By
Laura Hyde |
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (NCLH) has ordered three new cruise ships from Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri for its Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises brands. The ships are scheduled to be delivered between 2036 and 2037.
The newbuild for Norwegian Cruise Lines will be a sister ship to the previously announced Norwegian Cruise Line newbuilds order.
Oceania Cruises will gain a fifth Sonata class ship. It is hoped the ship will build on the “remarkable momentum” of Oceania Sonata, the first Sonata class ship expected to begin operations in August 2027.Construction on Oceania Sonata began in early February 2026 with a keel laying ceremony at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Marghera, Italy. The new ship will have capacity for approximately 1,390 guests.
“Oceania Sonata will set a new benchmark for spaciousness, artistry and residential comfort,” said Jason Montague, chief luxury officer of Oceania Cruises. “The record-setting demand for Oceania Sonata affirms that travellers are seeking choice, connection and authentic experiences. The addition of a fifth Sonata Class ship allows us to provide our guests even more enriching, experiential travel opportunities.”
The Regent Seven Seas Cruises newbuild will be the fourth Prestige class ship in the line’s fleet and will accommodate up to 822 guests. The Prestige class is expected to make its debut in December 2026 with Seven Seas Prestige, which was floated out at the Marghera shipyard in December 2025.
“These next‑generation ships will bring together advanced technology, design excellence, a strong focus on sustainability, energy efficiency and passenger experience, and the industrial strength of our shipyards, reaffirming Fincantieri’s role at the forefront of cruise innovation,” said Pierroberto Folgiero, CEO and managing director of Fincantieri. “Today, we further enhance our long‑term visibility and secure a solid workload across our shipyards through 2037, enabling us to plan future investments in capacity, digitalisation, and sustainable shipbuilding. Together, we are shaping the future of cruising by delivering long‑term value and new benchmarks of excellence.”
NCLH now has a total of 17 newbuilds on order: eight for Norwegian Cruise Lines; five for Oceania Cruises; and four for Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
“Together with Fincantieri, a trusted partner for decades, we continue to advance a disciplined approach to fleet growth that builds on the strength of our brands, defines the future of cruising and elevates the guest experience for years to come,” said John W. Chidsey, president and CEO of NCLH. “This agreement secures access to valuable shipyard capacity through the end of 2037, supporting our long-term growth while maintaining financial discipline and driving sustainable shareholder value.”