MSC World America

The 2025-built MSC World America cruise ship is the second in a 4-unit “MSC WORLD Class” series of passenger liners designed and constructed for MSC Cruises. The first vessel, MSC World Europa, was launched in December 2021 and inaugurated in December 2022. The two optional vessels (ordered in 2022) will be launched in 2026 (MSC World Asia) and 2027 (MSC World Atlantic).

The vessel (IMO number 9837432) is currently Malta-flagged (MMSI 249193000) and registered in Valletta.

History – construction and ownership

MSC Cruises (MSC Crociere) is a passenger shipping company headquartered in Genoa and Naples. Established in 1960, MSC Crociere is a subsidiary of MSC (Mediterranean Shipping Company), the world’s second-largest containership operator. MSC Crociere is also the largest privately owned cruise company in the world.

By annual passenger volumes, MSC ranks as the third-largest cruise shipowner, following Carnival Corporation and RCG–Royal Caribbean Group.

As of 2021, MSC is the largest passenger shipping company in Europe. By 2026, MSC is projected to become the world’s third-largest cruise company (surpassing NCLH in combined berth capacity) with a 29-ship fleet, including 15 newbuilds (2017–2027) and a record USD 13-billion shipbuilding program.

MSC Cruises WORLD-Class liners

On April 6, 2017, during the MSC Meraviglia delivery ceremony at STX France Shipyard (Saint-Nazaire), MSC signed a shipbuilding MoU with STX France for two new vessels (World Class) at a total cost of ~EUR 4.5 billion (~USD 4.8B). The ceremony was attended by Emmanuel Macron (President of France), Bruno Le Maire (Minister of Economy), Pierfrancesco Vago (MSC’s Chairman), and Laurent Castaing (STX France’s CEO).

The contract for the first WORLD-Class ship (World Europa) was officially signed on May 31, 2017.

The order for two optional ships (3rd and 4th units) was announced in January 2020, making MSC the largest customer of Chantiers de l’Atlantique, with a total of 21 ships built there.

The 3rd and 4th vessels (World Asia and World Atlantic) were officially ordered on November 13, 2023.

An option also exists for a 5th ship from the same class.

WORLD Class vessels have a maximum passenger capacity of 6774 (5079 lower berths). Construction cost per ship is EUR 1.125 billion (USD 1.255B). Built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique (formerly STX France), each vessel has a gross tonnage of 215,863 GT, LOA 333 m (1093 ft), waterline beam 41 m (135 ft) / max beam 54 m (177 ft), height 75 m (245 ft), and a draft of 9.2 m (31 ft).

When first unveiled by MSC in April 2016, the design concept envisioned a 205,000-GT ship with 2760 staterooms and a maximum capacity of 6850 passengers—then the world’s largest by passenger capacity. By gross tonnage, MSC’s World Class ranks among the world’s largest cruise ships.

Early renderings and videos suggested an OASIS-Class-style interior with a long, wraparound Promenade lined with dining and bar venues (Aurea Restaurant, Raj Polo Tea House, Gin Bar, Zest Juice Bar, Elixir Mixology Bar, Fizz Champagne Bar, Malt Lounge & Smoker’s Bar, Emporium Coffee House), Promenade-view cabins, and an aft family pool deck.

The Lido Deck is covered by a retractable glass roof with solar panels and features a large resort-style pool, six Jacuzzis (four cantilevered), a kids’ Aquapark with a pool and three waterslides (aft, near the funnels), and an adults-only aft Sundeck with two pools. Forward is the MSC Yacht Club with its own private Sundeck, pool, and Spa pool.

Districts / themed zones

MSC World America has seven themed districts, each offering unique ambiances, amenities, and activities.

FAMILY AVENTURA

The FAMILY AVENTURA district is designed for families and children, anchored by The Harbor—an outdoor park with a high ropes course and numerous attractions. Highlights include the Cliffhanger Swing, an over-water ride located starboard-aft on Deck 20. Its four seats (two 2-seat swings) are lifted outward over the ship’s edge, propelling riders 50 m (164 ft) above the sea.

The Cliffhanger Swing provides panoramic views and a thrilling sensation of flying above open water.

AQUA DECK

The AQUA DECK district delivers the classic pool-deck experience with two large pools, expansive sunbathing areas, daytime wellness offerings, and nighttime entertainment.

ZEN AREA

Located aft, the adults-only ZEN AREA offers twin pools, sweeping wake views, and a tranquil retreat for relaxation.

GALLERIA

The GALLERIA district is a lively midship hub filled with dining venues, shops, boutiques, and entertainment spaces.

