NEW WORLD OF FAMILY FUN ON BOARD MSC WORLD ASIA

 From innovative game shows and immersive technology experiences to thrilling outdoor adventures for all generations, MSC Cruises is unveiling a vibrant new world of family entertainment aboard its latest flagship, MSC World Asia.

The highly anticipated ship, MSC World Asia, will sail seven-night itineraries to some of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations including Barcelona, Marseille, Messina, Civitavecchia for Rome, Naples and Valletta and will offer families the perfect blend of exciting destinations to discover, and unforgettable experiences on board. 

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IMMERSIVE NEW FEATURES COMING TO THE HARBOUR AND AQUADECK DISTRICT ON MSC WORLD ASIA

MSC Cruises is revealing new details on The Harbour and Aqua Deck district on board its newest flagship, MSC World Asia, marking the next evolution of the brand’s family and outdoor entertainment experience.

Building on the successful debut onboard MSC World America, The Harbour will continue to serve as a thrilling outdoor park for families to play and dine from morning to night and will be the first Harbour for guests to enjoy in Europe.

The ship will also feature seven pools and 13 whirlpool baths, including two newly designed pools in the AquaDeck district – the outdoor Manila Bay pool and the indoor Coral Cove pool.

Beginning 4 December 2026, MSC World Asia will sail seven-night itineraries to some of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations including Barcelona, Marseille, Messina, Civitavecchia for Rome, Naples and Valletta.

As the third ship in the line’s World Class series, which celebrates the beauty of world’s continents and oceans, reflecting the global nature of MSC Cruises, MSC World Asia will feature subtle design elements that reflect Asia’s rich culture, art, and landscapes.

REVAMPED! The Harbour

Reflecting the theme of the ship, the newly revamped Harbour on MSC World Asia will feature an Asian-inspired design where parents, children and thrill seekers can come together, eat and play and soak up the sun in a revolutionary outdoor park within the Family Aventura district.

Guests of all ages will enjoy The Harbour’s activities with varying levels of thrill including:

Cliffhanger: This exhilarating over-water swing ride towers 50 metres above the ocean, providing outstanding views as riders are propelled back and forth for a one-of-a-kind, edge-of-your-seat thrill.

Adventure Trail High Ropes Course: Offering the ultimate challenge, this exhilarating two-level ropes course will span 6,210 square feet and include two Sky Rails similar to a zip line. Guests can get their adrenaline pumping and test their balance while enjoying sea views from new heights.

The Harbour Aquapark: Featuring an impressive blend of heart-pounding waterslides and a fun-filled splash area, The Harbour Aquapark promises to deliver fun for all ages. From a 90-degree vertical drop slide to a raft slide and dueling body slides to race against a friend, a whole day can be spent here enjoying the rides and soaking up the sun.

The Harbour Bar & Bites: Presenting a selection of delicious, complimentary grab-and-go bites and refreshing drinks, The Harbour Bar & Bites will serve as the perfect place to refuel while spending a day in the sun.

NEW – The Play Deck: A relaxed outdoor space designed for kids of all ages and built to encourage connection and interaction within families. It combines comfortable seating with simple, playful elements for kids and families to enjoy.

LONGEST AT SEA! The Tree of Life @ The Spiral: This 11-deck spiral slide will combine elegant Asian-inspired design with an adrenaline-pumping experience, taking guests from The Harbour to the heart of the World Promenade in a matter of seconds.

NEW DESIGN – AquaDeck district

The AquaDeck district will feature a dynamic atmosphere for guests to enjoy mornings with tranquil wellness activities, afternoons with engaging entertainment and nights with high-energy parties. As part of the ship’s seven total pools and 13 whirlpool baths, the Aqua Deck district will include two redesigned pools, one indoor and one outdoor:

NEW DESIGN – Manila Bay & Pearl Lagoon Bar: Crafted for the perfect pool day, the main pool area will feature the new Manila Bay Pool and Pearl Lagoon Bar. The Manila Bay Pool is designed for guests who want to enjoy a full, active, and fun day under the sun. From early morning to sunset, the area offers a lively mix of activities and will feature more shade, refreshing amenities and versatile seating than ever before, giving guests everything needed for an easy, enjoyable, pool‑day experience. Guests will enjoy dynamic entertainment throughout the day, and new bars positioned to meet guests’ every need as they sunbathe and swim.

NEW DESIGN – Coral Cove & Coral Bar: MSC World Asia’s weather-proof indoor pool with a retractable glass roof offers a versatile area that is the ideal setting for any weather for guests of all ages. The multi-generational space will feature an elegant, sophisticated design inspired by the beauty of the ocean and its vibrant underwater ecosystem, including a large-scale art installation by artist Elisabetta Milan in the shape of a water droplet. The Coral Cove pool will also feature poolside bar for guests to enjoy.

SHIPWIDE ARTWORK ABOARD MSC WORLD ASIA, SETTING SAIL FROM DECEMBER 2026

MSC Cruises today revealed new details about the shipwide artwork that will be featured on MSC World Asia, the line’s highly anticipated new flagship set to commence sailings in the Mediterranean from 4 December 2026.

