MSC Cruises' newest 6,764-passenger flagship completes sea trials

MSC Cruises says its newest LNG-powered flagship, MSC Asia, has completed final sea trials ahead of delivery. Chantiers de l’Atlantique is set to deliver the 6,764-passenger ship in November, with the vessel’s delivery date set for 25 November 2026. At 333 meters, MSC Asia will feature more than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants, international entertainment options, and family facilities. The 216,638-gt cruise ship is scheduled for a European debut and will operate seven-night Mediterranean itineraries calling at Barcelona, Marseille, Genoa and Civitavecchia for Rome, plus Messina and Valletta, with accessible embarkation in every port. Final testing off France’s west coast covered engines, maneuverability, fuel efficiency, safety systems, speed and stopping distances.