MSC Seaside is a family-friendly cruise ship with plenty of activities designed specifically for children and teenagers. Between the dedicated kids’ clubs, LEGO-themed play areas, water slides, arcade games, and family entertainment, there are plenty of ways to keep younger passengers busy throughout the cruise.
One of the biggest advantages of cruising with MSC is that children don’t have to spend every moment participating in activities with their parents. MSC offers supervised kids’ clubs organized by age group, giving children opportunities to play, make friends, and enjoy activities designed specifically for them.
MSC Seaside has five dedicated youth clubs for babies, children, and teenagers up to age 17. The clubs are located on Deck 18, near the ship’s Forest Aquaventure Park and Jungle Pool Lounge.
Most regular kids’ club activities are included in the cruise fare, although some childcare services and specialty attractions carry additional charges.
In this MSC Seaside Kids and Teens Guide, we’ll cover each kids’ club, explain what activities are available, discuss the registration process, and share tips for families planning their cruise.
MSC Seaside Kids’ Clubs at a Glance
MSC Seaside has five age-specific youth programs, each designed around the interests and abilities of different age groups.
The clubs are located on Deck 18 in the ship’s family entertainment area.
| Kids’ Club | Ages | Deck | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|---|
| Baby Club Chicco | Under 3 | 18 | Baby and toddler play area |
| Mini Club LEGO | 3-6 | 18 | LEGO activities, games and crafts |
| Junior Club LEGO | 7-11 | 18 | Games, competitions and creative activities |
| Young Club | 12-14 | 18 | Sports, video games and social activities |
| Teen Club | 15-17 | 18 | Teen parties, games and competitions |
The clubs are designed to provide activities appropriate for each age group, with supervised programming led by MSC’s youth staff.
Children can participate in scheduled activities, meet other passengers their age, and enjoy time away from the usual family routine.
For parents, the kids’ clubs also provide an opportunity to enjoy some time elsewhere on the ship while their children are participating in supervised activities.
The important distinction is that the clubs operate according to scheduled hours and age-specific supervision rules. They’re not automatically available as unlimited, around-the-clock childcare.
Baby Club Chicco – Under Age 3
Location: Deck 18
Families traveling with babies and toddlers have access to MSC Seaside’s Baby Club Chicco.
Developed through MSC’s partnership with Chicco, the Baby Club provides a dedicated play area with age-appropriate toys, equipment, and activities.
The space is designed for younger children who aren’t yet old enough to participate in the regular Mini Club program.
MSC offers two different services for families with babies: MSC Baby Time and MSC Baby Care.
Understanding the difference is important, especially for parents planning to use supervised childcare during their cruise.
MSC Baby Time
MSC Baby Time allows parents to visit the Baby Club and enjoy the facilities with their children.
During designated sessions, parents can use the play area, explore the toys, and participate in age-appropriate activities with their babies.
This isn’t a drop-off childcare service.
Parents remain with their children and are responsible for supervising them.
For families with very young children, Baby Time provides a convenient indoor space for play and exploration.
It’s also a useful alternative when the weather isn’t ideal for outdoor activities.
MSC Baby Time is included in the cruise fare.
MSC Baby Care
MSC Baby Care is different because it allows eligible babies and toddlers to remain with MSC’s youth staff during scheduled supervision periods.
This gives parents an opportunity to enjoy other activities onboard, such as visiting the spa, attending an event, or spending some time relaxing.
MSC offers scheduled Baby Care periods, with availability limited by staffing and capacity.
Unlike Baby Time, MSC Baby Care carries an additional charge.
There are also minimum-age requirements and advance registration procedures. MSC’s published eligibility information is not completely consistent across its pages, so parents should confirm the current minimum age and available sessions before relying on this service.
We recommend visiting the Baby Club staff shortly after boarding if you plan to use Baby Care.
They can explain the schedule, eligibility requirements, availability, and any applicable fees.
For parents cruising with children under 3, this is one of the most important services to research before sailing.
Mini Club LEGO – Ages 3-6
Location: Deck 18
Mini Club LEGO is designed for younger children who are ready to participate in supervised group activities.
The club features colorful LEGO-themed play spaces, along with games, crafts, music, and organized activities.
MSC’s partnership with LEGO is a major part of the experience, giving children access to building toys and creative play opportunities.
