Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) began accepting reservations on October 24, 2026, for its new ship Norwegian Bella, which will debut Mediterranean cruises in May 2028. The vessel will offer seven-day round-trip itineraries departing from Barcelona, Spain, and accommodate 3,921 guests based on double occupancy. Norwegian Bella measures approximately 1,129 feet in length and is rated at 170,000 gross tons.
Mediterranean Itineraries and Shipbuilding
Norwegian Bella’s inaugural season includes stops in key Mediterranean ports such as Rome, Florence, and Salerno in Italy; Marseille in France; and Palma de Mallorca in Spain. The new ship will be the largest in the NCL fleet, matching Norwegian Aura,
and both are under construction by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. Norwegian Aura is scheduled for delivery in May 2027 and will sail the Caribbean, while Norwegian Bella will operate in Europe starting in May 2028.
Onboard Features and Design
The ship’s design integrates guest feedback from NCL’s Prima Class vessels to enhance flexibility and outdoor space. Norwegian Bella includes a multi-level open-air area called Ocean Heights that spans decks 18 through 21, offering a sun-soaked environment by day and a social atmosphere featuring LED lighting by night. Family-oriented attractions include water slides such as Eclipse Racers, Bella Free Fall, and The Wave raft slide, as
well as The Drop dry slide and the Bella Ropes Course. Additional entertainment consists of a nine-hole mini golf course and the Moon Climber adventure course.
Deck 8 houses Ocean Boulevard, a signature promenade encompassing enhanced seating, hot tubs, an outdoor bar, and the Infinity Beach infinity pools and daybeds. Dedicated children’s zones include Little Explorers’ Cay for ages 2–6, Adventure Alley for ages 6–10, and the teen-focused Surf’s Bay. The pool deck is over 15% larger than comparable decks on Norwegian Aqua and Luna, featuring an infinity hot tub, LED screen, Kids’ Aqua Park, two family water slides, and
Horizon Park lawn games. Adults can enjoy Vibe Beach Club, an exclusive area with hot tubs, an oceanfront bar, and sun loungers.
Accommodation and Artwork
Norwegian Bella offers nearly 2,000 staterooms across various categories including inside rooms, studios, and balcony cabins. The ship includes 159 suites within The Haven by Norwegian, an exclusive ship-within-a-ship designed by Piero Lissoni and located aft. Haven guests have access to private elevators, a sundeck with an infinity pool, hot tubs, an outdoor sauna with a cold room, private dining and lounge spaces, and 24-hour butler and concierge services, as well as priority boarding and reservations.
Australian contemporary
artist George Rose created the hull artwork for Norwegian Bella. Her design incorporates vibrant botanical motifs with organic shapes and dynamic color gradients, intended to evoke the excitement of travel and exploration.
Official Statements and Booking Availability
Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, said Norwegian Bella represents the culmination of the Prima Class ships and integrates top guest experiences in a single vessel. He noted that the ship’s design focuses on flexible vacation options, featuring expanded outdoor spaces and family-friendly attractions.
Artist George Rose commented that designing the hull art allowed her to capture the wonder inspired by travel with vivid colors and movement.
Bookings for Norwegian Bella, sailing from May 2028, are now available, expanding NCL’s presence in the European cruise market with new entertainment, family activities, and luxury accommodations according to India Gazette.
