Norwegian Cruise Line Resumes Sailing After 500 Days

The first Norwegian Cruise Line ship to set sail again after 500 days has left Greece.

The Norwegian Jade is the company’s first ship to dock in Piraeus, Athens.

Following the resumption of the line’s 17-ship fleet, Norwegian Encore will return to operation from the United States on August 7 for an initial season of Alaska cruises from Seattle.

In collaboration with local governments, fleet-wide redeployment will continue. To embark on voyages till 31st October, all passengers must be completely vaccinated.

Crete, Mykonos, Rhodes, and Santorini are among the Greek islands that Norwegian Jade will visit through November.

The ship’s arrival in Athens is part of a long-term plan to expand NCL’s footprint in Europe, with nine ships slated to dock in the region by 2023, including the Norwegian Dawn, Epic, Escape, Getaway, Gem, Jade, and Star.

Harry Sommer, the company’s president, and CEO, stated: “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.

“Norwegian Jade’s first Greek Isles voyages sold out shortly after we made the announcement that we were on our way back.

“With such strong demand, we are glad to expand our offering in Greece with seven ships through 2023, providing our guests with a range of innovative vessels and itineraries to choose from.”

Greek tourism minister Harry Theoharis added: “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.”