NCL presents next generation ship, Norwegian Luna

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, has celebrated the forthcoming launch of Norwegian Luna, the company’s next cutting-edge ship, with an exclusive media event in Dubai.

 

Highlighting the importance of the MEA market to NCL, the event was hosted by Kevin Bubolz, Vice President & Managing Director of Continental Europe, Middle East & Africa (MEA), and Rebecca Ransom, Business Development Manager, MEA.

 

Norwegian Luna, set to sail a myriad of Carribean itineraries from March 2026, builds on the success of her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua, by delivering a blend of groundbreaking innovation and upscale design. As the ship’s theme, ‘Shine Brighter,’ suggests, highlights include a plethora of restaurants, a theatre which cleverly turns into a nightclub at dusk, a ‘Glow Court’ engineered for immersive play - and the return of the Aqua Slidecoaster, a hybrid waterslide and rollercoaster.

 

World renowned architects AD Associates, Piero Lissoni and Studio Dado were integral to Norwegian Luna’sdesign and the ship’s hull art is by acclaimed street artist, ELLE.

 

"The launch of Norwegian Luna represents our commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a cruise vacation can be," said Bubolz.

 

“Dubai is a forward-thinking city, one that embodies innovation and connection, which are core NCL values. We know that Norwegian Luna, with its wide-open spaces, service that puts guests first, and unmatched experiences, is perfectly positioned to appeal to our elite Middle Eastern customers.”

 

The press event highlighted key enhancements to NCL's onboard offerings, upcoming itineraries and the brand’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay:

 

Norwegian Luna’s Itineraries: Norwegian Lunawill embark on her maiden voyage on March 10, 2026, crossing the Atlantic before homeporting in Miami, the “Cruise Capital of the World,” to sail a variety of seven-day Caribbean itineraries. Cornerstones of her Caribbean voyages include visits to the Brand’s signature private destinations Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize.

 

The Haven by Norwegian: Norwegian Luna will feature 123 suites, including Three-Bedroom Duplex Suites. Guests will enjoy unparalleled privacy and personalised service with 24-hour butler and concierge service. This is complemented by stunning, unobstructed ocean views from all public spaces and suites, providing a truly immersive experience. Within the Haven by Norwegian’s exclusive enclave, guests have access to a private restaurant and bar offering elevated menu items, along with a serene sundeck featuring an infinity pool, hot tubs, a sauna, and a cold room.

 

Mandara Spa:The world-class Mandara Spa on board will be a sanctuary of wellness, complete with a two-story indoor spa waterfall, an impressive hot and cold therapy journey and advanced treatments, including IV Drip Therapy. The expanded thermal suite and returning favorites like the charcoal sauna and salt room promise a serene escape on the sea.

 

Great Stirrup Cay: NCL’s private island in the Bahamas is currently undergoing a transformative enhancement, designed to offer something for every kind of traveller. As part of a significant investment, in 2025 NCL will add a new multi-ship pier to eliminate tendering and a heated pool with swim up bars, and an island wide tram service.

 

In 2026, the new Great Tides Waterpark will launch on the island, featuring 19 waterslides and a dynamic river, this will be complemented by expanded luxury cabanas, a new Vibe Shore Club and Hammock Bay – an area boasting over fifty complimentary hammocks.

 

"We have had overwhelming enthusiasm and interest from our partners in the Middle East and Africa," said Ransom. "We are thrilled to be here in the region with our VP Kevin, sharing these exciting NCL launches and reinforcing our dedication to this market. These enhancements, from the luxurious Haven to the new experiences at Great Stirrup Cay, are designed to meet the evolving demands of our discerning guests."

 

Sister ship Norwegian Viva, will sail a variety of exciting European voyages next year, with limited sea days, longer stays in port and itineraries which encompass the best of beach, city, culture and history and will sail from easily accessible destinations such as Barcelona and Rome. -TradeArabia News Service