MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique recently marked two significant milestones in the development of their innovative world-class cruise ships. Here’s a detailed breakdown of these exciting developments:
MSC World America Prepares for Grand Arrival
Float-Out Ceremony Completed: On April 7, 2024, MSC World America successfully underwent its float-out ceremony at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This momentous occasion signifies the ship’s transition from the construction phase to final outfitting.
U.S.-Bound Flagship: MSC World America is poised to become MSC Cruises’ largest vessel serving the North American market. This ultramodern cruise liner will be the brand’s first LNG-powered ship in the region, demonstrating its commitment to environmental sustainability.
Designed for North American Guests: Catering specifically to North American preferences, MSC World America boasts unique restaurants, bars, and experiences that blend European design with American comfort. Passengers can expect an exceptional travel experience tailored to their sensibilities.
Technical Specifications: Spanning 22 decks and measuring over 150 feet wide, MSC World America will offer a staggering 2,614 staterooms. With its arrival in 2025, this behemoth is set to become a prominent fixture on the Miami skyline.
Inaugural Naming Ceremony in Miami: MSC World America’s official christening ceremony is scheduled for April 9, 2025, at MSC Cruises’ new state-of-the-art terminal in PortMiami. Following the ceremony, the ship will embark on a celebratory voyage to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas.
MSC World Asia Sets Sail for the Future
Steel Cutting Ceremony Marks Construction Start: Coinciding with the completion of MSC World America’s float out, the steel-cutting ceremony for the third World Class ship, MSC World Asia, marked the official commencement of its construction.
A Global Tribute: Following the naming convention of the World Class series, MSC World Asia pays homage to the vast continent of Asia. This reflects MSC Cruises’ dedication to global inclusivity and diverse cultural experiences.
Anticipated Delivery and Deployment Details: Details regarding MSC World Asia’s specific deployment are yet to be revealed. However, its anticipated delivery in 2026 signifies MSC Cruises’ ongoing commitment to fleet expansion and innovation.
Advanced Features and Sustainable Design: MSC World Asia is projected to surpass its predecessors in terms of cutting-edge marine technology and onboard hospitality features. Additionally, the ship will boast an even further reduced carbon footprint, aligning with MSC Cruises’ dedication to environmental responsibility.
A Commitment to Sustainable Innovation
Industry-Leading Environmental Efforts: Both MSC World America and MSC World Europa currently hold the distinction of delivering some of the lowest carbon footprints within the cruise industry, as measured by the International Maritime Organization’s Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI).
LNG as a Cornerstone Technology: MSC World Asia will become the fourth Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) powered vessel in the MSC Cruises fleet. LNG is considered a crucial pathway towards achieving maritime decarbonization due to its significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.
Paving the Way for Bio and Synthetic LNG: MSC Cruises’ commitment to sustainability extends beyond current technology. Their LNG-powered ships are designed to seamlessly transition to Bio-LNG and Synthetic LNG substitutes once these renewable fuel options become commercially available at scale.
Investing in Cutting-Edge Solutions: MSC Cruises actively participates in the EU-funded GREEN RAY project. This initiative aims to minimize methane slip through the development and implementation of innovative technologies for new and existing ships. Initial testing of the project’s combustion concepts has yielded promising results.
Shore Power Connectivity and Smart Technology: All new MSC Cruises vessels, including MSC World America and MSC World Asia, come equipped with shore power connectivity as standard. This feature allows the ships to shut off their engines while docked at ports offering shore power, further minimizing emissions. Additionally, smart technologies are implemented throughout the ships to optimize energy and water consumption.
Waste Reduction and Environmental Responsibility: MSC Cruises upholds a robust onboard recycling program to minimize waste generation. Even the propellers on these vessels are designed to reduce noise and minimize disruption to marine life.
Setting Sail on a World of Discovery
The upcoming arrival of MSC World America and the commencement of construction for MSC World Asia signifies a new chapter for MSC Cruises. These innovative vessels embody the company’s dedication to exceptional guest experiences, cutting-edge technology, and environmental responsibility. With their focus on sustainability and diverse cultural influences, these world-class ships are poised to redefine the future of luxury cruising.
World Class Ships: A Glimpse into Onboard Experiences
While specific details haven’t been unveiled, here’s a general idea of what passengers can expect aboard the World Class ships:
Unparalleled Choice and Variety: Encompassing 22 decks and offering over 2,600 cabins and suites, the World Class ships will provide guests with an extensive selection of accommodations catering to various needs and preferences.
Spacious Public Areas: Boasting over 420,000 square feet of public space, these ships will offer ample room for relaxation, entertainment, and exploration. Passengers can look forward to a variety of lounges, bars, theaters, pools, and outdoor spaces.
MSC Yacht Club: A Luxurious Haven: The world-class ships will feature MSC Cruises’ largest Yacht Club concept to date. This exclusive “ship-within-a-ship” experience provides unparalleled levels of comfort and service. Guests can enjoy a private lounge, a dedicated restaurant, stylish suites, and expansive outdoor areas with panoramic ocean views.
Culinary Delights from Around the World: MSC Cruises is renowned for its exceptional dining experiences. The World Class ships are expected to uphold this tradition with a diverse array of restaurants specializing in international cuisines. Passengers can embark on a culinary journey, savoring flavors from across the globe.
Family-Friendly Activities and Entertainment: MSC Cruises prioritizes families, and the World Class ships will offer a plethora of engaging activities and entertainment options for all ages. From dedicated kids’ clubs and water parks to thrilling stage shows and interactive experiences, there’s something for everyone.
Cutting-Edge Technology Enhancements: The World Class ships are designed to incorporate the latest advancements in technology. Guests can expect features like interactive digital signage, enhanced connectivity options, and touchless technologies for added convenience and personalization.
