Norwegian Cruise Line Goes Big: 4 New Mega Ships Ordered from Fincantieri – How They Compare to the Competition
Norwegian Prima Float Out at Fincantieri © Fincantieri
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) has finalized an agreement with Fincantieri for the construction of four brand-new cruise ships, solidifying a significant expansion for the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) brand. The firm order follows a Letter of Intent announced in April 2024 and marks a major milestone for the cruise industry.
The Largest Ships Ever Built for NCL
These new ships will each boast a gross tonnage of approximately 226,000 tons, making them the largest ever built for NCL. They will be constructed at the Fincantieri Monfalcone shipyard, with deliveries scheduled in 2030, 2032, 2034, and 2036. The vessels will accommodate 5,100 passengers at double occupancy, with a total capacity of over 8,300 people, including crew. They will feature state-of-the-art technology, sustainability enhancements, and luxurious accommodations.
NCL New Ship Size Compared to Icon of the Seas & Other New Ships
To put NCL’s latest order in perspective, let’s compare these new ships with other recent flagship vessels from major cruise lines:
| Ship | Cruise Line | Gross Tonnage | Passenger Capacity (Double Occupancy) |
Year Launched |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New NCL Ships | Norwegian Cruise Line | 226,000 | 5,100 | 2030-2036 |
| Norwegian Aqua | Norwegian Cruise Line | 156,300 | 3,571 | 2025 |
| Norwegian Encore | Norwegian Cruise Line | 169,145 | 3,998 | 2019 |
| Icon of the Seas | Royal Caribbean | 250,800 | 5,610 | 2024 |
| Celebrity Xcel | Celebrity Cruises | 140,600 | 3,260 | 2025 |
| Sun Princess | Princess Cruises | 175,500 | 4,300 | 2024 |
| Carnival Jubilee | Carnival Cruise Line | 183,900 | 5,374 | 2023 |
| MSC World America | MSC Cruises | 215,863 | 5,240 | 2025 |
© FreestyleTravelers.com | Data as of Feb 2025
Compared to the Icon of the Seas, NCL’s new ships will be slightly smaller in gross tonnage but will accommodate a comparable number of passengers at double occupancy. Their size will also surpass Carnival Jubilee and Sun Princess, both of which represent the latest innovations in their respective fleets.
The Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Encore, which are currently part of NCL’s fleet, provide insight into how these future ships might be designed. Norwegian Aqua, set to launch in 2025, is part of the Prima Plus class and features an enhanced onboard experience. Norwegian Encore, launched in 2019, was the last of the Breakaway-Plus class ships and set new standards for entertainment and onboard activities at the time. The new NCL class will build on these designs while introducing even more innovations.
Commitment to Innovation and Sustainability
NCL is designing these ships with cutting-edge sustainability features, including advanced energy efficiency technologies, alternative fuel capabilities, and state-of-the-art waste management systems. These innovations align with the cruise line’s ongoing efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and meet the industry's evolving environmental standards.
NCL Prima Delivery Signing from Fincantieri
What This Means for NCL and the Industry
This massive order signifies NCL’s long-term commitment to growth and innovation in the cruise industry. With the first ship set to debut in 2030, these new vessels will redefine what’s possible for cruising, offering expanded amenities, improved onboard experiences, and a focus on sustainable operations.
As construction progresses, NCL is expected to reveal more details about the onboard experience, including entertainment, dining, and unique features that will set these ships apart from competitors.
$NCLH
