Norwegian Cruise Line is inviting book lovers to turn the page on their usual travel plans, offering voyages that sail straight into the heart of their favourite stories. With literary tourism on the rise, these cruises promise more than a holiday—they’re a chance to step into the settings of beloved novels and discover the history and culture that inspired them.
Imagine strolling through the shadowy Gothic Quarter of Barcelona from The Shadow of the Wind, or wandering the bustling piazzas of Naples that echo the world of Elena Ferrante’s My Brilliant Friend. The 10-day Mediterranean Cruise aboard Norwegian Breakaway, departing 9 October 2025, weaves together the magic of these two books with stops in Italy, France, and Greece—perfect for travellers who want to see literature come to life.
View of the city from Park Guell in Barcelona, Spain.
In Sicily and Kefalonia, novels like Jennifer Probst’s To Sicily with Love and Louis De Bernières’ Captain Corelli’s Mandolin set the stage for an unforgettable 10-day Cruise to the Greek Isles and Italy aboard Norwegian Epic, departing from Rome in August, September, and October 2025. Whether it’s exploring the bustling markets of Messina or discovering the ancient cathedrals of Argostoli, these ports bring the characters and cultures of these novels vividly to life.
For fans of Min Jin Lee’s Pachinko, a 14-day journey through Japan and South Korea departing 29 October 2026 on Norwegian Jade follows the saga across generations and borders, calling at Osaka and Busan along with stops in Hiroshima, Nagasaki and Kyoto. In Busan’s markets and Osaka’s backstreets, guests can trace the rich tapestry of family and cultural identity that the novel so beautifully captures.
If a romantic comedy is more your style, Christina Lauren’s The Unhoneymooners provides the perfect backdrop for a sun-drenched escape to Hawaii. Departing weekly from Honolulu, the 7-day Pride of America cruise is the only itinerary to visit four Hawaiian islands in a single week. From snorkelling in Kona to exploring the surfer town of Haleiwa, these voyages invite guests to live out their own island romance.
And for those drawn to stories of survival and redemption, Kristin Hannah’s The Great Alone finds a kindred spirit in Alaska’s vast wilderness. The 7-day Alaska Cruise on Norwegian Bliss brings guests to the dramatic landscapes of Juneau, Ketchikan and Sitka, offering everything from backcountry jeep adventures to bear rescue centres—echoing the wild and resilient spirit of the novel.
Whether you’re chasing the echoes of your favourite novels through European cities, falling in love in Hawaii, or venturing into the wilds of Alaska, Norwegian Cruise Line invites you to bring your bookshelf to life. With intimate ship spaces perfect for reading, curated itineraries, and late-night stays in port, your next great adventure might just begin with your next great read.
For bookings and more information, visit www.ncl.com.
