MSC World America tops global cruise awards in 2025, setting a powerful new standard for modern ocean travel

Published on December 31, 2025

MSC World America has risen to the top of global cruise rankings in 2025 by delivering a rare combination of scale, innovation and forward looking design that reflects where modern ocean travel is heading. The award recognises not only the ship’s impressive size and district based layout, but also its standout dining concepts, headline thrill attractions and commitment to cleaner LNG powered operations. Together, these elements position MSC World America as a new industry benchmark, proving that the next generation of cruise ships can successfully blend entertainment, luxury and sustainability into one cohesive travel experience.

The Cruise Hive Awards, established in 2014, have grown into one of the most closely followed recognitions within the global cruise sector. Among the various categories, Best Overall Cruise Ship has become a standout honour, reflecting a vessel’s ability to deliver excellence across multiple areas, including guest experience, amenities, innovation and operational performance. In 2025, the award was claimed by MSC World America, which entered service earlier in the year and competed against several other high-profile ships launched during the same period.

This recognition represents a landmark achievement for MSC Cruises, marking the first time the brand has secured the top position in this category. The win highlights the cruise line’s growing ambition and signals a shift in how it is perceived on the global stage, particularly as it continues to invest heavily in next-generation ships and guest-focused innovation.

MSC World America currently holds the title of the largest ship in the MSC Cruises fleet. With a gross tonnage exceeding 216,000, the vessel spans 22 decks and stretches more than 47 metres in width. It offers accommodation across more than 2,600 cabins, ranging from family-friendly staterooms to premium suites. Designed to cater to a broad mix of travellers, the ship blends large-scale entertainment venues with refined spaces dedicated to relaxation and luxury.

Dining is a major focus onboard, with 13 restaurants offering a diverse selection of cuisines. One of the most distinctive features is the presence of the only Eataly restaurant at sea, bringing a well-known Italian culinary concept into a cruise setting. This addition reinforces the ship’s emphasis on elevated dining and authentic food experiences.

Another defining feature is the size and scope of its exclusive Yacht Club area, which is currently the largest of its kind in the fleet. This private enclave delivers a high-end experience through dedicated facilities, priority services and enhanced privacy, creating a clear contrast with the ship’s more lively public areas. While impressive in scale, this record is expected to be surpassed by a future vessel already planned for delivery later in the decade.

The ship’s layout has also drawn attention for its originality. Rather than following a traditional deck-by-deck design, the vessel is divided into seven themed districts. Each district has its own atmosphere, visual identity and activity focus, making navigation intuitive while allowing guests to tailor their experience. From entertainment-heavy zones to calmer leisure spaces, the design encourages exploration without overwhelming passengers.

Thrill-seekers are well catered for, with two headline attractions making their debut onboard. These include a dramatic dry slide experience and a high-altitude swing installation that extends out over the ocean, delivering both adrenaline and expansive sea views. These features reflect a broader trend toward experiential attractions that rival those found in land-based resorts.

Beyond passenger-facing features, the ship is also significant from an environmental and technological standpoint. MSC World America is the second vessel in the cruise line’s World Class series, a new generation of ships powered by liquefied natural gas. LNG is widely viewed as a cleaner alternative to conventional marine fuels, offering reduced emissions and supporting the industry’s efforts to transition toward more sustainable operations.

The first ship in this class entered service in 2022, and further vessels are already under construction with scheduled deliveries in the coming years. Additional ships have also been announced, underscoring a long-term commitment to innovation, efficiency and reduced environmental impact.

By combining size, thoughtful design, immersive entertainment and cleaner propulsion technology, MSC World America has set a new benchmark for modern cruising. Its recognition as the Best Overall Cruise Ship of 2025 reflects not only its onboard appeal but also its role in shaping the future direction of the global cruise industry.