MSC Cruises introduced its largest ship, MSC World America, at the Port of Miami on a late Wednesday night. The vessel’s arrival sets the stage for competition with two other major cruise ships based in Miami: Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas and Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Celebration.
The three ships are scheduled to set sail this weekend for weeklong trips to the Caribbean. This event marks a significant moment for MSC Cruises as they attempt to establish a stronger presence in North America. Lynn Torrent, president of MSC Cruises USA, remarked, “It’s just a huge milestone in our journey to … make MSC Cruises a household name here.”
The unveiling ceremony involved actor Drew Barrymore, who participated by cutting a ribbon, leading to a Champagne bottle breaking against the ship’s hull. There was also entertainment provided by singer Gloria Estefan and a drone and fireworks display.
MSC World America has been designed specifically for the North American market, offering venues like an American-style sports bar and a pub with American-style beers. Torrent noted, “It’s the first time we designed a ship with the U.S. guest in mind.”
The ship boasts features like waterslides, large pool areas, and a promenade with dining and entertainment options. Standing 20 decks high, MSC World America measures 216,638 gross tons and can host 6,762 passengers, making it the eighth-largest cruise ship globally.
In comparison, Icon of the Seas comes in at 248,663 gross tons and accommodates 7,600 passengers, while the Carnival Celebration is 183,521 gross tons with a 6,619 passenger capacity.
Orlando Bloom appeared alongside Drew Barrymore during the unveiling. Both have participated in MSC Cruises’ advertising campaigns. MSC World America will embark on both Eastern and Western Caribbean routes, with stops in destinations such as Puerto Plata, San Juan, and Ocean Cay in the Bahamas. Western Caribbean destinations include Costa Maya, Cozumel, and Roatan.
Fares for these cruises start at $674 per person, assuming double occupancy.
