MSC World Atlantic touches the water for the first time: technical launch in Saint-Nazaire for the next MSC Cruises ship

MSC Cruises has reached a significant milestone in the construction of its next flagship, MSC World Atlantic, which touched water for the first time last week during its float-out ceremony at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyards in Saint-Nazaire, France. The technical launch marks the fundamental transition from the construction dry dock to the fitting-out basin, where the unit will undergo the final phase of interior completion, public spaces, and technical systems before its official delivery.

Set to become the twenty-fifth ship in the MSC Cruises fleet, MSC World Atlantic will also be the fourth liquefied natural gas (LNG)-powered unit belonging to the World Class series. The ship has been designed to blend the brand’s distinctive European style with American-inspired comfort, offering travelers a cultural and gastronomic experience balanced between the two sides of the Atlantic. The onboard structure will be divided into seven distinct themed neighborhoods, each with its own atmosphere, services, and dedicated entertainment.

Starting in November 2027, the new flagship will debut in the Caribbean, offering alternating 7 and 14-night itineraries in the Eastern and Western Caribbean. The cruises will visit some of the region’s most popular destinations and will include calls at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, the company’s private island in the Bahamas. With the completion of the float-out, the French shipyards will continue work in the coming months to deliver the ship to the company on schedule for its inaugural overseas season.