Float out at Monfalcone

The float out took place on 16 April 2026 at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, where Norwegian Aura touched water for the first time. The event marked the completion of the ship’s external hull construction and the start of the next stage of interior development.

Two ceremonial coins were welded into the hull during a traditional coin ceremony. NCL said the custom symbolises good fortune and safe passage for the ship, her crew and future guests.

Official comments

“Norwegian Aura’s float out is a proud and meaningful moment for our entire team,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “She builds on the legacy of our award-winning Prima Class while taking our commitment to thoughtfully designed guest-first experiences even further. Created in close partnership with Fincantieri, the ship is purposefully constructed to deliver an elevated, multi-generational vacation experience, with expansive outdoor spaces like Ocean Heights, that bring families and friends together for fun-filled days. With her flexible, open-air design, Norwegian Aura is exceptionally well suited for Caribbean itineraries, offering the perfect balance of high-energy fun, relaxation and an effortless escape for guests of all ages.”

“Norwegian Aura’s float out marks a highly symbolic and operationally significant milestone in our shared journey with Norwegian Cruise Line,” said Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of Fincantieri’s Merchant Ships Division. “This vessel reflects the strength of a long-standing partnership and our ability to turn design vision and innovation into tangible solutions, helping to redefine onboard experience for future generations of guests.”   

Size and ship design

Norwegian Aura, described as the line’s largest and most illuminating vessel to date, will measure nearly 1,130 feet in length and approximately 170,000 gross tons, making it around 10 per cent larger than Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.

The ship will offer more than 1,970 staterooms and accommodate approximately 3,880 guests at double occupancy. NCL said the vessel has been designed with expanded outdoor spaces and multi-generational features as part of its Prima Class evolution.

Onboard spaces

A central feature of the ship will be Ocean Heights, an open-air activity area that NCL says will include the most slides of any ship in its fleet. The complex will feature Eclipse Racers, the line’s first duelling waterslides, along with Aura Free Fall and The Wave.

The release also says Ocean Heights will include an 82-foot ropes course, a 25-foot rock-climbing wall and Aura Midway, a carnival-style games area. In the evening, the space will change through lighting and LED projections.

Other features listed in the release include a pool deck that is more than 20 per cent larger than on previous vessels, extra seating, an additional hot tub, open lounge areas and a Kids’ Aqua Park. The adults-only Vibe Beach Club will also be available, while Ocean Boulevard on deck eight will be extended by 11 per cent.

Launch plans and routes

Norwegian Aura is scheduled to begin service in May 2027 with a seven-day Mediterranean sailing from Trieste, Italy. The itinerary will call at ports in Italy and Malta before the ship sails a 14-day transatlantic voyage to the United States.

From 10 June 2027, the ship will be homeported in Miami and will operate seven-day Eastern and Western Caribbean voyages through March 2028. These sailings will include calls at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize.

Great Stirrup Cay visit

The release says Norwegian Aura will make its first call at Great Stirrup Cay in June 2027. At that point, guests will have access to upgraded facilities on the island, including a multi-ship pier, a welcome plaza and a tram service.

Other island features listed by NCL are Great Life Lagoon with two swim-up bars, Splash Harbor for children, the adults-only Vibe Shore Club and the Great Tides Waterpark. The waterpark is described as a nearly six-acre attraction with 19 waterslides, cliffside jumps, a kids’ splash zone and a river experience.

Source: Official announcement by Norwegian Cruise Line on 16 April, 2026

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Norwegian Luna christened in Miami

Norwegian Cruise Line said the christening of Norwegian Luna celebrated the ship’s arrival into the fleet and continued the line’s long tradition of maritime ceremonies. The event included the ceremonial blessing and bottle breaking across the hull, symbolising safe passage for the vessel and its future guests.

The ship’s godmother was ELLE, a street artist who also created the hull artwork titled La Luna. Norwegian Cruise Line said the piece was inspired by humanity’s relationship with the moon and explores themes of connection and transformation.

Leadership remarks

Senior leaders from Norwegian Cruise Line and Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. attended the ceremony. Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, described Norwegian Luna as an evolution of the company’s approach to guest experience and highlighted the ship’s mix of family-focused attractions and adult-oriented entertainment.

John W. Chidsey, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., said the christening was a significant milestone for the company and noted the ship’s role in shaping future guest experiences.

Prima Class design

Norwegian Luna measures 1,056 feet in length and has capacity for 3,565 guests. The ship was built with the open spaces and design principles associated with the Prima Class, and it offers a range of activities, entertainment and accommodation options for families, couples and solo travellers.

Among its headline features is the Aqua Slidecoaster, an NCL-exclusive attraction also found on Norwegian Aqua, with the line describing it as the longest and fastest slides at sea. Other onboard spaces include the Glow Court digital sports complex, the Luna Game Zone, Luna Midway, Moon Climber and Horizon Park.

Entertainment and dining

Evening entertainment on Norwegian Luna includes Elton: A Celebration of Elton John and HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder. The line also says Syd Norman’s Pour House will present A Tribute to Eagles, while LunaTique offers a late-night experience for guests aged 21 and over at The Improv at Sea.

