Latest news with #WorldAmerica
Yahoo
a day ago
- Business
- Yahoo
MSC Cruises is coming for Royal Caribbean's title
MSC Cruises is coming for Royal Caribbean's title originally appeared on Come Cruise With Me. When MSC Cruises launched its newest megaship, MSC World America, from Miami this spring, the Switzerland-based global cruise line sent a clear message that it was courting Royal Caribbean cruisers. MSC is market leader in Europe, but it's not so well known to Americans just yet. MSC World America is part of a major initiative to change that, however, and Royal Caribbean passengers seem to be the main target World America is now sailing seven-night Caribbean cruises from Miami right alongside Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas, the world's largest cruise ship. Like Icon, MSC World America is a huge ship, accommodating more than 6,700 passengers, that's divided into several distinct areas offering different experiences for every type of vacationer. Although the two ships have a lot of similarities, MSC World America has its own unique style that mixes MSC's signature European design with American comfort. With its game-changing combination of super-sized thrills and chills, Icon of the Seas seems to be a bit more appealing to most American cruisers than MSC World America, though. Still, MSC is luring some 'loyal to Royal' cruisers to give its new ship a shot by offering most of its cruises at a significantly lower price than Icon's sailings. And MSC Cruises' plans to take market share from Royal Caribbean don't end at MSC World America is a major growth market for MSC Cruises, and the cruise line continues to reveal new initiatives to increase its visibility and boost its position as key player in the region. As the next step in its expansion plan, MSC is deploying more ships to offer alternatives to Royal Caribbean cruises from other major U.S. home ports. In November, MSC Cruises will launch its first cruises from Texas — western Caribbean cruises sailing from Galveston on MSC Seascape. Then in 2026, the cruise line will offer its first Alaska cruises, adding Seattle as a new summer home port for MSC launching those new cruises, MSC will debut another World Class ship from Florida. Beginning in 2027, the new MSC World Atlantic will sail Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral, where Royal Caribbean's new Icon Class ship, Star of the Seas, is set to launch this summer. Like Royal Caribbean, MSC's new ship pipeline is booming. The cruise line recently ordered two more World Class ships to complement the four already delivered or under construction, which will expand the MSC Cruises fleet to 27 ships by 2030. And now, even bigger plans are on the horizon for MSC addition to expanding its World Class, MSC Cruises plans to introduce a new ultra-sized ship class that will be even bigger than Royal Caribbean's Icon Class. MSC Cruises is expected to soon place an order with Finnish shipbuilder Meyer Turku for a new class of ships that will exceed the size of Royal Caribbean's Icon Class, according to a Shipping Italy the Constellation Class, the new series of MSC Cruises ships is expected to consist of four ships at 265,000 gross tons and 365 meters in length, surpassing Icon's 250,800 gross tons. The new MSC ships are also expected to be the largest cruise ships in the world in terms of passenger capacity. Additionally, the cruise line is rumored to have another project in the works with its long-time partner Chantiers de l'Atlantique, the French shipbuilding company constructing its World Class ships. Called Conquest, the project will be an evolution of the cruise line's World Class platform, resulting in two more ships that are longer than MSC World Europa and MSC World America. (The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.) , or email Amy Post at or call or text her at 386-383-2472. This story was originally reported by Come Cruise With Me on Jun 9, 2025, where it first appeared.
