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NCL reveals brand new cruise ship for 2026 – what to expect

Norwegian Luna has been revealed as the next new cruise ship to join the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet – here’s what we know so far.

Norwegian Cruise Line has introduced the latest addition to its Prima Plus Class, the all-new Norwegian Luna, now open for bookings.

This marks NCL’s 21st ship in its innovative fleet. Guests can choose from a variety of sun-soaked voyages, sailing roundtrip from Miami starting April 4, 2026, through November 2026.

Where will Norwegian Luna sail?

Norwegian Luna will begin its inaugural Caribbean season with two western itineraries, visiting Roatan Island, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Harvest Caye, Belize, NCL’s private resort-style destination.

Following this, the Norwegian Cruise Line ship will offer seven-day Eastern Caribbean cruises, with stops at Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private Bahamian island, featuring a new pier by late 2025.

 

– READ MORE: Full list of new cruise ships sailing in 2025

How is Norwegian Luna different to other NCL ships?

At 1,056 feet in length, with a gross tonnage of 156,300, and accommodating 3,550 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Luna is 10 percent larger than its Prima Class predecessors, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva.

Designed as a twin to Norwegian Aqua, which launches in March 2025, both ships are being constructed by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with interiors designed by top architects such as AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado.

David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, commented: “Inspired by the relationship between the moon and the tides of the ocean, we are excited to introduce Norwegian Luna as the vessel that perfectly complements her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua.

“The debut of Norwegian Luna truly showcases our ongoing commitment to providing guests more of what they enjoy and value – a brand-new ship with the latest, innovative offerings sailing to the beautiful, tropical destinations of the Caribbean. It’s important to give our guests more to see, more to do, more to enjoy on board and ultimately more out of their cruise vacation. We can’t wait for them to experience Norwegian Luna!”

 

– READ MORE: What’s onboard upcoming NCL ship Norwegian Aqua

What’s onboard new Norwegian Luna?

The hull of Norwegian Luna will feature vibrant artwork titled ‘La Luna,’ created by celebrated street artist ELLE. This dreamscape explores humanity’s connection to the moon, offering a striking visual for guests as they embark on their journey.

The ship will offer thrilling experiences, including the Aqua Slidecoaster — a hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide set to be the longest and fastest at sea. Complete with exhilarating dual slides and a magnetic lift that propels adventurous guests through two different courses, this attraction will feature three stories of exciting twists and turns around the ship’s funnel.

The ship also features the Glow Court, a digital sports complex that transforms into a nightclub in the evening, as well as popular attractions like The Drop, a 10-storey free-fall slide, and the outdoor Stadium space for complimentary activities.

Norwegian Luna will also introduce luxurious accommodations, including the Three-Bedroom Duplex Haven Suites, featuring private living and dining areas, balconies, and access to exclusive amenities in The Haven by Norwegian complex.

Guests will enjoy returning favourites like Ocean Boulevard, a 46,000-square-foot outdoor walkway; Vibe Beach Club, an adults-only lounge; Infinity Beach; and an upper pool deck with sun-soaking daybeds. Dining options will include the new Thai speciality restaurant, Sukhothai, and Indulge Food Hall with 10 diverse food stations, alongside returning favourites such as Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Onda by Scarpetta.

Additional features of Norwegian Luna will be revealed in the new year, enhancing the guest experience even further.

 

– READ MORE: 6 still-warm Italy places to visit on an autumn NCL cruise

What else is new with Norwegian Cruise Line?

Norwegian Cruise Line also recently unveiled two exclusive entertainment experiences set to debut on its upcoming ship, Norwegian Aqua, launching in April 2025: “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince” and “Elements: The World Expanded.”

These new offerings, along with a diverse lineup of entertainment including NCL-exclusive productions and returning guest favourites, will provide something for everyone. “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” a tribute show developed in collaboration with Prince Legacy, LLC and Primary Wave Music, will honour the legendary artist with a concert-like experience featuring hits like “Let’s Go Crazy,” “Little Red Corvette,” and “Purple Rain.”

NCL’s top-rated show, “Elements,” will also be reimagined as “Elements: The World Expanded,” blending acrobatics, magic, and intrigue with themes of earth, wind, water, and fire for a stunning performance.

In addition to these shows, other onboard entertainment includes “The Improv at Sea” comedy club, “The Price is Right LIVE on NCL” game show, and “Syd Norman’s Presents: Rumours,” a Fleetwood Mac tribute performance.

The Aqua Theater & Club will be a three-story venue transforming from a theater to a Vegas-style nightclub with themed events like a ’90s party, a Latin music night, and a Prince-inspired “Pop Life” club experience. The entertainment will also include a new in-house production, “The Welcome Aboard Show,” and the popular “Ocean Music Fest,” a jam session featuring multiple musicians.

Starting in April 2025, Norwegian Aqua will sail seven-day Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida, with stops at Puerto Plata, Tortola, St. Thomas, and NCL’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay. The ship will also offer Bermuda and Eastern Caribbean itineraries from New York City and Miami later in the year.

 

– READ MORE: Full list of all the new ships that launched this year

Author

Harriet Mallinson

Sailawaze Editor Harriet has been a travel writer for nine years and specialised in cruising for more than three. Globetrotting highlights include flyboarding in Malaga, exploring waterfalls in Belize, ziplining in Costa Rica, truffle-hunting in Tuscany and whale-watching in Iceland. Next on her cruise bucket list is Antarctica – or any opportunity to see the Northern Lights!

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Published 19.09.24