MSC Cruises has announced that its World Asia has completed its final sea trials as part of preparations for its delivery on November 25, 2026.
The final trials took place in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of France this week to test the ship’s engines, maneuverability, fuel efficiency, safety systems, speed and stopping distances.
The first sea trials were completed in July.
MSC said in a press release that the ship is the 24th ship and the third LNG-powered World-class vessel.
The MSC World Asia will feature more than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants, international entertainment options, a range of family facilities and more.
The ship will sail seven-night itineraries calling at Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa and Civitavecchia for Rome, Messina and Valletta, with accessible embarkation available in every port, the press release added.
The ship will receive her final finishing touches at Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France, before being delivered to MSC Cruises.
The World Asia will be officially named on November 28 in Le Havre, France, and the company said the event will host figures from across the global travel industry, international media, partners and guests.
Guests will take their first voyage on December 4, when the ship departs Barcelona on her inaugural seven-night sailing.
Highlight attractions onboard include The Spiral @ Tree of Life, the longest dry slide at sea at 81.3 meters long. This ride takes guests down 12 decks with ocean views.
According to MSC Cruises, the ship has subtle design elements reflecting Asia’s culture, art and landscapes, including a 12-meter-long, nine-meter-wide dragon sculpture in the World Promenade, suspended 10 meters in the air.
MSC added that the ship is one of the most efficient cruise ships currently at sea; it uses LNG fuel and can also run on bio- and synthetic renewable LNG fuels. The World Asia is also fitted with shore power connectivity.
