Latest news with #WorldClass
Zawya
29-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
MSC Cruises signs orders for two new world class ships to be built in France by Chantiers de l'Atlantique
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – MSC Cruises today signed two new orders for their globally successful World Class ships. The order with French ship builder Chantiers de l'Atlantique, will see the total number of World Class ships in the MSC Cruises fleet expand to six. The two new ordered vessels – currently referred to as World Class 5 and 6 – will be delivered in 2029 and 2030 respectively and demonstrates the Company's ongoing commitment to France and European shipbuilding. Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, MSC Cruises, said, '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. 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.' Laurent Castaing, General Manager, Chantiers de l'Atlantique added, " We thank MSC Cruises for their continued trust. It is the synergy of our two companies' expertise that has led to the creation of this high-potential World Class series, meeting the challenges both in terms of passenger experience and environmental performance. World Class V and VI mark a milestone in the history of the cruise industry, with the best energy efficiency.' The new ships will join MSC World Europa and MSC World America along with MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic, which are currently under construction and will enter service in 2026 and 2027 respectively. The World Class ships are already the most energy efficient ships in service, significantly outperforming the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Energy Efficiency Design Index (EEDI) and the new vessels will continue to uphold the high energy efficiency standards set by their sister ships. All World Class ships are ready for a variety of alternative fuels including bio and synthetic LNG. Additionally, they will feature a new configuration of the latest generation dual fuel internal combustion engines, which feature new technology to further reduce methane slip. The new vessels will feature shore power plug-in connectivity to reduce carbon emissions in port, the most advanced wastewater treatment systems designed in line with the IMO, new advances in waste management, and a comprehensive range of onboard energy efficient equipment to optimise engine use and hotel energy needs to further reduce emissions. As with the other World Class ships, the new vessels will seamlessly blend MSC Cruises' signature elegant European design with comfort to offer an unparalleled guest experience centred around a districts concept with facilities, and experiences tailored to the needs of different types of traveller. Each new ship MSC Cruises builds offers something new and distinctive and World 5 and 6 will be no different. The two new orders will be subject to access to financing, as per industry practice. NOTES MSC Cruises' first LNG ship, MSC World Europa was launched in November 2022 and the latest ship in this class, MSC World America entered service in April 2025 and is operating in the North American cruise market. There are currently two vessels under construction at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire in France, MSC World Asia and MSC World Atlantic. These ships will be delivered in 2026 and 2027 respectively. All World Class ships feature dual engines and as bio and synthetic fuels become available at scale, emissions from MSC Cruises' World Class vessels will be further reduced. LNG is key to the development of low carbon solutions for shipping as emerging technologies such as fuel cells can be operated with LNG until zero emissions bio and synthetic LNG become available at scale. MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l'Atlantique are actively involved in several projects to develop and make these technologies viable in partnership with regulators, academia, and industry. About MSC Cruises Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, the privately-owned MSC Cruises is the world's third largest cruise line and the market leader in Europe with a strong and growing presence in North America. A global cruise brand with 23 modern ships offering cruises across five continents, guests can visit more than 100 countries worldwide with more than 300 destinations, making unforgettable memories and enjoying the finest hospitality. About Chantiers De L'Atlantique Thanks to the expertise of its teams and its network of subcontractors, combined with top industrial technology, Chantiers de l'Atlantique is a key leader in the design, integration, testing and precise delivery of cruise ships, naval vessels, electrical substations for offshore wind farms and fleet services. The company is a pioneer in the challenges of tomorrow. Thanks to its research and development, Chantiers de l'Atlantique offers ships with the highest environmental performance, as well as equipment for offshore wind farms, making it a major player in global energy transition. For further information, please contact: Ghida Abou Zaki | Elise Nacouzi Belarabi Group ghida@ | elise@
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.