Yahoo
16-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Review: Colossal MSC World America cruise ship seems familiar, but has unique offerings
It's hard to not compare MSC Cruises' World Class ships and its largest-ever offering, the MSC World America, to similarly massive ships sailed by Royal Caribbean. But while World America may look like its competitor's ships, it has touches that set it apart. The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The main pool along with several whirlpools and bars can be found in the Aqua Deck district on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Cliffhanger is a swing ride that juts out over the side of the ship 160 feet above the water on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Aquapark has a drop slide, side-by-side races and a tube ride with optional virtual reality on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) "Dirty Dancing in Concert" is the main theatrical production on board MSC World America. Performers put on a sneak peek at the ship's naming ceremony at PortMiami on April 9. (Courtesy Ivan Sarfatti for MSC Cruises) The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) A chandelier hangs large in the World Galleria district on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Jaw Drop twisting dry slide takes riders down 11 decks to the World Promenade district on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The 11-deck Jaw Drop twisting dry slide has riders climb into an open shark mouth, but the slide tube comes out the other on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The High Trail Ropes Course has two optional ziplines among three levels of challenges on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The High Trail Ropes Course has two optional ziplines among three levels of challenges on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The main pool along with several whirlpools and bars can be found in the Aqua Deck district on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Miami skyline can be seen in the background from the Family Aventura district on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, docked in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) There are 20 pools and whirlpools on board the MSC World America including some indoors. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) A digital America flag is projected along the ceiling of the World Galleria district on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Riders on the Cliffhanger swing ride get a view of Miami 160 feet above the water line on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC Sportsplex transforms into a bumper car arena on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) A chocolate bald eagle sculpture is seen within sweets shop Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Doremiland kids area offers a bevy of Lego activities on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Lego characters join a parade on the World Promenade district on board the MSC World America on Friday, April 11, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Doremiland kids area offers a bevy of Lego activities on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC Sportsplex hosts a variety of activities on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Gin Project makes custom gin drinks on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Live music can be enjoyed from both the Masters of the Sea venue and the Gin Project that share a two-deck space on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Dirty Dancing in Concert is one of several titles that feature music and dance in the main theater on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café has a large selection of gelato flavors on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café has treats galore on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café has a small section carved out to make unique cofees on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Mixed-drink venue Elixer on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Luna Park Pizza & Burger is a free quick service food option in the World Galleria on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Unique coffees can be found in the Coffee Emporium on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Coffee Emporium on board the MSC World America features a hands-on section that allows travelers to smell the scents used in various types of coffee flavors. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Kaito Sushi is one of several dining options along The Terrace district on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Bars and restaurants pepper two levels called The Terraces, one of the districts on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) An old telephone booth is the entrance for a secret speakeasy bar on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) An 80s-themed party takes over the Luna Park venue on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC Yacht Club has its own sun deck on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The observation deck within the MSC Yacht Club on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC Yacht Club has its own lounge and observation deck on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) Mirrored surfaces are replete on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Gin Project venue takes the top deck while beer-focused Master of the Sea pub takes the lower deck in a shared space on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The Gin Project venue on board the MSC World America. