MSC Cruises has revolutionized modern cruising with its World Class series, beginning with MSC World Europa in 2022 and followed by MSC World America in 2025.
These magnificent vessels represent the pinnacle of European cruise ship engineering, offering passengers an unprecedented blend of innovation, entertainment, and luxury at sea.
MSC World Europa is the world's eighth largest passenger ship and the largest cruise ship not owned by Royal Caribbean International. Together, these sister ships are redefining what cruisers can expect from a mega-ship experience, but each vessel brings its own unique personality to the water.
Ship Specifications and Size
Both World Class vessels are engineering marvels that push the boundaries of cruise ship design. Each ship measures approximately 1,083 feet long and 154 feet wide, featuring a distinctive Y-shaped hull design for expansive views and a G-shaped bow design for fuel efficiency and stability.
MSC World Europa has a gross tonnage of 215,863 and accommodates 6,850 passengers across 2,760 cabins, while MSC World America can accommodate 6,762 passengers, making them nearly identical in capacity. MSC World America features 22 decks with space for 6,672 passengers and 2,138 crew members, ensuring attentive service throughout the voyage.
Key Specifications:
- Length: 1,083 feet (equivalent to three football fields)
- Width: 154 feet
- Gross Tonnage: 215,863
- Passenger Capacity: Approximately 6,700-6,850 guests
- Crew Members: 2,138
- Total Decks: 22 (20 passenger-accessible)
The aft of the ships features an open design with the lower promenade deck flanked by balcony cabin towers, creating the signature Y-shaped architecture. This innovative layout provides exceptional ocean views and creates unique outdoor spaces rarely seen on cruise ships.
Environmental Innovation
MSC World Europa was the first liquefied natural gas-fueled ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, featuring a new generation wastewater treatment system and other technology to reduce the ship's environmental impact. LNG power allows the ships to sail with a 99% decrease in sulfur dioxide emissions, an 85% decrease in nitric oxide emissions, and a 20% decrease in carbon dioxide emissions when compared with non-LNG-powered ships.
MSC World America is equipped with advanced environmental technologies, including fuel-cell technology powered by liquefied natural gas and an innovative hull design to reduce water resistance, positioning both vessels at the forefront of sustainable cruising.
Environmental Features:
- Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) propulsion system
- 99% reduction in sulfur dioxide emissions
- 85% reduction in nitric oxide emissions
- 20% reduction in carbon dioxide emissions
- Advanced wastewater treatment system
- Fuel-efficient hull design reducing water resistance
The Seven Districts Concept
Both ships feature seven districts designed to provide unique experiences and help manage crowd flow, similar to Royal Caribbean's Oasis Class and Carnival's Excel Class. Each district offers distinct atmosphere and activities:
- The Harbour: A brand-new multi-level district designed for kids and teens, featuring Cliffhanger—the only overwater swing ride at sea
- Aqua Deck: The ultimate space for relaxation and leisure by swimming pools, with revitalizing wellness offerings during the day and lively entertainment at night
- World Promenade: Center of activity with panoramic sea views, great food, unique pop-up events, and exciting light shows every night
- World Galleria: Modern interior promenade with live music, shopping, and nightlife, featuring LED screens showcasing digital art
- Elegant District: Charming atmosphere filled with world-class specialty dining, entertainment, and shopping
- Zen Area: Adults-only retreat at the stern offering breathtaking ocean views, twin pools, and serene atmosphere
- Family Aventura: Dedicated family zone with kids clubs and activities
Key Differences Between the Ships
While these sister ships share the same DNA, MSC implemented approximately 30% changes between the two vessels. These modifications reflect both market preferences and passenger feedback.
The most obvious difference between the two ships is their itineraries: MSC World Europa has been sailing the Mediterranean since its launch, while MSC World America solely travels in the Caribbean.
MSC World America Caribbean Itineraries:
- Year-round Miami departures on two 7-day roundtrip itineraries
- Eastern Caribbean: Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), San Juan (Puerto Rico), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
- Western Caribbean: Costa Maya (Mexico), Cozumel (Mexico), Roatan (Honduras), Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
- Both itineraries can be combined into 14-day back-to-back cruises
MSC World Europa Mediterranean Itineraries:
- 7-night roundtrips from multiple homeports including Genoa, Naples, Messina (Italy), Barcelona (Spain), and Marseille (France)
- All itineraries visit Valletta, Malta
- Flexible embarkation from any port of call
Dining Experiences
MSC World America has 19 dining venues and 18 bars and lounges, while MSC World Europa features 13 dining venues. Both ships offer impressive variety, but with key differences.
