norwegian cruise line newest ship

8 new ships coming to Norwegian Cruise Line, sister brands plus dock at Great Stirrup Cay

O RLANDO, Fla. — The parent company to Norwegian Cruise Line announced Monday a major order for eight new ships among its three brands as well as the construction of a pier to allow its cruise ships to dock instead of tender to its private Bahamas island for the first time.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings said it was planning to bring on four new ships for NCL, two new ships for upper premium brand Oceania Cruises and two ships for luxury brand Regent Seven Seas, all to be built at Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and debut during a 10-year run from 2026-2036.

The NCL ships would be the largest ever built for the line at around 200,000 gross tons and capacity of about 5,000 guests. They won’t arrive until after the final delivery of its Prima-Plus class ships expected between 2025-2028, the larger sister ships to the Norwegian Prima and Viva that debuted in the last couple of years. The four ships from the unnamed class of vessel would arrive in 2030, 2032, 2034 and 2036.

The new class for Oceania Cruises, which in 2023 debuted its first new ship in more than a decade — the Oceania Allura — will also be the largest ever built for the line at 86,000 gross tons and a capacity of 1,450 guests. They’re expected in 2027 and 2029.

And the Regent Seven Seas fleet’s new vessels will also be larger coming in at 77,000 gross tons with a capacity of 850 guests. They’re expected in 2026 and 2029. Regent just debuted the third of its Explorer class ships in December 2023.

“This strategic new-ship order across all three of our award-winning brands provides for the steady introduction of cutting-edge vessels into our fleet and solidifies our long-term growth,” said NCLH president and CEO Harry Sommer in a press release. “It also allows us to significantly leverage our operating scale, strengthen our commitment to innovation and enhance our ability to offer our guests new products and experiences, all while providing opportunities to enhance the efficiency of our fleet.”

No other details about the ships were released. Financing is already in place to fund 80% of the cost for the four ships among the Oceania and Regent orders, but financing for the four NCL ships is not finalized.

The eight ships expects to add 25,000 more to the three cruise lines’ passenger capacity.

In addition, the line is set to construct a multi-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay, the popular Bahamas private destination visited by all three brands. The move follows the introduction of a dock that can support two Oasis-class vessels at neighboring Perfect Day at Coco Cay for Royal Caribbean while other private Bahamas destinations including Disney’s Castaway Cay and its new Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point feature tenderless docks for easy access.

“We are likewise excited with the addition of a new pier at Great Stirrup Cay to support our increased capacity in the Caribbean and multiple ships to call on the island, enhancing our guest experience and bringing seamless and reliable access to our private island year-round,” Sommer said.

___________

©2024 Orlando Sentinel. Visit at orlandosentinel.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Press Releases

All-new norwegian viva debuts in europe and welcomes first guests aboard.

- Norwegian Cruise Line Introduces Its Newest Ship, the Second of the Groundbreaking Prima Class -

- Norwegian Viva to Homeport in Four Bucket-List Mediterranean Destinations This Summer -

MIAMI , Aug. 10, 2023 /CNW/ -- Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, with a 56-year history of breaking boundaries, today welcomed the very first guests to sail aboard the all-new Norwegian Viva , the Company's highly anticipated new ship and second of the Prima Class, as it embarked on its maiden voyage from Venice (Trieste), Italy.

Experience the full interactive Multichannel News Release here: https://www.multivu.com/players/English/9122954-norwegian-cruise-line-viva-debuts-in-europe

Making a grand debut in Europe today, Norwegian Viva departed for its first spectacular nine-day journey through the Mediterranean, taking guests from Venice (Trieste), Italy to Lisbon, Portugal with stops in some of Europe's most incredible seaside destinations including Salerno, off Italy's picturesque Amalfi Coast; Cannes along France's stunning Cote d'Azur; and Ibiza, Spain in the Balearic Islands, among other superb destinations. Norwegian Viva will sail a selection of bucket-list worthy Greek Isles and Mediterranean voyages through November, before homeporting in San Juan, Puerto Rico in December for a season in the Caribbean.

"This summer, our guests will have the opportunity to explore Europe aboard our newest magnificent vessel, Norwegian Viva, while enjoying its well-appointed spacious design, elevated experiences, expansive culinary offerings and signature Norwegian Cruise Line hospitality provided by the best crew in the industry," said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.  "Norwegian Viva's tagline is 'Live it Up,' and I have no doubt our guests will be doing just that while they cruise to some of the liveliest cities in Europe and the Caribbean during the ship's inaugural season."

Mirroring the design of the award-winning sister ship Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva features standout onboard experiences including the Viva Speedway—the three-level racetrack; Indulge Food Hall, an upscale food market exhibiting 11 unique eateries; the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush; and NCL's industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar, the Metropolitan Bar.

