Life
Return to Asia with Norwegian Cruise Line
One of the great innovators in cruising, Norwegian Cruise Line, is returning to the waters of Asia in 2023.
A jewel upon the water, newly revitalised and ready for her grand return. A season of spectacular experiences awaits across destinations as diverse as Indonesia, Japan, Taiwan, Thailand and more. And, for the first time, cruises will depart from the Philippines and South Korea – that’s all just a hint of what awaits intrepid travellers as Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) returns to Asia after a three year absence with Norwegian Jewel, refreshed and ready to stun.
Consisting of 16 voyages across 11 countries, NCL’s Asia season – launching in Tokyo in October – looks set to exemplify the kind of “destination-immersion” experience that the cruise line has become renowned for in its boundary-breaking 56-year history.
Travellers can expect to enjoy itineraries that will leave them with life-long memories, thanks to country-intensive cruises and fewer sea days, with voyages ranging in length from 10 to 14 days. Make no mistake – Asia will be a hot travel trend in 2023 and beyond.
Plan Your Trip with NCL
INTOXICATING ITINERARIES
Imagine an 11-day cruise exploring Singapore, Thailand and Indonesia, visiting tropical islands such as Malaysia’s Langkawi, or Indonesia’s Lombok. Start in the cultural melting pot of Kuala Lumpur with its stunning blend of architecture old and new and its central markets.
From there to paradise with snorkelling of Sabang, before making way to the gorgeous beaches and Buddhist temples of Phuket en route to the metropolitan marvels of Penang, Jakarta, Singapore and Bali.
Perhaps you’d prefer a 10-day adventure departing from Seoul, South Korea, that takes you right into the heart and culture of Japan in a way that must be experienced to be believed. From the beauty of Nagasaki to the hot springs and cherry blossoms of Beppu, and onto the cultural epicentre of Japan’s old capital, Kyoto, before wending towards one of the great cities of the world – Tokyo – via Mount Fuji, it’s a dream-like trip that reveals this ancient, beautiful country to you in exquisite, immersive detail.
Bike riding through Bangkok, Thailand.
The stunning Twin Waterfalls in Bali, Indonesia.
GLIMMER ON THE WATER
The backdrop for all this beauty, the vessel that bears you between ports, is Norwegian Jewel, namesake of NCL’s ‘Jewel Class’ ships. Fresh from a revitalising series of upgrades, it features refreshed staterooms and bathrooms with 13 bars and 15 dining options – including Asian options Sushi, Teppanyaki and Chin Chin – as well as the exclusive suites and villas of The Haven by Norwegian®, offering enlarged accommodation, concierge, and private sundeck and pool. If ever you wished for a home away from home, it might look something like this.
With capacity for just 2,376 guests, making it a more intimate affair than some larger vessels, Norwegian Jewel also offers the Mandara Spa and Thermal Suite for those looking to pamper themselves, complete with Thalasso Therapy Pool, steam room, and sauna. Those looking to kick up their heels rather than kick back and relax are also well catered for, with on-board entertainment like Rock You Tonight, showcasing the music of Queen, The Who and Journey, as well as the acclaimed Australian musical Velvet, featuring hits like ‘Turn the Beat Around’ along with burlesque, cabaret and acrobatics.
Tables set for teppanyaki on the Norwegian Jewel.
NO TIME LIKE THE PRESENT
Those who have longed to explore this part of the globe now have the perfect invitation with NCL’s long-awaited return to Asia. Stunning locales, breathtaking experiences, and the opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the world’s most vibrant cultures – it’s the ultimate way to visit these ever-intriguing destinations, while unpacking just once.
Ben Angell, NCL VP and Managing Director, APAC expresses some of the excitement that the season is already generating among the cruise community. “After over three years, Asia is back in a big way,” he says. “We know our Australian guests can’t wait to return to this region.”
And, as Angell points out, one of the benefits of Norwegian Jewel is its smaller size. “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.”
Better still, book early and reap the rewards, as for a limited time NCL is offering savings and additional bonus inclusions such as a free beverage package, a Wi-Fi package, a speciality dining package, shore excursion credit and more. It all represents exceptional value for what promises to be an extraordinary season in Asian waters.
Perhaps it’s time you spoke to your travel professional about ticking Asia off your bucket list this year?
For more information on NCL’s Asia itineraries aboard Norwegian Jewel, visit ncl.com