By
Alex Smith|
MSC Cruises has officially named its new flagship, MSC World America, at the line’s new MSC Miami Cruise Terminal.
MSC World America’s godmother, actor Drew Barrymore, cut the ribbon to break a celebratory bottle on the ship’s bow in a maritime tradition to wish the vessel good fortune. Barrymore was joined onboard by actor Orlando Bloom, who co-stars with her in the MSC Cruises’ ‘Let's Holiday’ marketing campaign that debuted during the 2025 National Football League Super Bowl.
“It’s such an honour to be MSC World America’s godmother, and I can’t wait to cut that ribbon tonight and wish the ship smooth seas and good fortune for years to come,” said Barrymore before the ceremony. “I’ve had a lifelong passion for travel, which has always fuelled my soul and left me with the most awesome memories. Millions of people will create their own memories aboard this beautiful ship as time goes by, and I know they’ll have a blast experiencing everything MSC World America has to offer.”
Guests at the naming ceremony were also given live entertainment, a gala dinner, speeches and a range of onboard events to highlight what MSC World America will offer future cruise customers. The evening then ended with a drone and fireworks display against the Miami skyline.
Live entertainment was provided for guests of the naming ceremony
After the naming ceremony, guests are setting sail on a two-night celebratory journey to the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas – Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve.
While on the island, the MSC Foundation will host a ribbon cutting ceremony to inaugurate its new Marine Conservation Centre. The facility will serve as a hub for scientists and students involved in the Foundation’s Super Coral Reefs Programme, as well as a place where guests can learn more about the programme’s mission to restore coral reefs that have been impacted by climate change.
Guests will also be treated to Ocean Cay’s signature evening lighthouse show and DJ beach party, before spending an afternoon at sea, where they will be invited to experience the ship’s wide range of world-class amenities and experiences.
MSC World America’s inaugural season from Miami starts on 12 April. She will sail alternating seven-night Eastern Caribbean itineraries to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico and Ocean Cay and seven-night Western Caribbean voyages to Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Isla de Roatan, Honduras and Ocean Cay.