As global cruise demand continues to surge, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is charting a new course for growth in Australia and the wider Asia-Pacific region.
Under the banner “Near and Far,” NCL is doubling down on both close-to-home and long-haul cruising, expanding itineraries across Asia, the South Pacific and Australia/New Zealand, while continuing to build on its global strengths in Europe, Hawaii and Alaska.
“We’re seeing incredible global demand,” said Ben Angell, NCL’s Vice President and Managing Director for Asia-Pacific, speaking in Sydney last week. “Post-COVID, cruising is booming and Australians are right at the centre of that growth.”
Angell said the region has reached “a tipping point,” as more Australians look beyond traditional domestic itineraries to explore further afield.
“We’re seeing new segments coming into cruise — younger demographics, multi-generational families and people who might once have stayed on land but now see cruising as great value,” he said.
According to Angell, 78% of past cruisers planned to sail again in 2025, while 26% of non-cruisers are planning their first cruise.
“That tells us the momentum is real. We’re moving from a niche to a mainstream holiday option.”
At the heart of the expansion is NCL’s Norwegian Spirit, which will return for her third and fourth seasons (2025–27), bringing 24 sailings and 22 unique itineraries.
The ship will make her first-ever call to Fremantle on December 9 — marking a milestone arrival for the brand on the west coast and opening a new gateway for local travellers to embark directly from home.
The itineraries will feature maiden calls to Port Eden, Kangaroo Island and Norfolk Island, along with the brand’s first-ever four-night “Taste of Christmas” Sydney round trip.
“This demonstrates a commitment to this region like never before,” Angell said. “We’re designing a product specifically for Australian and New Zealand guests, not just international visitors flying in.”
The “Near” side of the strategy includes increased capacity in Asia and the South Pacific, with 40 immersive itineraries ranging from nine to 19 days, departing from seven major ports. These itineraries are designed for guests seeking more cultural immersion and longer in-port stays, often averaging 11 hours per destination.
“Travellers today want more than a checklist. They want to experience culture, cuisine and connection,” Angell said. “That’s where we see the biggest growth opportunity.”
NCL’s “Near and Far” approach reflects the evolving mindset of Australian travellers. Many are discovering that shorter regional itineraries can be just as rewarding as far-flung adventures — and that NCL’s variety makes both possible.
“We’re reframing the conversation,” Angell said. “This is about three pillars: international fly-cruise, domestic homeport and outbound fly-cruise. NCL is committed to all three.”
