5 Compelling Reasons to Cruise the Caribbean on MSC Seaside Right Now
From the outset of planning this feature, one thing was clear: A cruise on the MSC Seaside would deliver an exceptional experience. Purpose-built for the Caribbean's stunning turquoise waters, the ship features record ratios of outdoor space, ensuring jaw-dropping vistas at every turn—especially along the iconic glass catwalk suspended over the sea.
Yet in 2018 Caribbean travel, a great trip is merely the baseline. For true impact, head to islands rebounding from last year's devastating hurricanes. Your visit directly supports local economies and boosts community morale.
To highlight this remarkable recovery—and provide an up-to-date perspective—we sent award-winning social media influencers Andy To and Joycelyn Linh on an MSC Seaside voyage to the eastern Caribbean.
Now, we're eager to follow their path. Here are five reasons you'll want to book yours soon.
1. St. Martin Rolls Out the Ultimate Welcome
This northeastern Caribbean gem spans just 34 square miles, split between Dutch Sint Maarten (southern third) and French Saint-Martin (northern two-thirds). The international border feels more symbolic than strict, creating a seamless blend of cultures.
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On a jeep tour—one of over 20 MSC Seaside excursions—Andy experienced the locals' renowned hospitality. "A highlight was chatting with kids fishing on a pier," he shared. Despite language barriers, their mix of French and English sparked lively, joyful exchanges.
Other gems included a vibrant flea market with jewelry from local stones and panoramic views from Cole Bay Hill overlooking Simpson Bay Lagoon and nearby isles.
2. St. Martin's Beaches Are More Stunning Than Ever
Observers from The New York Times and Travel + Leisure agree: Now's the ideal time for St. Martin's shores. Restored to pre-storm glory, these beaches offer serene, crowd-free bliss—like Baie Longue.
Beyond the jeep tour's beach stop, MSC Seaside offers snorkeling, power-rafting, kayaking, and beach lunches.
3. Puerto Rico's Resilience Shines On and Off the Trails
Returning post-hurricanes, Andy noted impressive progress. An ATV tour through lush countryside—featuring lookouts and river swims—highlighted guides' stories of cleanup and recovery.
In San Juan, vibrant street life complements colonial charm. Try MSC Seaside's Old San Juan Historical Walk with coffee tasting, starting with authentic café con leche.
4. The Bahamas Deliver Timeless Fun
With minimal damage and swift recovery, Nassau's tourism hubs are thriving. Andy loved the historic district's 17th- and 18th-century architecture, carriage rides, and iconic police uniforms. "It's pure old-school charm," he said.
For nature lovers, opt for MSC Seaside excursions like glass-bottom boat tours, catamaran snorkeling, or semi-submarine adventures.
5. MSC Seaside Is the Perfect Floating Home Base
Andy raved about returning to the ship: the glass catwalk, hidden crepes at Venchi (strawberry-Nutella perfection, extra charge), Roy Yamaguchi's seafood restaurant, the largest Balinese spa at sea, interactive aquapark, and dual zip lines.
Photographers take note:
- Golden hour (post-sunrise/pre-sunset) for ship panoramas.
- Upper-deck viewing bridge for unique shots of the Bridge of Sighs and South Beach pool.
3. Splurge on an Aurea Experience Suite with curved balcony whirlpool for epic photos and sunset views amid warm Caribbean breezes.
Incredible. See you aboard.
