MSC Cruises’ World Class category of ships began with MSC World Europa and MSC World America. Next on the horizon is MSC World Asia, which is set to debut in December of 2026.
The cruise line has named each World Class vessel after a different continent “to reflect the fact that MSC Cruises sails to every corner of the globe and offers an unparalleled choice of destinations,” according to the company.
Like the rest of the fleet, MSC World Asia will be powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). It will sail the Western Mediterranean in 2026-2027 and staterooms are already on sale.
“MSC World Asia will further enhance our lineup in the region, giving guests even more choice of embarkation ports and itineraries for their winter escape or summer getaways,” said Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises. “As with each of our new ships, we’ll introduce innovative new concepts, venues and services to deliver the ultimate cruise experience for our guests.”
Reflecting its name, World Asia will exhibit subtle design details that nod to Asian cultures, art and landscapes. Structurally, it will continue the signature vertical bow and Y-shaped superstructure at the stern present on other World Class ships.
Editor’s note: This story will be updated as more ship details are released.
Public Spaces Onboard World Asia
Expected districts and other public venues onboard World Asia will include an MSC Yacht Club ship-within-a-ship complex, The Harbour outdoor park for families, clubs and facilities dedicated to young cruisers from infants up to 17 years old, comprehensive wellness and fitness areas, seven pools, 13 whirlpools and world-class live entertainment.
World Asia will offer an MSC Yacht Club complex.
Credit: 2025 MSC CruisesClients will also be able to dine at more than 40 onboard bars, lounges and restaurants. Specialty dining venues will include the Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Hola! Tacos & Cantina and Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki. Two new concepts will soon be revealed. Bar and lounge options will include the classic Masters of the Sea pub and the onboard micro-brewery Coffee Emporium.
Sustainability Efforts
Like the others ships in this class, World Asia will be powered by renewable LNG. The ship will also be outfitted for cold ironing, which allows for shore power connectivity with its engines turned off, thereby reducing regional emissions.
Other smart technologies to reduce energy and water use include an advanced onboard wastewater treatment plant, an onboard recycling management plant and next-gen propulsion pods designed to minimize noises that impact marine life.
World Asia Itineraries
On Dec. 11, 2026, World Asia will set sail on its maiden Mediterranean route. The seven-day itinerary will take cruisers to Barcelona, Spain; Marseille, France; Valletta, Malta; and Genoa, Civitavecchia (for Rome) and Messina, Italy. These same ports will be highlighted throughout World Asia’s 2026-2027 winter season, and accessible embarkation will be available in each port.
Then, in the summer of 2027, the ship will navigate to Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Messina, Valletta and Naples, Italy, again on weeklong voyages.