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) A seagull rests atop a closed shade umbrella with the MSC World America docked in the background at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC World America docks at MSC Cruises' private Bahamas island Ocean Cay on Thursday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Jake Butters/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Jake Butters/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Jake Butters/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Jake Butters/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Michel Verdure/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Michel Verdure/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. The global cruise industry sailed with a record 34.6 million passengers in 2024, and despite global political change and economic question marks, the projections are pointing up in 2025. (Michel Verdure/MSC Cruises) The MSC World America sails into PortMiami for the first time Monday, April 7, 2025. (Michel Verdure/MSC Cruises) Show Caption1 of 55The Jaw Drop dry, twisting slide takes riders on an 11-deck trip on board MSC Cruises' new ship, the MSC World America, in PortMiami on Wednesday, April 10, 2025. (Richard Tribou/Orlando Sentinel)Expand The 22-deck, 6,764-passenger, 216,638-gross-ton ship arrived in April in PortMiami and has settled into year-round, seven-night Caribbean itineraries. Just like Royal's Icon and Oasis-class ships, World America is so big, that the line carves its space up into neighborhoods, although MSC calls them districts. They're filled with nearly 40 restaurants, bars and lounges, so it feels like a little city at sea. In fact, from behind, people would be hard-pressed to tell the difference between an Oasis-class ship from World America with both featuring a multi-deck, twisting dry slide as a centerpiece of an open-air deck. One thing the brand does successfully, though, is lean into its European identity, especially the Italian flair of its founders. 'We're not trying to be an American cruise line only for Americans,' said new MSC Cruises USA president Lynn Torrent. 'We do have this European DNA and that's real, and we need to own it and lean into it. But we need to have our American guests feel comfortable. So it really is a balance.' So in the hallways, for instance, are historical black-and-white photos of space shuttle launches, but they were labeled as 'Kennedy Space Centre.' Pool depths are in both meters and feet. Elevators are called lifts. A family area on the top decks is called 'The Harbour.' But at least restrooms are no longer labeled 'WC' for 'water closet,' something one would find on earlier MSC ships. Perhaps the most European thing is the bumper cars with the steering wheel on the right. And while the ship may have many similarities, the interior leans into a modern design that has been a hallmark of the MSC ships before it. Mirrors are everywhere. And a lot of the ships sparkle. At the same time, a digital ceiling that stretches down the entire World Galleria entertainment district occasionally quite often displays a massive American flag. Taking a closer look, travelers will find World America isn't a clone. It has its own identity. Here are some of the best features on board: The Cliffhanger: Who knew a simple little swing could be such a thrill? A pair of two-seater swings juts out over the edge of the ship 160 feet above the water with just a simple T-bar keeping riders safe from sliding out. 'That's it?' exclaimed Lindsay Bonfanti before holding on for the less-than-minute-long ride that drew a few more exclamations questioning her decision-making. For those who love heights and a hit of adrenaline without putting in any work, this ride fits the bill. More thrills to be found: The Family Aventura district has other fast-paced options including a ropes course with two small zip lines built in. One swings riders out over the chasm of the open-air aft section of the ship more than 11 decks below. The small water park has five slides including a speedy drop slide that shoots riders down as if being dropped out bomb-bay doors. There's also a pair of timed, side-by-side slides that allow for healthy competition and a tube ride with an option virtual reality headset that makes for a trippy, wet trip through the jungle. Just remember to not be laughing out loud with your mouth open when you hit the bottom. Over in the sports court, the line breaks out bumper cars for some healthy head-on collisions. But for those who don't mind climbing into an open shark mouth, the Jaw Drop twisting slide is a welcome, free offering, the tube of which is transparent for much of the ride offering great views on the way down. Dirty Dancing: It's music and dancing that most people know. Baby gets put in a corner momentarily. The choreography is spot on. The dancers nail the lift. They had the time of their lives, and fans of the film will likely walk away from the short production in the main theater with a hit of nostalgia. The line also doubles down on the partnership by airing the film and putting on its own dance party themed to the 1980s hit film that itself used music from the summer of 1963. Dialing into other nostalgic, but popular music, the line has a show playing the hits of Queen, marrying a live rock band with orchestral and aerialist accompaniment in the Panorama Lounge. Another main stage show 'Hall of Fame' pulls from a variety of pop legends such as Beyonce and Justin Timberlake. So many flavors: MSC goes beyond simple vanilla, chocolate and swirl. Think gelato. Think multiple venues around the ship. Think massive selection. One of the best tempts travelers walking down the main World Galleria section of the ship within the Jean-Philippe Chocolat & Café venue, which also features hand-crafted chocolates, 14 flavors of macarons and a tidy little coffee bar tucked in the back. But 16 gelato and sorbet flavors from pistachio to hazelnut to mango to stracciatella. There's some pretty rich vanilla and chocolate too. When in doubt: Pizza. The ship has plenty of dining options including the first Eataly-branded Italian specialty restaurant and a Greek venue with fresh seafood called Paxos. But perhaps the most satisfying dish on board is free. Freshly made pizza made in authentic stone ovens is a must-have from Luna Park Pizza & Burger, plus it's open beyond normal dining hours, so a great place to wander into after a few drinks. Or before dinner. Or between lunch and dinner. Pour another one: Champagne bar: Check. Mixed drinks: Check: Hand-crafted beer. Check. The line has 18 bars and lounges, but one of the most interesting is The Gin Project venue, taking up the upper level of a space shared with the Masters of the Sea pub, both of which share a view of a live music stage. The level of detail on the history of gin with old photos and antiques filling the walls amid the nooks and alcoves of the bar is similar to the feeling you get the first time you walk into a TGI Fridays and marvel at all the crazy stuff on the wall. Plus coming up with your own libation from among 70 types of gins is a fun game of choose your own adventure. Start with an 'earthy' or 'fruity' or 'grassy' gin for instance. Then choose a tonic style from among several options, and then finally the décor and flavor enhancements. And it's worth mentioning that coffee fans won't find a Starbucks, but can get that caffeine high in a new, one would dare say, more adventurous way at the Coffee Emporium, pulling from Mediterranean beans and styles including French, Italian, Turkish and Moroccan. Cheers to that.