The Independent
30-04-2025
- Entertainment
- The Independent
A first look at the $1 billion MSC World America cruise ship, from thrill-seeking rides to Dirty Dancing
My feet are dangling 50 metres above the sea. I feel like a child again as a metallic red swing rocks me back and forth, offering an unrivalled view of the Atlantic Ocean below. In the highly competitive world of megaships with their ever-competing theme park-style attractions, the Cliffhanger ride I am sitting in is among the many incredible features aboard MSC World America – the newest ship to join the Italian cruise brand's fleet. With my hand gripping the red safety bar in anticipation, the swing slowly rises and there is a sudden 'whoosh!' as I am pushed out over the ship's edge. My heart is thumping and there is nothing but air and sea beneath me – I feel like I'm flying. I was among the first passengers to sail aboard MSC World America from its new hi-tech Miami cruise terminal – where face scanners and biometric e-gates have been installed to speed up the boarding process – to the brand's private Bahamas island, Ocean Cay. The $1 billion cruise ship is the second in MSC's World Class series, which started with World Europa in December 2021. MSC World America looks set to dominate the US market with weekly Caribbean itineraries. With a gross tonnage of 216,638 and with capacity for 6,764 passengers, 19 dining venues and 18 bars and lounges, MSC World America ranks as the eighth largest cruise ship in the world. Anthony Paradiso, vice president of international sales at MSC, explained that the ship aims to combine European style with American-style comfort, and believes the vessel offers something for every kind of traveller. Its 22 decks are named after major American ports and cities such as Seattle and Miami and the ship's godmother is actor and talk show host Drew Barrymore, who proudly cut the ribbon to christen the ship during our sailing. MSC World America borrows plenty of style features from MSC World Europa, such as the sparkling chandeliers hanging from the ceiling of the World Galleria on deck 6; the light from these bounces off mirrored pillars and staircases, giving the feel of a swanky boutique hotel. On the pool deck, cabanas provide much-needed shade from the Caribbean sun, and there are British plug sockets and USB-C ports in the cabins for modern smartphones. However, it turns out that Americans may not love speciality tea as much as we Brits do, as the Raj Polo Tea House from MSC World Europa has been replaced with The Loft Comedy club on deck 8. Afternoon tea and soft furnishings have been replaced with bar stools and images of comedy legends Richard Pryor and Sarah Silverman. The venue has the feel of a New York comedy club, with a faux brick wall backdrop and spotlights to illuminate the comedians. A wacky musical comedy act called Duelling Pianos gets the crowd singing along to interpretations of Brown Eyed Girl and American Pie; it makes a nice change from the traditional cabaret shows and singers that you tend to see on cruise ships. Across the deck sits the only Eataly Italian restaurant at sea, which, sadly, is so highly anticipated that it was closed for private events throughout our sailing. However, on peering in, the bright decor inside transports you to a traditional pizzeria on the Amalfi Coast – albeit scrubbed-up – while floor-to-ceiling windows provide amazing ocean views. Given MSC's Italian roots, it is no surprise that there is more Mediterranean food to be found on board. The new Paxos restaurant at the outdoor World Promenade is a place where you need to be careful not to fill up on starters such as warm pitta bread topped with hummus and taramasalata. The mains include melt-in-the-mouth feta pastries, hot from the oven, or succulent seared tuna. American-style food is found opposite Paxos, in the new All-Stars Sports Bar. Think juicy burgers dripping with cheese and BBQ sauce. This is a speciality restaurant, but in my opinion, the burgers are well worth their $10 price tag. Elsewhere on deck 20, the racing waterslides and Venom dry slide showcase the bigger-is-better American way of doing things. And where on MSC World Europa there is a quiet space for sunbathing, on MSC World America, the space is given over to The Harbour, where a festival atmosphere prevails. Pop music plays as passengers jump around its pirate-style playgrounds, high ropes and waterslides, and there is a snack bar serving hot dogs and Jamaican patties; no need to traipse to the buffet for sustenance. Deck 20 is also where I find the adrenaline rush of the Cliffhanger ride, and also nervously launch myself into a shark's mouth for the ship's Venom ride equivalent, Jaw Drop, a spiralling dry slide where screams of joy echo around the ship as you hurtle down 11 decks. Top tip: it can be a faster mode of transport than the lifts during busy periods. The 4D cinema on board MSC World Europa has also been ditched, making way for a larger arcade in the popular Luna Park. Similarly, the bowling alley – where rough sea days made it hard to play successfully (at least that was my excuse) – hasn't made it onto MSC World America. Instead, there is space for three cars instead of two in its F1 simulator ride – though that didn't make me a better racing driver. MSC has also gone big with entertainment, bagging the rights for Dirty Dancing: In Concert as its flagship show in the World Theatre. In the show, singers performed hits from the classic 1980s film, such as Do You Love Me and Time of My Life – accompanied, of course, by the iconic lift scene. It's a nostalgia-filled performance that made me want to try out my own Swayze-style moves across the dance floor. We caught a preview, but the full version of the show will feature a band and performers who sing and dance along to the film playing on stage in the background, in true immersive Secret Cinema-style. The 1980s theme continues at the aft of the ship at Panorama Lounge, where performers in the Queen Symphonic show perform to an incredible orchestra backing track. Clapping our hands and stomping our feet to We Will Rock is the perfect end to our trip – a fun-filled, rollicking ride that would be fun for all the family, even if you do find yourself dangling sky-high over the deep blue sea. A seven-night Caribbean cruise aboard MSC World America, departing from Miami, starts at £770pp, based on a 17 May 2025 departure; flights not included.
