MSC Cruises’ MSC World Asia has finished its latest trials at sea off the western coast of France, ahead of delivery by Chantiers de l’Atlantique on November 25.
The liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered cruise ship underwent testing in the Atlantic Ocean during the week of September 14. Testing covered engine and safety-system performance, along with maneuverability, fuel efficiency, speed and stopping distances.
The final trials followed the vessel’s first sea trials in July. MSC World Asia will now return to Chantiers de l’Atlantique’s Saint-Nazaire shipyard for finishing work before formal handover to MSC Cruises.
The vessel is the third ship in MSC Cruises’ World Class series. Its scheduled delivery falls three days before a naming ceremony in Le Havre on November 28, where representatives of the travel industry, invited guests, partners and media are expected to gather.
Passengers are scheduled to board MSC World Asia in Barcelona on December 4 for its inaugural seven-night voyage.
MSC Cruises plans to operate the ship on Mediterranean itineraries covering Italy, Malta, Spain and France. Destinations associated with the published programme include Genoa, Civitavecchia, Messina and Naples.