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Norwegian Cruise Line presents the all-new Norwegian Aura

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 15 January 2026 15 January 2026

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) today unveiled and opened for sale Norwegian Aura, the longest and largest vessel in its fleet, which will homeport in Miami beginning in June 2027 following her debut in Europe in late May 2027.

Setting a new standard in size and scale for NCL’s fleet, Norwegian Aura will be almost 1,130 feet long, 169,000 gross tons and will accommodate 3,840 guests at double occupancy. Norwegian Aura will be 10% larger than her predecessors Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna and has been thoughtfully designed to deliver curated, family-focused experiences, complemented with reimagined guest favorites. At the center of the action is the all-new Ocean Heights, an open-air activities complex that shifts from fun by day to a vibrant, laid-back atmosphere at night, creating a lively space for the whole family.

Offering 7-night cruises to the Caribbean, each of Norwegian Aura’s voyages in the region will visit either Harvest Caye, NCL’s resort-style destination in Belize, or Great Stirrup Cay, the Company’s private island in the Bahamas, which recently received several enhancements. As of late 2025, all-new guest experiences opened on Great Stirrup Cay, including the Great Life Lagoon – a sprawling pool area with swim-up bars, premium loungers and a dedicated kids’ splash area – as well as Vibe Shore Club, an adults-only area with a private bar and premium lounge seating. Later in 2026, ahead of Norwegian Aura’s 2027 sailings, the island will debut the nearly six-acre Great Tides Waterpark with 19 waterslides, industry-first cliffside jumps and a dynamic river, as well as new adventure excursions.

“We are proud to introduce the newest, and largest, addition to our fleet, Norwegian Aura,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. "Norwegian Aura represents the evolution of Norwegian Cruise Line and the celebration of bringing together families, friends and travelers from around the world. With brilliance and connection at her core, the ship was created to give all guests the freedom to vacation their very own way – offering the chance to exhale, connect and effortlessly escape into the moment. We look forward to this next milestone and can’t wait for guests to experience all that Norwegian Aura has to offer.”

Norwegian Aura is currently being built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri with interior designs across the ship created by world-class architects such as AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design and Studio DADO.

Ocean Heights

Spanning decks 18 to 21, the first-in-the-fleet Ocean Heights will be the ultimate hub for fun, action and relaxation for the whole family. The sprawling activity zone will combine brand-new attractions for NCL with reimagined favorites, transforming from day to night using immersive lighting and LED projections.

Norwegian Aura will boast the most slides of any NCL ship, with five located in the sweeping open-air complex, Ocean Heights. Eclipse Racers are the Brand’s first dueling mat racer waterslides, stretching over 400 feet for an exciting head-to-head competition for illuminating wet-and-wild fun in tubular slides. For more thrills, guests can head over to the Aura Free Fall, a drop-in body waterslide where the floor opens up below and plunges guests down 250 feet of exhilarating twists and turns. The Wave is a lotus waterslide, a pendulum-style raft attraction that accommodates groups of up to four guests to ride together through 300 feet of pure fun. Lastly, the returning guest favorite, The Drop, is the Prima Class signature dry slide that rushes guests down 10 decks – from deck 18 to eight.

Designed for adventure seekers, Ocean Heights will also feature an 82-foot Aura Ropes Course complete with exhilarating challenges paired with breathtaking top-deck ocean views. Additional experiences include a 25-foot Rock Climbing Wall; Aura Midway, an amusement park-style outdoor area where guests will enjoy a variety of carnival-like games; a nine-hole mini golf course; NCL’s first-ever overhanging private cabanas overlooking Vibe Beach Club; and a bar for guests to sip on their favorite beverages.

Ocean Boulevard

Located on deck eight, Ocean Boulevard is the signature Prima Class outdoor promenade that wraps around the entirety of the ship and provides guests opportunities to relax while enjoying endless water views. Aboard Norwegian Aura, the area has been extended by 11% compared to Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, offering additional space, more seating, as well as debuting activities and amenities, including new hot tubs and a brand-new bar. An expanded Infinity Beach will provide the ultimate hub for relaxation with luxe day beds and wading pools, perfect for afternoon siestas.

Additionally, Ocean Boulevard will feature dedicated activities for children and teenagers flanked on either side of the forward end of the ship. Located port side, Adventure Alley is designed for kids aged six to 10 and offers stimulating crawl spaces and twisting tunnels in an imaginative seascape setting overlooking the ocean; while starboard side, the Teen Hangout provides an exclusive retreat for teenagers to relax, socialize and capture memories at the striking wave and surf photo wall. Lastly, for younger guests aged two to six, Little Explorer's Cove playground is situated at the bow and features a playhouse with two slides and more.

