MSC To Launch 4th World-Class Ship, Sailing from Port Canaveral

MSC’s World America, their newest ship set to debut in the U.S. later this year, hasn’t even welcomed its first passengers yet, and the company is already looking ahead. MSC has announced that a fourth World-class ship will sail from North America, with plans to homeport in Port Canaveral starting in late 2027. This move highlights MSC’s growing commitment to the North American market, and further solidifies Port Canaveral’s reputation as a major hub for mega-ships.

A Fourth World Class Ship

World Class ships represent the latest and largest vessels in MSC’s fleet, designed to rival Royal Caribbean’s Oasis and Icon Classes. At over 215,000 gross tons, these ships feature innovative split-superstructure designs, interior-facing cabins, and neighborhood-style layouts. These mega-ships are meant to be a destination in and of themselves with things like waterparks, bumper cars, and plenty of pools and seating areas.

The upcoming World America, debuting in April, has been specifically tailored to American cruisers. Enhancements include additional casual dining options, a sports bar, and expanded family-friendly areas—tweaks that differ from the MSC World Europa, which caters to European markets.

At this point, we know very little about the fourth ship, but it’s safe to say that it’ll feature many of the customizations that World America had.

Another Ship in Port Canaveral

While Miami and Fort Lauderdale have traditionally dominated as Florida’s top cruise ports, Port Canaveral has steadily risen to prominence. Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas, debuting later this year, will join other mega-ships like Wonder of the Seas and Carnival’s Mardi Gras in calling the port home. MSC also has plans to station the Grandiosa here, offering seven-night Caribbean itineraries beginning in 2026.

Despite the increased traffic, the future of Port Canaveral’s infrastructure remains uncertain. Plans for a new cruise terminal, initially proposed to handle this surge in demand, were scrapped in August. This decision could pose challenges as more large ships compete for limited space at existing facilities.

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