MSC Plans Record-Breaking Constellation Class Ships

MSC Cruises is setting its sights on a new milestone in cruise ship design, preparing to launch the world’s largest cruise vessels — aiming to surpass the current giants of the seas, Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class.

As reported by SHIPPING ITALY, the ambitious plan was revealed during a key strategy session held at the MSC Training Center near Sorrento. Executives and company officers gathered to discuss MSC’s long-term vision, which includes a major fleet expansion through the introduction of an entirely new class of ultra-large ships.

Central to this strategy is the upcoming "Constellation" class, a fleet of four ships scheduled to be constructed at Finland’s Meyer Turku shipyard. Each vessel will stretch an impressive 365 meters in length and weigh in at 265,000 gross tons. These figures would place the new ships ahead of Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas, which currently holds the record at 250,800 gross tons.

Royal Caribbean has maintained its leadership in the mega-ship category for years with its Oasis and Icon class ships, celebrated for their themed neighborhoods, adrenaline-pumping attractions, and unparalleled onboard experiences. However, MSC Cruises has been gaining momentum with its Seaside and World Class ships — and now appears ready to make a leap ahead.

Should the Constellation class be realized as envisioned, MSC would not only claim the top spot in terms of passenger capacity but also mark a bold step toward redefining the future of cruising. The focus is expected to include innovations in sustainability, smart technology integration, and immersive entertainment — ushering in a new era of high-capacity, eco-conscious maritime travel.