The Independent
07-05-2025
- The Independent
The best MSC Cruises ships and sailings for 2025 and beyond
MSC Cruises has been making waves with stylish cruises since the late 1980s. The Italian family-owned brand started as a shipping company in the 1970s but is now the third largest cruise line in the world. MSC Cruises is known for its Italian style and high-end entertainment, including West End standard shows and themed parties. Its 23 ships are packed with pools, bars, waterparks and even theme park-style attractions. Fares are typically aimed at younger families and couples, meaning it can offer a cheaper holiday than other cruise lines and as a bonus, tips are also included in the cost of MSC cruise fares. There are perks offered for priority services such as reserved theatre seating, and the option to skip the queue at embarkation and disembarkation, however, priority service usually costs a lot more than a standard fare. MSC's current fleet dates back to the early 2000s and the newest is its World Class series. This includes World Europa – launched in December 2022 to target the European market, and World America, which was unveiled in April for the US. World Asia will launch in December 2026. The brand's newer ships even feature a separate luxury area called the Yacht Club, with butler-serviced suites and exclusive-use restaurants, a pool deck and bar. The fleet typically caters for between 4,000 and 7,000 passengers, depending on the vessel, so it is classed as a large ship brand and as such the fleet can feel quite busy once you get on board. Itineraries often depart from Southampton's cruise port, making it convenient for UK passengers, but there are also sailings from the Med and beyond. Here is our pick of the top MSC cruise ships and sailings. 1. MSC World America: Bahamas and the Caribbean Miami – Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic – San Juan, Puerto Rico – Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas – Miami Visit the Bahamas and the Caribbean on MSC's newest ship. Departing from MSC's new dedicated cruise terminal, this itinerary even includes a stop on the cruise line's private island, Ocean Cay, where you can relax on the beach or climb the lighthouse for awe-inspiring views. The 6,762-capacity World America launched in April and has been built with the US market in mind, with a downtown New York-style comedy club and sports bar. But there is plenty to keep all nationalities busy with an on-board waterpark and an 11-deck-high Jaw Drop dry slide. Thrill-seekers can also swing over the edge of the ship on the vessel's Cliffhanger ride. On-board entertainment includes Dirty Dancing: In Concert and a Queen tribute act. Departs 19 July 2025. From £643pp. Barcelona, Spain – Marseille, France – Genoa, Italy – Naples, Italy – Messina, Italy – Valletta, Malta – Barcelona, Spain Tour the Med with MSC aboard World Europa. Starting in Spain, this cruise visits many of the gems of the continent. You could be eating gelato in Genoa, pizza in Naples or exploring the architecture and beaches of Valletta on a stop in Malta. On board, World Europa passengers can enjoy virtual reality racing waterslides, an F1 Simulator and also relax across its 20 bars and lounges or even take afternoon tea in the speciality Raj Polo Tea House. It also has an 11-deck-high drop slide called Venom. Departs 20 June 2025. From £849pp. Book now 3. MSC Virtuosa: Iberian Coast, Canary Islands & Madeira Southampton, United Kingdom – Lisbon, Portugal – Madeira, Portugal – Las Palmas, Canary Islands – Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Canary Islands – Arrecife de Lanzarote, Canary Islands – Southampton, United Kingdom See the best of the Canary Islands during this 12-night summer cruise. Each port stop offers something different, from the beaches of Tenerife to the lush landscapes of Madeira and volcanic views of Lanzarote. This could be a great family summer holiday aboard the 6,334 capacity MSC Virtuosa, which launched in 2021 as part of MSC's Meraviglia Plus class of ships. The kids will be occupied at the on-board waterpark and high ropes while parents can relax amidst Swarovski crystal staircases and order a cocktail made by Rob the robot bartender. Departs 9 August 