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at all times. A specific gym waiver must be signed by the adult at the spa reception desk.
- Ages 16–17: Independent access. Teens in this bracket can work out alone, but a parent/guardian must still sign the gym waiver before the first session.
- Ages 18+: Full, unrestricted access to the gym and the Thermal Area.
The Waiver Process
You cannot simply walk in and start lifting if you are under 18. MSC requires a Liability Waiver for all minors.
- Where to go: Visit the Aurea Spa Reception or the desk inside the gym on embarkation day.
- What happens: The parent/guardian signs a form acknowledging the risks and confirming the minor’s age.
- Verification: Once the waiver is on file, the teen’s account is usually flagged in the system. On many ships, the staff will place a small sticker on the teen’s cruise card to indicate they are cleared to be there.
Common Scenarios: Quick Q&A
“My teen is 14 and wants to lift weights. Is that okay?”
Yes, but only if you are right there with them. MSC requires you to stay in the gym for the duration of their workout. It’s a great time for a “buddy workout,” but you can’t drop them off and head to the buffet.
“My teen is 16 and wants to use the treadmill at 6:00 AM. Do I need to wake up?”
No! As long as you have signed the waiver at the spa desk previously, 16 and 17-year-olds are permitted to use the fitness center independently.
“My kid is 12 but is a competitive athlete and super mature. Can they come in?”
Unfortunately, no. MSC maintains a hard line at age 13 for the gym, classes, and personal training. For under-13s, the outdoor sports courts or the Power Walking Track are your best bets for burning energy.
“Can my 15-year-old use the Thermal Area (Sauna/Steam Room) with me?”
No. While they can use the gym sauna with you, the MSC Aurea Spa Thermal Area (the premium suite with the salt rooms, snow rooms, and thalassotherapy pools) is strictly 18+ only.
Teen-Specific Wellness: The ZSpa
If your teen is more interested in relaxation than reps, MSC offers the ZSpa. This is a dedicated menu of spa treatments designed for guests aged 13–17.
- Treatments: Includes specialized facials, body scrubs, and “Teen Glow” massages.
- Rules: A parent must be present in the treatment room for massages and body treatments, and a waiver is required for all services.
The Bottom Line
The gym is a “pro-safety” zone on MSC. While teens aged 13 and up are welcomed, the waiver is non-negotiable. If you have a fitness-focused teen, make the Spa Reception your very first stop on embarkation day. Getting that paperwork out of the way early ensures they won’t be turned away during their first early-morning session.