Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is counting down to its much-awaited return to sailing in Asia after more than three years, when the newly revitalised Norwegian Jewel makes her grand return to Tokyo on 19 October 2023.
Norwegian Cruise Line vice president Ben Angell said that Asia is back after three years, and in a big way too.
“We know our New Zealand guests can’t wait to return to this incredible region and as a smaller ship, Norwegian Jewel is the perfect size to explore Asia’s lesser-known ports, while offering all the features we know local cruisers love, including the hit Australian disco and burlesque show, ‘Velvet’,” said Agnell.
Norwegian Jewel’s extensive six-month Asia season will offer 16 immersive, port-rich itineraries visiting 11 countries and sailing from nine different departure ports, including Tokyo and Yokohama, Taipei (Keelung), Bangkok (Laem Chabang), Bali (Benoa), and Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang). With cruises ranging in length from 10-14 days, the season features Norwegian Cruise Line’s first departures from Manila, Philippines and Seoul (Incheon), South Korea, as well as six new other ports of call.
A focus on destination immersion means guests will enjoy country-intensive cruises that uncover the wonders of trending destinations like Japan, the Philippines and Indonesia, with itineraries that allow cruisers to book-end their trip with land tours, paired together with fewer sea days, longer stays in port and more overnights.
Boasting an average of less than two sea days per sailing, up to 13.5 hours in destinations like Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, as well as extended overnight stays in places that come alive at night, such as Phuket, Osaka and Bali, the Norwegian Jewel provides the ultimate way to explore vibrant Asia.
With a capacity for 2,376 guests, the Norwegian Jewel boasts 13 bars and 15 dining options, including three Asian restaurants: Sushi, Teppanyaki and Chin Chin, where friendly wait-staff serve up freshly prepared noodles and wok-fried dishes.
Guests can get active on the sports court for a game of basketball or indulge in wellness at Mandara Spa and Thermal Suite, complete with Thalasso Therapy Pool, steam room and sauna.
Show-stopping entertainment includes Rock You Tonight, a high-energy production showcasing music from the rock icons of Queen, Journey and The Who, as well as 'Velvet,' the critically acclaimed Australian musical that features disco classics like ‘Turn the Beat Around’ and ‘Boogie Wonderland’, fused with burlesque, cabaret and acrobatic circus elements.
The newly revitalized ship boasts completely refreshed accommodations, including staterooms, suites and bathrooms throughout, for the ultimate home away from home. Those with a taste for the finer things in life will fall in love with The Haven by Norwegian. Located at the top of the ship, The Haven houses NCL’s most elevated suites and villas accommodating up to eight people, complete with a concierge and 24-hour butler service, a private sundeck and a pool exclusively for guests of The Haven.