Next-level poolside experience

Guests aboard Norwegian Aura will enjoy more ways than ever to relax, refresh, and soak up the sun in the ship’s expanded and enhanced spaces. Over 20% larger than Norwegian Aqua’s and Norwegian Luna’s pool decks, that of Norwegian Aura’s will be the largest in the NCL fleet with more seating capacity, an additional infinity hot tub, a larger LED entertainment screen and extra open lounge areas to ensure every guest enjoys the heart of the ship in comfort.

The adventure continues on the top decks with Norwegian Aura’s Kids’ Aqua Park, with splash pad and interactive water features within proximity to Ocean Heights on deck 18. Nearby are two family-fun waterslides – the Party Slide, a wide and shallow slide perfect for families and friends to enjoy together, and the Infinity Loop, a figure-eight slide that wraps around the Party Slide. On deck 19, guests will enjoy outdoor lawn games and seating at Horizon Park.

Vibe Beach Club, NCL’s exclusive adults-only retreat, will be 15% larger than those found aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, providing increased seating, infinity hot tubs, expanded decompressing areas and a waterfall feature. With additional sun loungers, daybeds and a bar as its focal point, Vibe Beach Club will provide the ultimate setting for relaxation at sea.

The Haven

Norwegian Aura will boast 1,976 staterooms ranging from studios to suites, of which 159 make up the keycard access-only complex, The Haven by Norwegian. The luxury offering aboard Norwegian Aura will include 30% more suites than previous Prima Class ships and the most in the fleet. Designed by renowned Italian designer Piero Lissoni, The Haven suites blend sophisticated design with sweeping sea views and are crafted for optimal privacy and convenience with exclusive private elevator access. The Haven complex features a dedicated sundeck complete with a panoramic infinity pool, two hot tubs and an outdoor sauna and cold room. It also offers the dedicated The Haven bar and lounge, and The Haven Restaurant, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Notably, Studio DADO, longtime partners of Norwegian Cruise Line, designed the private lounge, restaurant and outdoor deck to emulate a tranquil oasis that immerses guests into the world’s natural beauty with earth tones, a lush canopy of trees and delicate finishes.

Hull art

Signature to the NCL fleet, Norwegian Aura will feature a standout hull art design created by international artist Rosie Woods, known for her large-scale murals and collaborations with global brands. Woods’ work is defined by flowing, light-driven forms that explore movement, energy and illumination. Her design for the vessel draws inspiration from celestial light and bioluminescent seas, creating a modern interpretation of how light interacts with water.

Reflecting on her work for Norwegian Aura, Rosie Woods said, “I’m thrilled to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line, who has been known for showcasing beautiful, cutting-edge hull art designs.. I’m so excited to see my large-scale piece of artwork come to life, sail across the seas and illuminate day and night.”

From the Mediterranean to Miami

Prior to homeporting in Miami for her inaugural season in June 2027, Norwegian Aura will sail a seven-day Mediterranean voyage from Trieste, Italy to Barcelona, Spain on May 21, 2027 with calls to Valletta, Malta; as well as Salerno and Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. Following her 14-day transatlantic voyage, she will commence her season of Caribbean cruises from Miami. From June 2027 through October 2027, Norwegian Aura will sail seven-day Eastern Caribbean voyages with calls to quintessential island destinations, including Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; and the Brand’s newly enhanced private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay. In winter 2027/28, Norwegian Aura will offer seven-day Western Caribbean voyages taking guests to lush, tropical destinations like Roatan (Islas de la Bahia), Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; as well as Harvest Caye, NCL’s resort-style private destination off the Belizean coast.

PortMiami, Royal Caribbean Group, and partners breaks ground for new Cruise Terminal G

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 09 January 2026 09 January 2026

Yesterday, Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners, PortMiami Director and CEO Hydi Webb, and Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty led a groundbreaking ceremony for the future new Cruise Terminal G at PortMiami.

Delivered by Lemartec-NV2A Joint Venture, in partnership with Perez & Perez Architects & Planners, the project involves the design-build delivery of a state-of-the-art cruise terminal for Royal Caribbean Group designed to meet LEED certification and the capacity to accommodate up to 7,000 passengers. The new terminal will include a multi-level parking garage, an intermodal facility, and other critical infrastructure to support large cruise ships such as the Icon-class vessels.

“This world-class facility will enhance Miami-Dade County’s skyline while marking another milestone in PortMiami’s evolution. Our modern terminals are transforming how we do business and move people, delivering greater efficiency through innovative technology," said Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.

