MSC World Asia is the third vessel in MSC Cruises’ World Class series, a new generation of large, liquefied natural gas (LNG)-fuelled cruise ships being developed as part of the line’s global fleet expansion plans.
Chantiers de l’Atlantique, based in Saint-Nazaire, France, is the main contractor for the World Class programme, overseeing both the design and construction of these vessels.
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The first two ships of the World Class concept, MSC World Europa and MSC World America, were delivered in 2022 and 2025, respectively. In November 2023, MSC Cruises ordered the third and fourth LNG-powered vessels.
Construction on MSC World Asia officially began in April 2024 with a steel-cutting ceremony, during which the ship was named. The coin ceremony for the cruise ship took place in March 2025.
MSC World Asia is expected to enter service in December 2026, offering Mediterranean cruises to destinations in France, Italy, Spain and Malta.
MSC World Asia features and specifications
MSC World Asia will measure 333.3m (1,093.5ft) in length, 77.15m in height and 47m in width. It will be capable of accommodating up to 6,758 guests and 2,142 crew members.
The ship will have a gross tonnage (gt) of approximately 215,863gt and can achieve a maximum speed of 22.7 knots.
The vessel will retain the family characteristics of the World Class platform, featuring a distinctive, futuristic silhouette with a Y-shaped aft and a long, open-air promenade. It will also incorporate design elements inspired by Asian art and landscapes.
MSC World Asia will be powered by LNG, facilitating a transition to renewable LNG options such as bio and synthetic fuels. The ship will also be equipped with shore power connectivity, enabling it to turn off its engines while docked, thereby eliminating local emissions and improving air quality in port areas.
The cruise ship will utilise smart technology to provide a comfortable travel experience while minimising energy and water consumption. It will feature an advanced wastewater treatment plant and a comprehensive onboard recycling management system to minimise waste.
Additionally, the ship will be equipped with the latest-generation propulsion pods, designed to reduce noise and minimise impact on marine life.
MSC World Asia will be structured around seven distinct onboard districts, creating themed neighbourhoods to enhance the guest experience. These districts are the Aqua Deck, Family Aventura, Galleria, MSC Yacht Club, Promenade, The Terraces and Zen Area.
Each district will present its own unique atmosphere, allowing guests to explore and enjoy different environments.
The ship’s design allocates 38,400m² (413,334.2ft²) to public spaces, ensuring ample room for guest activities and relaxation.
Accommodation details
MSC World Asia will feature a total of 2,582 staterooms, with 65% of them offering balconies.
The ship is designed to offer more than 20 types of accommodation. These range from inside cabins and balcony staterooms to luxury suites, including those within the MSC Yacht Club’s ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept. This variety ensures that the ship can cater to different guest preferences and needs.
The MSC Yacht Club will consist of 144 suites, categorised into several types: Owner’s Suites, Royal Suites with whirlpool baths, Duplex Suites (both with and without whirlpool baths), Deluxe Suites and Interior Suites.
These accommodations will boast premium interiors, spacious wardrobes and bathrooms equipped with large showers and tubs, along with 24-hour butler and concierge service.
MSC World Asia will introduce the Royal Duplex Suite, featuring two bedrooms and accommodating up to six guests. This exclusive area will provide keycard-only access to a private sanctuary, which includes a dedicated lounge and restaurant, a private pool, a sun deck and 24-hour concierge service.
Guests can also choose from seven types of luxury suites, ranging in size from 17m² to 35m². Selected suites will feature balconies with private whirlpools, as well as air conditioning, minibars, paid Wi-Fi, safes, seating areas with double sofa beds, telephones and TVs.
Additionally, there will be five types of balcony cabins, each approximately 17m² in size.
Entertainment facilities onboard the cruise ship
MSC World Asia’s World Promenade will serve as a central hub for dining, lounging and entertainment options.
The Clubhouse will be a vibrant, retro-inspired space, providing a setting for family gatherings, high-energy fun and creative play.
Luna Park, a versatile and immersive venue spanning two decks, will host interactive game shows, parties and themed events. The Harbour will feature Asian-inspired redesign along with the Cliffhanger, an over-water swing ride that will elevate guests more than 50m above the ocean.
The Panorama Lounge will allow guests to enjoy panoramic sea views, live music and a spacious dance floor.
An adults-only section with pools will be located at the aft of the ship. Guests can visit the Aurea Spa for a variety of relaxing treatments.
MSC World Asia will also have a gym equipped with Technogym equipment and the Gentlemen’s Barber for grooming services.
The ship will have seven pools, one of which features a retractable roof for all-weather enjoyment, and 13 whirlpool baths.
A dedicated space for children called Doremi Kids Club will also be added to ensure that younger guests have engaging activities and facilities tailored to their age groups.
Dining options on MSC World Asia
MSC World Asia will offer more than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants, including six speciality dining concepts. Guests can enjoy two large buffet restaurants, each featuring a unique ambience and open 24/7.
Speciality dining options will include the classic American-style steakhouse, Butcher’s Cut; the Asian-inspired Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki; and Hola! Tacos & Cantina, which serves Latin American street food.
Additionally, Les Dunes Restaurant will offer Mediterranean and other international specialities. Other dining venues will include Pizza & Burger, Hexagon Restaurant and La Foglia Restaurant.
The ship will also introduce new dining concepts to enhance the culinary experience.
Guests can unwind at popular bars and café venues, including MSC Cruises’ classic British pub, which features a full-scale microbrewery producing MSC Signature beers onboard.
Other highlights will include the Fizz – Champagne Bar, a juice bar and a gelateria for those with a sweet tooth.
MSC World Asia itinerary
At launch, MSC has positioned World Asia on seven-night Mediterranean sailings for winter 2026/27.
Announced ports of call include Barcelona (Spain), Marseille (France), Genoa or Civitavecchia (for Rome), Naples or Messina (Italy) and Valletta (Malta), depending on the specific season’s rotation.