However, Mini Club isn’t limited to LEGO activities.
The program also includes a variety of games and group experiences designed for children ages 3 through 6.
What Activities Are Available?
Depending on the daily schedule, Mini Club activities may include:
- LEGO building and creative play.
- Arts and crafts.
- Music and dancing.
- Group games and competitions.
- Storytelling and imaginative activities.
- Special family entertainment events.
The goal is to provide a fun environment where children can play with others around their own age.
For some kids, this may be their first experience participating in a supervised cruise ship activity without their parents.
We recommend introducing younger children to the club early in the cruise and giving them an opportunity to become comfortable with the environment.
Some children will be excited to join immediately, while others may prefer shorter visits before participating in longer sessions.
Is Mini Club LEGO Free?
Yes. Regular Mini Club activities are included in the cruise fare.
There is no additional charge simply to register for the club and participate in its standard scheduled activities.
However, special extended supervision or meal services may have separate fees.
Junior Club LEGO – Ages 7-11
Location: Deck 18
Junior Club LEGO is designed for school-age children and offers a wider variety of games, competitions, and activities.
Like Mini Club, Junior Club includes LEGO-themed facilities and creative play opportunities.
However, the programming is designed for older children who may be more interested in competitions, video games, sports, and interactive experiences.
For children ages 7 through 11, Junior Club can be a great way to meet other kids and enjoy activities that feel a little more independent from the rest of the family.
What Activities Are Available?
MSC’s Junior Club programming can include:
- LEGO building challenges.
- Arts and crafts.
- Video games.
- Sports competitions.
- Team activities.
- Interactive games.
- Cooking-themed competitions.
- Music and entertainment activities.
MSC also offers programs such as MasterChef at Sea Juniors and Dorebro sports competitions across its fleet.
The exact activities available aboard Seaside will depend on the sailing and daily schedule.
One of the biggest benefits of Junior Club is that it isn’t simply a playroom where children entertain themselves.
The program includes organized activities that encourage participation, teamwork, and interaction with other children.
For families with elementary-school-aged kids, this can be a valuable part of the cruise experience.
Is Junior Club LEGO Free?
Yes. Regular Junior Club programming is included in the cruise fare.
Parents should check the daily schedule for organized activities and any additional services that may carry a fee.
Young Club – Ages 12-14
Location: Deck 18
Young Club is designed for younger teenagers who may have outgrown traditional children’s activities but aren’t quite ready for the older Teen Club.
This age group can be particularly challenging when planning a family vacation.
Children ages 12 through 14 often want more independence and opportunities to socialize, but they may not enjoy the same activities as younger children or older teenagers.
MSC addresses this with a dedicated club focused on games, sports, technology, and social interaction.
What Activities Are Available?
Young Club programming may include:
- Video games and gaming competitions.
- Sports tournaments.
- Group challenges.
- Interactive games.
- Music and social activities.
- Organized competitions.
- Opportunities to meet other passengers.
The specific schedule varies, but the emphasis is on providing activities that appeal to middle-school-aged passengers.
Unlike Mini Club and Junior Club, where the focus is more heavily on structured play, Young Club has a greater emphasis on socializing.
For younger teenagers, meeting friends onboard can become one of the highlights of the cruise.
And for parents, having a dedicated place where children can participate in age-appropriate activities is another advantage.
Teen Club – Ages 15-17
Location: Deck 18
MSC Seaside also has a dedicated Teen Club for passengers ages 15 through 17.
The Teen Club offers a more independent social setting, with activities designed specifically for older teenagers.
Rather than traditional children’s games, the focus shifts toward music, gaming, sports, competitions, and opportunities to spend time with other teens.
What Activities Are Available?
MSC’s Teen Club programming can include:
- Video game tournaments.
- Sports competitions.
- Karaoke.
- Dance contests.
- Teen parties and discos.
- Interactive challenges.
- Group activities and social events.
MSC also offers teen-focused versions of activities such as Silent Disco and themed parties across its fleet.
Not every event takes place on every cruise, so the daily schedule is the best way to see what’s available.
Is Teen Club Worth Visiting?
For teenagers who enjoy meeting new people, Teen Club can be one of the most valuable parts of a cruise.
