On Location: “I'm amazed”: An onboard look at the brand-new MSC World America

In a spotlight and amid a festive atmosphere, the MSC World America set sail April 9 on her very first voyage.

Some 120 Canadian guests (including PAX) took part in the inaugural cruise, including travel agents and industry partners.

On board, PAX had the opportunity to speak with MSC Cruises Canada's business development managers, Annie Archambault (Western Quebec) and Mokhtar Kerkeni (Eastern Quebec and Atlantic Canada), as well as Ian Patterson, country manager. 

Designed to appeal to a diverse clientele, the impressive ship combines European design with North American comfort. It has 22 decks, 2,614 cabins, over 40,000 m² of public space, and offers a wide range of amenities.

Its architecture is notably distinguished by a Y-shaped stern providing access to the outdoor World Promenade.

Kerkeni, highlighted a major asset of the ship. "Despite the ship's impressive size, it's easy to navigate. Within a few hours on board, people find their bearings. It's an environment they feel at home in, and one that makes them want to come back,” he said.

"Every time I come on board, I'm amazed," added Patterson. "And the christening ceremony was simply phenomenal! It was a wonderful demonstration of what MSC can offer North Americans—and Canadians.”

Patterson emphasized that what sets MSC apart is the unique European touch of the experience, which is also suited to the North American market.

"This year, we are celebrating our sixth anniversary in Canada, with a team of 70 bilingual employees across the country," he said.

Archambault noted growing enthusiasm for the MSC brand in Canada.

"What appeals is our international atmosphere, our meticulous design, our delicious cuisine—always with that distinctive European touch. And we're constantly innovating. For example, we just added an Eataly restaurant on board, a first in our new fleet. We're very proud of it,” she said.

Exciting new features

At an onboard event for Canadian professionals, Patterson announced the next edition of the MSC Cruises Canada brochure, which will soon be available in French and English.

It will cover the summer 2025 and winter 2025-2026 seasons, featuring several exciting new features.

He also highlighted the benefits of the new Fly & Cruise program, designed to offer travellers peace of mind. It includes:

• Flexible flights (bookable up to three days before or after the cruise)
• Partner hotel accommodations available
• 24/7 dedicated phone line
• Guaranteed arrival on board
• 10 per cent commission offered to agents on air packages

MSC World America offers 19 cabin types to suit all types of travellers—from luxurious Presidential Suites to connecting Family Cabins.

Among the options discovered by guests on the inaugural cruise are Duplex Suites, Balcony Cabins, and Infinite Ocean View Cabins, exclusive to MSC Cruises' World Class.

Furthermore, MSC World America has seven distinct spaces, allowing each passenger, regardless of age, to choose a personalized experience and fully enjoy their vacation.

These seven areas include:

• Yacht Club: An exclusive space offering highly personalized service, a gourmet restaurant, and private spaces.
• Family Aventura: A family paradise with Doremiland, an outdoor park, and attractions such as a ropes course and bumper cars.
• Aqua Deck: The perfect place to enjoy the water with two spectacular pools and an atmosphere that evolves from morning to night.
• Zen Area: A peaceful haven for adults only, perfect for relaxing by the pool while enjoying breathtaking sea views.
• Galleria: The lively heart of the ship with restaurants, shops, shows, and bars, where the atmosphere changes throughout the day.
• The Terraces: An open-air space combining restaurants, bars, shops, and entertainment, with a seaside atmosphere.
• Esplanade: A dynamic semi-open promenade with spectacular views and an impressive waterslide spanning 11 decks.

MSC World America aims to redefine family cruising with new spaces and activities developed in partnership with LEGO.

Its high-tech playground spanning over 1,000 m² includes seven rooms designed for children and teens.

New features for families include a LEGO parade, an interactive family show, an outdoor park with the Cliffhanger swing overlooking the sea, and the dynamic Sportplex with bumper cars.

The kids' clubs, open from 9 a.m. to midnight, promise unparalleled immersion in play for young and old alike.

On board MSC World America, passengers can discover a diverse culinary offering, including a unique Eataly restaurant at sea, with an exclusive Italian menu, and several other options such as Kaito Sushi Bar, the Butcher's Cut steakhouse, and the superb Greek restaurant Paxos.

The ship features 18 bars and lounges, including several new offerings designed for the North American market, such as the All-Stars Sports Bar, The Loft, and Elixir – Mixology Bar.

Sweet lovers are also accounted for, with Sweet Temptations and the Jean Philippe Chocolat & Café.

MSC World America will spend its inaugural season in the Caribbean, sailing from PortMiami. Each itinerary will include a stopover at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC's private island in the Bahamas.

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