This Cruise Line Just Returned to Asia for the First Time in 3 Years — and It's Sailing to 11 Countries

At long last, travel to Asia is back, and that includes cruise ship itineraries. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) just returned to the region for the first time in more than three years.

"Today is a milestone moment, as we return to Asia with Norwegian Jewel’s arrival to Tokyo," David J. Herrera, president of NCL, said in a statement obtained by Travel + Leisure. 

The 2,400-passenger Norwegian Jewel will make Asia her home for the next six months, sailing to 11 countries, including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, and South Korea. Itineraries will range from 10 to 14 days, and some will even include overnights at ports like Phuket, Thailand, and Bali, Indonesia. 

This season will mark the first time in the NCL's history that a ship in the fleet will call at numerous ports across the region, including Seoul (Incheon), South Korea; Manila, Boracay, Palawan, and Salomague in the Philippines; Bintan Island, Indonesia; and Hualien, Taiwan. 

"We pride ourselves in delivering the best vacation experience and providing endless opportunities for our guests to explore the world…including Asia!" said Herrera. "This region delivers some of the most intriguing history, cuisine, and culture for travelers 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 2023 return to Asia is just the start for NCL, which plans to expand its presence in the region next year. Norwegian Spirit, Norwegian Sun, and Norwegian Sky will join Norwegian Jewel in Asia for the 2024–25 season — a record number of NCL ships in Asia at a single time. Guests will even be able to add NCL Cruise Tours onto certain itineraries, adding three-night extensions on land in Tokyo, Taipei, and Singapore.

Rates for an 11-day cruise to Singapore, Thailand, and Indonesia start at $599 per person; book your trip at ncl.com.