It’s an opportunity to spend time with passengers around the same age rather than participating exclusively in family activities.
The experience can vary depending on the number of teenagers onboard.
During school vacations and holiday sailings, there may be more teenagers participating in organized activities.
On other sailings, the group may be smaller.
We’d recommend encouraging teenagers to visit the club early in the cruise, even if they’re initially unsure whether they’ll enjoy it.
Making a few friends on the first day can make the rest of the sailing much more enjoyable.
Doremi Studio and Family Entertainment
Location: Deck 18
Beyond the individual kids’ clubs, MSC Seaside has Doremi Studio, a dedicated venue for children’s and family entertainment.
The theater-style space accommodates approximately 100 guests and is used for family-oriented activities and programming.
Doremi Studio is separate from the larger Metropolitan Theater, which hosts the ship’s main production shows.
This gives MSC another location for events designed specifically for younger passengers and families.
Family Activities on MSC Seaside
MSC’s family entertainment program includes activities such as family discos, interactive games, competitions, and LEGO-themed events.
One of the more recognizable experiences is the Doremi Family Disco, where parents and children can enjoy music and dancing together.
MSC also offers special LEGO experiences and other family activities throughout its fleet.
The exact events and locations may vary by sailing.
We recommend checking the daily schedule for family programming, especially if you’re looking for activities everyone can enjoy together.
This is an important distinction from the kids’ clubs.
While the clubs give children opportunities to participate in age-specific activities, family entertainment provides opportunities for parents and children to enjoy the cruise together.
Forest Aquaventure Park and Water Slides
Location: Decks 18 and 19
One of MSC Seaside’s biggest attractions for families is Forest Aquaventure Park.
The multi-level water park features five water slides, children’s splash areas, and interactive water-play structures.
It’s located near the kids’ clubs, making Deck 18 an important destination for families.
For older children and teenagers, the larger slides provide an exciting alternative to spending time around the traditional swimming pools.
Younger children can enjoy the splash features and smaller attractions, subject to applicable safety requirements.
MSC Seaside also has Jungle Pool Lounge on Deck 18.
The Jungle Pool features a retractable roof, providing another swimming option when the weather isn’t ideal.
Are the Water Slides Free?
Yes. Forest Aquaventure Park is included in the cruise fare.
However, individual slides have height and other safety requirements, and operating hours can vary.
The water park may also close temporarily because of weather or maintenance.
For a detailed look at the ship’s swimming areas, see our MSC Seaside Pools, Water Slides and Hot Tubs Guide.
Other Activities for Kids and Teenagers
MSC Seaside offers plenty of activities outside the dedicated youth clubs.
This is especially important for families traveling with older children who may want more independence or different entertainment options.
Several of the ship’s interactive attractions are located on Deck 7.
| Activity | Deck | Additional Charge? |
|---|---|---|
| Bowling | 7 | Yes |
| Arcade Games | 7 | Yes |
| MSC Formula Racer | 7 | Yes |
| XD Interactive Cinema | 7 | Yes |
| Adventure Trail | 20 | No |
| MSC Sports Arena | 20 | No |
| Forest Aquaventure Park | 18-19 | No |
| Metropolitan Theater Shows | 6-7 | No |
Bowling
MSC Seaside has two full-size bowling lanes on Deck 7.
Bowling can be a fun family activity, particularly during sea days or when the weather isn’t suitable for outdoor activities.
An additional charge applies.
Arcade Games
The ship’s arcade and amusement area offers a variety of electronic games and other attractions.
This is likely to be particularly appealing to teenagers and older children.
However, most arcade games cost extra.
If your family expects to spend a lot of time in the arcade, we recommend establishing a spending budget early in the cruise.
MSC Formula Racer
MSC Formula Racer is a racing simulator located on Deck 7.
The attraction provides a virtual motorsports experience using specialized racing equipment.
It can be a good option for teenagers and adults who enjoy racing games.
An additional charge applies.
XD Interactive Cinema
The XD Interactive Cinema combines visual effects, motion, and interactive gameplay.
It’s another activity that may appeal to older children and teenagers.
The attraction carries an additional charge.
Adventure Trail
Adventure Trail is an elevated outdoor attraction featuring suspended bridges and walkways.
