MSC Cruises’ latest flagship, MSC World Asia, has successfully completed her final sea trials, as part of the preparations for her delivery on 25 November 2026.
All details correct at time of publication (14 September 2026)
The final trials took place in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of France to test the ship’s engines, manoeuvrability, fuel efficiency, safety systems, speed, and stopping distances, confirming her readiness as she moves toward final completion. The first sea trials were completed in July.
Joining the fleet as MSC Cruises’ 24th ship and the third LNG-powered World Class vessel, MSC World Asia builds on the success of the World Class platform.
Each ship in the series is designed to be a destination in itself, where innovation meets elegance, and every detail is crafted to elevate every moment on board, said the company in a statement.
MSC World Asia will offer the ultimate cruise experience for guests with more than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants, international entertainment options, a range of family facilities and more.
The ship will sail seven-night itineraries calling at some of the Mediterranean’s most popular destinations, including Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa and Civitavecchia for Rome, Messina and Valletta, with accessible embarkation available in every port.
The ship will now receive her final finishing touches at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, before being officially delivered to MSC Cruises on 25 November.
MSC World Asia will be officially named on 28 November in Le Havre, France, in a spectacular ceremony bringing together key figures from across the global travel industry, international media, partners and invited guests in an evening blending maritime tradition with contemporary celebration.
Guests will take their first voyage on 4 December, when the ship departs Barcelona on her inaugural seven-night sailing.
Among her standout attractions is The Spiral @ Tree of Life, the longest dry slide at sea, 81.3 metres long, this thrilling ride takes guests soaring down 12 decks with stunning ocean views.
The ship has subtle design elements reflecting Asia’s rich culture, art and landscapes, including a stunning 12-metre-long, nine-metre-wide dragon sculpture in the World Promenade, suspended 10 metres in the air.
MSC World Asia is one of the most efficient cruise ships currently at sea; she uses LNG fuel and is also capable of running on bio- and synthetic renewable LNG fuels.
The ship is fitted with shore power connectivity, which allows the ship’s engines to be switched off while in port, eliminating local emissions and improving local air quality.
Sail on board MSC World Asia on 29 January 2027 for 7 nights, from just £630 per person. Departing from Barcelona, with stops in Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia, Messina and Valletta.
For more information, and for travel agents to book, visit www.mscbook.com
