MSC CRUISES COUNTS DOWN 18 MONTHS UNTIL LAUNCH OF MSC WORLD ASIA, AHEAD OF 2026 MEDITERRANEAN DEBUT

• MSC World Asia to feature new experiences on the World Promenade, including new longest dry slide at sea, a new Pan-Asian restaurant and returning guests’ favorites
• New flagship will invite guests to experience the art of cruising while sailing the Mediterranean starting December 11, 2026, offering itineraries for winter 2026/27 and summer 2027

Geneva, Switzerland – June 18, 2025 – MSC Cruises revealed new details today about MSC World Asia, the line’s highly anticipated new flagship set to sail the Mediterranean starting on December 11, 2026.  

While on board, guests can look forward to innovative new concepts and experiences on the World Promenade, including the longest dry slide at sea, along with an exciting blend of returning favorites to deliver the ultimate cruise vacation. From​ international gastronomic experiences to world-class entertainment, every moment is thoughtfully curated to deliver unforgettable memories.

As the third ship in the line’s trailblazing World Class series—which celebrates the world’s continents and oceans, reflecting the global nature of MSC Cruises—MSC World Asia will feature subtle design elements that reflect Asia’s rich culture, art, and beautiful landscapes. Like her sister ship, MSC World America, the ship will feature seven onboard districts, each with its own atmosphere, facilities and experiences, designed to help guests navigate everything available on board and choose their own vacation experience.

MSC World Asia will invite guests to experience the art of cruising while sailing to breathtaking destinations, with 7-night Mediterranean cruises for Winter 2026/27 and Summer 2027 calling in Barcelona (Spain), Marseille (France), Messina, Civitavecchia for Rome (Italy), and Valletta (Malta).

A Vibrant World Promenade

Among MSC World Asia’s highlights is the World Promenade—a vibrant open-air space located at the heart of the ship—where unique dining, lounging and entertainment options are paired with stunning ocean views.

Guests can expect a mix of returning favorites and new concepts including:

• NEW! Pan-Asian Specialty Restaurant: This lively yet-to-be-named venue offers an elevated dining experience featuring a variety of food and drink offerings, a dedicated bar, and an inviting outdoor terrace. Focusing on Southeast Asian cuisine, including flavors from Singapore, Thailand, Laos, South China, Vietnam and Indonesia, this Pan-Asian specialty restaurant will transport guests to a world of tastes, textures and stories of the region in a way never before seen at sea. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy bold flavors and soak in the energy of the World Promenade and surrounding entertainment.
• NEW! Tree of Life @The Spiral: Set to be the longest dry slide at sea at 266.7 feet, the eye-catching architectural feature of MSC Cruises’ World Class ships will be more thrilling than ever. The new design will be inspired by the trees in Singapore’s famous Gardens by the Bay and transport guests down 12 decks in a matter of seconds.
• Sweet Temptations: A colorful destination ideal for a sweet indulgence at any time of day, offering gelato, cakes, crêpes, frozen yogurt, signature shakes and much more. With personalized food stations and a customize-your-own ice cream bar, pick and mix treats, and entertainment experiences for the whole family, this venue will offer more than ever before.
• Promenade Bites: A casual spot serving freshly prepared street-food-style snacks — the Promenade bites venue carries the charm of classic fairgrounds in a modern setting.
• All-Stars Sports Bar: A lively venue offering a festive game-day atmosphere featuring large screens, interactive games, and an outdoor sea-facing terrace—perfect for sports fans and family gatherings including interactive games like digital shuffleboard and darts. ​Guests can grab a drink with friends and family and watch a game while enjoying bar food and classic American favorites.​
• Coffee Emporium: A stylish space for coffee lovers, offering a curated selection of blends and brewing styles from around the world—perfect for a pick-me-up or a relaxed break.​
• Luxury Accessories Boutique: A refined shopping destination featuring high-end accessories and statement pieces from international brands—ideal for those looking to treat themselves or pick up something special.​

MSC World Asia’s itineraries:

• Winter 2026/27: Sailing 7-night itineraries to Barcelona (Spain), Marseille (France), Genoa, Civitavecchia for Rome, Messina (Italy), and Valletta (Malta) with accessible embarkation in every port.
• Summer 2027: Sailing 7-night itineraries to Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Naples (Italy), Messina and Valletta.

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More details on MSC World Asia:

MSC World Asia will offer a wide range of world-class experiences and activities, offering something for every type of cruiser. Highlights include:

• More than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants with six specialty restaurant concepts including guest favorites like Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki, and Hola! Tacos & Cantina, plus new concepts to be revealed. Popular bars and café venues such as MSC Cruises’ classic British pub with a full-scale micro-brewery making MSC Signature beers on board.
• The Harbour: A revolutionary new outdoor park within the Family Aventura District, where families can come together to engage in activities, indulge in delicious bites and soak up the sun.
• Cliffhanger: A thrilling overwater swing ride propelling guests back and forth 165 feet above the ocean below.
• More than 20 different accommodation types: From luxury suites to balcony cabins with stunning ocean or lively promenade views, to connecting family cabins, there are comfortable accommodations to suit every guest.
• The MSC Yacht Club: MSC Cruises’ exclusive “ship within a ship concept” offering 144 luxurious suites. Amenities include keycard-only access to a dedicated lounge and restaurant, private pool, sun deck, and 24-hour butler service and concierge—all within easy reach of everything a larger ship has to offer.
• Dedicated areas and experiences for families with expansive kids clubs featuring dedicated facilities for babies to teens. Families can also enjoy original game shows and activities, a waterpark, video arcades, a virtual reality slide and plenty more.
• The ultimate wellness escape with adults-only Zen pools at the aft of the ship, an expansive Aurea Spa with an array of relaxing treatments and facilities, an MSC Cruises’ Gym Powered by Technogym with stunning ocean views, and The Gentlemen’s Barber.
• Seven pools, including one with a retractable roof for all-weather enjoyment, plus 13 hot tubs.
• International entertainment options around the clock with spectacular stage shows and multiple entertainment venues for every type of traveler. Plus live music, enriching activities, games, surprises and more.

About MSC Cruises

Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the privately-owned MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise line and the market leader in Europe with a strong and growing presence in North America.

A global cruise brand with 23 modern ships offering cruises across five continents, guests can visit more than 100 countries worldwide with more than 300 destinations, making unforgettable memories and enjoying the finest hospitality.

For more information visit MSC Cruises.