MSC Cruises Expands World Class Fleet with New Shipbuilding Agreement
MSC Cruises has taken a significant step forward in its ambitious expansion plans. The cruise line has confirmed a major shipbuilding agreement with Chantiers de l’Atlantique. This deal includes orders for two additional World Class vessels, valued at €3.5 billion (£3 billion). These ships are scheduled for delivery in 2030 and 2031, becoming the seventh and eighth in the innovative World Class series.
Strengthening the French Partnership
The announcement was made during a double ceremony at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This event also celebrated the float out of MSC World Asia and the coin ceremony for MSC World Atlantic. With this new order, MSC Cruises’ investment with the French shipbuilder in 2025 alone will reach nearly €7 billion. This brings the company’s total commitment in France to approximately €10.5 billion.
Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Group’s Cruise Division, expressed pride in the expansion. He highlighted the World Class platform as a symbol of MSC’s vision to set new standards in cruising. These ships are among the most energy-efficient globally, continuing the company’s commitment to LNG and future renewable fuels.
Celebrating Shipbuilding Milestones
The float out of MSC World Asia marks a significant milestone. The ship touched water for the first time, entering the final outfitting phase. Scheduled for delivery in November 2026, MSC World Asia will offer seven-night itineraries in the Western Mediterranean. Destinations include Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Rome (Civitavecchia), Messina, and Valletta.
On the same day, the coin ceremony for MSC World Atlantic took place. This maritime tradition involves placing commemorative coins within the ship’s hull, symbolising blessing and good fortune. Lynn Torrent, President of MSC Cruises North America, served as the godmother for the occasion. Agnès Sahores, Smart Yard Improvement Manager at Chantiers de l’Atlantique, represented the shipbuilder. MSC World Atlantic is set to launch in 2027, with Port Canaveral, Florida, as her homeport for the debut Caribbean season.
Looking Ahead
Chantiers de l’Atlantique General Manager Laurent Castaing welcomed the new order. He noted that four new MSC ships have been commissioned this year alone. This achievement underscores the strong partnership between the shipyard and MSC Cruises. The World Class series, now totalling eight vessels, exemplifies a shared commitment to enhancing passenger experiences and advancing environmental performance.
Construction of the newly ordered World Class 7 and 8 will begin in 2029. These vessels will follow MSC World Europa (2022), MSC World America (2025), MSC World Asia (2026), and MSC World Atlantic (2027). The next two unnamed ships, World Class 5 and 6, are due before 2030. This expansion reflects MSC Cruises’ dedication to innovation and sustainability in the cruise industry.
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