November 13, 2025 – MSC Cruises is continuing to expand its World Class fleet. The cruise line has ordered two more newbuilds from the French shipyard Chantiers de l'Atlantique. These will be the seventh and eighth ships in the series, scheduled to enter service in 2030 and 2031, respectively. The contracts were signed at a ceremony at the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.
MSC World Europe in Abu Dhabi
Two additional world-class newbuilds
The two new ships belong to the so-called World Class, which already includes the MSC World Europa, followed by the MSC World America, the MSC World Asia, and the MSC World Atlantic. With these newly ordered vessels, the series grows to a total of eight ships.
The cooperation between MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l'Atlantique has existed for more than two decades. This new order seamlessly builds on previous orders and underscores the strategic partnership between the cruise line and the shipyard. The investment volume for the two new ships runs into the billions – a clear indication that MSC Cruises is committed to long-term growth and fleet modernization.
"Sea Destinations"
With its World Class, MSC Cruises pursues the concept of designing each ship as a unique "destination at sea". Like their sister ships, the newbuilds are intended to be divided into different zones with distinct atmospheres: family-friendly areas, areas for peace and relaxation, entertainment zones, and spacious outdoor areas.
Each subsequent ship in the series will further develop the basic concept and add its own unique touches – for example, in the design of public spaces, the culinary offerings, or family and premium areas. For guests, this means a wide range of options on ships of the latest generation.
Focus on LNG and new propulsion technologies
All World Class ships are equipped with dual-fuel engines that can run on liquefied natural gas (LNG), among other fuels. MSC Cruises considers LNG a key component in the transition to virtually emission-free fuels in the future.
The ships are designed to be able to use other, alternative energy sources in the future, such as bio-LNG or synthetic fuels, as soon as these become available in sufficient quantities. The shipping company aims to operate its cruises in a climate-neutral manner by 2050 and is working with partners from industry and research on new technological solutions – from efficiency improvements on board to innovative energy and exhaust gas cleaning systems.
Construction progress: MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic
The announcement of the new order was embedded in two classic milestones of shipbuilding in Saint-Nazaire:
- MSC World AsiaThe float-out marks the transition from the construction phase in dry dock to outfitting in the water. Delivery is scheduled for November 2026. From December 2026, one-week cruises in the western Mediterranean are planned, with ports of call including Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Civitavecchia (for Rome), Messina, and Valletta.
- MSC World AtlanticThe traditional coin ceremony took place for this ship. Lucky coins are placed in the hull – an old custom meant to bring the ship and its crew safe passage. Commissioning is planned for 2027. In the winter of 2027/28, the MSC World Atlantic is scheduled to begin sailing in the Caribbean from Port Canaveral. For MSC Cruises, this is a further step towards strengthening its North American business.
More choice for cruise passengers
With the two additional World Class ships ordered, MSC Cruises is responding to the continued high demand for cruises and at the same time expanding its capacity for future growth.
For guests, this means in the long term:
- more route variety in the Mediterranean and the Caribbean,
- additional capacity during peak season,
- state-of-the-art ship technology with a focus on environmental and climate protection,
- a wide selection of onboard concepts – from family holidays to premium experiences.
Even though large newbuild projects are generally contingent on final financing, the ongoing expansion of the World Class demonstrates that MSC Cruises is consistently pursuing its expansion plans. Cruise enthusiasts can therefore look forward to more very large and modernly equipped ships in the coming years.
