MSC Cruises' newest vessel MSC World America completed final sea trials in the Bay of Biscay (Atlantic Ocean), undergoing intensive systems testing.
The assessments evaluated the engine performance, maneuverability, fuel consumption, safety systems, speed, and stopping distances.
With the sea trials successfully concluded, the ship will now receive its final outfitting at Chantiers de l’Atlantique in Saint-Nazaire (France) before being officially delivered on March 27th.
As MSC’s 23rd vessel, MSC World America is an evolution of the World Class platform, designed specifically for the U.S. market. The ship integrates European design with American-style comfort, featuring reimagined venues and concepts. A first for the MSC fleet, the vessel will introduce 7 distinct onboard districts, each offering a curated mix of dining, entertainment, and leisure options tailored to various traveler preferences.
The official naming ceremony is scheduled for April 9th at the new MSC Miami Cruise Terminal, the world’s largest cruise terminal. Following the event, MSC World America will embark on her maiden voyage, including a stop at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas before commencing regular Caribbean itineraries.
The 22-deck vessel has a gross tonnage of 216,638, measuring 1,093 feet (333 m) in length and 154 feet (47 m) in width. With a passenger capacity of 6,762 and accommodations for 2,138 crew members, the ship will feature 2,614 cabins and 413,334 square feet (38,400 m2) of public space. The onboard experience will include 18 bars and lounges, 19 dining venues, and an array of entertainment facilities. Among the culinary highlights are new specialty dining concepts such as the Greek restaurant Paxos and the first Eataly restaurant at sea, alongside fast-casual options catering to a diverse range of tastes.
Additional features include two newly introduced lounge concepts: the All-Stars Sports Bar, designed to replicate an authentic game-day atmosphere with American-style bar games, and The Loft, a multi-purpose venue offering comedy, karaoke, and other entertainment.
Following her inaugural sailing on April 12th, MSC World America will operate alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami. As part of MSC Cruises’ ongoing commitment to environmental sustainability, the newbuild will be LNG-powered, enabling a transition to bio and synthetic renewable LNG fuels. The ship is also equipped with shore power connectivity, allowing it to reduce emissions while docked, as well as an advanced wastewater treatment plant and comprehensive onboard recycling management systems.
MSC Cruises’ order book includes two additional World Class ships: MSC World Asia, slated for delivery in 2026, and a 4th yet-unnamed vessel expected in 2027.