Norwegian Cruise Line enters mega-ship segment with new Fincantieri order

Norwegian Cruise Line has ordered four new ships of more than 220,000 gross tons from the Italian shipyard Fincantieri, putting the cruise line in the same mega-ship market as Royal Caribbean, Carnival Corporation and MSC.

The order for the quartet of 226,000 gross ton vessels was signed by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, the parent company of NCL, transforming a Letter of Intent signed in April, 2024 into a firm order.

Fincantieri and Norwegian Cruise Line did not disclose the total value of the order, but the shipyard indicated in a press release that it was greater than 2 billion euros (US $2.06 billion).

The new ships will be the largest ever built for Norwegian Cruise Line, with a similar size to MSC Cruises’ World Class and Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class. Carnival Cruise Line, which already operates the 180,000 gross ton Excel class, has also ordered a new class of 230,000 gross ton ships from Fincantieri.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s four new ships will be built at the Fincantieri Monfalcone shipyard, with the first vessel scheduled for delivery in 2030, followed by the other three in 2032, 2034, and 2036. 

With more than 5,100 berths at double occupancy, the ships will be able to accommodate a total of 8,300 people, including crew, and will be designed according to the highest standards of comfort and technology with a range of yet-to-be-announced sustainability features.

Fincantieri has previously built two ships for the Norwegian Cruise Line brand, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, while Norwegian Aqua, the first of the Prima Plus class, will be delivered in the coming months. 

Three further ships are in various stages of design and construction with the shipyard.

While Norwegian Cruise Line has not revealed any further details about its four new mega-ships, the vessels are expected to build on the brand’s signature attractions and guest experiences found aboard the Breakaway and Prima class vessels.

The ships will likely offer an array of high-energy entertainment, innovative dining, and upscale accommodations. Given the Prima class focus on expansive outdoor spaces and unique top-deck activities, these new ships could feature next-generation waterparks, enhanced go-kart racetracks, and expanded infinity pools. 

The Haven, NCL’s exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept, is likely to be further refined, offering even more luxurious suites and private amenities. 

Dining and nightlife are also expected to be a key focus, potentially introducing immersive culinary experiences, speakeasy-style bars, and futuristic entertainment venues that push the boundaries of onboard entertainment.