MSC Cruises will add two further World class ships to its fleet at a cost of €3.5 billion, due to be delivered in 2030 and 2031 respectively

The line will continue to work with French shipbuilder Chantiers de l’Atlantique, which is currently constructing two other World class ships. The new order takes its total spend with the company to €7 billion.

Construction of both World Class 7 and 8 will begin in 2029, with both having LNG fuel capability. Details on the number of cabins and other onboard features are yet to be revealed.

The announcement was made during the float out ceremony for MSC World Asia ahead of its inaugural Mediterranean season next month and the traditional coin ceremony for MSC World Atlantic. The latter will enter service in 2027 and will be deployed in the Caribbean from Port Canaveral, for the winter 2027-28 season.

MSC Cruises stated that the plan for two further World Class ships reflects its confidence in the future of cruise tourism and its ongoing commitment to shipbuilding in France and across Europe.

Pierfrancesco Vago, executive chairman, cruise division, MSC Group, said: “We mark a proud moment today for MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique as we celebrate important milestones for our future – the float out of MSC World Asia, the coin ceremony of MSC World Atlantic and the order of two new ships.

“The World Class platform is a symbol of our vision to set new standards for the future of cruising. These are some of the most energy efficient ships in the world and we continue our commitment to LNG, ensuring we are ready for future renewable fuels.”

Laurent Castaing, general manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, added: “We are deeply grateful to MSC Cruises for [its] renewed confidence. What our shipyard is achieving today is truly exceptional.

“The World Class series, now totalling eight vessels, is a testament to our teams’ expertise and to MSC’s vision. It exemplifies our shared commitment to elevating the passenger experience while advancing environmental performance.”

Last month MSC Cruises confirmed that MSC Meraviglia will sail a season from Southampton in 2027. From 18 May-30 October 2027, the vessel will offer 19 sailings ranging from six- to 14-nights in duration, visiting new destinations such as Ibiza, Gibraltar and Tangier in Morocco.