MSC Cruises Orders Two New World Class Ships for Fleet Expansion
MSC Cruises is set to enhance its fleet by ordering two additional World Class ships, bringing the total to six World Class vessels as part of its MSC Cruises expansion.
The cruise line has formalised an agreement with shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique for these new LNG-powered ships, currently designated as World Class 5 and 6.
These vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2030, respectively.
They will join the ranks of MSC World Europa and MSC World America, along with MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic.
Currently, these ships are under construction at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in France and are expected to commence sailing in 2026 and 2027, respectively.
MSC World America recently entered service in Miami last month.
Notable features of MSC Cruises’ new US flagship include seven distinct districts, 19 dining venues, 18 bars and lounges, and one of the longest dry slides at sea.
Additionally, the Harbour is a new outdoor venue on the ship that features the Cliffhanger over-water swing ride, a ropes course, a water park, a playground, and various relaxation areas.
New LNG-powered Ships at MSC Cruises
MSC Cruises’ inaugural World Class ship, MSC World Europa, was launched in November 2022. All World Class ships are powered by low-emission liquefied natural gas (LNG).
Based in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises ranks as the world’s third largest cruise line, operating 23 ships that provide cruises across five continents.
Ben Wilson, MSC Cruises’ head of architecture and concept design, shared with blooloop last year: “One of the other things that make us stand out against the crowd is that we design for everyone.”
Disney Cruise Line is also undergoing an expansion. Its fleet currently comprises six ships, but it aims to increase this number to 13 by 2031.
This project includes the introduction of the new Disney Destiny and Disney Adventure ships, a new vessel to operate from Japan, and four additional ships.
Images courtesy of MSC Cruises
