Geneva-based MSC Cruises is poised to order four luxury cruiseships in Italy in a potential $1bn-plus deal.
The vessels will each have capacity for between 600 and 800 passengers and could be delivered in 2022 and 2023, according to industry sources.
It marks a move for the subsidiary of Gianluigi Aponte-run Mediterranean Shipping Co to build more exclusive vessels catering for far fewer guests than on its existing 16-strong cruiseship fleet.