Norwegian Cruise Line to Launch 8 New Ships by 2036

Norwegian Cruise Line: A Look at the New Ships Set to Debut Through 2036

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is embarking on a major fleet expansion, with eight new ships scheduled to debut by 2036. These additions include four Prima-class vessels and an all-new ship class that will rank among the world’s largest cruise ships. With these ambitious plans, NCL is set to elevate the cruise experience for guests around the globe.

Here’s a closer look at the exciting new ships coming to Norwegian Cruise Line:

Norwegian Aqua

• Debut Date: March 2025

• Capacity: 3,571 guests

• Tonnage: 156,300

• Shipyard: Fincantieri, Italy

Now under construction, the Norwegian Aqua is set to launch in March 2025 as the third Prima-class ship. Slightly larger than its predecessors, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, this 156,300-ton vessel will feature expanded public spaces and additional cabins. A highlight of the ship will be its groundbreaking hybrid waterslide/roller coaster—an industry first.

Norwegian Luna

• Debut Date: April 2026

• Capacity: 3,571 guests

• Tonnage: 156,300

• Shipyard: Fincantieri, Italy

The Norwegian Luna will debut in April 2026 as the fourth ship in the Prima class. Like the Aqua, it will feature a variety of exciting amenities, including new specialty dining options and a tech-driven sports court that transforms into a nightclub. The 3,571-passenger ship will begin its service with itineraries in the Caribbean.

Prima Class V

• Debut Date: 2027

• Capacity: 3,650 guests

• Tonnage: 169,000

• Shipyard: Fincantieri, Italy

Scheduled for 2027, the fifth Prima-class ship will boast increased size and capacity, able to accommodate 3,650 guests. This 169,000-ton ship will also be methanol-ready, aligning with NCL’s sustainability goals.

Prima Class VI

• Debut Date: 2028

• Capacity: 3,650 guests

• Tonnage: 169,000

• Shipyard: Fincantieri, Italy

In 2028, the final ship in the Prima-class series will be delivered. Similar to its predecessor, this 169,000-ton vessel will have a capacity of 3,650 guests and will be methanol-ready to meet future environmental standards.

New Ship Class (2030–2036)

• Debut Dates: 2030, 2032, 2034, 2036

• Capacity: 5,100 guests each

• Tonnage: 225,000 each

• Shipyard: Fincantieri, Italy

Also, to the Prima-class ships, NCL is preparing to launch an entirely new ship class starting in 2030. These massive vessels, each accommodating over 5,100 guests and weighing 225,000 tons, will be the largest ships in NCL’s fleet and among the largest in the world. Four ships of this class are presently on order, with deliveries spaced out until 2036.

Expanding NCL’s Fleet for the Future

With these eight new ships, Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet is expected to grow to 27 vessels by 2036. These expansions will not only increase the line’s capacity but also introduce cutting-edge technology, unique onboard experiences, and a continued commitment to sustainable cruising. Stay tuned as NCL sets the stage for a new era in cruising.