MSC Cruises is poised to introduce its third World‑class vessel, MSC World Asia, which will embark on its inaugural sailings in the Mediterranean on December 11, 2026.
Built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France, the ship will spend the winter of 2026-2027 navigating 7‑night routes from Barcelona (Spain) through Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia (for Rome), Messina, and Valletta, maintaining the same itinerary through summer 2027 with a slight variation to include Naples.
This LNG-powered vessel belongs to MSC’s World‑class series—following MSC World Europa and MSC World America—and stands out by incorporating elements inspired by Asia’s diverse cultures, landscapes, and artistry. The ship retains the distinctive vertical plumb bow and Y-shaped aft section that opens onto an expansive outdoor promenade.
True to its name, MSC World Asia will feature several thematic highlights reflecting its namesake continent. Among these is a Pan‑Asian specialty restaurant offering cuisine drawn from regions such as Singapore, Thailand, Laos, South China, Vietnam, and Indonesia; this venue will include a bar and terrace overlooking the rear promenade. A dramatic feature of the ship’s design is a 12‑storey spiral dry slide—dubbed the Tree of Life—soaring approximately 81.3 metres above deck and allowing guests to descend across twelve levels within seconds.
MSC plans to expand its World‑class programme with 3 additional vessels by 2030. MSC World Atlantic is slated to enter service in 2027, with World 5 and World 6 following in 2029 and 2030 respectively.
In essence, MSC World Asia is constructed for Mediterranean cruising yet richly adorned with Asian cultural motifs, blending form and function in a voyage-ready vessel that marries global heritage with maritime innovation.