Port Miami Welcomes the Two Newest Cruise Ships in the World: MSC World America and NCL Aqua

🌊Cruise Giants Make a Splash in PortMiami: MSC World America & Norwegian Aqua Christened

PortMiami just played host to a maritime milestone as not one, but two brand-new cruise ships were christened in a wave of glamour, innovation, and excitement. The back-to-back debuts of MSC World America and Norwegian Aqua marked a new era for cruising, showcasing the latest in luxury, tech, and high-seas adventure.

Let’s dive into what makes each ship unique—and see how they stack up side by side.

COURTESY OF MSC WORLD AMERICA

✨ MSC World America: Italian Elegance Meets American Energy

On April 9, 2025, MSC Cruises officially welcomed MSC World America, the largest ship in its fleet and one of the most environmentally advanced vessels at sea. Hollywood icon Drew Barrymore served as godmother, christening the ship during a spectacular ceremony that featured actor Orlando Bloom, Miami legend Gloria Estefan, and a stunning drone and fireworks show over Biscayne Bay. This LNG-powered mega-ship is the first MSC World-class vessel built specifically for the U.S. market. With an astonishing 22 decks, she’s a floating city loaded with restaurants, entertainment, and upscale suites, including the largest-ever MSC Yacht Club experience.

COUTESY OF NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE

🌟 Norwegian Aqua: Innovation, Entertainment, and Energy

Just a few days later on April 13, 2025, Norwegian Cruise Line brought out the big guns for the debut of Norwegian Aqua. Emmy-winning actor Eric Stonestreet (Modern Family) took center stage as the ship’s godfather, breaking the ceremonial champagne bottle and welcoming guests aboard a ship built to wow.

This first-of-its-class Prima Plus ship boasts bold innovations, from the world’s first hybrid rollercoaster-waterslide (Aqua Slidecoaster) to the high-tech Glow Court digital sports complex. Norwegian Aqua is also home to The Haven’s most luxurious accommodations yet—including brand-new three-bedroom duplex suites.

⚓ Ship-to-Ship Showdown: MSC World America vs. Norwegian Aqua

Here’s how these two titans compare in size, style, and offerings:

🚢 Ship Specification Comparison

Feature	MSC World America	Norwegian Aqua
Length	1,093 ft (333.3 m)	1,056 ft (322 m)
Gross Tonnage (GRT)	215,863	156,300
Passenger Capacity (Double)	6,762	3,571
Passenger Capacity (Max)	Up to 6,850	Approx. 3,751
Crew Members	2,138	~1,500+
Decks	22	~20

🏠 Homeports & Itineraries

Feature	MSC World America	Norwegian Aqua
Homeport	PortMiami, FL	Port Canaveral, FL (initial); PortMiami (from Oct 2025)
Initial Itineraries	Caribbean: Bahamas, Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Ocean Cay	Caribbean: Puerto Plata, Tortola, St. Thomas, Great Stirrup Cay
Future Itineraries	Year-round from Miami	Bermuda (from NYC, Aug–Oct); then Caribbean (Miami through Spring 2026)

🌟 Notable Features

Category	MSC World America	Norwegian Aqua
Thrill Ride	Cliffhanger swing ride over the ocean	Aqua Slidecoaster hybrid ride
Luxury Suites	Expanded MSC Yacht Club with private restaurant & pool	The Haven 3-bedroom duplexes, private lounge, & sundeck
Dining	30+ venues incl. Eataly, American Sports Bar, Butcher’s Cut	Indulge Food Hall, Cagney’s Steakhouse, Teppanyaki
Entertainment	Dome theater, immersive tech shows, comedy club	Broadway-style theater, Revolution (Prince tribute), Glow Court
Family & Kids	Doremiland, VR arcade, multi-slide waterpark	Splash Academy, mini golf, kids' splash area
Private Island	Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve	Great Stirrup Cay

🚢 The Future of Cruising Is Now

Whether you crave the sprawling scale and European flair of MSC World America, or the cutting-edge thrills and sleek design of Norwegian Aqua, both ships are setting new standards for ocean travel.

And with PortMiami solidifying its title as the Cruise Capital of the World, there's never been a better time to book your next escape.

Which ship are you setting sail on? 🌴