The cruise line MSC Cruises has further expanded its World Class fleet and ordered two additional ships from the French shipyard Chantiers de l'Atlantique. The two newbuilds, currently designated World Class 5 and 6, are scheduled for delivery in 2029 and 2030, respectively. With this order, MSC Cruises' World Class fleet will grow to a total of six ships within the next five years.
Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, emphasized that this ship class combines modern environmental technology with the latest guest experiences. The order underscores the cruise line's long-standing commitment to European shipbuilding and its more than 20 years of successful collaboration with the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire. The new ships will complement the existing World Class ships and those currently under construction, namely MSC World Europa (already in service), MSC World America (entering service in 2025), MSC World Asia (2026), and MSC World Atlantic (2027).
Like their sister ships, the new ships will be equipped with advanced environmental technology. This includes the latest generation of dual-fuel engines to reduce methane slip and the ability to use alternative fuels such as bio- and synthetic LNG. Shore power connections, modern wastewater treatment, and numerous energy-efficient solutions are also planned on board. The World Class stands for energy-efficient design and a diverse range of passenger offerings, and ships 5 and 6 will also offer new highlights.