Norwegian Viva's upscale and spacious design is elevated by an expansive array of artwork across the ship, including The Concourse, a multi-million-dollar outdoor sculpture garden, and a dynamic, interactive 52-foot-wide art piece by contemporary British digital artist Dominic Harris. Exclusively created for Norwegian Viva, Harris' "Every Wing Has a Silver Lining" digital art piece is on display at Metropolitan Bar and dynamically responds throughout the day to passing movement, creating engagement with the viewer.  Norwegian Viva also features a world-class entertainment lineup, headlined by the side-splitting Tony Award ® -nominated comedy "Beetlejuice The Musical" and the iconic game show "Press Your Luck LIVE," an immersive experience where the audience participates to win incredible grand prizes.

Following the ship's maiden voyage, Norwegian Viva will sail a series of Mediterranean  and  Greek Isles  itineraries, before its official Christening ceremony in Miami on Nov. 28, 2023.  Luis Fonsi, Latin GRAMMY ®  award-winning artist and godfather to Norwegian Viva,  will attend the celebration to officially name the ship and will be joined by The Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio; "Saturday Night Live" cast member and Miami-native Marcello Hernandez; and singer Pedro Capó. The ship will homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico for a season of Caribbean voyages from December 2023 through March 2024 with calls to Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. John's, Antigua; Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; Philipsburg, St. Maarten; and St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands.

In May 2024, Norwegian Viva will return to Europe, where its Mediterranean itineraries offer an unmatched opportunity to experience the beauty and culture of Europe. With an average of 10.5 hours in port, travelers will have more time to explore with fewer days at sea. Guests can unpack once, all while enjoying the ease and comfort of their world-class travel accommodations and the ability to wake up in a new destination as the ship transports them from one spectacular European city to another.

To download additional high-res images and videos of Norwegian Viva, please visit NCL's Multimedia Library . 

For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line's award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com .

About Norwegian Cruise Line As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 56 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionized the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal vacation on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 400 of the world's most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company's private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveler staterooms, club balcony suites, spa-suites and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company's ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com . For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the NCL Newsroom and follow Norwegian Cruise Line on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter @CruiseNorwegian.

Norwegian Cruise Line is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH). To learn more, visit www.nclhltd.com .

SOURCE Norwegian Cruise Line

Released August 10, 2023

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This major cruise line operator just announced its biggest ship order ever

One of the world’s leading cruise operators unveiled its biggest ship order ever on Monday.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. will take delivery of eight ships between 2026 and 2036 across its three brands. 

Norwegian Cruise Line will welcome four ships in 2030, 2032, 2034 and 2036, each with a capacity of close to 5,000 guests. The additions are subject to financing.

The vessels will follow the line’s previously announced Prima-Plus class vessels.

The upscale Oceania Cruises will take delivery of two 1,450-guest ships in 2027 and 2029, and luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises will add two ships in 2026 and 2029, each accommodating 850 passengers.

"This strategic new-ship order across all three of our award-winning brands provides for the steady introduction of cutting-edge vessels into our fleet and solidifies our long-term growth,” Harry Sommer, the company’s president and CEO, said in a news release . “It also allows us to significantly leverage our operating scale, strengthen our commitment to innovation and enhance our ability to offer our guests new products and experiences, all while providing opportunities to enhance the efficiency of our fleet.”

Specifics about the ships’ accommodations and amenities will be announced “in the coming months,” according to the release.

The company will also add a new multi-ship pier at its private Bahamas island, Great Stirrup Cay, scheduled for completion by late 2025. The pier will be able to accommodate two large ships at once.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

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Norwegian Cruise Line's Newest Ship Is Its Most Luxurious Yet — and We Got a Peek Inside

The new ship will set sail around Europe in September before heading to the United States.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Katy Perry christened a cruise, and she liked it. 

Over the weekend, the pop star fulfilled her role as godmother of the new cruise ship Norwegian Prima , christening it in Reykjavik, Iceland .  The ship is the first in Norwegian's new Prima category, the cruise line's new vessel class in nearly a decade, designed to bring new levels of entertainment, dining, and luxury to the brand.

At just 965 feet long with a passenger count of 3,100, Norwegian Prima won't be the largest ship in Norwegian's fleet, but in this case, that's a good thing — smaller ships can access more ports than bigger ones. But she's still large enough to pack some pretty over-the-top amenities.

"With her stunning design and unique offerings, Norwegian Prima is in a league of her own," Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., said in a statement. "As the industry’s most spacious new cruise ship featuring 'only-available-on- Prima -experiences,' she is continuing NCL's legacy of industry firsts."

Some of those firsts include the ocean's first three-level racetrack, the world's fastest waterslides at sea, and most suite categories of any cruise ship afloat: 13. There are also a number of Norwegian-specific superlatives, including the first open-air food hall; the largest interior, ocean-view, and balcony cabins; and the most pool deck space of any ship in the fleet.

Beyond that, Norwegian Prima will also feature high-design public spaces like the Mandara Spa with a two-story waterfall, as well as high-tech ones like Galaxy Pavilion, where you'll find virtual reality experiences and simulators, including a TopGolf option.