For younger guests, the ship includes Sea of Discovery! An Under-the-Sea Festival, a children’s programme inspired by classic field day activities. Norwegian Cruise Line also lists 17 dining venues offering more than 15 global cuisines, alongside 18 bars and lounges.

Accommodation options

Accommodation on board includes solo staterooms, inside, oceanview and balcony cabins, plus suites within The Haven by Norwegian. The Haven area features a private restaurant, bar and lounge.

Dining venues named in the release include Onda by Scarpetta, Sukhothai and Le Bistro. Among the bars and lounges highlighted are the Whiskey Bar, the Belvedere Bar and the Metropolitan Bar, which features the line’s Sail and Sustain cocktail programme.

Caribbean deployment

Norwegian Luna will sail Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami between April 2026 and April 2027. Those voyages include calls at Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize, both of which Norwegian Cruise Line says have recently been enhanced.

At Great Stirrup Cay, the line highlights the Great Life Lagoon, featuring a large pool area, swim-up bars, cabanas and a family splash pad. The adults-only Vibe Shore Club offers private beach access and premium seating, while the Great Tides Waterpark is due to open later in 2026 with 19 waterslides, cliffside jumps, a children’s splash zone and the Wandering River.

New York sailings

After its Miami season, Norwegian Luna will reposition to New York for four- and seven-day round-trip sailings to Bermuda from April to October 2027. The official release says these itineraries will include extended port time and overnight stays, giving guests more time to explore Bermuda’s beaches and take part in activities such as catamaran excursions, cave dives and scenic bike tours.

Source: Official announcement by Norwegian Cruise Line on 30 March, 2026

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The three vessels will be built at Fincantieri’s shipyards in Italy, with deliveries scheduled between 2036 and 2037. Each ship will serve as a sister vessel to the most recent newbuilds announced for its respective brand. For Norwegian Cruise Line, the new ship will join its forthcoming “New Class” series; Oceania Cruises will receive a sister ship to the Oceania Sonata; and Regent Seven Seas Cruises will welcome a sister ship to the Seven Seas Prestige.

John W. Chidsey, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, emphasised the strategic importance of the agreement, stating:

“Together with Fincantieri, a trusted partner for decades, we continue to advance a disciplined approach to fleet growth that builds on the strength of our brands, defines the future of cruising and elevates the guest experience for years to come. This agreement secures access to valuable shipyard capacity through the end of 2037, supporting our long‑term growth while maintaining financial discipline and driving sustainable shareholder value.”

The new order expands NCLH’s already substantial newbuild pipeline. Following this agreement, the company now has 17 ships on order across its three brands, with Norwegian Cruise Line scheduled to receive eight newbuilds through 2037, Oceania Cruises five through 2037, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises four through 2036. This pipeline supports an expected compound annual growth rate of 4% from 2026 to 2037.

The agreement is structured to minimise near‑term financial impact. According to the company, pre‑delivery payments are immaterial until the vessels are handed over, and NCLH expects to utilise Export Credit Agency financing to fund the majority of the construction costs upon delivery. This approach allows the company to continue strengthening its balance sheet while maintaining a measured, long‑term expansion strategy.

Fincantieri also highlighted the significance of the order, noting that the ships will incorporate advanced technologies, enhanced environmental performance and next‑generation design features. The shipbuilder described the agreement as a reinforcement of its long‑standing partnership with NCLH and a key milestone in its 2026–2030 industrial plan.

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The pier’s debut comes just in time for the peak winter Caribbean season and serves as a critical enabler for the line’s newest tonnage. NCL’s latest ship, Norwegian Aqua, which began its Caribbean deployment in October 2025, is among the first to utilise the new facility. The ability to dock directly alongside the island significantly increases guest time ashore and provides seamless access to the island’s beaches, cabanas, and the exclusive Silver Cove retreat.

“The opening of the pier at Great Stirrup Cay is a game-changer for our Caribbean operations,” said an NCL spokesperson. “It guarantees that our guests can enjoy our private island experience as planned, without the uncertainty of tender operations. This is particularly important as we welcome larger Prima Plus Class ships like Norwegian Aqua and the upcoming Norwegian Luna to the region.”

Beyond the pier, NCL has unveiled the first phase of shoreside enhancements, including a new welcome center and expanded tram service to move guests efficiently across the island. These upgrades are part of a broader $150 million investment in Great Stirrup Cay, which will eventually see the addition of a lazy river and new residential-style villas.

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Longer journey options with immersive port experiences and luxury bundled packages are resonating strongly with GCC guests, who increasingly appreciate value and convenience. Early bookings have been critical, given the region’s historically last-minute purchasing habits, and Norwegian’s “More At Sea” package—featuring fine dining, premium beverages, and high-speed internet—has simplified decision-making for discerning travellers.

Caribbean cruises remain top sellers among Gulf travellers, boosted by the new Norwegian Aqua, while demand for Europe and Alaska cruises is steadily rising. Notably, GCC interest in expanding the cruising window beyond peak seasons is fueling Norwegian’s focus on the shoulder months, balancing availability and value.

With new Prima Plus ships due for delivery, NCL is positioning itself for sustained long-term growth in the GCC, catering to evolving traveller preferences for extended, personalised, and high-comfort sea journeys.

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