“How scary can it be?” I thought when I first learned of Cliffhanger, a mechanical swing ride that propels people out over the side of MSC Cruises’ new MSC World America cruise ship.
Given that new vessels have debuted in recent years with aerial bikes, roller coasters, and even attractions that flip riders upside down, a swing seemed tame in comparison.
So, is Cliffhanger on MSC World America worth trying out? Here’s my take on the experience, along with everything you’ll want to know, from pricing to height requirements.
What is the MSC World America Cliffhanger?
MSC World America’s Cliffhanger is like a larger mechanical version of your grandma’s porch swing, but with twice the capacity and positioned over the side of a giant cruise ship.
The massive red structure is located on Deck 20, starboard (the right side of the vessel when you’re facing forward), in the ship’s Family Aventura district, which is one of seven themed areas on board.
The ride offers two separate swings, each of which can hold up to two passengers. You can choose to ride with someone or by yourself.
Does Cliffhanger have height requirements?
Yes, to ride Cliffhanger, you must be at least 51 inches (4 feet, 3 inches) tall and at least 7 years old.
Before joining the queue to ride, you’ll have to report to a nearby kiosk to sign an electronic waiver and obtain a wristband.
Is Cliffhanger free?
No, it is not free to ride MSC World America’s Cliffhanger. The cost is $5 per person, per ride, and each ride lasts about 15 seconds. Reservations are required and can be made via the MSC for Me app.
What it’s like to ride Cliffhanger on MSC World America
When it’s your turn to ride, you’ll be ushered to one of the two swings. Before taking your seat, you must place all of your loose belongings and shoes that aren’t securely attached to your feet in a bin beside the ride for safekeeping.
After sitting down, you’ll secure the lap bar across your legs. (I was wearing a dress and was worried that might be a problem, but the lap bar is designed in a way that kept everything firmly in place, despite the wind.)
When the ride begins, hydraulic arms will move the bench out a bit over either the port below if you’re docked or the ocean if you’re sailing. Then, you’ll glide back and forth, taking in amazing views.
I was prepared to be underwhelmed but, to my surprise, I felt pleasantly dizzy, even though I’m not afraid of heights.
Is Cliffhanger worth it?
Overall, if you don’t mind paying what amounts to $1 for every three seconds of ride time and you’re not afraid of heights, yes, Cliffhanger is worth riding just once for the views and the experience.
Plus, if you’re someone who enjoys kitschy cruise mementos, you can purchase a ride photo of yourself afterward or have a travel companion take a fun video or photo of you from the side. (It’s totally social media-worthy.)
However, if being up high turns your stomach or you don’t like to pay for anything extra when you sail, you’ll want to avoid this attraction.
Ashley Kosciolek
Ashley boarded her first cruise more than 20 years ago and never looked back. Her experience encompasses nearly 100 sailings across every major cruise brand, as well as niche luxury, river and expedition lines. She has written thousands of cruise tip features; ship, port and shore excursion reviews; and industry news articles for The Points Guy, Cruise Critic and other publications. She has been quoted as an expert by outlets that include The New York Times, CNBC, Fox Business, Forbes, Good Morning America and others.