The new state-of-the-art flagship is set to become the latest World Class ship to join the cruise line’s fleet, offering seven-night sailings to some of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations including Barcelona, Marseille, Messina, Civitavecchia for Rome, Naples and Valletta.

Inviting guests to experience the Art of Cruising, MSC World Asia will include an emphasis on artworks throughout the ship, carefully curated to complement the ship’s subtle design elements that will reflect Asia’s rich culture, art and landscapes.

From an impressive large-scale art installation to striking sculptures, guests can look forward to an exciting range of new artworks while aboard, created exclusively for the ship.

Highlights of MSC World Asia’s new artworks on board include:

• Dragon Sculpture: As previously announced, a striking stainless-steel dragon suspended from the ceiling 10 metres above the World Promenade will captivate guests. The 12-metre-long and nine-metre-wide sculpture adorned with nearly 700 mirrors and 3,000 LED lights will also illuminate in the evening on board MSC World Asia.
• Indoor Pool – Large scale art installation: Guests will be welcomed to the indoor pool by an impressive art installation in the shape of a water droplet, widening towards the base to evoke a sense of lightness and fluidity. Designed by artist Elisabetta Milan, the installation measures 150 cm in width and 245 cm in height, making it a striking centrepiece of the space.
• The World Promenade – Japanese Carps: The World Promenade will feature large-scale koi fish sculptures by David Harber, a UK-based artist renowned for over 30 years for his sculptures, sundials, and water features that blend artistic vision with precise engineering. Rich in cultural symbolism, the koi represent perseverance, strength, and transformation – qualities that align with the ship’s spirit of travel and exploration. Their flowing, organic forms echo the movement of the sea, connecting guests to both the surrounding waters and the rich traditions of the Asian region.
• Artworks in the corridors: Each deck will feature artworks in the corridors inspired by ship’s deck names, which are titled after iconic cities in Asia, and will pay homage to the beauty, culture, and diversity of Asia.
• Artwork in the cabins: The cabin artworks are designed to seamlessly integrate with the onboard experience, bringing guests into an immersive Asian-themed environment. The artworks celebrate the beauty of Asian landscapes, colours, and natural motifs, complementing the interior design and enhancing the overall cabin atmosphere.
• Artworks by Hoan Phan: Vietnamese artist Hoan Phan will bring his bold and vibrant artworks on board MSC World Asia, which will be displayed in select areas of the ship. Mixing traditional inking techniques with digital rendering, he brings ideas to life with expressive line work and bold colours. Each piece tells a story, inviting guests to immerse themselves in moments of reflection, legend, and cultural heritage.​ Highlights include:
  • Mount Fuji Inspiration: Hoan Phan observed a swan building her nest with dry grass intertwined with a thick rope during a visit to Lake Kawaguchi. The unexpected contrast between natural and man-made materials inspired the artwork, capturing a moment of quiet observation and harmony between human influence and nature.​
  • Hồ Nguyệt Cô: Inspired by Vietnamese folklore and classical opera (Hát bội), Hoan Phan depicts a fox spirit who transforms into a human woman through devotion and perseverance, dreaming of finding true love.​
  • Hạ Long Bay: Hoan Phan’s artwork illustrates the legend of the Mother Dragon and her children turning pearls into islands to protect Vietnam from invaders. The piece celebrates resilience and the lasting imprint of mythology on the landscape of Hạ Long Bay.​
  • Southeast Asia: Hoan Phan highlights details from Vietnam, Laos, Cambodia, and Thailand, reflecting the region’s enduring charm and rich cultural tapestry, capturing both its history and contemporary spirit.​
• Artworks by Atelier Le Castel: Atelier Le Castel will create bespoke artworks for a wide range of onboard venues including La Dolce Vita bar, selected restaurants and cafés such as Bubbles, the theatre, and select areas of the MSC Yacht Club, along with custom artworks for the ship’s suites and cabins. MSC World Asia marks nearly three decades of collaboration between MSC Cruises and Atelier Le Castel.
• Kaito Sushi Restaurant Artwork – The Kaito Sushi Restaurant on board will feature vibrant koi fish artwork by artist Raimondo Briata. Using the image of koi fish—symbols of resilience and transformation — the paintings explore journeys as a continuous state rather than a fixed destination. The works reflect the spirit of travel and exchange, mirroring the ship as a moving environment where energy, stories and cultures meet.

12-MONTH COUNTDOWN TO MSC WORLD ASIA – DISCOVER 12 DETAILS OF THE NEW FLAGSHIP

The one-year countdown to the launch of MSC Cruises’ latest flagship, MSC World Asia, has begun. The state-of-the-art flagship is set to become the latest World Class ship to join the cruise line’s fleet, inviting guests to experience the Art of Cruising beginning December 2026.

Setting sail to some of the Mediterranean’s most sought-after destinations from 4 December 2026, the ship will feature subtle design elements that reflect Asia’s rich culture, art and landscapes and will offer returning guest favourites alongside new concepts that will deliver unforgettable onboard experiences.

