Just two months after debuting MSC World America and a new terminal in Miami, MSC Cruises has unveiled fresh details about its next flagship, MSC World Asia, set to launch in the Mediterranean on December 11, 2026.
As the third ship in MSC’s growing World Class series, MSC World Asia promises to deliver a blend of familiar favorites and new experiences, all wrapped in subtle design elements inspired by Asia’s rich culture, art, and landscapes. It will also feature seven distinct onboard “districts” designed to help guests navigate and personalize their cruise experience.
When it launches in December 2026, MSC World Asia will offer seven-night sailings to some of the Mediterranean’s most popular cities: Barcelona, Marseille, Messina, Civitavecchia for Rome, and Valletta. The itineraries will run through Winter 2026/27 and Summer 2027.
One of the key highlights on board is the ship’s World Promenade—an expansive open-air space that serves as a central gathering point for dining, entertainment, and ocean views. New offerings on the Promenade will include a Pan-Asian specialty restaurant with a focus on Southeast Asian cuisines, from Thailand and Vietnam to Singapore and Indonesia.
The ship will also feature what MSC says will be the longest dry slide at sea. At 81.3 metres, the newly designed slide—dubbed “Tree of Life”—will take inspiration from Singapore’s famous Gardens by the Bay and provide a thrilling ride between 12 decks.
For those with a sweet tooth, MSC World Asia will debut Sweet Temptations, an all-day destination for gelato, cakes, crepes, frozen yogurt, and custom treats. Nearby, Promenade Bites will offer a selection of street-food-style snacks served in a casual setting.
Returning favorites will include the All-Stars Sports Bar, Coffee Emporium, and a high-end accessories boutique.
Overall, MSC World Asia will offer more than 40 bars, lounges, and restaurants. Along with new concepts, the ship will bring back popular venues such as the Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki, Hola! Tacos & Cantina, and a British-style pub complete with a microbrewery producing MSC’s own signature beers on board.
Family travelers will find plenty to keep kids entertained, including The Harbour, an outdoor family park within the Family Aventura District; a waterpark; expansive kids clubs; original game shows; a VR slide; and arcade options. The ship will also introduce the Cliffhanger—a swing ride that sends guests soaring 50 meters above the sea.
When it comes to accommodations, MSC World Asia will offer more than 20 different cabin types, ranging from luxury suites to balcony cabins and connecting family rooms. The MSC Yacht Club, the line’s exclusive “ship within a ship” concept, will feature 144 suites, a private pool and sun deck, an exclusive restaurant and lounge, and 24-hour butler service.
Adults looking for some quiet time can enjoy the ship’s adults-only Zen pools, an expansive Aurea Spa, and a gym with ocean views. There will be seven pools in total, including one with a retractable roof for all-weather swimming, as well as 13 whirlpool baths.
Entertainment will span live stage shows, music, games, and surprises, with options for every type of traveler.
With this announcement, MSC continues its push to expand and diversify its fleet. Coming so soon after the launch of MSC World America, the unveiling of MSC World Asia signals the cruise line’s focus on offering more variety and cultural depth to its next generation of ships.
More details about food menus, cabin designs, and onboard experiences are expected to be revealed as the launch date approaches.
