MSC Cruises has begun the one-year countdown to the launch of MSC World Asia, expected to join the fleet in December 2026.

The company has shared highlights about the new ship and its amenities, dining and entertainment, which include the following:

Dragon Sculpture

The company said that the ship will feature a stainless-steel dragon suspended from the ceiling 10 metres above.

The 12-meter-long and nine-meter-wide sculpture is adorned with nearly 700 mirrors and 3,000 LED lights.

Breathtaking Mediterranean Itineraries

The MSC World Asia will sail in the Mediterranean. Starting December 4, 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.

The ship will offer seven-night itineraries to Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa, Naples (Italy), Messina and Valletta during the Summer 2027 season.

The Spiral @ Tree of Life

Set to be the longest dry slide at sea at 81.3 metres, the slide offers a ride that lets guests slide between 12 decks.

Pan-Asian Street Food

The venue will offer a dining experience with a dedicated bar, offering both dine-in and on-the-go options.

It will focus on Southeast Asian cuisine, including flavours from Singapore, Thailand, Laos, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Indonesia.

The Harbour

The Harbour will feature the Cliffhanger, an over-water swing ride towering 50 meters above the ocean, a high ropes course, an aquapark, a dedicated children’s playground and The Harbour Bar & Bites.

The Clubhouse

The retro-inspired space features classic table games, the LEGO Family Zone, bumper cars, basketball and roller skating.

All-Stars Sports Bar

The MSC World Asia will feature MSC Cruises’ first all-American sports bar sailing in Europe. This venue offers large screens, interactive games and an outdoor sea-facing terrace.

According to the company, the ship will also offer the biggest choice of MSC Yacht Club to date, with seven different categories, including the luxurious Royal Duplex Suite.

More than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants will be available to guests, including six specialty restaurant concepts.

The MSC World Asia will feature seven onboard districts, including Family Aventura, Zen Area, Aqua Deck, The Terraces, Galleria, Promenade and MSC Yacht Club.

There will also be more than 20 different accommodation types available, along with relaxing treatments and facilities.