Onboard retail options include:

• “Luxury at Sea” – pre-owned accessories (Hermes, Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton)
• “Bulova Pop-Up Shop” – Bulova watches and jewelry
• “Sif Jakobs Lab-Grown Diamonds” – certified 14k gold and lab-grown diamond jewelry
• “TimeVallee” – luxury timepieces (Cartier, Chopard, Hublot, IWC, Panerai, Tag Heuer, Baume & Mercier)
• “Omega Shop” – Omega collections
• “World of Jewels” – multi-brand jewelry boutique
• “Effy Jewellery Store” – fine jewelry from Effy
• Shopping Gallery – 364 m² retail area
• MSC Shop – MSC Cruises and MSC World America branded merchandise

Guests can enjoy live music at Dolce Vita Bar and treats at Jean Philippe Chocolat & Café.

THE TERRACES

THE TERRACES district offers adult-focused dining and entertainment, including nine restaurants and bars, retail outlets, and a comedy club.

Guests can explore global cuisine, watch live performances, and participate in karaoke and DJ-hosted events.

PROMENADE

The PROMENADE is an open-air space featuring an 11-story-high dry slide and sweeping sea views. Guests can enjoy scheduled activities, premium coffee at the Emporium Bar, and the oceanfront ambiance.

MSC YACHT CLUB

The MSC YACHT CLUB district delivers MSC’s signature ship-within-a-ship experience, offering luxury, privacy, and 24/7 butler service. Amenities include priority embarkation/disembarkation, exclusive dining, a private lounge, and an expanded two-deck sundeck with panoramic views.

Highlights include:

• A redesigned two-deck sundeck with dining/bar areas on the lower level and a whirlpool and pool on the upper level
• Two new Owner Suites (YC4) with walk-in closets, full-size bathtubs, separate living/dining areas, and two large terraces with Jacuzzis
• Two-deck Duplex Suites with two terraces, a jacuzzi on the lower deck, and an upper-deck bedroom
• Dedicated spa treatment rooms and unlimited access to the Thermal Area

The MSC Yacht Club complex includes 152 suites, a Sports Bar, a Comedy Club, and six specialty restaurants.

The ship offers extensive public spaces, including 40,000+ m² (430,000+ ft²) of public areas, 15,000 m² (161,000 ft²) of outdoor deck space, 3440 m² (37,000 ft²) of main pool deck area, seven pools, 13 Jacuzzis, 760+ m² (8200 ft²) of children’s facilities (LEGO & Chicco-designed), multiple bars and lounges, 19 dining venues (six specialty), and 21 bars and lounges. Major themed areas include the Zen District, Family District, the Aquapark (the fleet’s largest), and a teens-exclusive Sundeck.

The dining lineup includes three buffets (Luna Park Pizza, Il Mercato, La Brasserie) and six specialty restaurants such as Kaito Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar, HOLA! Tacos & Cantina, Eataly, La Piazzetta, Butcher’s Cut, and Jean-Philippe Maury Chocolaterie. Additional casual venues include Paxos on the Go, Promenade Bites, The Harbour Bar & Bites, La Boca Grill, and Luna Park Pizza & Burger.

MSC World America features a striking arrow-shaped G-bow and a Y-shaped stern opening onto the World Promenade. The 7-deck-high World Promenade spans 104 m (341 ft) and transitions into the 300 m² (3200 ft²) World Galleria, partially covered by a kinetic dome with a LED ceiling displaying UHD images and videos. The Promenade ends at “The Spiral” (The Venom Drop)—a stainless-steel dry slide spanning 11 decks (76 m / 250 ft), connecting Deck 22 to Deck 8.

The main show lounge is The World Theatre (1153 seats), offering nightly productions, daily enrichment activities, and entertainment. Additional attractions include bumper cars, a roller disco, Cinema/Luna Park Arena (300-seat multipurpose venue), and the Botanic Garden Pool (under a retractable glass roof).

Entertainment programming includes:

• Concert-style shows at Luna Park Arena
• Five grand-scale productions at The World Theatre (Eko, Amelia Earhart, Cadmo The Landwalker, Yellow Submarine, A Night on Broadway)
• Four themed experiences in Panorama Lounge with interactive floors and LED screens
• Surprise “Earth and Ocean” live exhibits performed throughout the ship
• The Sundowner DJ Party (poolside holographic event)

Kids venues

MSC World America features the line’s largest children’s area—766 m² (8245 ft²) with seven dedicated venues for toddlers through teens (0–17 years). All facilities are complimentary and supervised by certified staff.

Venues include Baby Club (6–36 months), Mini Club and Junior Club (3–11 years), and Young Club and Teen Club (12–17 years).

New fleet-first facilities include:

• LEGO Celebration Room
• TEENS LAB (21 gaming consoles, 7 VR stations, 50+ games)
• 3,2,1 KNOCK (Asian-style family game show)
• BEAT THE MUSIC (music-guessing app-based family competition)
• Z ACTIVE (football, basketball, pickleball, zorb balls, hoverboards)
• DRONE ACADEMY 2.0 (VR-based drone race with 15 obstacles)
• CABIN 12006 – THE EXPERIENCE (Nickelodeon-themed activities)
• MSC DANCE CREW (teens’ dance competition)

Fleet-first family activities include LEGO Parade, LEGO Family Aventura, LEGO Family Game Show, Boxes Family Game Show, Doremix Family Disco, Star Shooters, Luna Park VR experiences, Doremiland (largest playground in the fleet), and The Harbor family zone.

