Swiss-​based MSC Cruises’ newest venture, delivered in October 2022, comes in the form of this striking 333 metre long, 205,700 gross tonnage, futuristic mega-ship named MSC World Europa. The vessel accommodates up to 6,762 passengers and 2,138 crew over 22 decks and was constructed at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France. This eco-friendly and efficient ship is powered by Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG), the cleanest fossil fuel, and connects to shore power, recycles water and dampens propeller noise to avoid upsetting marine life. The ship is the first of the World Class series and features state-of-the-art technology with MSC stating the vessel is designed for the future of cruising, the fusion of technology, sustainability and revolutionary onboard experiences.

Made up of 58 mega blocks, this ship is an incredible feat of engineering, featuring a ‘wave’ longitudinal profile springing from the arrow-shaped G-bow and a Y-shaped architectural stern with panoramic views, which leads to the 104-metre-long external promenade, showcasing the record-breaking 11-deck high stainless-steel sinuous dry slide, the longest at sea. This creates a spectacular centrepiece in the evening when the ‘illuminated trees’, a stunning configuration of homogenous LED lines which clad the structural steel, introduce an energetic and dynamic component to the drama of this vast outdoor space. This connects to the internal promenade ‘World Galleria’, which is lined with a mix of restaurants, bars, lounges, entertainment, shops and boutiques. This 3-deck high volume is partially covered by an LED screen ceiling on which are projected UHD images and videos throughout the day and night.

The ship allows for completely distinct zones for different themes, moods and experiences. dpa worked in close collaboration with MSC and the extensive architectural and entertainment team across the plethora of venues, which includes 33 restaurants, speciality restaurants, bars and lounges, to sculpt a vibrant cosmopolitan environment for the varied guest experience. The fully integrated and neatly detailed front of house lighting installation was comprised completely of low energy LED light sources and connected back to an architectural lighting control dimming system. The system is used to achieve the correct balance of lighting layers and intensity according to the activity and time of day, which dpa orchestrated during an extensive setting up period in the weeks prior to final delivery. This included the aiming of all adjustable light fixtures on to tables, seating, furniture, artwork, product and so on; a monumental task that provided a high level of fine tuning and maximised the final lit result.

A selection of these venues are featured here for your enjoyment, including the External Promenade, Indoor Promenade ‘World Galleria’, Mixology, Teppanyaki, Masters of the Sea Pub (which has its own microbrewery, with the special copper vats installed as a showpiece), Panorama Lounge, Luna Park Arena, Sportsplex with its bumper cars and World Theatre.

Owner: MSC Cruises
Builder: Chantiers de l’Atlantique, Saint-Nazaire, France
External Profile of Ship: Martin Francis of Francis Design
Architects/Design Team: De Jorio Design International, AD Associates, SMC Design, YSA Design, Tillberg Design of Sweden, Studio Daz
Photography: Courtesy MSC Cruises, Photographer: Ivan Sarfatti