The private spaces impress, too, particularly within The Haven, the ultra-luxe "ship-within-a-ship" area where suites come with 24-hour butler service and access to a private sundeck with an infinity pool, restaurant, and lounge.

Norwegian Prima will have a season of inaugural voyages over the next few months. The first departs on Sept. 3 from Amsterdam , cruising Northern Europe; ports of call include Berlin, Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; and Stockholm, Sweden. She'll then make the journey across the Atlantic to Galveston, Texas, where she'll sail an 11-day Caribbean itinerary in October. And finally, she'll spend most of the winter based in Miami and Orlando (Port Canaveral) to sail five-, seven-, and nine-day trips to the Caribbean. Rates for a five-day cruise start at $1,499 per person.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Orders 8 New Ships for 3 Brands from Fincantieri

• April 8, 2024

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings today unveiled the most comprehensive newbuild order in its history—a total of eight vessels, representing nearly 25,000 additional berths, with new classes of ships for each of its three brands—and the construction of a multi-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island destination in the Bahamas and its top-rated Caribbean port of call, according to a press release.

The new ship orders across all three brands are scheduled for delivery over a ten-year period, between 2026 and 2036.

Following the delivery of four Prima-Plus class ships from 2025 through 2028, Norwegian Cruise Line is expected to take delivery of four approximately 200,000-gross-ton ships, each with a capacity of nearly 5,000 guests, in 2030, 2032, 2034 and 2036, which are subject to financing.

Building on the success of its Allura Class ships, the last one being delivered in 2025, Oceania Cruises is scheduled to take delivery of two 86,000-gross-ton ships, each with a capacity of 1,450 guests in 2027 and 2029.

Lastly, following the Explorer Class ships, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is scheduled to take delivery of two 77,000-gross-ton ships, each with a capacity of 850 guests, in 2026 and 2029.

“This strategic new-ship order across all three of our award-winning brands provides for the steady introduction of cutting-edge vessels into our fleet and solidifies our long-term growth. It also allows us to significantly leverage our operating scale, strengthen our commitment to innovation and enhance our ability to offer our guests new products and experiences, all while providing opportunities to enhance the efficiency of our fleet,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.

“We are likewise excited with the addition of a new pier at Great Stirrup Cay to support our increased capacity in the Caribbean and multiple ships to call on the island, enhancing our guest experience and bringing seamless and reliable access to our private island year-round.”

In partnership with the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri , each brand will design their new ship class and focus on creating the largest, most efficient, and innovative vessels of their respective fleet.

“Over the years, our long-standing relationship with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has been rooted in a shared vision for the future of maritime travel, consistently setting new standards for innovation, luxury, sustainability, and guest satisfaction in the cruise industry,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and Managing Director at Fincantieri. “We are thrilled to work on these new build orders and deliver emblematic cruise ships that will embody our shared legacy of excellence for generations to come.”

Mark A. Kempa, chief financial officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, commented: “we expect that these strategic investments will secure our growth trajectory, significantly boost our earnings profile, and enhance shareholder value well into the future. With a favorable payment structure that includes pre-delivery financing and modest initial installment payments for these ship orders, we still anticipate strong Net Leverage reduction of 1.5 turns by the end of 2024, relative to 2023, and expect the Company to continue reducing Net Leverage each year for the foreseeable future.”

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Four New Mega Ships on Order for Norwegian Cruise Line

Andrea Santillan

• April 9, 2024

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) announced an aggressive 10-year growth strategy involving eight new ships, the biggest new-build order in the company’s 58-year history.

Additionally, it plans to construct a new pier at its exclusive destination in The Bahamas to accommodate current and future ships more readily.

From 2026 to 2036, NCLH will introduce eight new cruise vessels across its three brands. In addition to the Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) four Prima-Plus vessels due to arrive from 2025 to 2028, the holding company shared that NCL will take delivery of four more ships.

Each will weigh around 200,000 gross tons and be capable of carrying almost 5,000 guests. These will be ready in 2030, 2032, 2034 and 2036.

Meanwhile, Oceania Cruises will welcome two 86,000-ton cruise vessels with 1,450-guest capacities in 2027 and 2029. 

NCLH’s third brand, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, will have two additional 77,000-ton cruise vessels in 2026 and 2029. Each will carry up to 850 passengers.

The holding company said that its new ships will feature new vessel classes with designs based on efficiency, sustainability, and innovation. They will all be built by Fincantieri. The eight vessels represent almost 25,000 additional berths, a substantial 38% increase from 2023. 

Though their costs haven’t been revealed, the company relies on financing to bear most expenses. Already, 80% of the contract prices of Oceania and Regent’s ships have been secured with export credit financing.

According to the parent company, NCLH’s pre-delivery financing and manageable installment payments will still allow it to reduce debt over the long term.

NCLH’s decade-long plan includes a new multi-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay. With a $150 million investment, Norwegian’s private destination in the Bahamas can simultaneously accommodate two large cruise ships. Construction will begin later this year and will be finished by 2025.

