Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings recently announced a significant order for eight new ships that will be constructed by Fincantieri, a renowned shipbuilding company. These ships are scheduled for delivery between 2026 and 2036, marking a significant expansion for the company. The order includes vessels for all three of NCLH’s brands, with four Prima Plus ships set to be delivered from 2025 to 2028. Following this, Norwegian Cruise Line is expected to receive four massive ships with a capacity of nearly 5,000 guests each, in the years 2030, 2032, 2034, and 2036.
In addition to the ship orders, NCLH also revealed plans to build a two-ship pier at Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island destination in the Bahamas. This development is aimed at supporting the increased capacity in the Caribbean and enhancing the overall guest experience. The company is committed to providing innovative products and experiences for its customers, and the new pier is expected to play a crucial role in achieving this goal.
Oceania Cruises, a part of the NCLH portfolio, is set to receive its final Allura-class ship in 2025. Subsequently, Oceania will welcome two new ships in a different class, with a capacity of 1,450 guests each, in 2027 and 2029. Regent Seven Seas Cruises, another brand under NCLH, has two 77,000-gross-ton ships on the way, each capable of accommodating 850 guests. These ships are scheduled for delivery in 2026 and 2029, further expanding the company’s fleet.
NCLH CEO Harry Sommer emphasized that the new ship orders are a strategic move to introduce cutting-edge vessels into the fleet and drive long-term growth. The company aims to leverage its operating scale, strengthen its commitment to innovation, and enhance guest experiences through these new additions. Each brand will design its new ship classes to be the largest, most efficient, and most innovative in their respective fleets, with a focus on advancing the journey towards decarbonization.
While the exact cost of the ship orders was not disclosed, NCLH mentioned that export credit financing will cover 80% of the contract price for the Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises ships. The financing for the Norwegian Cruise Line ships is currently in progress. The company is optimistic about the future and sees these developments as opportunities to enhance the efficiency of its fleet and offer guests a world-class cruising experience. The construction of the new pier at Great Stirrup Cay is expected to commence this summer, with completion anticipated by late 2025.