Royal Caribbean International vs MSC Cruises — a head-to-head on the specs, the amenities, and what each ship is genuinely better at.
MSC World America (2025) is the newer ship by 2 years versus Icon of the Seas (2023). Icon of the Seas is the larger hull at 248,663 GT (~15% bigger). MSC World America sails with fewer guests at double occupancy (5,400 vs 5,610).
| Spec | Icon of the Seas | MSC World America |
|---|---|---|
| Year built | 2023 | 2025 |
| Tonnage | 248,663 GT | 215,863 GT |
| Guests (double occupancy) | 5,610 | 5,400 |
| Guests (max) | 7,600 | 6,762 |
Trophy marks the ship that wins each row. Smaller capacity = more space per guest.
Distinct ports each ship visits in the next 12 months.