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Norwegian Cruise Line ships from newest to oldest — the complete list

What's the newest Norwegian Cruise Line ship ? Knowing the answer is more important than you might think if you're planning a Norwegian cruise.

The newest Norwegian cruise ship is typically also the Norwegian ship with the most modern, up-to-date cabins and the most enticing mix of restaurants, bars and attractions. It's the right choice if you want the creme de la creme of the Norwegian fleet as your floating home away from home.

Right now, the newest Norwegian cruise ship is Norwegian Viva , which debuted in August. It's the second ship in Norwegian's new Prima Class of vessels, which began debuting in 2022 with the arrival of Norwegian Prima .

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Other relatively new Norwegian Cruise Line ships include Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy. All began sailing in the last six years.

In all, Norwegian operates 19 cruise vessels. On average, the line comes out with about one new ship every 18 months, and it typically keeps vessels in its fleet for around 20 to 30 years before retiring them. The oldest Norwegian Cruise Line ship, Norwegian Spirit, is 25 years old.

Norwegian's newest ships are generally far bigger and much more amenity-packed than its older ships. If you crave a lot of activities on a Norwegian cruise vacation, you'll want to stick to vessels built in the last 12 or so years.

Related: The 8 types of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

In many cases, Norwegian Cruise Line's oldest cruise ships — built in the 1990s and early 2000s — are just half the size of the line's newest vessels and have fewer venues on board. Still, even these smaller ships offer many attractions compared to some vessels at competing lines.

Here is a list of every Norwegian Cruise Line ship currently in operation, ranked from newest to oldest.

1. Norwegian Viva

Maiden voyage: 2023 Size: 143,535 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,099

2. Norwegian Prima

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 143,535 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,099

3. Norwegian Encore

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 169,116 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,998

4. Norwegian Bliss

Maiden voyage: 2018 Size: 168,028 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,004

5. Norwegian Joy

Maiden voyage: 2017 Size: 167,725 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,804

6. Norwegian Escape

Maiden voyage: 2015 Size: 164,998 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,266

7. Norwegian Getaway

Maiden voyage: 2014 Size: 145,655 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,963

8. Norwegian Breakaway

Maiden voyage: 2013 Size: 145,655 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,963

9. Norwegian Epic

Maiden voyage: 2010 Size: 155,873 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,100

10. Norwegian Gem

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 93,530 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,394

11. Norwegian Pearl

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 93,530 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,394

12. Norwegian Jade

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 93,558 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,402

13. Norwegian Jewel

Maiden voyage: 2005 Size: 93,502 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,376

14. Pride of America

Maiden voyage: 2005 Size: 80,439 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,186

15. Norwegian Dawn

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 92,250 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,340

16. Norwegian Star

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 91,740 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,348

17. Norwegian Sun

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 78,309 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,936

18. Norwegian Sky

Maiden voyage: 1999 Size: 77,104 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,004

19. Norwegian Spirit

Maiden voyage: 1998 Size: 75,904 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,032

What is the newest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The newest Norwegian Cruise Line ship is Norwegian Viva. As noted above, it debuted in August . Measuring 143,535 gross tons and carrying 3,099 passengers at double occupancy, it's almost identical to Norwegian's last new ship, Norwegian Prima. Both ships are part of the line's new six-ship Prima Class series, which will be rolling out through 2028.

Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima are notably smaller vessels than other new Norwegian cruise ships unveiled over the past 15 years. But they still have nearly as many restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top attractions as you'll find on the bigger vessels.

TPG sailed on the maiden voyages of Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima and has covered them extensively. For more on the ships, see the following guides and reviews:

• Norwegian Viva review: What to expect on Norwegian's 2nd Prima Class vessel
• 5 things I loved about the new Norwegian Viva
• I've been on nearly every Norwegian ship; here are my first impressions of Norwegian Prima
• My strange night out at Norwegian Prima's 'zero-waste' bar
• Prima has a ridiculously large go-kart track; here's why I loved it
• Can luxury cruisers fall in love with Norwegian Prima? TPG booked a voyage to find out
• Did Norwegian make its new Prima Class ships too small?

What is the oldest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The oldest Norwegian Cruise Line ship is Norwegian Spirit. Unveiled in 1998, it's not just the oldest Norwegian Cruise Line ship but the smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ship — far smaller than the newest Norwegian vessels. At 75,904 tons, Norwegian Spirit is less than half the size of the recently unveiled Norwegian Encore, and it carries just 1,966 passengers — about 2,000 fewer than the Norwegian biggies.

In part because of its smaller size, Norwegian Spirit also offers fewer (but still quite a few) venues and attractions than newer Norwegian vessels. In all, you'll find 13 food outlets on Norwegian Spirit, including two main restaurants, a casual buffet eatery, and versions of the line's signature Cagney's steak house and French eatery Le Bistro. There are more than half a dozen bars and cafes.