MSC World America Exclusive Dining:
- Eataly, the only Eataly at sea, bringing authentic Italian marketplace dining
- HOLA! Tacos & Cantina for Mexican favorites
- All-Stars Sports Bar with American classics
- Elixir Mixology Bar featuring bourbon-focused cocktails
- Twelve complimentary dining options included in cruise fare
MSC World Europa Dining Highlights:
- Chef's Garden specialty restaurant
- La Brasserie Buffet
- Il Mercato
- Raj Polo Tea House with afternoon tea and live piano
- Four complimentary restaurants and nine specialty venues with additional fees
Shared Dining Venues on Both Ships:
- Kaito Sushi Bar for fresh sushi and Japanese cuisine
- Multiple main dining rooms
- Luna Park Pizza & Burger for casual bites
- Specialty coffee at Coffee Emporium
- ZEST juice bar with healthy options
American-Focused Amenities
MSC World America introduced a series of new spaces meant to showcase and celebrate American favorites, including the All-Stars Sports Bar, The Loft comedy club and dueling pianos bar, and the bourbon-centric Elixir Mixology Bar. There's even a secret speakeasy venue that effortlessly channels the spirit of 1920's Prohibition Era.
About 30% of MSC World America's public areas are different from MSC World Europa, including the addition of a sports bar along the outdoor World Promenade. These changes were specifically designed to cater to North American tastes and preferences.
American-Style Features on World America:
- Sports bar with multiple screens for live games
- Comedy club and dueling pianos entertainment
- Bourbon-focused cocktail bar
- Secret speakeasy with 1920's ambiance
- Onboard brewery producing craft beer
- Enhanced casual American dining options
Thrilling Entertainment and Activities
Both ships deliver exceptional entertainment options that rival land-based theme parks.
1. Water Park Adventures
MSC World Europa features the Aurora Borealis Aquapark, the fleet's largest aquapark, along with seven pools. MSC World America has seven pools and 14 hot tubs, with two pools designated as adults-only.
Aquatic Features:
- Seven swimming pools across both ships
- Up to 14 hot tubs (MSC World America)
- Three thrilling waterslides
- Kids splash area with water cannons
- Solarium with retractable roof
- Multiple whirlpools and sunbathing areas
2. Unique Attractions
Both ships feature MSC Sportplex with bumper cars and The Venom Drop—the longest dry slide at sea. Cliffhanger, the only overwater swing ride at sea, puts guests out over the edge of the ship for a thrilling adventure over the ocean.
Thrill-Seeker Activities:
- Jaw Drop @ The Spiral on MSC World America
- The Venom Drop
- Cliffhanger overwater swing ride
- Bumper cars at MSC Sportplex
- Roller skating rink
- Ropes course and zip line
- Formula 1 racing simulators
- Virtual reality waterslide experiences
3. Entertainment Venues
MSC World Europa offers the scenic Panorama Lounge, the futuristic Luna Park Arena, and the iconic kinetic LED dome in the indoor World Galleria. Both ships feature Broadway-quality productions with superior vocal talent and creative choreography.
Entertainment Options:
- Main theater with Broadway-style productions
- Live music venues including jazz bands and lounge singers
- The Loft comedy club (MSC World America)
- Dueling pianos bar
- Secret speakeasy requiring a special coin for entry
- Casino with slots and table games
- 5D cinema experiences
- Karaoke lounges
- Dance parties and themed nights
4. Family-Friendly Programs
Kids and Teens Facilities:
- 760+ square meters of children's interior complex designed by Lego & Chicco
- Seven rooms dedicated to different age groups
- Doremiland kids program zone
- Teen lounges and activities
- Family Sundeck with kids-friendly pools
- Arcade games and video game centers
Accommodations That Impress
MSC World Europa features 2,633 staterooms for 5,240 passengers at double occupancy, with a maximum capacity of 6,782. Cabin categories range from interior staterooms to palatial suites in the exclusive MSC Yacht Club.
MSC Yacht Club Experience
The MSC Yacht Club offers the luxury of a private club with access to recreation and entertainment throughout the ship, featuring the best cabin locations, dedicated restaurant and lounges, a large private pool area with solarium, dedicated massage rooms, full access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa, and 24-hour butler service.
