MSC World America Set to Revolutionize American Waters
MSC’s latest flagship cruise ship, the MSC World America, is making waves in the cruise industry as it prepares to set sail in American waters. Fresh off its delivery in France last week, this cutting-edge ship is on its way across the Atlantic. From groundbreaking design to exclusive partnerships, MSC is sparking excitement and curiosity everywhere. What can we expect from this state-of-the-art ship? We’ve gathered the inside scoop to give you all the juicy details.
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MSC Announces Plans for Newest Cruise Ship
MSC recently unveiled a major surprise when they announced that Drew Barrymore would serve as the godmother of the MSC World America. This wasn’t just a random pick. Barrymore’s appearance alongside Orlando Bloom in MSC’s high-profile Super Bowl ad stirred up major buzz. The ad, worth an estimated $14 million, highlighted the ship’s blend of European elegance and American-style amenities. It is a design the MSC execs hope will perfectly matching the American waters MSC World America will soon call home.
The official christening ceremony will take place on April 9 at MSC’s new cruise terminal in PortMiami. This terminal became the largest in the world when it opened on February 8. With the capacity to berth three ships and accommodate up to 36,000 passengers per day, this massive terminal is the ideal home base for MSC World America’s Caribbean voyages. It’s clear that MSC is pulling out all the stops to ensure the world-class debut of their newest ship.
MSC World America’s Maiden Voyage
The MSC World America will officially set sail on its maiden voyage on April 12. For the next two years, the ship will focus exclusively on these week-long Caribbean cruises. This gives travelers ample opportunities to explore the region’s vibrant culture and pristine beaches. With the chance to sail on MSC’s newest, most luxurious vessel, it’s clear this will be one of the most sought-after cruise experiences in the coming years.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
In addition to luxurious onboard amenities, MSC is promising unforgettable itineraries. Every cruise includes a stop at Ocean Cay, MSC’s private island paradise just 65 miles from Miami. Ocean Cay promises a sanctuary for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. The island features a sheltered lagoon and a wide range of activities, including water sports and nature excursions.
Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve is a true gem in MSC’s Caribbean cruise offerings. What was once an industrial sand excavation site has been transformed into an eco-friendly marine reserve and vacation destination, thanks to MSC’s multi-year renovation project. Ocean Cay is an essential part of MSC’s commitment to environmental responsibility. The cruise line has worked tirelessly to create a destination that promotes sustainability while also delivering a luxurious, relaxing experience for guests.
The 7 Exciting Districts of the World America
As MSC World America prepares to launch, cruise enthusiasts are buzzing about the ship’s innovative design and incredible features. Much like its European counterpart, MSC World Europa, the MSC World America will boast seven distinct districts, each offering a unique experience. From family-friendly fun to exclusive adults-only escapes, this ship promises to cater to all tastes. In addition, the MSC World America has been modified from the original World-class blueprint to include a few unique venues that cater to the American market.
Family Aventura: The Ultimate Adventure Zone
Family Aventura is MSC World America’s vibrant, multi-level district dedicated to kids, teens, and families. The Sportplex is packed with fun activities, including indoor soccer and roller skating, plus bumper cars for an extra fee. For those who prefer digital thrills, the Hall of Games offers a variety of high-tech experiences, including F1 Simulators and VR simulators. The Doremiland Kids Area, featuring LEGOs, is the perfect spot for children to unleash their creativity while building their favorite designs. No matter what the age, Family Aventura guarantees that everyone in the family will have a blast from start to finish.
The Harbour
New to the MSC World America, The Harbour is a brand new addition specifically designed for the adventure-seeking audience of American cruisers. Located on the open top deck, it features a variety of dry and water-based activities that will keep children and teens engaged for hours.
