An incredible new cruise ship is departing from Barcelona in 2026, taking in six incredible cities and allowing passengers to enjoy a range of unique amenities while onboard. Cruises have become popular over the past few decades, and go-to regions to enjoy a cruise include the Caribbean and the Mediterranean. MSC World Asia will debut in 2026. Despite its name, this cruise ship won’t make its way around Asia.

Instead, it will go around the Mediterranean Sea. The name comes from the ship’s design and interior, which is inspired by Asian culture and history. It will be the third vessel in MSC’s World Class series, and is currently being built at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. Sailings will begin in December 2026, departing from Barcelona with stops in Marseille, Genoa, Messina, and Valletta over a seven-night period. Plus, Genoa and Naples will be added to the voyage in the summer of 2027.

The ship will have the capacity to carry more than 6,000 passengers, and there are plenty of attractions on board for them. There will be seven on-board districts, each distinct from one another, collectively giving the ship a city feel.  Passengers will have the option to explore Family Aventura, Zen Area, Aqua Deck, The Terraces, Galleria, Promenade and the luxury MSC Yacht Club area. Meanwhile, the impressive World Promenade will feature a massive dragon sculpture, inspired by the ship’s Asian influences. 

For groups with young children, there is The Clubhouse, which features table games, a Lego family zone and a basketball court. Meanwhile, the Spiral Dry Slide will be the largest of its kind at sea, at a staggering 81.3 metres. Luna Park will be the ship’s dedicated indoor entertainment and arcade area. It will host interactive shows, themed events and parties spanning over two decks. There is also The Harbour outdoor park, which includes fairground rides.

For food and drink, there are favourites from other World-class ships. In fact, there will be more than 40 bars, lounges and restaurants. For example, guests can enjoy the Butcher’s Cut steakhouse and MSC Cruises’ classic British pub with a full-scale microbrewery.

There will also be a dining venue with a pan-Asian speciality restaurant featuring a bar and outdoor terrace where passengers can enjoy food from Singapore, Thailand, Laos, South China, Vietnam and Indonesia.

There are bars aplenty onboard, with exciting examples including the Dolce Vita Bar, the Fizz Champagne Bar and the Elixir Mixology Bar. 

The boat also features MSC Cruises’ first all-American sports bar sailing in Europe, which will be home to large screens, a sea-facing terrace and interactive games. 

Additionally, passengers will have more than 20 different accommodation types to choose from when booking this cruise. There are balcony cabins, luxury suites and connecting family rooms, to name just a few. A seven-night cruise around the Mediterranean on MSC World Asia starts at around £592 per person. 

It is one of several new cruise ships launching in 2026.