TORONTO — Today’s a big day for MSC Cruises – times two – as the cruise line’s brand new 6,762-passenger flagship is introduced to the world at the just-debuted MSC Cruise Terminal in PortMiami.

MSC World America is MSC Cruises’ 23rd ship and, according to the cruise line, “represents an evolution for the cruise line’s successful World Class platform” with re-imagined venues and concepts tailored specifically to the North American market.

MSC World America will also be the first in MSC’s fleet to feature seven onboard districts, combining bars, restaurants, entertainment and leisure facilities.

Tonightʻs gala event in Miami will culminate with MSC World America’s Godmother, Drew Barrymore, naming the ship with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Barrymore will be joined by Orlando Bloom, her co-star in MSCʻs ʻLetʻs Holidayʻ campaign.

The ship’s maiden voyage will be a celebratory sailing to the company’s private island Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve in The Bahamas ahead of the vessel’s deployment in the Caribbean Sea.

The 22-deck MSC World America, weighing in at 216,638 tonnes, measures 1,094 feet in length, with a capacity for 6,762 passengers and 2,138 crew. There are 2,614 cabins plus more than 413,000 square feet of public space.

Gary Lawrence, editor in chief of Profession Voyages, part of The Travelweek Group, connected with MSC Cruises Canada Country Manager, Ian Patterson, ahead of the big launch for this Q&A.

MSC Cruises Canada Country Manager, Ian Patterson

Q. How are sales going for MSC World America, and what does the typical clientele look like for the first departures?

Patterson: “2024 was a banner year for MSC Cruises Canada, marked by outstanding success and record-breaking achievements, including significant growth in 2024 as Canadians continued to travel at record levels. We’re excited to carry that momentum forward into 2025, building on the success we’ve already seen.

“We continue to be the number one cruise line in Europe, and we have seen Canadians increasingly choosing us to explore the Mediterranean or Northern Europe, as well as our transatlantic crossings.

“Our guests include everyone from first-time cruisers to returning guests, as well as families, groups of friends and multigenerational travellers. We’ve also seen a rise in younger guests drawn to our innovative onboard experiences, vibrant nightlife and immersive shore excursions.

“Additionally, the luxury segment continues to grow, with more guests seeking the exclusive MSC Yacht Club experience – our ‘ship within a ship’ concept that offers personalized service, private amenities, and an elevated cruising experience.”

Q. Like many MSC ships, MSC World America will be based in Miami. Has the boycott by many Canadians of the U.S. affected its occupancy rate?

Patterson: “One of MSC Cruises’ advantages is that, as a European company, it operates its ships across the globe and does not focus on only a few markets. Demand for destinations like the Mediterranean, Martinique and Guadeloupe has continued to accelerate with bookings outpacing last year’s performance. With cancellations trending down, we are excited about the growing appreciation by Canadians of MSC Cruises as a European brand, and most importantly, for their next vacation.”

Q. Conversely, have you noticed an increase in the number of Canadians on your ships that are based outside the U.S.? Are Mediterranean itineraries showing an increase in demand?

Patterson: “We’ve experienced an incredible surge in interest by Canadians for Martinique and Guadeloupe, with bookings increasing significantly. As a European company with sailings worldwide, we offer Canadians the opportunity of choice – the choice to sail for example, to the Caribbean, Mediterranean, or Northern Europe, all while experiencing our unique way of cruising.”

Q. Recently you announced that you were expecting an exceptional summer. Which itineraries are the most in demand, and which are gaining popularity – both globally and specifically among Canadian travellers?

Patterson: “Our Mediterranean itineraries continue to be the top choice for Canadians, with Northern European itineraries also growing in demand, particularly since the launch of MSC Euribia in 2023. The Caribbean and Antilles continue to be the most popular destinations during the winter, with Canadians looking to escape the cold.

“Our private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, has proven to be a guest favourite and continues to receive increased interest with the new Conservation Centre scheduled to open next month.

“Many of our ships, including the highly anticipated MSC World America, sail to this exclusive destination which reflects a longstanding commitment to sustainability and conservation efforts. Among the many incredible destinations in the region, Martinique continues to stand out as a favourite in the Antilles, offering stunning natural beauty and a vibrant culture.”

Q. What do passengers particularly appreciate onboard your ships?

Patterson: “What sets MSC Cruises apart is our true international character – both onboard, with the diverse background of our crew and range of languages spoken, as well as offshore with our global destinations.

“The elegant European design of our innovative ships, coupled with our exceptional crew onboard, truly resonates with Canadians and sets us apart. With five official languages spoken onboard, we make sure all guests feel at home on our ships. For our Canadian French-speaking travellers, we offer seamless communication in French from booking through our Contact Centre and Sales team via our dedicated office in Canada, as well as onboard ensuring our guests feel fully supported every step of their vacation with us.”

Q. Are you planning any webinars for travel advisors in the coming weeks?

Patterson: “Definitely! We have a series of exciting events scheduled for travel advisors over the upcoming months.

“Upcoming webinars include ‘New Itineraries and Product Offerings’ on April 16, covering MSC Virtuosa / Martinique and Guadeloupe offerings, MSC World America / new Miami  terminal, new Alaska sailings, Fly&Cruise offerings, new port of Galveston, MSC Grandiosa, Panama Canal / Grand Voyages, World Cruise 2027, MSC World Asia. Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/748007002191809366

“There’s also ‘Updates and Up Your Commission!’, taking place May 14, and covering drink packages, add-ons (spa, specialty dining, photography, excursions, WiFi) plus pre-cruise discounts, Future Cruise Consultant and MSC Cruises’ Bidding Program. Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/646472600924865372

“Finally there’s ‘MSC Cruises Toolkit’ on May 21, covering cabin experiences (Fantastica, Aurea, Yacht Club), MSC Book (FIT and Groups), Voyageurs Club and Status Match. Register here: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/6424343532725009756

Q. In general, what advice would you give to a travel advisor to help them sell MSC cruises to their clients?

Patterson: “As the only cruise operator with a Canadian office and close to 70 people dedicated to the Canadian market, we are committed to offering every Canadian guest the best and most memorable journey possible on every MSC Cruise.

“Canadians can book their cruises with us in Canadian dollars allowing for a seamless booking process – one that also offers convenience and value. There’s never been a better time to take a cruise, and there’s never been a better time for Canadians to cruise with MSC Cruises to explore the world.

“As a European cruise line with an international footprint, MSC Cruises is dedicated to providing a world-class experience to Canadians and all of its guests.”

More information about MSC Cruises can be found at MSCcruises.ca. This article originally appeared at ProfessionVoyages.com.