Deck-top attractions on Norwegian Spirit include several pools, whirlpools, waterslides, a basketball court and a jogging track. The ship also has a casino, spa, nightclub and theater.

What new Norwegian Cruise Line ships are coming?

Norwegian Cruise Line currently has four new cruise ships on order. The first to arrive will be Norwegian Aqua in April 2025. It'll be the third ship in the line's new Prima Class series.

Additionally, three more ships in this Prima Class series are on order for delivery in 2026, 2027 and 2028, respectively.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

All four of these coming ships, including Norwegian Aqua, will be somewhat bigger than the first two vessels in the series to allow for more cabins and public areas. The last two ships in the series will also be expanded to accommodate new, bigger fuel tanks that can hold methanol — a cleaner-burning type of fuel.

The Prima Class vessels are under construction at a Fincantieri shipyard near Monfalcone, Italy.

What is the newest Norwegian Cruise Line ship available for booking?

Norwegian Aqua is the newest Norwegian Cruise Line ship you can book now. While the ship isn't yet sailing, its initial voyages scheduled for April 2025 are already on sale, as are future sailings through April 2026. The three other Norwegian ships on order have yet to open for bookings.

What is the newest class of Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The Prima Class is the newest class of Norwegian ships. For now, there are only two vessels in the class that you can sail — the recently unveiled Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima. The class will eventually be made up of at least six vessels.

The series is destined to massively expand Norwegian's footprint in the cruise business and, if all goes according to plan, significantly transform the brand. The line currently operates 19 vessels around the world. Assuming it doesn't retire any of its older ships over the next few years, it will grow to 23 ships by 2028 with the addition of four more Prima Class vessels.

Including the just-unveiled Norwegian Viva, that's a 28% increase in its fleet size in just five years.

At 143,535 tons, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima are notably smaller than the vessels Norwegian has added to its fleet in recent years. The line's last new ship before the addition of the two vessels, the 2019-built Norwegian Encore, was about 18% bigger than Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima at 169,116 tons.

Norwegian executives have said the smaller size of the new Prima Class ships would give the line more options in designing itineraries; the vessels are able to access smaller ports around the world than the bigger Norwegian ships can.

What's the difference between newer and older Norwegian Cruise Line ships?

Newer Norwegian Cruise Line ships are generally bigger than older Norwegian ships — sometimes much bigger. As a result, they have room for many more onboard venues and attractions than the line's older vessels.

On Norwegian's relatively new Breakaway Plus Class vessels (Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape), you'll find multiple pools, waterslides, a kiddie splash zone and — on most of the ships — a sprawling go-kart racing track. Each vessel also offers real Broadway shows in big, state-of-the-art theaters as well as sprawling spas, casinos that fill half a deck, dedicated children's play zones and more than 2,000 rooms.

Additionally, the two newest ships in this series, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy, have large gaming and virtual reality zones called the Galaxy Pavilion.

In short, they're like giant floating versions of the megaresorts you find in the Orlando or Las Vegas areas, and they appeal to people who like a megaresort experience.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian ship

Norwegian's older ships, in many cases, are about half the size of the line's newer ships and lack many of the above features. They have a much more intimate feel, at least in the pantheon of relatively big, mass-market ships, and they hold far fewer people. While Breakaway Plus Class ships can hold around 4,000 passengers, based on double occupancy, the line's oldest vessels are only designed to carry about 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Norwegian's oldest ships are a good choice for vacationers who want to try Norwegian but aren't eager to travel with huge crowds. The oldest ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet thus appeal to a subset of Norwegian fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get that. They are also often less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Norwegian loyalty perks

Because of their size, Norwegian's oldest ships can operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports worldwide can handle a ship the size of Norwegian Encore.

Note that all Norwegian ships are regularly renovated and upgraded every few years, so even the oldest Norwegian cruise vessels have newer carpeting, updated furniture, modern decor in cabins and other updates. In many cases, their eateries and bars have been entirely renovated over the years with concepts that first debuted on newer vessels.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
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• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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• News for Norwegian Cruise Line

Charting New Waters: Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils Ambitious Plans For Eight Ships

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd  (NYSE:NCLH) has unveiled a total of eight vessels, representing nearly 25,000 additional berths to be built across three brands.

The company also launched the construction of a multi-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island destination in the Bahamas and its Caribbean port of call. 

The strategy is expected to boost Norwegian Cruise’s product offering, guest experiences, and operational infrastructure.

The new ship orders across all three brands are scheduled for delivery over a ten-year period, between 2026 and 2036.

After the delivery of four Prima-Plus class ships from 2025 through 2028, the cruise operator is expected to take delivery of four approximately 200,000-gross-ton ships, each with a capacity of nearly 5,000 guests, in 2030, 2032, 2034, and 2036.

Oceania Cruises is scheduled to take delivery of two 86,000-gross-ton ships, each with a capacity of 1,450 guests in 2027 and 2029. 

