First steel cut for MSC Cruises’ newest ship

By Baird Maritime - April 10, 2024.

Rendering of an MSC Cruises' World-class ship — *Rendering of a World-class ship (Photo: MSC Cruises)*

French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique has cut the first steel that will be used for the construction of a new cruise ship for MSC Cruises.

As with its World-class sisters, the future MSC World Asia will have 22 decks featuring 2,600 guest cabins, over 40,000 total square metres of public space, and an exclusive club area with a private lounge/restaurant, suites, and a sun deck.

The propulsion system will include noise-reducing propellers and dual-fuel engines that can also operate on LNG. Shore power connectivity will be available, allowing the ship’s engines to be switched off while in port.

MSC World Asia will also be the fourth LNG-fuelled ship to join the MSC Cruises fleet following its delivery in 2026.