Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings announced a newbuild order with Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for a third Prestige‑Class vessel that will join Regent Seven Seas Cruises’ existing fleet of two ultra‑luxury ships. The new ship, scheduled for delivery in 2033, will be 77,000 tons, 40 % larger than Regent’s earlier vessels, and will accommodate 822 guests with 630 crew members—an increase in guest capacity of only 10 % despite the larger size.
The order is a key element of NCLH’s “Charting the Course” strategy, which targets a 4 % compound annual growth rate in capacity through 2036 and a 39 % Adjusted EBITDA margin by 2026. By adding a third Prestige‑Class ship, the company expands its ultra‑luxury footprint, enabling more itineraries and higher‑priced staterooms that drive revenue per available berth and support margin expansion.
Financially, the contract is estimated to be worth between $550 million and $1.15 billion, subject to financing. The new build follows the 2022 and 2026 deliveries of the first two Prestige‑Class ships and fits into NCLH’s broader plan to add 14 new vessels across its three brands by 2036, increasing total capacity by more than 39,200 berths.
The ultra‑luxury cruise market is growing at roughly three times the pace of the overall industry, driven by rising disposable incomes and a demand for personalized, all‑inclusive experiences. Regent’s new ship will strengthen its position against competitors such as Seabourn, Crystal, and Silversea, and will allow the brand to capture a larger share of this high‑margin segment.
Management emphasized the strategic importance of the order. Jason Montague, Chief Luxury Officer, said the new build “continues our measured, strategic expansion within the luxury space, providing guests with yet another way to experience the unrivaled aboard the world’s most luxurious fleet.” Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO of Fincantieri, noted that the contract “confirms the strength of our relationship and our role as a reference partner in the ultra‑luxury segment represented by Regent Seven Seas Cruises.”
The partnership also underscores a shared commitment to sustainability, with Fincantieri integrating cutting‑edge environmental technologies into the ship’s design. The long‑term confidence expressed by both companies signals that demand for ultra‑luxury cruising is expected to remain robust, even amid broader economic uncertainties.
The content on BeyondSPX is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial or investment advice. We are not financial advisors. Consult with a qualified professional before making any investment decisions. Any actions you take based on information from this site are solely at your own risk.