Take a cruise on the MSC Preziosa in summer with the kids

The MSC Preziosa Greeted us Majestically in the port of Southampton.

I had the pleasure of spending the day on the MSC Preziosa. It was an event organised to introduce bloggers to the wonders of cruising. MSC is the Worlds second-biggest container carrier in the world, featuring 13 electronically advanced ships.

Since 2008 MSC Cruises has launched a new ship every year. Some of the older MSC ships from early on were relaunched and stretched, adding more size, length and amazing spaces. There are currently seven new technologically advanced ships being launched over the next few years. MSC prides itself on its glamorous European routes and makes the perfect choice for your next cruise destination.

Magic on every floor

I really must say as soon as I boarded the ship I had the cruising bug again. On arrival at the port I felt the buzz of excitement as I went to embark the ship. If you have not cruised before actually getting on the ship is effortless and much like getting on an aeroplane. You will go through Security and passports with practically no waiting around. I have always loved the anticipation and excitement of cruising, and stepping on to the Preziosa was no exception.
The Preziosa is the kind of ship which makes you hold your breath in awe of its beauty; imagine a huge luxurious floating hotel catering to your every need.

So is cruising really family friendly?

Our first cruise as a family was ten years ago when the children were tiny, since then our cruising experience has evolved as our family dynamics have changed.
The best part of a cruise is that there is something for everyone old and young. You have a wide choice of food restaurants and activities to suit all ages.

The kids clubs are definately not boring and catering to every age starting at baby ( under 3) right up to teens (15-17) they will entertain them all day!
We have always wanted to spend time with our children on holiday after all that is why we go on holiday, But the MSC kids clubs just gives them a little bit of individuality and some time to let of steam.
The kids club is a safe environment with checked first aid staff and a secure system of dropping off and collecting your child. There is a medical team on board and security staff should anyone else require assistance.

Wonderful activities even for teens!

The Preziosa has a wonderful graffiti lounge for older children where they can have a spin on the decks, there is even technology such as a 3D printer.
They listen to the children and even have a web series the children can even take part in themselves.
There are plenty of scheduled activities such as talent shows, swimming and even treasure hunts all with trained staff. You will find a schedule of your childs day ahead delivered to your cabin.

When the kids were smaller, they would go in the club for maybe a morning and go swimming in the afternoon. When they were older they chose when they wanted to go! In fact they had so much fun we had plenty of opportunity to have some couple time and peruse the ship.

Spend quality time with your family.

There are plenty of activities and shows for the whole family while on board. Many different restaurants and foods to try. Cruising is a great way to do a little bit of everything and see the world at the same time. Try your hand at Bowling, Watch a film in the 4D cinema or jump in one of the many pools.

The ship is predominately spoken in English with visual shows so you do not need to worry about a language barrier.

MSC leaves no stone unturned when looking after their guests the staff are simply there to please, really friendly

The MSC exude pure class, with a clearly luxurious, contemporary and slightly Art Deco feel I was blown away. Crystal stairs, highly polished bronze banisters and the most impressive lights I have ever seen. A world of glamour and relaxation; as I wandered from bar to lounge, I was transported straight in to holiday mode. I wanted to skip to my cabin don my bikini and get my hands on my first pinacolada. But alas I was only here for the day, and what a day it was.

I could see myself in the sky bar with a cute sparkly dress and a cocktail in hand watching the world go by. Pictured myself on deck looking out across the horizon as we called into our new port destination. I could even see my boys deliberating on trying something different off of the restaurant menu each time. So many wonderful cruising memories came back to me that I can not wait to go again.

Home Comforts onboard

You will be spoilt for choice on board with a European pallet of food catering for all nationalities, but it doesn’t stop there. MSC have taken note of what people want when travelling from their home country.
Now when travelling from Southampton on the magnificent Magnifica, you will have a little bit of Britain with you in the form of Yorkshire tea bags!
They are even installing kettles in to the rooms and some of your favourite British touches in the restaurants too.

Explore endless possibilities

With a range of cruises next year you can experience some beautiful parts of Northern Europe. Experience wine tastings or cultural sightseeing in destinations such as France, Germany or Spain. Almost a new destination everyday.

MSC offer a wide range of excursions in port enabling you to make the most of each country you visit. Should you wish to do it yourself you can, no problem.

You can even stay on the ship, and enjoy the facilities or nip off for a quick glass of wine. With the kids safety tucked in kids club it will give you plenty of peace and quiet. Onboard the spa has a range of treatments and quiet areas or if you are feeling lucky you can head off to the Casino for a game of roulette.

Book ahead and find your perfect cabin.

With interconnecting rooms extra sofa beds which sleep 4 or 5, there is lots of choice for families.

Book early for the best choice in cabin, cruise company’s work a year ahead, so they are prepared for you. Pick your time of year to travel, you will get different generations depending on when you go. Expect experience a cultural mix of people as well depending on what port you leave from.

For more information on their UK Cruises check out their website here.

I hope I have given you some insight on taking a cruise on the MSC Preziosa with the kids. It really is something special. It was a shame to disembark the MSC Preziosa , she was destined to leave the UK transporting her guests to another location.

I am so glad I got to meet her!

Take a look below at my video for more images of this beautiful ship.

D x

( I was invited onboard by MSC, all opinions are my own )