MSC Cruises unveils over-water swing ride for new flagship’s theme park
Cruise ship rescues stranded sailor and his cat in Gulf drama
A Carnival cruise ship crew spotted distress flares while sailing toward Cozumel, Mexico, and rescued a sailor and his cat stranded at sea. Both were brought safely aboard and taken into care. FOX 26 spoke with two passengers who were on the ship at the time of the rescue. (credit: Fox 26/Alan Loy)
NEWYou can now listen to Fox News articles!
Cruise lines have long competed for bigger ships and fancier amenities, but one company is now taking that rivalry to literally new heights.
MSC Cruises has unveiled plans for a sprawling outdoor “theme park” at sea aboard its upcoming flagship, MSC World Asia, including an overwater swing ride that will send passengers flying above the ocean, according to the company’s press release.
Called the “Cliffhanger,” the attraction is billed as Europe’s first overwater swing of its kind and is suspended high above the ship’s deck, offering unobstructed views of the surrounding sea. The company said it will be part of a larger outdoor space known as “The Harbor,” designed as a central hub for outdoor experiences and family activities.
AS MIDDLE EAST CONFLICTS DISRUPT TRAVEL, CRUISE LINES ARE CANCELING THEIR SAILINGS AND RE-DIRECTING SHIPS
According to the announcement, the port will feature a ropes course, water slides and what MSC says is the longest dry slide at sea, as well as a playground and gathering areas. At night, the space is designed to transform into an illuminated entertainment area with expanded programming.
MSC Cruises has revealed plans to create an open-air “theme park” at sea on its upcoming flagship, MSC World Asia. (MSC Cruises)
“As a family-owned company, MSC Cruises knows what it takes to keep the whole family happy on holiday,” Steve Leatham, the company’s vice president of entertainment, said in a statement.
CRUISE DIRECTOR WARNED THAT STAYING IN A HOTEL OVERNIGHT MAY LEAVE TRAVELERS UNHAPPY ABROAD
Headquartered in Geneva, MSC Cruises is the world’s third largest cruise company with 23 ships sailing to more than 300 destinations on five continents.
The outdoor park reflects a broader push towards immersive experiences for all ages; It’s a trend that’s gaining momentum in the cruise industry as ships increasingly resemble floating resorts, according to reports.
CLICK HERE TO SIGN UP FOR OUR LIFESTYLE NEWSLETTER
According to MSC Cruises, the centerpiece of the MSC ship will be the “Family Aventura Zone,” a dedicated area combining outdoor activities with indoor entertainment areas, including a 10,000-square-foot kids’ club and an interactive arena where the floor becomes part of digital game shows.
Newer ships are being designed as “floating resorts” with entertainment options to rival land-based theme parks. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)
The ship is also expected to include tech-focused experiences aimed at older kids and teens, including activities and interactive competitions hosted by an AI-powered avatar, the company said.
CLICK FOR MORE LIFE STORIES
MSC World Asia is scheduled to depart in December 2026 with seven-night Mediterranean itineraries with stops in destinations such as Barcelona, Naples and Rome, according to the cruise line.
CLICK TO DOWNLOAD FOX NEWS APPLICATION
But some cruise passengers are divided on how the new ships balance value and experience.
MSC World Asia is scheduled to launch in December 2026 with Mediterranean itineraries. (iStock)
While some passengers in online forums say MSC offers strong fares and comparable onboard options, others argue competitors are still ahead in areas such as food and family programs.
TEST YOURSELF WITH OUR LATEST LIFESTYLE QUIZ
As ships have added entertainment-style attractions over the years, from zip lines to surfing simulators, the scale of the outdoor theme park shows that the industry continues to lean heavily towards onboard experiences.