Finally, Regent Seven Seas Cruises is scheduled to take delivery of two 77,000-gross-ton ships, each with a capacity of 850 guests, in 2026 and 2029.

“This strategic new-ship order across all three of our award-winning brands provides for the steady introduction of cutting-edge vessels into our fleet and solidifies our long-term growth,” said President and CEO Harry Sommer.

The company has obtained export credit financing with favorable terms to fund 80% of the contract price of each of the two Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships.

The new pier development in the Bahamas is set to begin in summer 2024 and be completed by late 2025 with an investment of about $150 million.

Stifel  analyst Steven Wieczynski reiterated a Buy rating on the shares with a price target of $25.

NCLH now has 13 ships on order over the next 12 years for a combined 41,000 berths, representing about 65% capacity growth, noted the analyst.

With a historically smaller fleet, the company has been building new ships more aggressively versus peers in order to enter/serve certain markets.

Over the next decade this will not only give NCLH the biggest growth story within the cruise industry but will also allow them to continue entering new markets with minimal cannibalization to their fleet, the analyst noted.

Owning cruise stocks when supply growth has been low for an extended period of time, as per the analyst. While the headline of eight ships might make investors panic, the analyst urged them to look at the fine print.

Overall, according to the analyst, the positives surely outweigh the negatives.

Price Action : NCLH shares are trading lower by 2.35% at $18.93 on the last check Tuesday.

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Subscriber only, travel | ncl details new dining on canaveral-bound norwegian aqua.

With more room than its two sister ships, Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest vessel will feature several new and redesigned dining options when it arrives at Port Canaveral next spring.

Norwegian Aqua is the first of what the line is calling its Prima Plus class, 10% larger than 2021’s Prima and 2023’s Viva. The ship comes in at 1,056 feet long, 156,300 gross tons and a 3,571-passenger capacity based on double occupancy. That’s still smaller than the line’s popular Breakaway Plus class ships Escape, Joy, Bliss and Encore.

Still, the extra room means a shift of some returning venues found on Prima and Viva and the introduction of three new offerings.

At the top of the list is the line’s first dedicated Thai venue called Sukhothai, a specialty restaurant headed to Deck 17 with items such as Thai cashew chicken, salt and pepper prawns and Thai grilled steak salad. There also will be a variety of curries. The venue’s design comes from SMC Design firm out of London aiming to blend traditional and contemporary Thai elements, according to the line.

“(Guests) will be greeted with a warm, inviting atmosphere of bamboo and rice paper pendant lights; a striking geometric patterned floor; and colorful furniture transporting diners to the culturally rich country of Thailand,” according to a press release.

It joins a pair of returning Asian fare venues, the Japanese hibachi Hasuki as well as relatively new offering Nama Sushi and Sashimi, which is found on both Prima and Viva, but will feature an updated look on Aqua. Nama’s design from NCL-favorite designers Studio DADO out of Miami will draw from Manga art.

“Guests can expect a playful dining experience surrounded by bold colors of lime green and black,” the line stated.

Planterie is a second new food offering that will actually be one of 10 cuisines to be offered at returning food hall concept Indulge Food Hall on Deck 8. The menu will be all plant-based bowls and other healthy options, the line’s first dedicated eatery with a full plant-based menu. Example items include the Southwest Bowl with smoked tempeh and the Mediterranean Goddess Bowl with spiced vegetables, tabbouleh and honey-roasted carrots.

Indulge Food Hall will get a design makeover by New York’s Rockwell Group going for deep wood accents and gold and metal furnishings. It’s one of the more popular and free options on board both Prima and Viva with both indoor and outdoor seating, and a reputation for getting cruisers their food fast. They sit down, order food using tablets from among all the available offerings such as Mediterranean tapas, barbecue and dessert.

Another new venue will be dedicated to wine. The Swirl Wine Bar also designed by Studio DADO will be “tucked away” on Deck 6.

“The hidden enclave will feature a comprehensive wine-by-the-glass menu, and an extensive list of rare and premium vintages,” the line stated. “The venue’s architecture is inspired by the captivating beauty and curvature of the geologically stunning Antelope Canyon in Arizona, with warm color hues complemented by cascading horizontal lines and serene blue touches create a perfectly inviting and enchanting space for guests to unwind.”

The sustainable-themed Metropolitan bar will be getting a new and larger home with new design as well, courtesy of Studio DADO. Moving from mid-ship to the aft on Deck 7, it will now feature a grand piano and small stage for live music with an art-deco design from mid-1900s New York.

Studio DADO is also reworking the complimentary dining space, the Commodore Room, with a more rustic sea-fairing theme.

“Paying homage to the imaginative narrative of the captain’s room, the venue will transport guests to the past times of maritime sophistication with antique wood furnishings; leather banquettes; floors that mimic the lines of a pier; and incredible stone accents, all with a delicate, modern touch,” the line stated.

