MSC Cruises is expanding its World Class fleet with two new LNG-powered ships, World Class 5 and 6, to be built by Chantiers de l’Atlantique in France.
Scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2030, these vessels will bring the total number of World Class ships in MSC's fleet to six. The €3.5 billion investment underscores MSC's commitment to sustainable cruising and its long-standing partnership with the French shipbuilder.
“The confirmation of the orders for the two new World Class ships marks a new milestone in our remarkable journey of shipbuilding in France and the continuation of our long-term industrial plan," said MSC Cruises Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago. "This milestone underscores our commitment to building some of the highest-performing ships in the world, creating a legacy of excellence and innovation in collaboration with the Chantiers de l’Atlantique – our long-term partners of more than 20 years. The highly successful World Class platform combines the very best in environmental technology with the latest advancements in guest experiences.”
The new ships will feature advanced environmental technologies, including dual-fuel engines capable of running on LNG, shore power connectivity and state-of-the-art wastewater treatment systems. These enhancements aim to exceed the International Maritime Organization's Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) standards.
World Class 5 and 6 will join their sister ships, MSC World Europa and MSC World America, already in service, and MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic, set to launch in 2026 and 2027, respectively. This expansion reflects MSC Cruises' strategic focus on innovation, sustainability and enhancing the passenger experience in the competitive cruise industry.
As per industry practice, the two new orders will be subject to access to financing.
