After a 500-day suspension, Norwegian Cruise Line has returned to cruising with Norwegian Jade.
In addition to being the first of the company’s 17-ship fleet to welcome guests after 500 days, Norwegian Jade is also the first vessel to homeport in Athens (Piraeus).
Until November 2021, guests sailing aboard Norwegian Jade’s Greek Isles itinerary will be able to spend hours exploring some of Greece’s most picturesque islands including luxurious Crete, bustling Mykonos, historical Rhodes, and the iconic blue and white Santorini.
Greek minister of tourism Harry Theoharis said:
“We are overjoyed to welcome Norwegian Jade and her guests to Greece. The planned itineraries will offer unique experiences that combine our rich history, bustling culture and famous gastronomy.”
The American cruise line stated that Norwegian Jade’s deployment in Athens is part of a long-term strategy to further increase NCL’s presence in Europe.
By 2023, the company plans to position nine ships in the region, with Norwegian Dawn, Epic, Escape, Getaway, Gem, Jade, and Star scheduled to sail in Greece.
Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line said:
“Welcoming our guests and crew onboard has been one of the most memorable moments of my over 30-year career.
“We are excited to embark on the Great Cruise Comeback with a brand-new itinerary and homeport for our brand, offering our guests an even greater selection of unique vacations at sea.”
Ben Angell, vice president, and managing director, APAC at Norwegian Cruise Line added:
“Our long-awaited global return to cruising marks an incredibly significant moment for our brand but also brings us one step closer to our restart in the Asia Pacific region. When Norwegian Sun arrives in the region for the very first time in 2022, guests will have the chance to experience NCL’s Freestyle cruising right from their doorstep.”
On August 7, 2021, Norwegian Encore will be the first ship to return to service from the US, when she debuts in Seattle for her inaugural season of Alaska cruises.
The fleetwide redeployment will continue in partnership with local governments and are guided by the robust protocols of the Company’s Sail Safe health and safety programme.
