In a celestial-themed event on Sydney Harbour, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) welcomed the 21st ship in its fleet; it is the fourth Prima Class vessel and the next evolution in its Prima Plus Class.
As an orange full moon rose over Sydney Harbour, Norwegian Cruise Line announced its newest cruise ship, Norwegian Luna, to a packed room of media and the travel industry at the Aster bar on the 32nd floor of the InterContinental Sydney.
Norwegian Luna marks an upgrade for the new Prima Class ships and it will kick off its inaugural Caribbean season with two western itineraries to Roatan Island, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Harvest Caye, Belize, NCL’s resort-style destination.
Speaking at the event, Ben Angell, VP and Managing Director, Norwegian Cruise Line APAC said NCL’s focus was to entice more Australians to consider a “fly-cruise” holiday.
“In 2023, 85 per cent of Aussies who cruised did so in Australia, New Zealand or the Pacific and just 200,000 cruised in other parts of the world. This is versus 10 million outbound Australian travellers,” Ben said.
Cruising overall has never been stronger with 2023 representing a record year for the industry with 31.7 million cruisers, surpassing pre-Covid levels by 7 per cent.
“Fly-cruise presents an unbeatable holiday proposition it also provides a pathway for sustainable growth in cruising for this region,” he added.
Fly me to the moon
At almost 322 metres long, 156,300 gross tonnes, and accommodating approximately 3,550 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Luna will boast an overall 10 per cent size and capacity increase from Prima Class ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva.
“Luna will also feature the all-new luxurious three-bedroom duplex Haven suites in the brand’s premium, keycard-access-only complex, The Haven by Norwegian, first announced on Norwegian Aqua,” Ben said.
Haven guests will continue to enjoy 24-hour butler service and a dedicated concierge team as well as access to a sprawling sundeck; an infinity pool overlooking the ship’s stern; an outdoor spa complete with a glass-walled sauna and cold room; two hot tubs; a private lounge; and an exclusive bar pouring rare spirits and vintages.
Guests aboard Norwegian Luna can also enjoy the new dining and bar experiences of the Prima Plus Class such as Sukhothai, the company’s Thai specialty restaurant with an eclectic menu of traditional and creative offerings and Indulge Food Hall with 10 different food stations including the plant-based Planterie location.
Norwegian Luna will be followed by a further two Prima Class ships to be delivered through 2028, followed by four new vessels, a new class on order for delivery between 2030 and 2046 expanding the NCL fleet from 19 to 27 ships.
Looking for more travel inspiration? Find 6 Reasons to Book a Norwegian Cruise Line Voyage in 2025.
