Norwegian Cruise Line to Add 13 New Ships by 2036

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has announced far-reaching plans to expand and modernize its fleet over the next decade. The company intends to introduce 13 new ships across its three brands—Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises—adding approximately 41,000 berths. According to officials, these vessels will feature cutting-edge amenities designed to meet the evolving expectations of contemporary cruisers.

Long-Term Fleet Expansion and Ship Maintenance

CEO Harry Sommer, speaking during the Q4 2024 earnings call, emphasized the company’s commitment to retaining older ships even as new ones come online. “One of the blessings of coming on after the previous CEO is that our ships are extraordinarily well maintained,” Sommer said, citing Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sky—both nearing 30 years of service—as examples of how regular upkeep can extend a vessel’s operational life. Sommer further underscored that passenger satisfaction remains high on older vessels, reinforcing NCLH’s decision to keep them sailing for years to come.

Focus on Ocean Cruises, Not River Expeditions

While some major competitors have entered the river cruise market, Sommer confirmed that Norwegian Cruise Line has no plans to follow suit. “We are very happy with our current strategy and direction,” he stated. The company aims to retain its focus on ocean cruises, where it believes it can leverage its robust order book and industry expertise. NCLH’s upcoming launches include Norwegian Aqua in April 2025 and Oceania’s Allura in July, highlighting the continued drive toward innovation and passenger-centric design.

Enhanced Private Island Experience at Great Stirrup Cay

NCLH’s growth strategy also includes substantial investment in its private island property, Great Stirrup Cay. A new two-ship pier, slated for completion by late 2025, is expected to enhance accessibility and guest convenience. Company projections indicate that the island will eventually host more than one million passengers annually, up from 400,000 in 2024. Sommer views this expansion as a crucial step toward both boosting Caribbean deployments and generating added economic opportunities in the region.

Geopolitical Developments and Global Expansion

NCLH continues to monitor international developments, especially in the Middle East and Europe, where improved relations could open up itineraries once canceled due to regional tensions. Sommer noted the potential resumption of cruises to destinations like St. Petersburg if ongoing peace efforts continue to take hold. While the company remains watchful about possible tax policy shifts under the U.S. administration, Sommer expressed confidence that Norwegian can adapt to any regulatory changes and capitalize on high-demand markets worldwide.

Commitment to Sustainability

Environmental stewardship is another key focus for the company. In addition to adopting biodiesel and shore power capabilities, NCLH is introducing advanced technologies such as fleet-wide Starlink WiFi to reduce its environmental footprint and enhance connectivity at sea. “We are very passionate about what we do today because we do it well,” Sommer said, underscoring how delivering superior guest experiences can align with strong financial results.

With fleet enhancements, technological innovations, and a growing private island presence, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings appears poised for sustained growth. Company leaders remain confident in their strategy to keep older vessels sailing while rolling out next-generation ships, all with an eye toward market opportunities and guest satisfaction.

What are Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings’ fleet expansion plans?

The company intends to introduce 13 new ships over the next 10 years across Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Collectively, these vessels will add approximately 41,000 berths to its fleet by 2036.

Will Norwegian Cruise Line retire any of its older ships?

CEO Harry Sommer stated that the company does not plan to retire its oldest ships soon. Vessels like Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Sky are still performing well thanks to rigorous maintenance, and passenger satisfaction remains high.

Why is Norwegian investing in Great Stirrup Cay?

A significant upgrade to Great Stirrup Cay’s infrastructure—namely, a new two-ship pier—will be completed by late 2025. This enhancement will allow the island to welcome over one million guests per year by 2026, boosting both guest experience and regional economic opportunities.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line plan to enter the river cruise market?

Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed it has no intention of venturing into river cruising. The company remains focused on ocean voyages, citing its robust order book and established expertise in that segment.

What sustainability initiatives is Norwegian adopting?

NCLH is implementing biodiesel and shore power capabilities throughout its fleet to lessen environmental impact. The company has also introduced fleet-wide Starlink WiFi to enhance onboard connectivity while reinforcing its broader commitment to responsible cruising.