With just 12 months to go until the ship’s launch, MSC Cruises is sharing 12 highlights about the flagship, and the exciting amenities, world-class dining and spectacular entertainment that await guests on board.  

• NEW! Dragon Sculpture: A striking stainless-steel dragon suspended from the ceiling 10 metres above the World Promenade will captivate guests. The 12-metre-long and nine-metre-wide sculpture adorned with nearly 700 mirrors and 3,000 LED lights will also illuminate in the evening on board MSC World Asia.
• Breathtaking Mediterranean Itineraries: MSC World Asia will sail in the Mediterranean, calling at some of the region’s most captivating destinations. Starting 4 December 2026, the ship will sail seven-night itineraries to Barcelona (Spain), Marseille (France), Genoa, Civitavecchia for Rome, Messina (Italy) and Valletta (Malta) during the Winter 2026/27 season, and will offer seven-night itineraries to Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Naples (Italy), Messina and Valletta during the Summer 2027 season.
• NEW! The Spiral @ Tree of Life: Set to be the longest dry slide at sea at 81.3 metres, this eye-catching, signature architectural feature of MSC Cruises’ World Class ships offers a thrilling ride that lets guests slide between 12 decks in seconds. The new design will be inspired by trees in Singapore’s famous Gardens by the Bay, tying into the ship’s Asia-inspired elements.
• NEW! Pan-Asian Street Food: This lively venue will offer a dining experience with a dedicated bar and inviting outdoor terrace, offering both dine-in and on the go options. Focusing on Southeast Asian cuisine – including flavours from Singapore, Thailand, Laos, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Indonesia – this speciality restaurant will transport guests to a world of tastes, textures and stories of the region in a way never seen at sea.
• Top Deck Family Fun – The Harbour & The Clubhouse:
  • NEW DESIGN! The Harbour: Featuring a new elegant Asian-inspired redesign, offering a revolutionary outdoor park within the Family Aventura district where families can come together to engage in activities, indulge in delicious bites and soak up the sun. The Harbour will feature the Cliffhanger – an exhilarating over-water swing ride towering 50 metres above the ocean, a thrilling high ropes course, an aquapark, a dedicated children’s playground, plus The Harbour Bar & Bites, offering a selection of complimentary delicious food.
  • NEW! The Clubhouse: This vibrant, retro-inspired space will bring families together for high-energy fun and creative play. Designed with a playful, timeless aesthetic, it blends classic table games, the LEGO® Family Zone, bumper cars, basketball and roller skating. It’s a dynamic venue that evolves throughout the day – offering playful bonding moments for kids and adults alike, and feel-good evening entertainment in a lively, social setting.
• All-Stars Sports Bar: MSC World Asia will feature MSC Cruises’ first all-American sports bar sailing in Europe. This lively venue offers an authentic gameday atmosphere featuring larges screens, interactive games and an outdoor sea-facing terrace – perfect for sports fans and family gatherings. Guests can enjoy a drink with friends and family as they watch a game while enjoying comfort bar food and classic American favourites.
• The Biggest Choice of MSC Yacht Club to date with seven different categories to choose from, including the luxurious NEW! Royal Duplex Suite, which boasts two bedrooms and accommodates up to six guests, multi-room Owner Suites, and Royal Suites with a whirlpool bath. Guests will enjoy plenty of options in MSC Cruises’ ship-within-a-ship concept, offering exclusive, private venues including a dedicated lounge, restaurant and sundeck, plus 24-hour personalised butler and concierge services.
• More Than 40 Bars, Lounges and Restaurants including six specialty restaurant concepts including guest favourites Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Kaito Sushi and Teppanyaki, and Hola! Tacos & Cantina, plus new concepts including new Pan-Asian Street Food speciality restaurant and fast-casual options to be revealed. Popular bars and café venues including Sweet Temptations, offering sweet indulgences at any time of day and MSC Cruises’ classic British pub with a full-scale micro-brewery making MSC Signature beers on board.
• Seven Districts: Like her sister ship, MSC World America, MSC World Asia will feature seven on board districts, each with its own atmosphere, facilities and experiences, designed to help guests navigate the ship and choose their own holiday experience. The districts include Family Aventura, Zen Area, Aqua Deck, The Terraces, Galleria, Promenade and MSC Yacht Club.
• More Than 20 Different Accommodation Types: MSC World Asia will offer an unrivalled choice of accommodation types from luxury suites, balcony cabins with stunning ocean or lively promenade views to connecting family cabins and interior cabins perfect for solo travelers – there are comfortable accommodations to suit every guest.
• The Ultimate Wellness Escape: MSC World Asia will feature an array of relaxing treatments and facilities, creating the ultimate wellness escape at sea. Amenities include the MSC Cruises’ luxurious Aurea Spa with a comprehensive range of massages and beauty treatments, Gym powered by Technogym® with stunning ocean views, The Gentleman’s Barber, seven pools (including Zen pools at the aft of the ship) and 13 whirlpool baths.
• International entertainment options around the clock: Offering spectacular stage shows and multiple entertainment venues for every type of traveller. Plus, live music, enriching activities, games, surprises and more – guests can choose to pack in as much, or as little as they like.