With a total investment of $345 million, this world-class complex will be dedicated to Royal Caribbean Group while maintaining multi-vessel functionality. Designed as a single-berth terminal, it will enable efficient embarkation and disembarkation through the integration of the latest advancements in cruise terminal construction, energy efficiency, and a unique user experience.

“Cruise Terminal G represents a major investment in Miami’s future. Built with advanced technology and sustainable design, this new facility will deliver a smarter, faster, more seamless experience for guests sailing with our industry-leading brands: Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Silversea. It reflects what matters most to us: innovation, collaboration, and delivering the world’s best vacations responsibly – while creating jobs and supporting the local economy for years to come," said Royal Caribbean Group Chairman and CEO Jason Liberty.

Beyond enhancing Miami’s leadership in the global cruise industry, the new terminal’s iconic architecture will contribute to the evolving skyline of PortMiami and align with the growing trend of landmark waterfront structures that connect the city and the sea. The project adds significant value to the PortMiami’s existing terminal infrastructure and delivers a product that strengthens Miami’s position as the Cruise Capital of the World.

The future Cruise Terminal G is slated for completion in late 2027.

Funding for the new Terminal G at PortMiami is provided through a partnership between Miami-Dade County and Royal Caribbean Group. The new Terminal G focuses on delivering a more streamlined and seamless experience for cruise passengers. The investment strengthens Miami's position as a global cruise leader and helps maintain its economic significance. The project is a strategic investment to meet future demand and accommodate new generations of cruise ships.

MSC Cruises and Meyer Werft sign landmark agreement for six next-generation cruise vessels

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 15 December 2025 15 December 2025

Today, MSC Cruises announced a major new order for four next-generation cruise vessels and two additional options from Meyer Werft in Papenburg marking the launch of its new “New Frontier” platform – a brand-new class of ships. The order will secure full capacity at the shipyard well into the next decade.

The announcement was made today at the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy in Berlin by Federal Minister for Economic Affairs Katherina Reiche and Energy Minister-President Lower Saxony, Olaf Lies, MSC Cruises’ Executive Chairman Pierfrancesco Vago and Meyer Werft’s CEO Dr. Bernd Eikens.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman of MSC Cruises, said: “Meyer Werft’s track record, expertise and proud history make it a true beacon of European shipbuilding. Together, we will create vessels that redefine the cruise experience while preserving the craftsmanship that keeps Germany at the forefront of maritime engineering. The New Frontier class will enable us to design new and exclusive itineraries, offer exceptional guest experience and will feature next-generation environmental technologies that will advance our net-zero 2050 commitment.”

Dr. Bernd Eikens, CEO of Meyer Werft said: “This new order marks a significant milestone in the 230-year history of Meyer Werft. We are delighted to welcome MSC Cruises as a new customer and strategic partner, and we are truly honored by the trust they have placed in us. This long-term partnership with MSC Cruises ensures sustainable growth and job security for many years to come. Today is a truly positive and significant day for everyone at Meyer Werft – our employees and our partners alike.”

With a maximum passenger capacity of 5,400 and approximately 180,000 gross tons, the “New Frontier” ships will be delivered annually starting in 2030.

This order represents a decisive boost for the regional economy. It secures thousands of jobs in Germany, particularly in Lower Saxony and Papenburg, where Meyer Werft is a cornerstone employer and sustains work for the shipyard’s extensive supplier network. More than 3,200 people are directly employed at Meyer Werft, with over 20,000 jobs in the wider region linked to its operations.

With delivery schedules stretching into the 2030’s, the agreement reinforces Papenburg’s role as a strategic hub for global cruise shipbuilding and ensures continuity for one of Europe’s most advanced maritime manufacturing ecosystems.

Hong Kong Tourism Board welcomes return of Spectrum of the Seas, expects cruise ship calls to increase

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 25 November 2025 25 November 2025

Royal Caribbean International cruise ship Spectrum of the Seas arrived in Hong Kong on November 23, 2025, and is set to embark on voyages around the region with the city as its homeport again. The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) welcomed the cruise ship’s return and announced Hong Kong is on course to receive almost 190 ship calls in 2025, a year-over-year increase of more than 25%.

HKTB Chairman Dr Peter Lam said, “From January to September 2025, the total cruise passenger throughput reached approximately 270,000, a 22% increase compared with the same period last year. I am delighted that Spectrum of the Seas of Royal Caribbean International has once again chosen Hong Kong as its homeport. It is also encouraging to see numerous international cruise brands choosing Hong Kong as homeport or turnaround port this year, or visiting Hong Kong as port of call, attracting more international visitors to our city. For the full year, Hong Kong is projected to record close to 190 cruise ship calls, which is equivalent to a 26% year-on-year increase. This involved 22 different international cruise brands, reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as Asia’s Cruise Hub.”

