As the countdown begins for the December 2026 debut of MSC World Asia, MSC Cruises has pulled back the curtain on the incredible artistic vision for its newest World-class flagship. From massive suspended sculptures to delicate cabin details, the ship is set to be a floating gallery that honors the beauty and mythology of the continent it is named after.
If you thought the “Venom” slide on MSC World Europa was the only showstopper, wait until you see what’s coming to the World Promenade.
A Dragon Above the Promenade
The crown jewel of the ship’s art collection is a massive stainless-steel dragon suspended 10 meters (33 feet) above the World Promenade. This 12-meter-long masterpiece is more than just a sculpture; it’s an immersive light installation. Adorned with nearly 700 mirrors and 3,000 LED lights, the dragon will illuminate the heart of the ship every evening, creating a shimmering centerpiece for guests as they stroll through the outdoor promenade.
Symbolism at Every Turn
MSC has partnered with world-renowned artists to bring the spirit of Asia to life:
- The Golden Koi: UK artist David Harber, famous for his precision engineering and artistic sundials, has created large-scale koi fish sculptures for the World Promenade. Representing perseverance and strength, these sculptures link the movement of the sea to Asian cultural traditions.
- The Droplet: At the indoor pool, guests will find a 2.45-meter-high installation by artist Elisabetta Milan. Shaped like a water droplet, the piece is designed to evoke a sense of “lightness and fluidity,” reflecting the tranquility of the spa and pool areas.
Mythology Through the Eyes of Hoan Phan
One of the most exciting collaborations is with Vietnamese artist Hoan Phan. His bold, vibrant works will be featured in select areas of the ship, blending traditional inking with digital rendering. Fans should look out for:
- Hồ Nguyệt Cô: A piece inspired by Vietnamese folklore about a fox spirit.
- Hạ Long Bay: A tribute to the legend of the Mother Dragon.
- Mount Fuji: A serene observation of nature and harmony.
A Journey Through the Decks
In a clever design touch, the artwork in the corridors will correspond to the deck names—each titled after an iconic Asian city. This means as you walk to your cabin, you’ll be treated to a visual tour of the culture and diversity of the region.
The cabins themselves aren’t being left out. MSC has worked with long-time partner Atelier Le Castel (a collaboration spanning nearly 30 years) to create bespoke pieces for the suites, cabins, and specialty venues like the MSC Yacht Club and the Kaito Sushi Restaurant.
Why It Matters for MSC Fans
MSC World Asia is the third ship in the groundbreaking World-class series. By leaning heavily into localized art and storytelling, MSC is ensuring that while the ship’s silhouette may be familiar to those who have sailed on World Europa or World America, the soul of the ship will be entirely unique.
Are you planning to sail on MSC World Asia in 2026? Let us know which piece of art you’re most excited to see in the comments below!