2025. From £1,599pp. Book now Kiel, Germany – Copenhagen, Denmark – Hellesylt, Norway – Geiranger, Norway – Alesund, Norway – Flaam, Norway – Kiel, Germany The fascinating views of the Norwegian fjords are best viewed from a cruise ship. This MSC sailing aboard MSC Euribia – another Meraviglia Plus class ship, even makes time for a stop in Copenhagen before you hit the lush landscapes of Norway, including the art nouveau architecture of Alesund and waterfalls and fjords of Flåm. When not marvelling at the mountain ranges, guests can take part in a high-ropes course or take a dip in an outdoor or indoor pool – useful for the cooler Norwegian weather. There are also 21 bars and restaurants on board, including the Helios Wine Maker that hosts interactive tastings with touch tables that teach you about the wines you are sampling. Departs 28 June. From 782pp. 5. MSC Bellissima: Asia Tokyo, Japan – Busan, Korea – Sasebo, Japan – Kagoshima, Japan – Naha (Okinawa), Japan – Ishigaki, Japan – Taiwan, China From the futuristic skyscrapers of Tokyo to historic castles in Sasebo or savouring kimchi in Busan, this nine-night cruise will give you a true taste of Asia. It visits must-see stops in Japan, the Republic of Korea and Taiwan, where guests can explore temples and palaces. Sailing aboard the Meraviglia class MSC Bellissima, passengers have an in-cabin Bluetooth speaker called Zoe, so you can play music whilst you get ready for a night on the tiles, including exclusive Cirque du Soleil-style performances. There is lots of cool tech on offer for up to 4,500 passengers, such as a virtual reality maze and F1 simulators, as well as an 80-metre long LED dome in the two-deck promenade that features images such as a sunrise and sunset. Outdoors, passengers can relax by the four swimming pools or play in the Grand Canyon-themed waterpark. Departs 12 November. From £829pp. 6. MSC Seascape: Bahamas and Caribbean Miami, United States – Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Bahamas – Nassau, Bahamas – Falmouth, Jamaica – George Town, Cayman Islands – Miami, United States Why choose between the Bahamas and the Caribbean when you can do both on one cruise? This 11-night voyage visits MSC's private Ocean Cay island in the Bahamas for a day of relaxation on the beach, and there will be chances to try the Caribbean's culinary delights, including saltfish or jerk chicken in Jamaica or a rum distillery tour in George Town in the Cayman Islands. Most areas of MSC Seascape provide great views for its 5,877 passengers, including from the panoramic lifts or on its Bridge of Sighs glass skywalk that overlooks the infinity pool from deck 16. Launched in 2022 in the Seaside Evo class, the ship is modelled on areas of New York. You will find a three-metre high Statue of Liberty replica in the casino and a Times Square-themed retail and entertainment area that boasts a four-deck high LED wall. When it comes to eating out, you are spoiled for choice with 20 bars and restaurants. There are also 13 pools and water features to keep you occupied, but for something different, try the virtual reality flight simulator or the Robotron ride, where a giant robotic arm hoists you 53 metres above the sea, before tossing you around in different directions. Departs 27 July. From £1,108pp. Book now 7. MSC Meraviglia: MSC Grand Voyages New York, United States – Halifax, Canada – Ponta Delgada, Portugal – Lisbon, Portugal – Cadiz, Spain – Gibraltar – Mallorca, Spain – Marseille, France – Barcelona, Spain – La Goulette, Tunisia – Palermo, Italy – Naples, Italy – Livorno, Italy MSC Cruises sailings don't just stick to one continent. Guests can explore 13 destinations on this grand voyage across the Atlantic. Departing from the bright lights of New York, this 21-night cruise will take you to the countryside of Canada before heading towards Europe for the famous macaques of Gibraltar and Portuguese custard tarts in Lisbon before disembarking for Livorno, which provides an ideal access point towards Florence or to see the Tower of Pisa. There are similar features, including a 480-metre LED dome, and passengers can also enjoy its full-size bowling alley and an intricate water park with three water slides. Departs 19 April 2026. From £1,868pp.
