Star Power Meets Sea Power: Drew Barrymore Names MSC World America at Record-Breaking Miami Terminal
A Grand Welcome for a New Era in Cruising
April 11th, 2025 – It was an evening worthy of Hollywood when MSC Cruises officially named its newest flagship, MSC World America, in a dazzling ceremony on April 9, 2025, at the brand-new MSC Miami Cruise Terminal—now the largest cruise terminal in the world. The star-studded event blended European sophistication with American glamour, featuring Drew Barrymore as the ship’s Godmother and Orlando Bloom as her co-host in celebration, echoing the brand’s “Let’s Holiday” campaign launched during this year’s Big Game.
Barrymore marked the moment in maritime tradition by cutting a ceremonial ribbon that triggered a champagne bottle to shatter against the ship’s gleaming bow.
“It’s such an honor 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. I’ve had a lifelong passion for travel, which has always fueled my soul and left me with the most awesome memories.”
Drew Barrymore, Golden Globe Award-Winning Actress
Setting Sail in Style
This official naming wasn’t just about glitz—it was a moment of strategic significance for MSC Cruises, reinforcing its commitment to the North American market. The event welcomed a crowd of key travel partners, media, and international guests, who enjoyed an elegant gala dinner, a live performance of Dirty Dancing in Concert, and a dazzling drone and fireworks show over the Miami skyline.
Following the ceremony, attendees embarked on a celebratory sailing that included an overnight stay at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve—MSC’s stunning private island. The evening was punctuated by the island’s signature lighthouse show and a beachside DJ party, culminating in the ribbon cutting for the new Marine Conservation Centre by the MSC Foundation. This facility will support coral reef restoration through the Super Coral Program, inviting both scientists and cruise guests to engage in ocean preservation efforts firsthand.
What to Expect Aboard MSC World America
As the second ship in MSC’s World Class fleet, MSC World America is designed to chart new waters in the luxury cruise industry. The ship is a floating metropolis offering 22 decks, 2,614 staterooms, and more than 430,000 square feet of public space. But what truly sets her apart is the seven distinct “districts,” each curated with a specific experience in mind—from serene escape to family adventure.
Among the ship’s standout features:
The Harbour: An open-air family space with a ropes course, water park, playground, and even the Cliffhanger over-water swing ride
19 dining venues, including the only Eataly at sea
18 bars and lounges, including newcomers like the All-Stars Sports Bar and The Loft comedy club
The World Promenade, a vibrant outdoor walkway with restaurants, shops, and one of the longest dry slides at sea
The three-level World Galleria, bustling with retail and culinary delights under a sweeping LED dome
The largest MSC Yacht Club in the Caribbean, offering an ultra-private retreat with enhanced suites, 24/7 butler service, and exclusive dining and pool areas
A Caribbean Season Begins
MSC World America will kick off her inaugural season on April 12, 2025, sailing roundtrip from PortMiami with alternating 7-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Destinations include Puerto Plata (Dominican Republic), San Juan (Puerto Rico), Cozumel and Costa Maya (Mexico), and Isla de Roatán (Honduras). Every sailing features a stop at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, offering passengers a chance to explore pristine beaches, participate in conservation learning, and soak in Caribbean serenity.
MSC Cruises: A Global Vision with Local Flair
Headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, MSC Cruises now operates 23 modern ships across five continents. Though rooted in European hospitality, its sights are clearly set on a growing U.S. audience. The unveiling of MSC World America—alongside the debut of its record-breaking Miami terminal—signals a bold step forward in that expansion.
Whether guests come aboard to dine at sea-level Eataly, sip cocktails above the Atlantic, or swing out over open waters at The Harbour, one thing is certain: MSC World America isn’t just a cruise—it’s a destination in its own right.