Other venues getting makeover for Aqua include the Surfside Cafe buffet and Mediterranean seafood option Palomar as well as the Penrose Bar and Waves Pool Bar. The Whiskey Bar and Belvedere Bar are also migrating to new spaces on the ship.

The increased space also means more seating for Hasuki, The Local Bar & Grill and steakhouse Cagney’s.

The ship will also see the return of free venue Hudson’s with its 270-degree views as well as specialty venues French restaurant Le Bistro, Mexican restaurant Los Lobos and Italian restaurant Onda by Scarpetta.

Aqua will begin seven-night sailing of Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral beginning in April 2025 before migrating to New York in August and then back to Florida, but sailing out of Miami from October 2025-April 2026.

Among the ship highlights will be what the line says is the first hybrid coaster at sea, a digital sports complex and the first three-bedroom duplex suites for the cruise line in its exclusive area called The Haven.

Set to become NCL’s 20th ship in its fleet, construction continues at the Fincantieri shipyards in Italy, and it marks the first of four planned ships in the Prima Plus class through 2028.

NCL’s parent company recently announced it was also working to secure funding for what would be the biggest class of ship ever for the line at more than 200,000 gross tons with four ships on order from 2030-2036.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Is About to Make Veggie Fans Very, Very Happy

Set sail with plenty of produce onboard.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line has big things coming for 2025. Well, actually, just one really, really big thing: the brand-new Norwegian Aqua ship.

It comes with a hybrid roller coaster water slide, a glow-in-the-dark basketball court, enough space for more than 3,500, and some of the most innovative dining at sea. Including the company's first all-vegetarian restaurant. 

In November, Norwegian announced the first sailing dates for Aqua, which is set to get underway in April 2025 with trips to Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, and Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line's private island in the Bahamas. While en route, guests can spread out in its bountiful outdoor spaces, take a ride down the Aqua Slidecoaster, splash in the kids and adults-only pools, and even book out the line's first-ever three-bedroom duplex Haven Suites. And now, it's unveiling all its food offerings onboard too, which include plenty of best-in-class offerings. 

"Discovering new flavors and dining experiences is such a memorable part of any vacation, especially when you share it with those who matter most to you," David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, shared in a statement provided to Food & Wine. "Expanding on our award-winning food and beverage program, we're looking forward to bringing new concepts to life aboard Norwegian Aqua, while continuing to deliver on the variety of available offerings and value that NCL delivers."

Those new concepts include Planterie, the brand's first dedicated plant-based menu eatery. As Norwegian explained, Planterie can be found in the Indulge Food Hall on deck eight and will offer "plant-based bowls and other healthy options."

Its menu includes the Southwest Bowl, made with smoked tempeh, and the Mediterranean Goddess Bowl, which comes filled with spiced vegetables, tabbouleh, and honey-roasted carrots. Here, guests can dine in or outside, and normally, we'd always suggest al fresco. However, the food hall also boasts a brand-new design by New York-based firm Rockwell Group, which brought in gold and metal furnishings and paired it with deep wood accents, making indoor dining a fantastic option too. In total, the food hall will come with 10 food stations offering global cuisine, so it's more than likely you'll be able to find something that tickles your taste buds.  

But that's not all that's new. Norwegian Aqua will also come with two other brand-new onboard offerings, including Sukhothai, the line's first-ever Thai restaurant, and Swirl Wine Bar, a new, upscale wine bar located on deck six, which offers a wine-by-the-glass menu along with an extensive list of rare and premium vintages. And it happens to be right next to the Whiskey Bar, so you can always head over for a flight there too. See all the onboard offerings, and be among the first to try them during the inaugural sailings at ncl.com .

Related Articles

Royal Caribbean's newest ship is also its priciest. Here's what it's like spending as little as possible, with no lobster or other upgrades.

• Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas could be an expensive vacation compared to other cruise ships.
• Sailing on the mega-ship without paying for any of its upcharged amenities is possible.
• But it would mean spending at least $265 a day, staying sober, and repeating meals.

A budget vacation on Royal Caribbean's new wildly popular Icon of the Seas is possible. Just be prepared to stay sober, repeat meals, and pay at least $265 a day.

Right now, there's likely no better example of the mass-market cruise industry's shift toward the budget airline strategy — charge a cheap base fare and offer irresistible up-charged amenities — than Royal Caribbean's new world's largest cruise liner.

After all, what other ship comes with a $100,000-a-week cabin and a $200-per-person restaurant?

But it is possible to vacation on the mega-ship without giving into any of its upcharged restaurants and activities. If you're strong enough to do so, here's what your seven nights on Icon of the Seas could look like.

Be warned: It won't include lobsters or private lounges .

Less than half of Icon’s 28 eateries are complimentary, so you’ll likely repeat meals.

Picky eaters are sure to find at least one satisfactory option at the ship's three buffets, one of which is Mexican-themed.

If not, the complimentary pizza shop or sandwiches from the two on-board cafés might suffice.

In search of variety, grab a Mediterranean-style wrap or crepe at the five-stall food hall instead.