Business Insider
03-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Business Insider
I sailed on MSC's giant new ship and saw how the European cruise line is catering to Americans
An Eataly. A hot pink bougainvillea-adorned Greek restaurant. An espresso bar. A row of freshly fired pizzas. No, this isn't your friend's Instagram feed during their Euro summer vacation. This is a new Miami-based cruise ship, MSC World America. MSC Cruises has long dominated the European cruise market with its large vessels and relatively affordable fares. But over the last few years, it's been westwardly expanding into the US's booming cruise business, culminating in April with the debut of its splashy and aptly named World America mega-ship. It's the company's first vessel designed specifically for the stateside market. And to red, white, and blue-ify its brand, MSC's latest floating resort is now operating Caribbean voyages with new-to-brand amenities such as a Pizza and Burger restaurant, an All-Stars Sports Bar, and, in the spirit of its heritage, an onboard Eataly. About 40% of World America's onboard venues were tweaked from its sister ship to better suit American sensibilities. Surveys and guest feedback indicated that US travelers wanted more complimentary American food, Italian dishes, activities, and attractions, William Monts de Oca Rivera, MSC's head of guest experience innovation, told Business Insider. "The European style is there, so now how do we lean into the American comfort?" he said. After a three-year design process, this question led to one of the world's latest and largest cruise ships with a sports bar, a comedy club, an amusement park, and an Eataly. A hub of open-air activities replaced World Europa's collection of outdoor chaises. "Europeans want to spend a lot of time sunbathing," Monts De Oca Rivera said during a panel in April. "Americans want to spend a lot of time doing things and being active." And do things they shall. The Harbour, an activity hub and the "crown jewel" of the ship, according to De Oca Rivera, is MSC's take on the trend of amusement park-like cruise ships. The Harbour has activities for all age ranges. The playground is perfect for the youngest cruisers, while the mechanical swing that dangles riders 164 feet above the ocean is a go-to for the daredevilish. That's not to mention the ropes course, dry slide, and waterslides, including one with a virtual reality headset. Weary parents can instead sit out, snack on empanadas, and sip on mai tais at the adjacent grab-and-go snack and drinks bar, Harbour Bar and Bites. Life, liberty, and the pursuit of shade and shallow water. Another priority for Monts De Oca Rivera's team was maximizing the surface area of World America's pools. Americans, he said, want to be near or touching water, but don't need to be completely submerged. To accomplish this, the team developed shallow sections of the pools where guests can sit without being completely submerged. The same ethos applies to the sun, or rather, avoiding it. Shade was a "big, big, big, big, big, big" focus for the US-oriented ship, Monts De Oca Rivera said. It's smartly designed on World America, from canvases shading the walkways beneath the Harbour's ropes course to slats partially covering its Bar and Bites dining tables. The Harbour's grab-and-go snack stand also signifies a new push for the cruise line: fast casual. According to Monts De Oca Rivera, Americans' daily eating habits follow a general trend: big breakfasts, lighter lunches, several mid-day snacks, and a big dinner. As such, World America has four fast-casual grab-and-go food concepts to appease afternoon snackers, quadruple that of World Europa's. "Fast" is the name of MSC World America's dining game. While European guests often prefer two-hour dinners with spaced-out service, the American market favors shorter meals with chattier and more attentive servers. This has meant a push for quicker diner service aboard the new ship. As for specific food options, think European. MSC's tagline has become "European style, American comfort," distinguishing itself from its US competitors. And what better way to reflect its background than through food? The ship aims to highlight American-beloved European classics, such as a mozzarella bar in the buffet and endless pizza slices at the pool grill. World America also has two restaurant firsts for MSC: Paxos and Eataly. Yes, that Eataly, which takes its seafaring form as World America's signature Italian restaurant. The new venue replaced World Europa's modern Nordic restaurant, Chef's Garden Kitchen. Similarly, Greek restaurant Paxos superseded World Europa's seafood restaurant, which was nixed after surveys of the American market showed confusion by its lack of affiliation with a single country's cuisine, according to Monts De Oca Rivera. The new Paxos couldn't be more obviously geared to the American interpretation of Greece, as indicated by its prototypical white and blue storefront embellished with iconic bougainvilleas. And what's more American than a sports bar? World Europa's spirits and cigar Malt Lounge became World America's All-Stars Sports Bar, finished with plenty of beers on tap, more TV screens than a single person ever needs, and dartboards. Beer fans can also grab a pint at the onboard microbrewery, which has three new brews — an IPA, pilsner, and light beer — for the American palate. Comedy, karaoke, and dueling pianos had historically operated as pop-ups around different lounges. However, following guest interest in smaller, specialized entertainment venues, the three activities now have a shared space in The Loft — a venue that otherwise operates as an English tea room on World Europa. After all, there's nothing more European (pre-Brexit) than a tea room — and nothing more American than a comedy club and sports bar.
