Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is making another bold move toward the future of cruising. In a newly announced agreement with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings ordered three new ships that will expand its fleet well into the next decade.
The agreement secures construction slots for one vessel each for Oceania Cruises, Reagent Seven Seas, and Norwegian Cruise Line — whose newest ships include Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Luna, and Norwegian Aura. The new ship deliveries are scheduled between 2036 and 2037. The move reflects a carefully paced expansion strategy designed to strengthen the company’s long-term position in the cruise industry.
The announcement comes just days after Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings revealed a major leadership change, naming John W. Chidsey as its new president and CEO, succeeding Harry Sommer. Chidsey, who previously led global brands such as Subway and Burger King, steps into the role as the company advances its long-term fleet expansion strategy across Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
The timing of these announcements align with the company’s commitment to growth and strategic investment under new leadership, as fresh ship orders signal confidence in continued demand through the mid-2030s.
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings orders three new ships across all three brands
Unlike single-brand expansions, this agreement supports growth across the company’s entire portfolio across its three cruise lines.
Each ship will be purpose-built for its respective brand:
- A next-generation vessel for Norwegian Cruise Line
- A sister ship to Oceania’s upcoming Sonata class
- A new luxury vessel for Regent Seven Seas Cruises
By investing in all three segments, including mainstream, premium and ultra-luxury, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is positioning itself to meet evolving traveler demand while maintaining brand distinction.
This latest order brings NCLH’s total newbuild pipeline to 17 ships across its three brands, reflecting an integrated strategy aimed at carefully paced capacity growth. The company estimates this will support an approximate four percent compound annual growth rate (CAGR) from 2026 through 2037.
A measured approach to fleet expansion
While the announcement signals long-term growth for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, the financial structure behind the agreement is noteworthy.
According to the company, pre-delivery payments are expected to remain manageable, with the majority of ship financing planned through export credit agencies at delivery. This approach allows the cruise operator to continue strengthening its balance sheet while securing shipyard capacity through 2037.
With the company’s total pipeline increasing to 17 ships across its brands, thus supporting steady capacity growth over the next decade. The expansion will gradually reshape the fleet, which currently includes ships spanning multiple generations.
What this means for Norwegian’s long-term outlook
For travelers, long-term ship orders like this often signal confidence in the cruise line’s longevity. New ships typically bring updated design concepts, enhanced sustainability features, and refreshed onboard experiences.
With deliveries still years away, details remain limited. But the announcement makes one thing clear: Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings is planning well ahead, ensuring it has the ships — and the shipyard space — to compete in a growing global cruise market.
