MSC World America: First Stop Ocean Cay Before Miami Christening

Bild: © MSC Cruises
MSC World America Reaches Private Island Ocean Cay Before Christening in Miami
Following its successful Atlantic crossing, the recently completed MSC World America is about to reach its first Caribbean port of call: MSC's private island, Ocean Cay in The Bahamas. The cruise ship, which was handed over to MSC Cruises by the shipyard in Saint-Nazaire on March 27, 2025, began its westward journey shortly thereafter. The arrival at Ocean Cay is scheduled for today, Sunday, April 6, 2025.

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The vessel – the second in MSC Cruises' World Class – is expected to dock for the first time at the island's dedicated cruise pier in the morning (local time). This leg of the delivery voyage to its future homeport of Miami, Florida, is taking place without passengers; only crew members are on board. The stop at Ocean Cay is therefore purely operational. However, it will likely provide the crew an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the Bahamian island, which will be a regular feature on all future itineraries of MSC World America.

Early next week, MSC World America will continue its journey to the nearby Port of Miami, designated as the ship's long-term homeport. The official christening ceremony is scheduled there for Wednesday, April 9, 2025. The event will take place at the new cruise terminal operated by MSC Cruises in PortMiami, considered the largest of its kind worldwide. Actress Drew Barrymore will serve as Godmother, traditionally breaking a bottle of champagne against the ship's hull. Following the christening, the ship will undertake a short inaugural voyage to Ocean Cay with invited business partners and media representatives before regular cruise operations commence.

The official start of the seven-night Caribbean cruises from Miami, for which MSC World America is designed, is set for April 12, 2025. The ship's standout features include a total of 19 restaurants and 18 bars and lounges. A new highlight is 'The Harbour' activity area, housing the 'Cliffhanger' over-water swing, a high-ropes course, a water park, and a playground. The open-air 'World Promenade' features restaurants and one of the longest dry slides at sea. Spanning three decks, the 'World Galleria' offers more bars, shops, and restaurants. Additionally, the ship boasts the largest MSC Yacht Club to date, providing guests with 24-hour butler service and other exclusive amenities for a luxurious travel experience at sea.

MSC World America follows MSC World Europa, the first World Class ship, which entered service in 2022. Concurrent with the delivery of MSC World America on March 27, 2025, significant construction milestones for the next two ships in this class were also celebrated: The traditional coin ceremony was held for MSC World Asia (entering service in 2026), while the first steel cut officially marked the start of construction for the fourth vessel, MSC World Atlantic (entering service in 2027).