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In a bold move that marks a significant expansion of its offerings, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced the launch of over 30 new port-intensive cruises across the Asia Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand. This ambitious initiative will see 85 voyages from September 2024 through March 2026 aboard the Norwegian Spirit, Sun, and Skyships making their maiden voyages in the region. For the first time in NCL’s storied history, the company will deploy the largest number of ships to this part of the world for an extended season of voyages that promise to be on many travellers’ bucket lists. The cruises will set sail from 15 departure ports, including Auckland, New Zealand; Bali (Benoa), Indonesia; Bangkok (Laem Chabang); Manila, Philippines; Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia; Seoul (Incheon), South Korea; Singapore; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan; Vancouver, Canada; Sydney, Melbourne, and, notably, Cairns, Australia, and Lautoka, Fiji for the first time. This expansion also heralds NCL’s inaugural summer cruises in Asia, offering guests an array of choices to immerse themselves in the region’s diverse scenery, culture, and culinary delights. With the Asia-Pacific area poised to be the primary driver of travel growth, up 20% over the previous year, NCL is strategically positioning itself to meet the burgeoning demand for immersive travel experiences. The newly announced nine-to-19-day voyages are designed to give guests an average of 10 hours in port, allowing ample time to explore over 60 dream destinations. These include first-time calls to Albany, Busselton, Fremantle, Port Douglas, and Townsville in Australia; Matsuyama and Niigata in Japan; Aitutaki in the Cook Islands; and Suva in Fiji. Over 18 months, travellers can also look forward to 36 overnight port stays in 11 unique Asian Pacific locations. Highlighting the itineraries are overnight stays in cities like Osaka, Japan, where over 1,600 temples await discovery; Himeji, Japan, the site of the iconic UNESCO World Heritage-listed Himeji Castle; and Tokushima, Japan, known for its rich history, culture, and culinary diversity. Other overnight destinations include Hong Kong, Bangkok (Laem Chabang), and Melbourne, Australia, each offering unique attractions and experiences. David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, expressed his enthusiasm for the new offerings: “Our Company is committed to delivering more opportunities for our guests to explore the world with remarkable vacation experiences. Having lived in Asia with my family, I can attest to it being one of those unforgettable places. With the increased interest in more immersive and exotic itineraries, we are excited to expand our season and offer additional ships to cater to travellers looking to uncover the most sought-out cities in the region and those less discovered.” As the Norwegian Spirit embarks on her grand Asian debut, the excitement aboard is palpable. Guests mingle on the sun-kissed decks, anticipating the exotic locales that await. The ship’s itinerary promises a blend of cultural immersion and unparalleled luxury, with each destination offering a unique glimpse into the heart of Asia. Tokyo, the starting point, dazzles with its neon-lit skyline and ancient temples. As the Spirit sails from this metropolis, it carries stories of samurai legends and the serene beauty of cherry blossoms. The journey continues to Himeji, where the iconic Himeji Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a testament to Japan’s feudal history. In Osaka, food lovers rejoice in the culinary delights of Dotonbori, while in Tokushima, the Awa Odori dance festival enchants with its rhythmic beauty. The Spirit then glides to Hong Kong, where traditional junks sail alongside modern yachts against the backdrop of a towering cityscape. Incheon offers a gateway to South Korea’s rich heritage, and in Taipei (Keelung), guests explore night markets that buzz with energy and flavours. The Spirit’s sojourn in Bangkok (Laem Chabang) reveals the splendour of golden temples and the vibrant street life beneath the city’s skyscrapers. As the seasons change, the Norwegian Spirit sets sail for the Southern Hemisphere, where the majestic landscapes of Australia and New Zealand beckon. From the rugged coasts of the Great Ocean Road to the serene fjords of Milford Sound, each voyage is a discovery of natural wonders. The Norwegian Sun follows suit, making her mark with an array of itineraries that showcase the best of the Pacific. Her journey through French Polynesia weaves a path of island paradises, each with its own story of paradise. The Norwegian Sky joins the fleet in Asia, offering its own curated experiences, ranging from the neon buzz of Tokyo nights to the tranquil beauty of Southeast Asian shores. Together, these ships form a constellation of journeys that promise adventure, relaxation, and memories to last a lifetime. For those who seek to deepen their journey, NCL’s Cruisetours provide an extension of the cruise experience. Whether it’s exploring the urban pulse of Singapore, the natural splendours of Auckland, or the cosmopolitan charm of Sydney, these tours offer a seamless blend of cruise and land exploration. With the Free at Sea program, every guest’s experience is tailored to personal tastes, from gourmet meals to thrilling excursions. It’s more than a cruise; it’s a journey that sails beyond the horizon, inviting travellers to discover the stories in the heart of the Asia Pacific.
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