MSC Cruises’ newest flagship, MSC World Asia, has successfully completed her final sea trials as preparations continue for the vessel’s delivery on November 25th, 2026.
The trials were conducted in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of France and included tests of the ship’s engines, maneuverability, fuel efficiency, safety systems, speed and stopping distances. The successful completion of the programme follows an initial round of sea trials carried out in July and brings the vessel closer to final delivery.
MSC World Asia will become MSC Cruises’ 24th ship and the third LNG-powered vessel in the World Class series. The ship follows MSC World Europa and MSC World America and continues the development of the World Class platform, which combines large-scale passenger capacity with a wide range of accommodation, dining, entertainment and family facilities.
The ship will feature 40+ bars, lounges and restaurants, as well as international entertainment and a variety of facilities designed for families and younger guests.
Following the completion of her sea trials, MSC World Asia will return to Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire, France, where the final stages of construction and outfitting will be completed before the ship is handed over to MSC Cruises on November 25th.
The vessel is scheduled to be officially named in Le Havre on November 28th during a ceremony expected to bring together representatives from the travel industry, media, business partners and invited guests.
MSC World Asia will enter commercial service on December 4th, departing Barcelona on her inaugural 7-night Mediterranean cruise.
Among the ship’s main attractions will be The Spiral @ Tree of Life, a 266.7-foot dry slide extending across 12 decks and offering views of the surrounding ocean. The vessel will also incorporate design elements inspired by Asian culture, art and landscapes, including a large dragon sculpture in the World Promenade measuring ~39 feet in length and 29 feet in width and suspended 32 feet above the deck.
Designed with a focus on energy efficiency, MSC World Asia will be powered by liquefied natural gas and will also be capable of using bio-LNG and synthetic renewable LNG fuels as they become available. The ship will additionally be equipped for shore power connectivity, allowing its engines to be switched off while alongside at compatible ports and reducing local emissions during port calls.