Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), together with its longtime shipbuilding partner Fincantieri S.p.A., celebrated the float-out of Norwegian Aura, marking a construction milestone for the cruise company’s largest and most illuminating vessel to date. The float out, which took place at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Monfalcone, Italy, marks the first time Norwegian Aura touched water, signifying the completion of the ship’s external hull construction. Following this milestone, the ship’s interior development will continue progressing to the next phase ahead of her debut in the spring of 2027.
Marc Kazlauskas, President, Norwegian Cruise Line, said, “Norwegian Aura’s float-out is a proud and meaningful moment for our entire team. She builds on the legacy of our award-winning Prima Class while taking our commitment to thoughtfully designed guest‑first experiences even further. Created in close partnership with Fincantieri, the ship is purposefully constructed to deliver an elevated, multi-generational vacation experience, with expansive outdoor spaces like Ocean Heights that bring families and friends together for fun-filled days. With her flexible, open‑air design, Norwegian Aura is exceptionally well-suited for Caribbean itineraries, offering the perfect balance of high‑energy fun, relaxation and an effortless escape for guests of all ages.”
When she enters service, Norwegian Aura will set a new benchmark for NCL. Nearly 1,130 feet long and approximately 170,000 gross tons, the ship is 10% larger than her predecessors, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna. She will feature over 1,970 well-appointed staterooms accommodating approximately 3,880 guests at double occupancy.
Luigi Matarazzo, General Manager, Fincantieri’s Merchant Ships Division, said, “Norwegian Aura’s float-out marks a highly symbolic and operationally significant milestone in our shared journey with Norwegian Cruise Line. This vessel reflects the strength of a long-standing partnership and our ability to turn design vision and innovation into tangible solutions, helping to redefine onboard experience for future generations of guests.”
Norwegian Aura will set sail on her maiden voyage on May 21, 2027, with a seven-day Mediterranean voyage departing from Trieste, Italy and calling at ports in Italy and Malta before embarking on a 14-day transatlantic crossing to the United States. Beginning June 10, 2027, she will homeport in Miami and offer a variety of seven-day voyages to the Eastern Caribbean and Western Caribbean with visits to the company’s resort-style island destinations Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and Harvest Caye in Belize through March 2028.