The Harbour (family activity zone)

Located aft on Decks 21–22, The Harbour offers family-themed activities and complimentary dining options. Its design supports day-to-night transitions, with live music for adults and high-energy attractions for children.

The Harbour Aquapark includes slides, a splash pool, and a VR-enhanced raft slide.

The Jaw Drop at The Spiral is one of the longest dry slides at sea, descending 11 decks through the World Promenade.

The Rock-Climbing Wall features challenging routes for children.

The 2-level High Trail Ropes Course covers 577 m² (6210 ft²) and includes Sky Rails (zip lines).

The Harbour Lighthouse playground is modeled after the Ocean Cay lighthouse and features a slide and play stations.

The Harbour Bar & Bites offers complimentary grab-and-go food.

The Family Dwelling Area offers shaded seating and relaxation.

The Cliffhanger over-water swing lifts riders beyond the ship’s edge.

Together with Doremiland and the Sportsplex, The Harbour forms the Family Aventura District.

New venues (fleet firsts)

The Harbor (Deck 20) is a new outdoor “family complex” with an aquapark, High Trail Ropes Course, Zip-Line, sensory playgrounds, and the Harbour Lighthouse. Relaxation areas offer shaded seating and top-deck sea views. Food trucks serve snacks and beverages throughout the day.

World America also introduces a new Sports Bar and a new Comedy Club (names TBD).

Additional new venues introduced with MSC World Europa include:

• Chef’s Garden Kitchen (microgreens-based menu, hydroponic garden, by Michelin-star chef Niklas Ekstedt)
• La Pescaderia (seafood grill with alfresco dining)
• Luna Park Pizza & Burger (buffet, family games, American comfort food)
• Butcher’s Cut (American steakhouse)
• Kaito Teppanyaki & Sushi Bar (Asian specialty)
• Hola! Tacos & Cantina (Latin American street food)
• Masters of the Sea Pub (British-style gastropub with onboard microbrewery)
• Coffee Emporium (specialty coffees, MSC Lavazza blend)
• Raj Polo Tea House (Indian-inspired tea venue)
• The Gin Project (70+ craft gins)
• Elixir Mixology Bar (cocktail bar with outdoor terrace)
• Zest Juice Bar, Malt Lounge & Bar, Sweet Temptations (gelato & desserts)

The main complimentary dining venues are four MDRs (Bubbles, La Foglia, Esagono, Hexagon) and three buffets (Il Mercato, La Brasserie, Luna Park Pizza & Burger). Les Dunes Restaurant is exclusive to Aurea passengers.

All-Stars Sports Bar (Promenade District) offers alfresco seating, large HDTVs, darts, digital shuffleboard, and foosball.

The Loft (Terraces District) is an adults-only comedy club hosting nightly stand-up acts, dueling pianos, and karaoke.

Introduced on the MSC Seascape, the ROBOTRON ride features a robotic arm with a 3-seat gondola that rotates and flips 53 m (174 ft) above sea level.

Decks and cabins

MSC World America staterooms (2614 total, 19 categories) include 159 suites, and ~65% of all accommodations feature step-out balconies. The vessel offers 65 ADA/wheelchair-accessible cabins (33 Inside, 24 Balcony, 8 Junior Suites).

Seven cabin categories are new to the MSC brand.

Promenade-view cabins overlook the Lower Promenade.

MSC Yacht Club Duplex Suites have two decks, large terraces with Jacuzzis, and alfresco dining areas.

AUREA Suites also include balcony Jacuzzis.

Infinite Oceanview cabins feature French Balconies (down-sliding window opening to a glass balustrade).

The ship has 22 decks, 16 of which are accessible to passengers, with cabins on 12 decks.

Decks are named after major port cities in the Caribbean, South America, the USA, and Canada: Cozumel (5), Nassau (6), Santos (7), Miami (8), Seattle (9), Port Canaveral (10), Halifax (11), Los Angeles (12), Montevideo (14), Rio de Janeiro (15), Fort-de-France (16), Buenos Aires (18), New York (19), Ocean Cay (20), San Juan (21), Ocho Rios (22).

Itineraries

MSC World America’s itinerary program was announced on March 30, 2023, when MSC opened bookings for World America’s 2025 voyages (April–October). Like her sistership World Europa, World America is USA-homeported in Miami, Florida.

From PortMiami, the ship operates two 7-day roundtrip itineraries: Eastern Caribbean (visiting Puerto Plata, Dominicana, San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Ocean Cay, Bahamas) and Western Caribbean (calling at Costa Maya and Cozumel, Coxen Hole, Isla Roatan, plus Ocean Cay). Both routes can be combined into 14-day B2B/back-to-back cruises.

The Maiden Voyage departs Miami on April 12, 2025 (Eastern Caribbean itinerary).