MSC World Asia is ready to conquer Asi-- the Mediterranean in Late 2026
MSC has conquered Europe and America with their new ships, so it only makes sense that they try their luck in Asia next.
MSC World Asia is their third-ever mega-ship, and the third “World”-class ship in their fleet. This is a ship with more than 30 dining venues, multiple entertainment zones, a roller-skating arena, and botanical gardens, making it one of the largest ships in the world. MSC World Asia will set sail in December 2026, and we’re here to find out if it’s time for you to pack your kimono and head East.
Okay, so… what is MSC World Asia?
Good question! This is MSC’s third ship in the World-class series, built with the same massive floating-resort concept as Europa and America. We're talking over 6,700 guests, 2,600 cabins, and all the water parks, arcades, cool rides, specialty dining, and pool decks you could dream of. But this time, there’s a twist - MSC World Asia adds some Asian soul to the layout, decor, and dining options.
We’re not talking about a full cultural overhaul here. It’s still very much a global cruise experience that everyone can enjoy. But World Asia brings subtle design elements and flavor profiles you won’t find on her sister ships. You will find more Asian-inspired art and aesthetics around the ship, more gardens, curated menus with a Far East touch, and little nods to Eastern hospitality and style.
When is MSC World Asia setting sail?
Here’s one big surprise: MSC World Asia will explore Europe first, not Asia. It’s not the itinerary everyone expected, and many guests assumed that MSC World Asia would be based in Singapore. That’s not the case, at least not in the beginning.
MSC World Asia’s inaugural cruise will be a 7-night Mediterranean itinerary starting from Barcelona. From there, she will visit ports like Rome, Genoa, and Marseille.
Early sailings are already available to book, and if you are excited about being one of the first to try out a brand-new ship with upgraded restaurants, cool rides, and luxurious staterooms (yes, MSC Yacht Club is also here), this is your chance. The inaugural sailing starts at around $1,400 per guest, but you can also find cruises in January 2027 for as low as $800 per guest.
What’s New compared to World Europa and World America?
MSC World Asia belongs to the same class as its two older sisters, so the design is mostly the same. It is safe to say that MSC is not reinventing the wheel here. Many details will be repeated, including the Y-shaped aft for better ocean views, the massive indoor World Promenade with its LED sky screen, and the eco-friendly LNG-powered engines.
But there are a few cool things that set this ship apart:
- Dining: While you’ll still find favorites like Butcher’s Cut and Hola! Tacos & Cantina, World Asia leans more into its name with inspired Asian cuisine. Expect next-level teppanyaki, expanded sushi offerings, and at least two brand-new specialty restaurants that MSC hasn’t even announced yet.
- Kids & Family Zones: MSC World Asia will have the largest kids’ area ever on an MSC ship, with seven rooms split by age, LEGO-themed play zones, and a massive Luna Park Arena for indoor fun. It’s awesome to see World Asia investing in a Kids Club, so maybe they can even compete with Disney in the near future?
- Rides: The Cliffhanger, a wild ride that swings you over the side of the ship, is back. So is the spiral slide that sends you 11 decks down in seconds. You’ll also find zen-inspired “chill” zones, new botanic-themed pools, and MSC’s peaceful Zen Pool for adults.
- The Yacht Club: MSC’s luxury ship-within-a-ship concept gets an upgrade too. World Asia introduces new suite layouts, including a Royal Duplex Suite that sleeps six. Private dining, butlers, spa access, quiet pool… all of this is waiting for you in MSC Yacht Club.
MSC World Asia is shaping up to be one of the most interesting cruise debuts of 2026. It sticks to what MSC already does well - good prices and lots of stuff to do - but adds just enough new flavor to keep things exciting. We’re especially curious to see how those new specialty restaurants turn out. And yes, we totally want to ride the Cliffhanger swing over the ocean at least once.
Ready to sail or just want help comparing World Asia to her siblings? Let us know and send us a message. We’ll help you pick the perfect ship, the best itinerary, and maybe even score a deal while we’re at it.
MSC World Asia FAQ
When is MSC World Asia setting sail?
MSC World Asia is scheduled to set sail in December 2026.
What are the main destinations for MSC World Asia?
MSC World Asia will focus on the Mediterranean when it launches in 2026.
What is new onboard MSC World Asia compared to MSC World America and MSC World Europa?
MSC World Asia brings back the Cliffhanger, adds more suite options, features botanical gardens, and introduces two brand-new restaurants.
How much is the inaugural sailing with MSC World Asia?
Prices depend on the stateroom category, but start at around $1,400 per guest for the inaugural sailing. Prices drop to about $800 per guest in January 2027.