The Aquapark features a splash zone, dueling mat slides, a virtual reality raft slide, and a 90-degree vertical drop slide. Nearby, the Jaw Drop @ the Spiral is an 11-deck dry slide that spirals down to the World Promenade below. Younger kids can enjoy a lighthouse-themed playground from Ocean Cay, and teens and adults can test their skills on the rock climbing wall or ropes course with a zipline. All of these activities are included in your cruise fare, along with complimentary snacks at the Harbour Bar & Bites. For an extra thrill, the Cliffhanger, an overwater swing ride 165 feet above the waves, offers an unforgettable adventure.
AquaDeck: Pools, Hot Tubs, and Sun Loungers
For those who prefer water-based relaxation, the AquaDeck is built for you. The district features two stunning pools. La Plage Pool is a standout, offering a massive area with two tiers of sundecks, perfect for soaking up the sun or lounging in style.The Botanic Garden Pool has a retractable roof for year-round enjoyment.
Beyond AquaDeck, the ship offers even more water-based relaxation for a total of 7 pools and 13 whirlpools total throughout the ship. These include pools in the Zen Area, the Top 20 Solarium, and the MSC Yacht Club.
World Promenade: Panoramic Views and Nightly Light Shows
The outdoor World Promenade offers one of the most breathtaking experiences aboard MSC World America. With panoramic sea views stretching out in every direction, this district provides the perfect setting to relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy a cocktail or two. Every evening, light shows illuminate the area, creating a magical atmosphere that enhances the beauty of the surrounding ocean. Whether you’re strolling along the promenade or simply relaxing in one of its many seating areas, the World Promenade is a must-visit for those seeking a peaceful and visually stunning escape.
World Galleria: Shopping, Live Music, and Entertainment
For guests looking to enjoy some live entertainment or do a bit of shopping, World Galleria is the heart of MSC World America’s interior promenade. This bustling district features a range of live music performances and a variety of shopping options, making it the perfect place to indulge in some retail therapy or enjoy the vibrant sounds of the ship. The district also features LED screens on the ceiling, adding an extra touch of sophistication and high-tech flair to the experience.
The Terraces: A Hub of Fine Dining
If you’re craving an upscale experience, look no further than The Terraces. This district is all about specialty dining, luxury shopping, and top-notch entertainment. Here, guests can savor exquisite cuisine from a variety of gourmet restaurants, explore exclusive shops, and enjoy a range of live performances that elevate the entire experience. The Terraces is a place where you can indulge in luxury and enjoy the finer things in life, all while taking in the beautiful surroundings.
The Zen Area: Adults-Only Relaxation
For guests seeking tranquility and adults-only relaxation, the Zen Area offers the ultimate escape. Located at the aft of the ship, this serene area is designed to provide a peaceful atmosphere where adults can unwind and recharge in quiet luxury. There are two pools, each with its own whirlpool, on either side of the ship. Access is free for guests 18 and older.
MSC Yacht Club: A Ship Within A Ship
Last but certainly not least, the MSC Yacht Club takes luxury cruising to new heights. As the largest Yacht Club ever on an MSC ship, this exclusive area provides a level of comfort and service that feels like a ship within a ship. With private suites, gourmet dining, and a range of premium amenities, the Yacht Club is designed for guests who want the best of the best. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a private pool, relax in a luxurious suite, or have access to exclusive services, the MSC Yacht Club is the epitome of cruising luxury.
Dining Options on the MSC World America
If you’ve sailed on MSC ships before, you may have had complaints about the food – many have found it bland or uninspired. On our last cruise aboard the Seascape, we were frustrated by the few complimentary dining options: either the crowded and chaotic main dining room and the even more crowded and chaotic buffet. However, MSC is determined to change the dining experience with the MSC World America, offering more complimentary and specialty dining choices than ever before.
Complimentary Dining
Guests aboard the MSC World America will have access to five main dining rooms and two buffets. In addition, Luna Park Pizza and Burgers on Deck 6 and the Harbour Bar & Bites on Deck 20 are both included in the cruise fare, offering casual and delicious dining options for guests looking to satisfy their cravings without the extra cost.
