MSC Cruises’ newest flagship, MSC World America, has completed deep-water sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean, marking a key milestone before its delivery later this month.
The 216,638-gross-ton vessel, designed to expand MSC’s U.S. market, underwent intensive tests assessing its engines, maneuverability, fuel efficiency, safety systems, and stopping distances.
Built at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, the World-Class ship will be officially handed over to MSC Cruises on March 27, before a naming ceremony at the cruise line’s newly constructed MSC Miami Cruise Terminal on April 9.
The 22-deck vessel will begin Caribbean sailings from Miami on April 12. It will offer alternating seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries with stops in the Dominican Republic, Puerto Rico, Mexico, Honduras, and the Bahamas.
First MSC Ship Designed for the U.S. Market
As MSC Cruises continues expanding in North America, MSC World America will be the first in the fleet to feature seven distinct onboard districts, a concept designed to offer passengers tailored experiences. These areas will integrate dining, entertainment, and leisure venues suited to various demographics.
“MSC World America is a game-changer for the U.S. cruise market,” Rubén Rodríguez, President of MSC Cruises USA, said in a statement. “This ship represents the best of European design, with experiences and venues created specifically with American guests in mind.”
The ship will introduce 19 dining venues, including the fleet’s first Greek restaurant, Paxos, and the only Eataly restaurant at sea. The All-Stars Sports Bar will offer an American-style sports viewing experience, while The Loft will serve as a multi-purpose lounge featuring comedy performances and karaoke.
Environmental Sustainability Features
As the cruise industry continues shifting toward lower-emission fuels, MSC World America will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), reducing carbon emissions by up to 25% compared to conventional marine fuels. The ship has shore power connectivity, allowing it to shut off engines while in port to eliminate local emissions.
Other sustainability features include an advanced wastewater treatment system that meets the strictest international standards and an onboard recycling plant designed to minimize waste.
Fleet Expansion & Future Ship Orders
MSC Cruises continues its fleet expansion with additional World-Class ships under construction. The next in line, MSC World Asia, is scheduled for delivery in 2026, followed by a yet-to-be-named sister ship in 2027.
MSC World America is part of MSC Cruises’ aggressive push to capture a larger share of the North American cruise market, competing directly with Royal Caribbean’s Icon-Class ships and Carnival’s Excel-Class vessels. The cruise line has significantly expanded its U.S. presence in recent years, bolstered by the opening of Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, its private island destination in the Bahamas, which will feature prominently in the ship’s itinerary.
With its debut in Miami next month, MSC World America aims to bring European design and sustainability-focused cruising to a growing U.S. audience, reinforcing MSC Cruises’ status as one of the fastest-growing cruise brands in the world.
Itinerary Overview: MSC World America Caribbean Sailings
- Eastern Caribbean: Calls in Puerto Plata, San Juan, and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
- Western Caribbean: Calls in Costa Maya, Cozumel, Isla de Roatan, and Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
MSC World America will operate year-round from PortMiami, sailing seven-night itineraries through at least 2026.
