MSC Cruises Installs Dragon Sculpture on MSC World Asia

MSC Cruises‘ new upcoming flagship, MSC World Asia, is one step closer to completion! The line announced today that the installation of the massive dragon sculpture aboard the ship has been completed.

Measuring just under 40 feet long and around 11 feet wide, the stainless-steel sculpture is suspended over 30 feet above the outdoor World Promenade, the ship’s open-air promenade area that provides ocean views, dining, entertainment, and beyond.

dragon sculpture msc world asia — (Credit: MSC Cruises)

Designed by Balich Wonder Studio, a creative powerhouse behind some of the world’s largest live entertainment productions, the dragon sculpture is set to become one of the ship’s most recognizable visual landmarks and the focal point of the World Promenade. Crafted from stainless steel and finished in pearlescent white, the sculpture features nearly 700 mirrors, 1,300 feet of integrated strip lighting, and over 3,000 LED light points.

Every detail has been designed to capture movement and reflection, creating the impression of a powerful figure flying above the ship. As night falls, the sculpture will illuminate, bringing the dragon to life after dark and enhancing the vibrant atmosphere of the World Promenade.

“For the first time, an icon becomes the defining symbol of a ship: a powerful expression of identity, created to inspire dreams and enrich every journey,” said Marco Balich, chairman of Balich Wonder Studio. “The dragon brings together vision, craftsmanship and emotion, creating an experience that will remain with guests long after their journey.”

In addition to the dragon, many spaces aboard MSC World Asia will feature subtle design elements that reflect Asia’s rich culture, art, and landscapes. The vessel is the third in MSC Cruises’ World class, following MSC World Europa which debuted in 2022, and MSC World America which launched in 2025.

Set to debut this December, MSC World Asia will operate seven-night cruises in the Mediterranean, calling on ports including Barcelona, Marseille, Civitavecchia (Rome), and Valletta.