MSC Cruises has marked a major construction milestone for MSC World Atlantic, which floated out for the first time at the Chantiers de l’Atlantique shipyard in Saint-Nazaire, France.

The float-out moved the vessel from its construction dock into the water, allowing work to enter its final stages before delivery.

Scheduled to begin sailing from Port Canaveral in November 2027, MSC World Atlantic will become the 25th ship in the MSC Cruises fleet.

The vessel will also be the fourth LNG-powered ship in the company’s World Class series, following MSC World Europa, MSC World America and MSC World Asia.

MSC Cruises said the new ship is being designed to combine European style with features and experiences developed for the North American market.

Its name reflects that approach, with the Atlantic presented as a link between cultures, food and generations.

After entering service, MSC World Atlantic is expected to operate Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral. Destinations will include Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, Grand Turk and other ports in the region.

The ship’s arrival will further expand MSC Cruises’ operations in the United States, where the company has been increasing its capacity and homeport presence.

Before the vessel can welcome passengers, shipyard teams and future crew members still face an extensive program of interior work, technical testing and operational preparation.

The float-out is particularly important for engineers and contractors because it marks the transition from construction inside the dry dock to completion and testing at the outfitting berth.

Crew familiarization, safety exercises, inspections and sea trials will take place closer to delivery.

Once operational, thousands of crew members will be required to run the ship’s hotel, marine, technical, entertainment and food-and-beverage departments.