MSC Cruises’ new ship MSC World Asia has completed its final sea trials in September 2026 in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of France. The trials assessed the vessel’s engines, maneuverability, fuel efficiency, safety systems, speed, and stopping distances.
MSC World Asia is the 24th ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet and the third LNG-powered vessel in its World-class series. The ship operates on liquefied natural gas (LNG) and is capable of using bio- and synthetic renewable LNG fuels, making it one of the most efficient cruise ships currently at sea. It also has shore power connectivity to reduce
emissions while docked.
The ship is undergoing final finishing touches at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. MSC World Asia is scheduled for delivery to MSC Cruises on November 25, 2026. Its official naming ceremony will be held on November 28, 2026, in Le Havre, France, with attendance from international travel industry figures, media, partners, and guests.
Onboard features include over 40 bars, lounges, and restaurants along with family facilities and international entertainment. A distinctive attraction aboard is The Spiral @ Tree of Life dry slide, measuring 81.3 meters long and descending 12 decks, offering ocean views during
the ride. Asian cultural elements are integrated into the ship’s design, including a 12-meter-long, 9-meter-wide dragon sculpture suspended 10 meters above the World Promenade.
MSC World Asia will begin operations on December 4, 2026, embarking from Barcelona on seven-night itineraries. The route will call at ports including Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia (serving Rome), Messina, and Valletta. All ports on the itinerary offer accessible embarkation.