Located on Deck 20, it provides an opportunity for passengers to enjoy something more active.
Adventure Trail is included in the cruise fare, although safety restrictions and operating hours apply.
MSC Sports Arena
The Sports Arena is a multipurpose outdoor court on Deck 20.
Depending on the schedule, passengers can enjoy basketball, soccer, volleyball, and other sports.
It’s another included activity worth considering for active children and teenagers.
For more information about these attractions, including additional charges and the MSC Fun Pass, see our MSC Seaside Outdoor Activities, Games and Arcades Guide.
Family-Friendly Dining on MSC Seaside
Dining is another important part of planning a cruise with children.
MSC Seaside has several dining options, ranging from traditional sit-down restaurants to casual buffets.
For families who prefer flexibility, the buffet restaurants can be particularly convenient.
Biscayne Bay Restaurant & Buffet – Deck 16
Biscayne Bay Restaurant & Buffet is designed with families and children in mind.
Located on Deck 16, it provides a casual dining option near the main Miami Beach Pool.
This makes it convenient when families want to eat without spending a long time in a traditional sit-down restaurant.
Marketplace Buffet – Deck 8
Marketplace Buffet is MSC Seaside’s main buffet restaurant.
It offers a variety of food choices and includes outdoor dining areas along the Waterfront Boardwalk.
For families with children who have different preferences, the buffet can be especially useful because everyone can choose their own meal.
Main Dining Rooms
MSC Seaside has two main dining rooms: Seashore Restaurant on Deck 5 and Ipanema Restaurant on Deck 6.
These provide traditional sit-down meals with waiter service.
MSC also offers children’s menu options, making the main dining rooms suitable for families.
Depending on the daily schedule, MSC’s youth program may also offer supervised lunch or dinner services for registered children.
These supervised dining services can carry an additional charge, so parents should confirm the available options and requirements onboard.
For complete dining information, see our MSC Seaside Dining Guide.
Are MSC Seaside Kids’ Clubs Free?
Yes. Regular kids’ club activities are included in the cruise fare.
This applies to the standard Mini Club, Junior Club, Young Club, and Teen Club programs.
Parents don’t need to purchase a separate package simply for their children to participate in scheduled activities.
However, some childcare services and specialty attractions carry additional charges.
| Service or Activity | Cost |
|---|---|
| Baby Time with parents | Included |
| MSC Baby Care | Extra charge |
| Mini Club LEGO | Included |
| Junior Club LEGO | Included |
| Young Club | Included |
| Teen Club | Included |
| Regular kids’ club activities | Included |
| Kids Around the Clock, where offered | Extra charge |
| Supervised lunch or dinner with youth staff at sea | Extra charge |
| Forest Aquaventure Park | Included |
| Adventure Trail | Included |
| Arcade Games and Bowling | Extra charge |
The important thing to remember is that regular youth programming and extended childcare services are not necessarily the same.
A child may be able to participate in scheduled club activities at no charge, while special supervision arrangements outside those activities may carry an additional fee.
How to Register for MSC Seaside Kids’ Clubs
Registering for the kids’ clubs is an important step for families planning to use supervised activities.
We recommend visiting the youth facilities early in your cruise to become familiar with the registration process, schedules, and supervision rules.
The kids’ clubs are located on Deck 18.
Parents should review the registration instructions provided by MSC and speak with the youth staff about any questions.
What Should Parents Expect?
The registration process may include:
- Providing information about the child.
- Confirming the appropriate age group.
- Reviewing any medical or other relevant needs.
- Confirming authorized pickup arrangements.
- Reviewing the daily schedule.
- Understanding supervision and check-in requirements.
The exact procedures can vary, so follow the instructions provided onboard.
For younger children, parents should also confirm the rules for dropping off and collecting children from supervised sessions.
Older children and teenagers may have different participation and independence rules.
What Are the Kids’ Club Hours?
MSC’s kids’ clubs operate daily, but opening hours and scheduled activities can vary by ship and itinerary.
You shouldn’t assume every club is open continuously throughout the day.
The onboard daily program and youth staff will provide the current schedule.
We recommend checking it regularly, especially if your children are interested in specific activities.
Can Children Stay in the Kids’ Clubs While Parents Go Ashore?
