MSC Cruises, a subsidiary of Swiss shipping giant MSC, recently held a christening ceremony for its liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered luxury cruise ship, MSC World America, at the MSC Cruise Terminal in Miami, USA. The ship’s godmother is actor and host Drew Barrymore.
The 333.3-meter-long MSC World America meets all the requirements of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI). It is equipped with a shore power system that allows the engine to be shut down while in port, thereby reducing emissions. It is also equipped with a wastewater treatment system and onboard recycling management equipment to minimize waste output.
MSC World America is the second of MSC Cruises’ World Class ships and ushers in a new world of cruising with reimagined venues, entertainment and dining concepts designed to highlight MSC Cruises’ signature blend of European design and American comfort.
The new flagship will also be the first ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet to feature seven on board districts, each having its own atmosphere, facilities and experiences, designed to help guests choose their own vacation adventure and maximize their time on board.
MSC World America kicked off her inaugural season on April 12, 2025, sailing from PortMiami on seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. The voyages included stops in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Isla de Roatán, Honduras. Each sailing featured a visit to the breathtaking Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
It is understood that the first LNG-powered luxury cruise ship of MSC Cruises is named “MSC World Europa”, which is also the first large cruise ship equipped with solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC). It is 580.3 meters long and has a gross tonnage of 215,863. It is known as the “largest LNG cruise ship”. It was built and delivered by the Chantiers de l’Atlantique in October 2022, named in November of the same year, and made its maiden voyage in December. The second ship “MSC Euribia” was delivered at the end of May 2023.