4 June 2026
MSC Cruises will host an official naming ceremony for the their new flagship on 28th November 2026 in Le Havre, France.
The ceremony will bring key figures from across the global travel industry, international media, partners and invited guests to Le Havre to mark maritime tradition.
The naming ceremony will include the traditional breaking of a champagne bottle on her bow, ahead of the ships inaugural season from Barcelona in December.
Gianni Onorato, CEO of MSC Cruises, said:
“Our World Class ships have been a great success with guests, and MSC World Asia, the third of eight in this class, marks the next step in this journey. As we look ahead to her inaugural Mediterranean season, we are proud to continue delivering ships that reflect our vision, innovation, beautiful design, and focus on the guest experience, with each one raising the bar even further.
I’m also proud to announce that Captain Paolo Benini will take the helm of MSC World Asia, in recognition of his outstanding leadership on MSC Euribia, including during its recent deployment in Dubai. Having joined MSC Cruises in 2024 with a distinguished maritime career, he is widely respected for his calm, people-focused command and is the ideal choice to lead this remarkable new flagship”.
Ahead of MSC World Asia’s naming, the cruise line have unveiled six of its must do experiences onboard MSC World Asia.
Guests aboard MSC World Asia will be able to experience The Cliffhanger, an over-water swing ride towering 50 metres above the open sea, The Spiral Tree of Life is set to be the longest dry slide at sea, guests can also looking forward to a high-speed race side-by-side on the Twin Racer waterslides or the take on the U Drop slide. The ship will also feature The Adventure Trail ropes course, challenging guests to test their balance and bravery across a two-level course suspended above the ocean.
The ship will also feature The MSC Formula Racer allowing fans to experience an immersive racing simulation and its MSC Luna Park Arena where guests can enjoy dynamic gaming experiences.
