Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has undertaken a historic expansion, commissioning eight new vessels over the next decade.
- The new order introduces nearly 25,000 berths, enhancing each of NCLH’s three brands: Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
- A multi-ship pier will also be constructed at Great Stirrup Cay, NCLH’s private Caribbean island.
- Scheduled deliveries span from 2026 to 2036, including Prima-Plus class ships and brand new classes.
- Export credit financing has been secured for Oceania and Regent vessels, facilitating 80% of contract costs.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has embarked on a significant milestone by placing an order for eight new build ships, marking the most extensive shipbuilding project in its history. This ambitious initiative is set to add nearly 25,000 berths, catering distinctly to its three well-known brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
As part of this strategic expansion, a new multi-ship pier is planned at Great Stirrup Cay, NCLH’s exclusive island in the Bahamas. This development signifies the company’s commitment to enhancing its Caribbean offerings, consolidating its position in the region as a premier cruise line operator.
Spanning a decade, from 2026 to 2036, this delivery schedule includes the launch of four Prima-Plus class ships, expected between 2025 and 2028, each around 200,000 gross tons with a capacity to accommodate almost 5,000 guests. These vessels will bolster Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet, promising advanced features and heightened guest experiences.
Oceania Cruises is slated to receive two Allura class ships, scheduled for delivery in 2027 and 2029. Each of these vessels will weigh 86,000 gross tons and will host approximately 1,450 passengers, embracing Oceania Cruises’ reputation for refined, luxurious travel experiences.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises will welcome two new ships to its fleet, each 77,000 gross tons and designed to accommodate 850 guests, with deliveries set for 2026 and 2029. These additions are expected to elevate the Regent brand’s commitment to exclusive and opulent cruising.
Each brand will collaborate with Fincantieri, an esteemed Italian shipbuilder, to design these remarkable vessels, emphasizing efficiency, innovation, and sustainability. NCLH has already secured export credit financing to cover 80% of the contract price for Oceania and Regent’s new ships, ensuring financial stability and underlining their strategic financial planning.
However, the financial arrangement for Norwegian Cruise Line’s vessels is still pending, reflecting an ongoing phase of negotiation. NCLH’s president and CEO, Harry Sommer, asserted that this bold move is aimed at leveraging operational scale, steering innovation, and offering exceptional products and services to guests.
NCLH’s expansive vessel order underlines its strategic growth and commitment to innovation across its cruise brands.