MSC permits certain supervised childcare arrangements while parents are ashore, but advance notification and specific conditions apply.
If you’re considering leaving your child onboard during a shore excursion, speak with the youth staff well in advance.
Don’t assume ordinary club registration automatically covers care while parents are off the ship.
Confirm the supervision arrangements, timing, emergency contact requirements, and any applicable fees before making plans.
For families uncomfortable with leaving children onboard, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy shore excursions together.
Traveling on MSC Seaside With Babies and Toddlers
Cruising with a baby or toddler requires a little more planning, but MSC provides several services designed to help families with young children.
In addition to Baby Club Chicco, families can request certain baby-related equipment and services.
Depending on availability, these may include cribs, highchairs, and assistance with bottle warming or baby food.
We recommend arranging any important equipment requirements in advance rather than assuming everything will be available once onboard.
Swimming With Babies and Toddlers
Families should review the ship’s pool rules before planning water activities with infants.
Children who are not toilet-trained may face restrictions on using swimming pools and water attractions, including when wearing swim diapers.
Check the posted rules for each pool and splash area.
Minimum Age to Cruise
MSC also has minimum-age requirements for infants.
For cruises of 11 nights or longer, children generally must be at least 2 years old when boarding.
Shorter sailings may allow younger infants, subject to MSC’s booking and itinerary requirements.
If you’re traveling with a baby, confirm the applicable age rules before booking.
Tips for Families Cruising on MSC Seaside
There are a few things we’d recommend to help families make the most of their cruise.
Register for the Kids’ Clubs Early
Don’t wait until halfway through the cruise to explore the youth facilities.
Visit the kids’ clubs early, meet the staff, and learn what activities are scheduled.
Children who are interested in making friends may have an easier time connecting with other passengers when they start participating early.
Let Children Try Different Activities
Not every child will immediately love the kids’ club.
Some may prefer organized games, while others may enjoy the water park, sports court, or arcade.
We recommend giving children opportunities to try different activities rather than assuming one program will be their favorite.
Spend Some Time Exploring Deck 18
Deck 18 is particularly important for families.
With the kids’ clubs, Doremi Studio, Jungle Pool, and nearby Forest Aquaventure Park, it’s one of the ship’s major family activity areas.
Knowing where these facilities are located will make it much easier to navigate the ship.
Check the Daily Schedule
Kids’ club activities and family entertainment can change throughout the cruise.
If there’s a particular event your children want to attend, check the time and location rather than assuming it will happen every day.
The MSC for Me app and onboard daily program are useful resources.
Set an Arcade Budget
Bowling, Formula Racer, XD Interactive Cinema, and arcade games can be entertaining, but the individual charges can add up.
If you’re traveling with children who enjoy gaming, consider setting a spending limit before visiting the amusement area.
Families planning to use several attractions may also want to review MSC Fun Pass options.
Make Time for Family Activities
The kids’ clubs are a great feature, but they’re only one part of the cruise.
MSC Seaside also has theater shows, water slides, swimming pools, sports, and family entertainment.
Some of the best vacation memories can come from enjoying these activities together.
Final Thoughts on MSC Seaside Kids and Teens
MSC Seaside has a strong selection of facilities and activities for families traveling with children and teenagers.
The five dedicated kids’ clubs are one of the biggest advantages, providing supervised activities designed for different age groups.
Younger children can enjoy LEGO-themed play areas and creative activities, while older children and teenagers have opportunities to participate in games, competitions, sports, and social events.
The Baby Club Chicco also provides a dedicated space for families with infants and toddlers, including scheduled supervised care for eligible children.
Outside the clubs, MSC Seaside offers plenty of ways for families to spend time together.
Forest Aquaventure Park, the Jungle Pool, bowling, Formula Racer, and the Sports Arena give passengers options throughout the day.
And with most regular kids’ club activities included in the cruise fare, families can take advantage of the youth programs without worrying about additional charges every time their children want to participate.
Our recommendation is to visit the kids’ clubs early in your cruise, review the activity schedule, and encourage children to explore the programs that interest them.
You may find that the kids’ clubs become one of their favorite parts of the vacation.
But don’t overlook the opportunities to enjoy MSC Seaside together as a family. With so many different activities spread throughout the ship, there’s plenty to keep everyone entertained throughout the cruise.