MSC Cruises marks the 12-month countdown to MSC World Asia

The one-year countdown to the launch of MSC Cruises' newest flagship, the MSC World Asia, has begun. This state-of-the-art vessel is set to become the latest World Class ship to join the cruise line's fleet, inviting guests to experience the Art of Cruising from December 2026.

Sailing to some of the most sought-after destinations in the Mediterranean from December 4, 2026, the ship will feature subtle design elements that reflect the rich culture, art and landscapes of Asia, and will offer guest favorites alongside new concepts that will provide unforgettable onboard experiences.

With just 12 months remaining until the ship's launch, MSC Cruises is sharing 12 highlights about the flagship, and the exciting amenities, world-class dining and spectacular entertainment that await guests on board.

1) NEW! Dragon Sculpture: A striking stainless steel dragon suspended from the ceiling 10 meters above the World Promenade will captivate guests. The 12-meter-long and nine-meter-wide sculpture, adorned with nearly 700 mirrors and 3,000 LED lights, will also be illuminated at night on board the MSC World Asia.

2) Stunning Mediterranean Itineraries: The MSC World Asia will sail the Mediterranean, visiting some of the region's most captivating destinations. Starting December 4, 2026, the ship will offer seven-night itineraries to Barcelona (Spain), Marseille (France), Genoa, Civitavecchia for Rome, Messina (Italy), and Valletta (Malta) during the 2026/27 European winter season, and seven-night itineraries to Barcelona, ​​Marseille, Genoa, Naples (Italy), Messina, and Valletta during the 2027 European summer season.

3) NEW! The Spiral @ Tree of Life: Set to be the longest dry slide at sea at 81.3 meters, this striking architectural feature, a signature element of MSC Cruises' World Class ships, offers a thrilling ride that allows guests to glide between 12 decks in seconds. The new design will be inspired by the trees of Singapore's famous Gardens by the Bay, connecting with the ship's Asian-inspired elements.

4) NEW! Pan-Asian Street Food: This lively spot will offer a dining experience with a dedicated bar and inviting outdoor terrace, offering both dine-in and takeaway options. Focusing on Southeast Asian cuisine—including flavors from Singapore, Thailand, Laos, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Indonesia—this specialty restaurant will transport guests to a world of regional flavors, textures, and stories like never before at sea.

5) Family Fun on the Upper Deck – The Harbour & The Clubhouse:

OR ALL-NEW DESIGN! The Harbour: Featuring a sleek new redesign inspired by Asia, offering a revolutionary outdoor park within the Family Adventure district where families can gather for activities, delicious snacks, and sunshine. The Harbour will feature the Cliffhanger – a thrilling swing over the water that soars 50 meters above the ocean – a dizzying ropes course, a water park, a dedicated children's play area, and The Harbour Bar & Bites, offering a selection of delicious, complimentary food.

NEW! The Clubhouse: This vibrant, retro-inspired space will bring families together for high-energy fun and creative play. Designed with a playful, timeless aesthetic, it combines classic board games, a LEGO® family zone, bumper cars, basketball, and skating. It's a dynamic place that evolves throughout the day – offering playful bonding moments for children and adults alike, and evening entertainment in a lively, social setting.

6) All-Stars Sports Bar: MSC World Asia will feature MSC Cruises’ first all-American sports bar sailing in Europe. This lively venue offers an authentic game-day atmosphere with large screens, interactive games, and an outdoor terrace overlooking the sea – perfect for sports fans and family gatherings. Guests can enjoy drinks with friends and family while watching a game and enjoying typical bar fare and classic American favorites. The bar will also feature new sports memorabilia from around the world, including items from MSC Cruises’ partnerships with the Miami Dolphins, the New York Knicks, AC Milan, and the BWT Alpine Formula One team.

7) The largest selection of MSC Yacht Club accommodations to date, with seven different categories to choose from, including the luxurious NEW Royal Duplex Suite, featuring two bedrooms and accommodating up to six guests, multi-room Owner Suites, and Royal Suites with a Jacuzzi. Guests will enjoy numerous options within MSC Cruises' "ship-within-a-ship" concept, offering exclusive and private spaces including a dedicated lounge, restaurant, and solarium, as well as personalized butler and 24-hour concierge service.

8) More than 40 bars, lounges, and restaurants, including six specialty restaurant concepts such as guest favorites Butcher's Cut steakhouse, Kaito Sushi & Teppanyaki, and Hola! Tacos & Cantina, plus new concepts including the new Pan-Asian Street Food specialty restaurant and casual fast-food options to be revealed. Popular bars and cafés include Sweet Temptations, offering sweet treats any time of day, and MSC Cruises' classic British pub with a full-scale microbrewery brewing MSC Signature beers on board.

9) Seven Districts: Like its sister ship, MSC World America, MSC World Asia will feature seven districts on board, each with its own unique atmosphere, facilities, and experiences, designed to help guests navigate the ship and choose their own vacation experience. The districts include Family Aventura, Zen Area, Aqua Deck, The Terraces, Galleria, Promenade, and MSC Yacht Club.

10) More than 20 Different Types of Accommodation: The MSC World Asia will offer an unparalleled variety of accommodation types, from sophisticated suites, balcony cabins with stunning ocean views or views of the lively promenade, to connecting family cabins and interior cabins perfect for solo travelers – there is comfortable accommodation for every guest.

11) The Ultimate Wellness Escape: MSC World Asia will feature a range of relaxing treatments and amenities, creating the ultimate wellness escape at sea. Amenities include MSC Cruises' luxurious Aurea Spa with a wide range of massages and beauty treatments, a Technogym®-equipped gym with stunning ocean views, The Gentleman's Barber, seven swimming pools (including Zen pools at the stern of the ship), and 13 whirlpools.

12) 24-hour international entertainment options: Offering spectacular theatrical shows and multiple entertainment venues for every type of traveler. Plus, live music, enriching activities, games, surprises, and more – guests can choose to enjoy their day as much as they like.

Source: MSC.