Miami Herald
03-05-2025
- Business
- Miami Herald
South Florida is the cruise capital. See ships based this year in Miami, Broward
South Florida is home to two of the busiest cruise passenger ports in the world, PortMiami and Port Everglades. PortMiami had a record 8.2 million visitors in fiscal year 2024, a 13% increase from the prior period. New ships departing included Explora Journeys Explora II, Virgin Voyages Resilient Lady, MSC Cruises World America, Norwegian Cruise Line Aqua, Virgin Voyages Brilliant Lady and Oceania Allura. MORE: What do you want on a cruise? How private resorts are changing travel Port Everglades in Fort Lauderdale had 4.1 million passengers in fiscal year 2024, also a record. New ships include the Crystal Serenity, Princess Cruises' Sun Princess, Silversea's Silver Ray and the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection's llama. Here are the ships home-ported in Miami and Broward until Sept. 30, 2025: PortMiami Visit Miami port's website for details on cruise lines and their ships. ▪ Carnival Cruise Lines Celebration, Conquest, Horizon, Magic, Sunrise, Miracle, Paradise, Spirit, Venezia ▪ Celebrity Cruises Summit, Explora Journeys, Explora I, Explora II ▪ MSC Cruises MSC Divina, MSC Magnifica, Seascape, Seaside, Seashore, World America ▪ Norwegian Cruise Line Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Blissv, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Pearl ▪ Oceania Cruises Insignia, Marina, Nautica, Sirena, Vista, Regent Seven Seas, Seven Seas Grandeur, Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Navigator ▪ Royal Caribbean International Allure of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, Explorer of the Seas, Freedom of the Seas, Icon of the Seas, Independence of the Seas, Odyssey of the Seas, Symphony of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, Virgin Voyages, Scarlet Lady, Resilient Lady, Valiant Lady Port Everglades Visit the Broward port's website for details on cruise lines and their ships. ▪ Baleària Caribbean Jaume II (will sail year-round) ▪ Celebrity Cruises Celebrity Apex, Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Beyond, Celebrity Eclipse, Celebrity Reflection (will sail year-round), Celebrity Silhouette, Celebrity Summit ▪ Crystal Crystal Serenity ▪ Disney Cruise Line Disney Dream (will saill year-round), Disney Magic ▪ Holland America Line Eurodam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Nieuw Statendam, Oosterdam, Rotterdam, Volendam, Zaandam, Zuiderdam ▪ Princess Cruises Caribbean Princess, Coral Princess, Emerald Princess, Enchanted Princess (will sail year-round), Island Princess, Majestic Princess, Regal Princess, Ruby Princess, Saphire Princess, Sky Princess, Sun Princess, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Ilma ▪ Royal Caribbean International Freedom of the Seas, Grandeur of the Seas, Jewel of the Seas (will sail year-round), Liberty of the Seas, Oasis of the Seas (will sail year-round), Serenade of the Seas, Silversea Cruises., Silver Moon, Silver Ray, Silver Shadow ▪ Viking Cruises Viking Mars, Viking Neptune, Viking Octantis, Viking Polaris, Viking Sky
