The cruise industry is about to witness a significant shake-up with the upcoming launch of MSC World America, a colossal ship that promises to rival the much-anticipated Icon of the Seas from Royal Caribbean. Scheduled to debut in April 2025, MSC World America is set to redefine the cruising experience with its impressive array of features and amenities, making it a formidable competitor in the Caribbean cruise market.
A Glimpse into the Future of Cruising
During a recent sneak peek at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in St. Nazaire, France, representatives from The Points Guy (TPG) were given an exclusive look at the construction progress of MSC World America. The ship is being built on a scale rarely seen in the cruise industry, rising an astounding 20 decks high and measuring nearly 216,000 gross tons. This makes it the eighth largest cruise ship in the world upon its debut, with a capacity to accommodate up to 6,762 passengers.
The Galleria: A Culinary and Shopping Haven
One of the standout features of MSC World America is the Galleria, a three-story indoor restaurant, bar, and shopping zone. This vibrant area is designed to be a social hub for passengers, offering a diverse range of dining options and retail experiences. The Galleria is reminiscent of the bustling promenades found in major cities, providing a lively atmosphere for guests to enjoy.
Family Fun at The Harbour
MSC World America is particularly focused on family-friendly experiences, with a dedicated area known as The Harbour. This expansive zone will feature a variety of attractions, including a giant water park, a ropes course, and multiple dining options. Among the most exciting elements are three massive waterslides that cascade from the ship’s highest deck, along with a smaller slide designed for younger children.
Additionally, The Harbour will host a unique overwater swing ride called Cliffhanger, which promises to be a thrilling experience for guests of all ages. The area will also include a themed playground inspired by the lighthouse at MSC Cruises’ private island, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, ensuring that children have plenty of engaging activities to enjoy.
Jaw Drop: A Thrilling Dry Slide Experience
Another highlight of The Harbour is the Jaw Drop, a 10-deck-high dry slide that spirals down from Deck 20 to Deck 8. This attraction is designed to provide an adrenaline-pumping experience for guests, and its shark-themed entrance adds an extra layer of excitement. Interestingly, the ship will not have a Deck 13 or Deck 17, as these numbers are considered unlucky in some cultures, making the drop a 10-deck experience despite the apparent 12-deck height.
A Diverse Range of Amenities
MSC World America will also feature six pools and 14 hot tubs, including a long main pool that will be one of the largest pool areas at sea. The ship’s design incorporates both indoor and outdoor spaces, with a back-of-the-ship outdoor restaurant and bar zone complementing the indoor Galleria. This blend of environments allows guests to enjoy the best of both worlds, whether they prefer the vibrant atmosphere of the Galleria or the relaxing ambiance of the outdoor Promenade.
Tailored for the North American Market
While MSC World America shares some similarities with its predecessor, MSC World Europa, approximately 30% of its public areas will be unique to this ship. This customization is aimed at appealing to the specific tastes of the North American market, with additions such as a sports bar along the Promenade and an Eataly-branded Italian restaurant. This strategic approach reflects MSC Cruises’ commitment to enhancing the guest experience and catering to diverse preferences.
Competing with the Giants
MSC World America is entering a competitive landscape, with Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas and Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Celebration also operating out of Miami. Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, boasts a capacity of 7,600 passengers and measures 248,863 gross tons, while Carnival Celebration can accommodate 6,631 passengers at 183,521 gross tons. The rivalry among these three vessels is set to create an exciting atmosphere for cruise enthusiasts, with each ship offering its own unique experiences and attractions.
Itineraries and Pricing
When it launches, MSC World America will offer both Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages. Eastern Caribbean itineraries will include stops at Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, San Juan in Puerto Rico, and Ocean Cay, MSC Cruises’ private island. Western Caribbean sailings will visit Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, Roatan in Honduras, and Ocean Cay. Fares for these voyages will start at $689 per person, based on double occupancy, making it an attractive option for families and travelers seeking adventure.
A New Era for MSC Cruises
As MSC World America prepares to set sail, it represents a new era for MSC Cruises, showcasing the brand’s commitment to innovation and guest satisfaction. With its impressive array of amenities, family-friendly attractions, and tailored experiences, MSC World America is poised to make a significant impact in the cruise industry. As it competes with other giants like Icon of the Seas and Carnival Celebration, cruise enthusiasts can look forward to an exciting future filled with new adventures and unforgettable memories on the high seas.
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or considering your first voyage, MSC World America promises to deliver an unparalleled experience that caters to all ages and interests. Keep an eye on this remarkable ship as it prepares to embark on its maiden voyage, and get ready for a new standard in cruising excellence.
