Captain Paolo Benini has arrived at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, where he is preparing to take command of MSC Cruises’ newest flagship, MSC World Asia.
The ship is now receiving its final touches ahead of delivery on November 25, followed by its naming ceremony in Le Havre, France, on November 28.
Benini has been closely following the final construction work and was also aboard MSC World Asia during its sea trials. This has given him the opportunity to become familiar with the vessel’s navigation equipment, technical systems, safety procedures and operational spaces before welcoming the ship’s first crew and guests.
For the experienced Italian captain, the assignment represents another major milestone in a career at sea spanning more than three decades.
Born in Liguria, Benini grew up in a family with strong maritime connections. His grandfather worked in the shipyards of Genoa, while his father was also a ship captain. After earning his nautical diploma in 1988, Benini served as a junior officer in the Italian Navy before joining his first cruise ship as a deck officer in 1990.
He steadily worked his way through the ranks and was promoted to captain in 2006. Before joining MSC Cruises in 2024, Benini spent many years with Costa Cruises and commanded several vessels, including Costa Smeralda during the ship’s inaugural period.
His first assignment with MSC Cruises was aboard MSC Euribia. He has now been selected to lead a newly built MSC ship for the first time in his career.
“Captain Paolo Benini will take the helm of MSC World Asia in recognition of his outstanding leadership,” MSC Cruises CEO Gianni Onorato said when announcing the appointment earlier this year.
Final sea trials successfully completed
MSC World Asia recently completed its final sea trials in the Atlantic Ocean off the western coast of France. During the tests, engineers, shipyard specialists and the ship’s marine team examined its engines, maneuverability, speed, stopping distances, fuel efficiency and safety systems.
The vessel completed its first round of sea trials in July. With the final tests now successfully concluded, work has moved into the last stage before delivery.
MSC World Asia will become the 24th ship in the MSC Cruises fleet and the third LNG-powered vessel in the company’s World Class series, following MSC World Europa and MSC World America.
The new ship will feature more than 40 restaurants, bars and lounges, several entertainment areas and seven distinct onboard districts. Among its most notable attractions will be The Spiral @ Tree of Life, an 81.3-meter dry slide extending across 12 decks.
