MSC World America has launched! The secret to the success of this new mega-ship is right there in the name - the first MSC Cruises ship designed specifically for the cruising tastes of North Americans. That means you!

But MSC Cruises is not turning its back on its European roots. Instead, the cruise line says it’s delivering the best of both the Old World and the New World on the 6700-guest MSC World America.

It’s not just a new ship for North American families. Just days before the inauguration of MSC World America, MSC also cut the ribbon for a brand new, state-of-the-art cruise terminal, as magnificent and proud as the other mega-ship cruise lines next door in Port Miami.

Alongside exquisite, global-travel-themed, Italian-inspired mosaics on the high-gloss floors, high-tech innovations like biometrics and logistics systems allow you to check in and have your baggage processed in nearly record time, ensuring a seamless, stress-free start to your Caribbean vacation.

This European cruise line has firmly planted its flag in North America!

The cruise line aired an ad during the Super Bowl with America’s sweetheart, Drew Barrymore and the suavely European Orlando Bloom having fun with the differences – and similarities – between North American tastes and European sensibilities aboard the new ship.

You can check out the ad here.

Following a spectacular naming ceremony by godmother Drew Barrymore (Orlando Bloom was there, too, to cheer her on), MSC World America sailed to the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas, Ocean Cay Marine Reserve.

Cruise/travel journalist Lynn Elmhirst was aboard MSC World America for the new ship’s christening and among the inaugural guests who got to be the first ones to experience the new ship.

WATCH THE VIDEO AT THE TOP for her tour of MSC World America’s ‘neighborhoods’, complete with the ship’s standout family fun, entertainment and dining, design and amenities, including some firsts for any ship at sea.

Her final word?

“MSC World America delivers everything North American families have shown they love in a mega cruise ship. The overall design, right down to the position of the slide down into the 12-story courtyard ‘Promenade’ that opens out onto the sea, will feel familiar to fans of other family-focused mega-ships.

“But there are still those touches of European flair: design, hospitality, the exclusive MSC Yacht Club, and brands like Eataly – that give you a sense that you have left home for your cruise vacation.”