MSC’s 215,863 GT LNG Giant Floats Out—What Changes for Caribbean Cruises
The 333-metre MSC World Atlantic will carry 6,762 passengers on seven-night Caribbean voyages from November 2027.
MSC Cruises has reached a major milestone with the float-out of its newest LNG-fuelled cruise ship, the MSC World Atlantic, at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. The 215,863 GT vessel, part of the company’s World Class series, is set to become the 25th ship in MSC Cruises’ fleet and the fourth to run primarily on liquefied natural gas (LNG).
This critical phase in its construction moves the vessel from the dry dock into the water, where work will continue on fitting out its interiors, public spaces, and remaining technical systems.
The MSC World Atlantic is not just another addition to MSC Cruises’ fleet, it represents a significant leap in both size and sustainability. With a dual-fuel propulsion system, the ship will run mainly on LNG, a cleaner alternative to traditional marine fuels. Its five engines will deliver a combined output of about 80 MW, enabling a maximum speed of 22.7 knots.
Royal Caribbean
The ship’s design also sets it apart. MSC Cruises has divided the vessel into seven distinct districts, each offering a unique atmosphere, facilities, and entertainment options. According to the company, guests will experience a seamless blend of cultures, flavors, and styles from both sides of the Atlantic.
“Guests will have the chance to experience a seamless blend of cultures, flavors, and styles from both sides of the Atlantic brought together in one thrilling destination at sea, with seven distinct districts, each offering its own atmosphere, facilities and entertainment.”
MSC Cruises·Company Statement
What’s Next for MSC World Atlantic and Its Passengers: Cruises
Following its float-out, the MSC World Atlantic will remain at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard for the next several months as final work is completed. The ship is scheduled for delivery in 2027, with its debut voyage set for November 13, 2027, from Port Canaveral, Florida. This seven-night cruise will take passengers to some of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations, including Nassau, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Cozumel, and Costa Maya.
The ship’s itineraries will alternate between seven- and 14-night cruises, offering flexibility for travellers. One of the highlights will be a visit to Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas. The reserve is designed to offer a pristine, eco-friendly experience, with activities ranging from snorkelling to beachside relaxation. Grand Turk, another popular destination, will also feature on the ship’s route, providing passengers with a mix of cultural and natural attractions.
For passengers, this means easier access to embarkation and disembarkation, as well as a wider range of pre- and post-cruise options in the Orlando area.
The ship’s arrival will also mark a significant expansion of MSC Cruises’ presence in the Caribbean. With a capacity of up to 6,762 passengers and a crew of 2,138, the MSC World Atlantic will be one of the largest cruise ships operating in the region.
As the cruise industry continues to evolve, ships like the MSC World Atlantic are setting new standards for size, sustainability, and guest experience. With its LNG propulsion system and expansive public spaces, the vessel is poised to become a flagship for MSC Cruises and a benchmark for the future of cruising. For travellers, it offers an opportunity to explore the Caribbean in a way that combines luxury, innovation, and environmental responsibility.
MSC Cruises’ commitment to expanding its fleet with advanced, eco-friendly ships is evident in the World Class series. The MSC World Atlantic follows the successful debuts of MSC World Europa in 2022 and MSC World America in March 2025. Another sister ship, MSC World Asia, completed its final sea trials in September 2026 and is scheduled for delivery in November. Together, these vessels represent the next generation of cruise ships, designed to meet the demands of modern travellers while reducing the industry’s environmental footprint.
For those eager to experience the MSC World Atlantic, the wait will soon be over. As the ship nears completion, MSC Cruises will release more details about its itineraries, onboard offerings, and booking options. In the meantime, prospective passengers can start dreaming of their next Caribbean adventure aboard one of the most anticipated cruise ships of 2027.
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