MSC Cruises Expands Fleet with Two New Mega Vessels Amidst Cruise Industry Surge

The cruise sector is on a quest for ever-larger vessels, with MSC Cruises recently announcing the addition of two more colossal ships, each weighing in at 217,000 gross tons. These new entries to their World Class lineup are set to launch in 2029 and 2030 and will accommodate over 6,700 guests each. Currently, MSC operates 23 ships and has two more under construction.

French Minister for Industry and Energy, Marc Ferracci, emphasized the importance of this order—an investment nearing €3.5 billion ($3.93 billion) that promises over 20 million work hours. This follows MSC’s considerable investment of €5.6 billion ($6.3 billion) related to its latest ship delivery, MSC World America, along with upcoming vessels named MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic.

The cruise industry’s order book is bustling with activity; currently standing at an notable total of 69 ships valued at over $55 billion according to Seatrade cruise data. Notably, MSC was among the first after Royal Caribbean International to exceed the massive threshold of 200,000 gross tons in ship size.

Carnival Cruise Line has also jumped into the fray with its Project Ace initiative aimed at constructing three mega-ships weighing around 230,000 gross tons while Norwegian Cruise Line has finalized plans for four vessels tipping the scales at approximately 226,000 gross tons.

The trend towards larger ships isn’t just about size; it’s about maximizing efficiency and enhancing guest experiences through innovative amenities. As an example, Meyer Turku recently reported that Royal Caribbean’s latest giant vessel, Star of the Seas, which boasts a staggering weight of 250,800 gross tons is currently undergoing sea trials ahead of its summer debut.

Meyer Turku also revealed that Royal Caribbean has additional Icon class ships on order along with options for even more! Simultaneously occurring in France’s shipyards lies another Oasis class vessel waiting to be built as Disney Cruise Line prepares to unveil its own mega-ship, Disney Adventure, slated for December release.

The construction phase for MSC’s new giants kicks off in 2027—timed perfectly alongside the delivery schedule for MSC World Atlantic em>. This ship will be stationed in Port Canaveral during winter seasons starting from late ’27 while MSC World Asia em > will begin Mediterranean voyages by late ’26. p>

A staggering €18 billion ($20 billion) has been funneled into building a fleet comprising nineteen cruise liners over twenty-five years within France alone by MSC cruises as they entered this market three decades ago—with their most recent addition being MSC World America em > launched last November! p>

their newest fleet not only prioritizes luxury but also sustainability; these state-of-the-art vessels utilize LNG-powered engines capable of running on biofuels or synthetic alternatives too! they come equipped with shore power connections as well as advanced systems designed specifically for wastewater treatment alongside complete waste management protocols onboard! p>

This impressive class measures an remarkable length of approximately1 ,092 feet (333 meters), featuring an array ranging from nineteen dining venues down to eighteen bars & lounges plus dedicated family areas including one towering dry slide—the tallest afloat! It seamlessly integrates outdoor promenades alongside multi-level interior galleries filled with shops & eateries galore! p>

Sailing into this segment nearly four decades ago armed only with second-hand boats initially—MSC now stands tall among global leaders boasting not just contemporary cruises but ultra-luxury offerings via Explora Journeys where six opulent liners are underway! Additionally investing heavily within Italy’s passenger ferry services while expanding further into commercial shipping realms like containerships & car carriers too! p>