After a pandemic pause, Norwegian Cruise Line returned to Asia for the first time in three years last week as the Norwegian Jewel set sail from Tokyo to begin an extensive six-month season of voyages in the region.

“Today is a milestone moment,” said NCL President David J. Herrera. “We pride ourselves in delivering the best vacation experience and providing endless opportunities for our guests to explore the world… including Asia!

He added, “This region delivers some of the most intriguing history, cuisine, and culture for travellers to discover, and we are thrilled to deliver a diverse selection of port-rich voyages. This market is important to us, and we are committed to servicing it in the long term.”

The Jewel will visit 11 countries and sailing from nine different departure ports, including Bangkok (Laem Chabang) Thailand; Kuala Lumpur (Port Klang) Malaysia; Singapore; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Bali (Benoa), Indonesia; Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan; and for the first time, Seoul (Incheon), South Korea.

Cruises range in length from 10 to 14 days with an average of less than two sea days per sailing, inviting guests to spend 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, Thailand; Osaka, Japan; and Bali (Benoa), Indonesia. The brand will also make its first calls to Manila, Boracay, Palawan and Salomague, Philippines; Bintan Island, Indonesia; and Hualien, Taiwan.

NCL says it will have a record four ships deployed in the region during the 2024/25 season, underlying its commitment to Asia, both as a source market and destination, NCL will. In addition to the Jewel, Norwegian Spirit, Sun, and Sky will also visit destinations including Japan, Korea, Thailand, Taiwan, Vietnam, Philippines, and Malaysia.