Hong Kong welcomes 10 ships from nine international cruise lines in November

As Hong Kong enters the peak season for cruise tourism, the city welcomed 10 cruise ships from nine international cruise lines in November alone, offering a total of 19 calls. Of these, five made Hong Kong their homeport or turnaround port – Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Solstice, Costa Cruises’ Costa Serena, Astro Ocean Cruise’s Piano Land, and StarCruises’ Star Voyager, in addition to Royal Caribbean International’s Spectrum of the Seas. Other international cruise ships visiting Hong Kong in November include:

– Celebrity Millennium (Celebrity Cruises)
– Westerdam (Holland America Line)
– Norwegian Spirit (Norwegian Cruise Line)
– Seven Seas Explorer (Regent Seven Seas Cruises)
– Seabourn Quest (Seabourn)

Hong Kong adds cruise experiences for meetings and incentives

Cruise travel is not only a popular choice for leisure travelers but also offers an exciting new experience for corporate meetings and incentive travel groups. In October, HKTB added a new theme dedicated to cruise to its thematic experience guide, the Hong Kong Incentive Playbook, further diversifying options for corporate meetings and incentive travelers. The Playbook section highlights how cruise tourism injects new elements to meetings and incentive travel, such as on-board meetings, teambuilding, fine dining, entertainment, and shore excursions. These elements offer a one-stop sea-and-land itinerary and enrich visitors’ business travel experience, strengthening Hong Kong’s reputation as Asia’s Cruise and MICE hub.

MSC Cruises orders two new World-class ships during double celebration with Chantiers de l'Atlantique

Details: Written by Teijo Niemelä Teijo Niemelä; Category: Top Headlines Top Headlines; Published: 12 November 2025 12 November 2025

MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique today announced a major extension of their long-standing relationship with orders for two additional World Class ships – numbers 7 and 8 – due to be delivered in 2031 and 2032.

The announcement was made at a double celebration event to mark important maritime milestones for two other World Class ships currently under construction at Chantiers de l’Atlantique’s shipyard in Saint Nazaire, France, the float out of MSC World Asia and coin ceremony of MSC World Atlantic.

Valued at €3.5 billion, the orders announced today bring MSC Cruises’ total investment in the four ships ordered in France this year to nearly €7 billion. Together with the World Class vessels already under construction, this brings the company’s total direct investment currently committed in France to €10.5 billion. This major industrial plan reflects the shipowner’s confidence in the future of cruise tourism and its ongoing commitment to shipbuilding excellence in France and across Europe.

Pierfrancesco Vago, Executive Chairman, Cruise Division, MSC Group, said, “We mark a proud moment today for MSC Cruises and Chantiers de l’Atlantique as we celebrate important milestones for our future - the float out of MSC World Asia, the coin ceremony of MSC World Atlantic and the order of two new ships. The World Class platform is a symbol of our vision to set new standards for the future of cruising. These are some of the most energy efficient ships in the world and we continue our commitment to LNG, ensuring we are ready for future renewable fuels. We look forward to continuing with our innovative and successful collaboration with Chantiers de L’Atlantique – our long-term partner for more than 20 years.”

Laurent Castaing, General Manager, Chantiers de l’Atlantique, added, “We are deeply grateful to MSC Cruises for their renewed confidence. What our shipyard is achieving today is truly exceptional — four new ships ordered in 2025! The World Class series, now totalling eight vessels, is a testament to our teams’ expertise and to MSC’s vision. It exemplifies our shared commitment to elevating the passenger experience while advancing environmental performance.”

Construction of both World Class 7 and 8 will begin in 2029 and will join a legacy of ships delivered by Chantiers de L’Atlantique as part of its longstanding partnership with MSC Cruises.

MSC Cruises’ World Class redefines the art of cruising, delivering an extraordinary guest experience shaped by visionary design and boundless imagination. Each ship is a destination in itself—where innovation meets elegance, and every detail is crafted to elevate every moment on board.

With distinct districts designed to suit every mood and moment, guests are able discover, connect and unwind in ways that feel uniquely personal. Every new addition to the World Class fleet brings something bold and original. This spirit of constant evolution is demonstrated in MSC World Asia, MSC World Atlantic, and the remarkable ships yet to come—each one a new chapter in a journey to deliver the most memorable experiences at sea.

MSC Cruises’ World Class consists of MSC World Europa (2022) and MSC World America (2025), MSC World Asia (2026), and MSC World Atlantic (2027), with the yet-to-be-named World Class 5, 6 7 and 8 ships to follow by 2031.

The two new orders will be subject to access to financing, as per industry practice.