MSC’s First American Mega Cruise Ship Completes Sea Trials
MSC World America Set to Transform U.S. Cruises
MSC Cruises is expanding its presence in the American market with the upcoming launch of its first “World Class” cruise ship, MSC World America. Scheduled to enter service in April 2025, the ship is currently under construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France. Recently, it completed its second and final sea trials, which tested various performance metrics, including engine efficiency and safety systems.
Innovative Features and Market Expansion
The MSC World America is a significant addition to MSC’s fleet, weighing in at 216,638 gross tons. This makes it nearly 25% larger than the cruise ships currently operating in the American market. The ship is part of MSC’s strategy to enhance its brand visibility in the U.S., which includes opening new homeports in Port Canaveral, Florida, and Galveston, Texas. Additionally, MSC plans to send a cruise ship to Alaska, further solidifying its commitment to the region.
As the second ship in the World Class series, following the MSC World Europa, the MSC World America is set to be named in Miami on April 9, 2025. It will begin its inaugural Caribbean cruise shortly after. This ship will make MSC the second cruise line to operate a vessel exceeding 200,000 gross tons in the U.S. market, following Royal Caribbean International. Carnival Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line have also announced plans to add similar-sized ships to their fleets in the coming years.
Designed specifically for the U.S. market, the MSC World America features seven distinct onboard districts, including a variety of dining and entertainment options. Guests can enjoy 18 bars and lounges, 19 dining venues, and six specialty restaurants, including a new Greek restaurant and a branded Eataly restaurant. The ship will also boast a sports bar and a comedy-karaoke club, catering to diverse passenger preferences.
With a length of 1,093 feet and 22 decks, the ship will accommodate 6,762 passengers and employ a crew of 2,138. It incorporates advanced technologies, including LNG dual-fuel capabilities, shore power connections, and an advanced wastewater treatment plant. The construction of the largest cruise terminal in North America in Miami will serve as the homeport for the MSC World America, enhancing the cruise experience for guests.
The arrival of the MSC World America aligns with a robust period for the cruise industry, as many brands report record bookings and strong pricing. PortMiami, which welcomed nearly 7.3 million passengers last year, anticipates that the new ship will contribute to the continued growth of the port.