Zawya
26-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudia partners with The Ring Magazine as a Heavyweight Sponsor
London: Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has announced its new partnership as a Heavyweight sponsor with The Ring magazine, the premier global authority in boxing news and events. This strategic collaboration marks an exciting chapter for Saudia as it aligns itself with one of boxing's most prestigious platforms. Known for its rich history and influence within the sport, The Ring has been at the forefront of boxing journalism since 1922. Khaled Tash, Chief Marketing Officer at Saudia Group, said: "We are thrilled to partner with The Ring magazine. This sponsorship reflects Saudi Arabia's strategic emphasis on investing in sports as a catalyst for national development and international engagement. By connecting the Kingdom's audience to prestigious global sports platforms like The Ring, we are enhancing our engagement with international sports communities and promoting cultural exchange." In the presence of H.E. Advisor Turki Alalshikh, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the General Entertainment Authority, the agreement was signed by Ibrahim Binaquil, Head of Marketing at Saudia Group and Nour Ahmedien, Chief Operating Officer of The Ring, ahead of the highly anticipated Eubank vs. Benn fight at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London. As part of this agreement, Saudia will be prominently featured across various media channels associated with The Ring magazine including print editions, digital platforms, and major boxing events covered by their team. The partnership aims not only to enhance brand visibility but also to foster cultural exchange between the Kingdom's vibrant community and international audiences passionate about boxing. By bringing the world to the Kingdom, Saudia is committed to connecting fans more closely with the sport they love, creating unforgettable experiences that resonate with both local and global boxing enthusiasts. About Saudia: Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East's largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleets. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World's Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has also been awarded the "World Class Airline 2024" for the third consecutive year at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards. Additionally, also ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit
Zawya
17-04-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudia's brand value reaches $1.1bln with remarkable 34% growth
Jeddah: Saudia, the national flag carrier of Saudi Arabia, has achieved a significant milestone, reaching a brand value of $1.1 billion, a remarkable 34% increase from the previous year. This achievement underscores Saudia's commitment to innovation and excellence within the global aviation industry. Brand Finance, a leading independent brand valuation consultancy, has recognized this growth as part of its comprehensive annual report on airline brands globally for 2025. The assessment considers various factors including business performance, strategic initiatives, and audience perception to determine overall brand strength. Key achievements contributing to this success include Saudia Group's landmark deal with Airbus for 105 new aircraft enhancing fleet capabilities; the innovative BLVD Runway theme park that captured unprecedented engagement across the Kingdom; recognition by Skytrax as 'World's Most Improved Airline 2024'; consistent high On-Time Performance (OTP) rates; and other numerous awards for outstanding guest experience—all reinforcing Saudia's reputation for excellence. Khaled Tash, Chief Marketing Officer of Saudia Group said: "Achieving a brand value of $1 billion is a testament to our strategic initiatives and operational excellence, as well as the unwavering trust and loyalty of our guests. At Saudia, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation in aviation, ensuring that every journey with us is a step towards excellence." Notably, Saudia first entered the Brand Finance Top50 global airline brand value ranking in 2021 with an initial valuation at $506 million. Since then, it has more than doubled its brand value over these four years and now holds position #32 in this prestigious ranking. About Saudia: Saudia (Saudia Airlines) is the national flag carrier of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Established in 1945, the company has grown to become one of the Middle East's largest airlines. Saudia has invested significantly in upgrading its aircraft and currently operates one of the youngest fleets. The airline serves an extensive global route network covering around 100 destinations across four continents, including all 28 domestic airports in Saudi Arabia. A member of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the Arab Air Carriers Organization (AACO), Saudia has also been a member airline in SkyTeam, the second largest alliance, since 2012. Saudia was recently recognized as the World's Most Improved Airline 2024 by Skytrax, marking the third time it has received this accolade, alongside 14 other distinguished awards. Saudia has also been awarded the "World Class Airline 2024" for the third consecutive year at The APEX Official Airline Ratings™ awards. Additionally, also ranked top among global airlines for best on-time performance (OTP) according to a report by Cirium. For more information on Saudia, please visit
