Mitsui Ocean Cruises, the time-honored cruise line in Japan and operated by MOL Cruises, has announced its new cruise ship will be named Mitsui Ocean Sakura, and begin operating as a Japanese-flagged ship in late 2026. Former Nippon Maru Captain Satoshi Ninomiya has been appointed one of the ship’s Masters, and Executive Chef Katsutoshi Nakayama, also from Nippon Maru, will lead the culinary team.

Origin of the Name Mitsui Ocean Sakura (Japanese notation: 三井オーシャンサクラ)

“Sakura,” a flower long cherished in Japan, continues to captivate people with its beauty. This beautiful name was also given to the two cruise ships that the cruise line once operated, the Sakura Maru and the Shin Sakura Maru, which both provided cruise vacations around the world. The name Mitsui Ocean Sakura is therefore in honor of Sakura, which symbolizes the beauty of Japan, and the cruise ships loved by many people.

Mitsui Ocean Sakura will offer a wide range of itineraries, mainly short to medium length cruises, departing from and arriving at various ports in Japan. As a small luxury ship at 32,477 gross tons carrying 458 guests, Mitsui Ocean Sakura will visit a variety of ports, large and small, as did her predecessor, Nippon Maru. This includes visits to remote islands in Okinawa and Hokkaido. The ship will also offer cruises themed to the seasons, featuring local festivals, fireworks, music and food. Inaugural itineraries of Mitsui Ocean Sakura will be announced and go on sale in early 2026.

“While passing on the ‘spirit of omotenashi’ cultivated through past cruise ships operated by our company, including Nippon Maru, Mitsui Ocean Sakura will maintain our 140-year legacy and connection with the people and ports of call around Japan, showcasing the special experiences in those places,” said Tsunemichi Mukai, president and executive officer of Mitsui Ocean Cruises. “Our loyal and experienced crew will extend heartfelt hospitality, and our chefs will continue to delight our guests with the praise of delicious cuisine for which we are famous.”

Mitsui Ocean Sakura guests will enjoy the cruise line’s sense of Japanese beauty and traditions on this ship with comfortable, large suites with balconies, new and varied dining and entertainment options, and a peaceful feeling of time and space enjoyed on the ocean.