What It Takes to Keep Thousands of Kids Entertained on a Mega Cruise Ship

Nadia Durigon grew up near Venice and was drawn to cruise travel early, pointing at a ferry in a travel agency window and consistently writing that she wanted to work on a cruise ship. After studying foreign languages and tourism, she entered the industry and found her niche in youth programming. Now 37, she has nearly two decades of sea experience and works as Traveling Fleet Supervisor for Family Entertainment at MSC Cruises. Her responsibilities include youth programming, trend forecasting, activity development, staff training, and supporting ship launches. She helped introduce family-focused onboard concepts such as mascot parades and laser-gaming experiences, including on MSC’s flagship World America, which features extensive kids’ facilities and attractions.

"Now 37, Durigon has spent nearly two decades working at sea and currently serves as the Traveling Fleet Supervisor for Family Entertainment at MSC Cruises. Her job blends youth programming, trend forecasting, activity development, staff training, and ship launches-essentially helping shape the onboard experience for families across the MSC fleet."

"She's helped roll out everything from mascot parades to laser-gaming experiences aboard ships like World America, MSC's sprawling new flagship designed with families squarely in mind. The 22-deck mega ship packs in one of the largest kids clubs at sea, plus bumper cars, roller skating, waterslides, a ropes course, and the Cliffhanger-the cruise industry's first overwater swing ride."

"There are quiz shows and dance parties, teen-only gaming spaces, Guinness World Records competitions, and enough stimulation to make some kids forget their parents exist for days at a time. "It's the best job in the world," says Durigon. "I'm not a routine kind of person, and this allows me to meet new people every day and travel around the world while doing it.""

Read at Conde Nast Traveler