- La Foglia Restaurant – Deck 5
- Esagona Restaurant – Deck 6 port
- Hexagon Restaurant – Deck 6 starboard
- Bubbles Restaurant – Deck 6 aft
- Luna Park Pizza & Burgers – Deck 6
- Les Dunes Restaurant – Deck 8
- Il Mercato Buffet – Deck 18
- La Brasserie Buffet – Deck 19
- The Harbour Bar & Bites – Deck 20
- MSC Yacht Club Restaurant – Deck 20
- MSC Yacht Club Grill – Deck 21
Specialty Dining
For those looking to indulge, the specialty dining options are where MSC truly shines. Signature restaurants like Hola! Tacos, Kaito Teppanyaki and Kaito Sushi, and the Butcher’s Cut steakhouse provide varied culinary experiences, each offering distinct flavors. A new addition, Paxos, brings Mediterranean flair with a Greek restaurant featuring sit-down meals, al fresco dining, and a convenient take-out window for guests on the go. However, the standout is the Eataly restaurant, the first of its kind at sea. This Italian restaurant chain, a global sensation since 2007, is part of the Slow Food movement, ensuring high-quality, locally sourced ingredients for an unforgettable dining experience at sea.
- Hola! Tacos – Deck 7
- Kaito Teppanyaki – Deck 7
- Kaito Sushi – Deck 7
- Butcher’s Cut – Deck 7
- Paxos – Deck 8
- Eataly – Deck 8
Bars and Lounges on the MSC World America
When it comes to a great vacation, food is only half the equation—drinks play a big part, too! In the past, MSC has offered a confusing array of beverage packages, including three different levels for alcoholic drinks.However, starting April 1, MSC is simplifying things by offering just one alcoholic drink package for American cruises—the Premium Extra Package. The key benefit? You’ll only need to choose one package, and it includes unlimited non-alcoholic drinks. The fine print does include one significant change: MSC will now limit alcoholic drinks to 15 per day.
As for where to enjoy your drink package, the MSC World America has an array of incredible venues. The Fizz Champagne Bar, popular on MSC ships, now features an outdoor terrace, perfect for sipping bubbly while enjoying the sea breeze. For beer lovers, Masters of the Sea offers an English-style pub with its own microbrewery and signature beers brewed from recycled seawater. If gin is your spirit of choice, the Gin Project has an impressive selection of 70 craft gins from American and Canadian distilleries. For bourbon enthusiasts, Elixir Mixology Bar specializes in expertly crafted bourbon-based cocktails. And, of course, The Coffee Emporium remains a fan favorite, offering what many consider the best coffee at sea—perfect for fueling your next adventure.
- Jean-Phillippe Chocolat & Cafe – Deck 6
- Dolce Vita Bar – Deck 6
- Masters of the Sea – Deck 7
- Panorama Lounge & Terrace – Deck 7
- Sweet Temptations – Deck 8
- Zest Juice Bar – Deck 8
- The Gin Project – Deck 8
- The Loft Comedy Club – Deck 8
- Fizz – Deck 8
- Elixir – Deck 8
- Coffee Emporium – Deck 8
- All Stars Sports Bar – Deck 8
- Zen Bar – Deck 18
- Botanic Garden Bar – Deck 19
- The Boxer Bar – Deck 20
MSC Takes on Royal Caribbean with New Cruise Ship
MSC is setting its sights on challenging Royal Caribbean for the title of top cruise line with the debut of the MSC World America. This new ship is directly competing with Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, as both ships offer similar features and sail on Caribbean itineraries. MSC hopes to attract cruisers with its affordable pricing, as Royal Caribbean fares continue to climb. MSC’s competitive pricing is a key differentiator, with fares for the MSC World America starting at just $595 compared to the $1,500 fares on Star of the Seas. MSC is making a strong case to compete head-to-head with Royal Caribbean, giving cruisers more options at a better value.