Yacht Club Exclusive Benefits:
- Priority embarkation and disembarkation
- Private restaurant with curated menus
- Dedicated concierge service
- 24-hour butler service
- Private sundeck with pools and cabanas
- Complimentary premium beverages
- Exclusive lounge access
- Reserved seating at entertainment venues
Standard Accommodations
Deluxe balcony cabins measure approximately 172-183 square feet, thoughtfully laid out with queen beds, good-sized desks with storage, solid closet space, and reasonable-sized showers and bathrooms. All cabins feature both North American electrical outlets and European two-prong models, plus USB charging ports.
Stateroom Categories:
- Interior cabins (budget-friendly option)
- Oceanview staterooms with windows
- Balcony cabins with private verandas
- Deluxe balcony with enhanced space
- Mini-suites with separate living areas
- Family cabins with extra sleeping capacity
- Accessible staterooms for guests with disabilities
Dining Excellence
Beyond the main dining venues, both ships offer specialty restaurants that elevate the culinary experience.Both ships feature extensive beverage options including craft cocktails, wines, and specialty drinks. The Gin Project serves myriad varieties of gin-based cocktails, while an attached onboard brewery produces craft beer.
Bar and Lounge Options:
- 18-21 bars and lounges across each ship
- Wine bars with curated selections
- Champagne and Fizz Bar
- Sports bars with draft beer
- Pool bars for tropical cocktails
- Martini bars with classic cocktails
- Coffee bars and tea houses
- Microbrewery with craft beer
Wellness and Relaxation
The MSC Aurea Spa spans 1,012 square meters, offering a luxurious Balinese spa experience with a thermal area, gym, beauty salon, and barber shop, providing a wealth of wellness and beauty treatments.
Spa and Wellness Amenities:
- Zen District, an adults-only wellness and relaxation complex
- Thermal suite with saunas and steam rooms
- Full-service salon and barber shop
- State-of-the-art fitness center
- Yoga and meditation classes
- Massage treatment rooms
- Thalassotherapy pool
- Relaxation lounges with ocean views
Fitness and Recreation:
- Modern gym equipment with ocean views
- Group fitness classes (spinning, pilates, yoga)
- Personal training sessions available
- Sports deck with basketball court
- Jogging track
- Rock climbing wall (select areas)
- Shopping and Retail
Onboard Shopping Options:
- Luxury at Sea boutique selling pre-owned luxury accessories from Hermes, Chanel, Dior, and Louis Vuitton
- Duty-free shops with jewelry and watches
- Fashion boutiques with designer brands
- Logo shops with cruise line merchandise
- Perfume and cosmetics stores
- Photo gallery and services
- Technology and electronics
Which Ship Is Right for You?
The choice between MSC World Europa and MSC World America ultimately depends on your preferred destination and cruise style.
If history, local food, and cultural heritage are priorities, MSC World Europa and its European itineraries offer more authentic local experiences. The Mediterranean ports provide rich history, incredible architecture, and world-renowned cuisine.
Choose MSC World Europa if:
- Mediterranean destinations appeal more than Caribbean
- Interest in European culture and history
- Prefer flexible embarkation from multiple ports
- Looking for refined European dining experiences
- Want to explore ancient cities and UNESCO sites
Choose MSC World America if:
- Caribbean sunshine and beaches are the priority
- Prefer American-style entertainment and dining
- Want convenient Miami departures
- Looking for sports bars and comedy clubs
- Value more complimentary dining options
For Caribbean sunshine, tropical beaches, and American-focused amenities, MSC World America delivers with tailored entertainment, dining options that celebrate American tastes, and convenient Miami departures. The ship's year-round Miami base makes it an unequivocally warm-weather destination vessel with plentiful outdoor venues.
Pricing routinely is among the best for weeklong Caribbean sailings, offering terrific value that leaves cruisers feeling their vacation dollars were well spent.
Ready to Experience the World Class?
MSC's World Class vessels represent the future of mega-ship cruising, combining innovative design, exceptional entertainment, diverse dining, and impressive sustainability in remarkable floating resorts.
Whether exploring Mediterranean treasures aboard World Europa or discovering Caribbean paradise on World America, these extraordinary ships promise unforgettable experiences that redefine expectations of cruise travel. To book your voyage aboard either MSC World Class ship, visit CruiseDirect for competitive rates and availability.
