By
Alex Smith |
Oslo-based design firm YSA Design has developed spaces onboard MSC Cruises’ new flagship, MSC World Europa, including the vessel’s side view, multiple interiors and several outdoor areas.
“This is the largest cruise vessel YSA Design has ever worked on, and we were delighted to develop a ship profile which is far more elegant than the typical ship of this size,” said Trond Sigurdsen, YSA Design Senior Architect. “Instead of each deck in the superstructure being another ‘step’, we unified the structure front to aft in a ‘wave’ which ties the side view together. There’s also a highly effective inversion which delivers the largest possible space on the top decks.”
YSA was involved in the ship’s design from the concept stage, and was responsible for signage, multiple outdoor pools and the DoReMi Club area for children.
“The Baby Club, Mini Club, Young Club and Teens Club - each has a strong identity, with elements engaging the young mind and inspiring curiosity, whether by using bold colours, geometric shapes and quirky lighting for the very young, fairy-tale themed spaces for toddlers, or the manga-inspired wall art developed for teens,” said Fabiana Vale Dornelas, senior interior architect for YSA Design.
The firm also designed the multi-function Sportplex onboard MSC World Europa.
“Just as the kids’ area has to appeal to every age group, the Sportplex accommodates team sports, rollerblading and even bumper cars in a single zone of the ship,” said Carlo Mancin, an architect for YSA Design. “In this case, creativity was needed to allow quick changes from one function to another.”
MSC World Europa is due to embark on its maiden voyage on 20 December 2022, sailing a four-night cruise from Doha, Qatar, to Dubai, United Arab Emirates.