MSC Cruises has announced that its newest World Class ship, MSC World Asia, will begin operations in the Western Mediterranean starting December 2026.
The ship, which is now open for bookings, will offer seven-night itineraries visiting popular Mediterranean destinations. For the winter 2026/27 season, starting December 11, 2026, passengers can visit Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Rome (Civitavecchia), Messina, and Valletta. The summer 2027 season will feature a similar route, replacing Rome with Naples while maintaining stops at the other destinations.
MSC World Asia will feature over 40 bars, lounges, and restaurants, along with international entertainment and family facilities. The vessel incorporates design elements reflecting Asian culture while maintaining signature World Class features such as the vertical plumb bow and Y-shaped aft with an outdoor promenade.
As the third ship in MSC’s LNG-powered World Class fleet, MSC World Asia follows MSC World Europa and the upcoming MSC World America. According to Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, the decision to deploy the ship in the Western Mediterranean reflects the region’s popularity among cruise travelers.
Voyager’s Club members booking by February 13, 2025, will receive special benefits including 1,000 extra points and €50 onboard credit per person.