Captain Dino Sagani got his first look aboard the new MSC World America last week at the Chantiers de l'Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. Now he’s overseeing the last stages of construction. MSC World America is expected to set sail in spring 2025, with a christening and official launch in April from Miami.

The ship’s exterior is almost fully ready. She’s been floating since April and was moved to a pier at the shipyard in France to complete her build. Sea trials, where the ship will be put through a series of open-water tests, are scheduled for later this year—and Captain Sagani will definitely be there for the big moment when the ship powers up on her own for the first time.

For a new cruise ship, it’s standard for a captain from the cruise line to be on board well before launch. This way, the future captain can make sure everything’s on track and get to know the ship inside and out.
MSC World America is the sister ship to MSC World Europa, which launched at the end of 2022. The new ship is designed for the North American market and will be based long-term in Miami, Florida, offering week-long Caribbean cruises. MSC has more “World Class” ships on the way, too, with MSC World Asia set for 2026 and another yet-to-be-named ship following in 2027.