Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Expands Fleet with Fincantieri Partnership
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has embarked on an ambitious journey to expand its fleet. The company has secured a long-term shipbuilding agreement with the renowned Italian shipyard, Fincantieri. This strategic partnership will see the delivery of new vessels for each of NCLH’s three cruise brands by 2037.
### A Ship for Every Brand
The agreement includes one ship each for Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. This move underscores NCLH’s commitment to enhancing its diverse portfolio. From contemporary megaships to ultra-luxury cruising, the company is set to cater to a wide range of cruise enthusiasts. The vessels are scheduled for delivery in 2036 and 2037, although timelines may vary for each brand.
### Securing Future Shipyard Capacity
In an increasingly competitive global cruise market, securing shipyard capacity is crucial. This new order ensures NCLH has access to Fincantieri’s shipbuilding expertise well into the next decade. It’s a strategic move that supports the company’s long-term growth and strengthens its market position.
### Norwegian Cruise Line’s New Class
For Norwegian Cruise Line, this agreement adds a fourth vessel to its upcoming, yet unnamed class. The first ship in this series is set to debut in 2030. It will be the largest class ever constructed for the brand, with a gross tonnage of approximately 225,000. These ships are expected to rival Royal Caribbean’s Oasis class in size. Each vessel will accommodate around 5,100 guests at double occupancy, highlighting Norwegian’s focus on high-capacity, amenity-rich designs.
### Expanding Oceania and Regent Fleets
Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises are also set to expand their fleets. Oceania’s new vessel will be a sister ship to Oceania Sonata, launching in 2027 as the first in the Sonata class. Meanwhile, Regent’s addition will mirror Seven Seas Prestige, debuting in December 2026 as the inaugural ship in the Prestige class.
### A Vision for the Future
John W. Chidsey, President and CEO of NCLH, expressed confidence in the partnership with Fincantieri. He emphasised the disciplined approach to fleet growth, which builds on the strength of their brands. This agreement not only secures shipyard capacity through 2037 but also supports long-term growth and sustainable shareholder value.
### Seventeen Ships on the Horizon
With this latest agreement, NCLH now has 17 ships on order across its three brands. For Norwegian Cruise Line, the order book includes Norwegian Luna in 2026, Norwegian Aura in 2027, and a Prima Plus class vessel in 2028. New class ships will follow in 2030, 2032, 2034, 2036, and 2037. Oceania Cruises is preparing for Oceania Sonata in 2027 and Oceania Areitta in 2029, with additional Sonata class ships planned for 2032, 2035, and 2037. Regent Seven Seas Cruises will welcome Seven Seas Prestige in 2026, with further Prestige class vessels due in 2030, 2033, and 2036.
### Looking Ahead
This strategic expansion reflects NCLH’s vision for the future of cruising. By investing in new ships and innovative designs, the company aims to elevate the guest experience. Cruise holidaygoers from the UK and beyond can look forward to exciting new adventures on the horizon.
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