For a more formal dinner, budget cruisers can grub on a three-course meal at the complimentary dining room.

The three-floor restaurant has a rotating menu with classics like crab cakes, New York strip steak, and cheesecake.

Just don't expect lobster or filet mignon. Both cost extra.

For better or worse, guests snubbing upcharged options would also be snubbing booze.

Like most mass-market cruise ships, Icon of the Seas' 18 bars aren't free. If you want alcohol and sodas, be prepared to pay for a beverage package.

Thankfully, the ship’s complimentary amenities could distract you from your sobriety.

Icon's surf simulator and impressive six-slide waterpark won't run you a tab.

The same goes for its seven pools and nine hot tubs — save for one of each exclusive to guests who've booked a suite.

For drier activities, families could spend their afternoons scaling the rock climbing wall or testing their putt at the nine-hole mini-golf course.

Or they could work off their lunch buffet by sweating it out at the sports court — basketball and ping pong included — for no extra charges.

Fortunately, Icon of the Seas' nighttime entertainment is also a great equalizer. Its ice skating performance, rendition of the Broadway hit "Wizard of Oz," and multi-disciplinary dance, swim, and dive show are complimentary to all guests.

But if you want to test your fear of heights at the part-walking, part-agility, part-ziplining Crown's Edge , you'll have to cough up $49.

The arcade games aren't free, either.

Guests staying in suites have access to a shared outdoor lounge.

There's also the option to pay up to $700 for one day with a private cabana-like "casita."

But if you're on a budget, you'll have to fight "pool chair hogs" for the best poolside seating instead. (Consider bringing a sheet mask with you — a 25-minute facial at the ship's spa is almost $150.)

And hold off on your Instagram photo dumps until after your vacation.

Otherwise, you'll have to cough up $31 per day and device for streaming-enabled WiFi, totaling $217 for the duration of the cruise. (Icon of the Seas is exclusively operating seven-night sailings.)

But let’s face it: The base fare alone isn’t ultra-affordable compared to other cruise ships.

Patrick Scholes, a lodging and leisure research analyst at Truist Securities, told Business Insider in late 2023, three months before Icon's launch , that the vessel was priced at a premium of "at least 50%, if not more."

Steep, compared to the typical 20% to 50% new-ship premiums.

The cheapest interior stateroom for 2024 currently costs $265 per person per day.

But even the windowless cabin comes with its own list of upgrades.

Travelers who want to pick their own stateroom must pay an additional $128 per person. If they opt for one of the larger (by at least one square foot) interior cabins, it'll be an extra $100.

Which is to say, good luck avoiding any of the upcharged amenities on your Icon of the Seas vacation .

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When you sail with Norwegian Cruise Line, you are cruising on the most innovative and accommodating fleet on the high seas. Our award-winning fleet was built for Freestyle, designed to give you freedom and flexibility. Choose your ship, choose your destination and step on board for the perfect holiday.

Explore Our Ships

Norwegian Aqua

Prima class.

• DESTINATIONS
• Northern Europe
• Ship 156,300 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,571 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2025 Year Built

Norwegian Bliss

Breakaway plus class.

• Transatlantic
• Panama Canal
• Extraordinary Journeys
• Ship 168,028 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,958 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2021 Refurbished Year Built 2018

Norwegian Breakaway

Breakaway class.

• Mediterranean
• Canada & New England
• Ship 145,655 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,903 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2020 Refurbished Year Built 2013

Norwegian Dawn

• Greek Isles
• Ship 92,250 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,290 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2021 Refurbished Year Built 2002

Norwegian Encore

• Ship 169,116 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3958 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2019 Year Built

Norwegian Epic

• Ship 155,873 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 4,070 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2020 Refurbished Year Built 2010

Norwegian Escape

• Ship 164,998 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 4,218 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 2015

Norwegian Gem

Jewel class.

• Ship 93,530 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,344 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 2007

Norwegian Getaway

• Year 2020 Refurbished Year Built 2014

Norwegian Jade

• South America
• Pacific Coastal
• Ship 93,558 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,352 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 2006

Norwegian Jewel

• Ship 93,502 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,330 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 2005

Norwegian Joy

• Ship 167,725 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,776 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2024 Refurbished Year Built 2017

Norwegian Pearl

• Year 2021 Refurbished Year Built 2006

Norwegian Prima

• Ship 143,535 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,099 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Year Built

Norwegian Sky

• Ship 77,104 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 1,944 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2024 Refurbished Year Built 1999

Norwegian Spirit

• Australia & New Zealand
• Ship 75,904 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 1,972 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 1998

Norwegian Star

• Ship 91,740 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,298 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2021 Refurbished Year Built 2001

Norwegian Sun

• South Pacific
• Ship 78,309 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 1,878 Guest Capacity double occupancy

Norwegian Viva

• Ship 142,500 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,195 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2023 Year Built

Pride of America

• Ship 80,439 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,150 Guest Capacity double occupancy