Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has opened reservations for its new ship Norwegian Bella, which will begin sailings from European ports in May 2028, according to India Gazette.
Norwegian Bella, a Prima-class vessel, measures approximately 1,129 feet in length with a gross tonnage of about 170,000 tons. The ship will accommodate 3,921 guests at double occupancy, making it one of the largest in NCL’s fleet alongside Norwegian Aura.
The ship’s inaugural season features seven-day round-trip Mediterranean itineraries departing from Barcelona, Spain. Ports of call include Rome, Florence, and Salerno in Italy, Marseille in France, and Palma de Mallorca in Spain, highlighting
Norwegian Bella’s European cruising focus.
Both Norwegian Bella and Norwegian Aura are being constructed by the Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri. Interior design on Norwegian Bella is the work of AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado. The ship’s hull artwork is an original piece by Australian contemporary artist George Rose.
Norwegian Bella offers a range of onboard experiences emphasizing outdoor and family-friendly spaces. Ocean Heights spans decks 18 through 21 as a multi-level open-air complex that transforms from a daytime sun space to an illuminated social hub at night. Thrill rides include Eclipse Racers, the Bella Free
Fall waterslide, The Wave raft slide, and The Drop dry slide, which descends 10 decks rapidly. Additional activities include the Bella Ropes Course, Bella Midway carnival area, a nine-hole mini golf course, and the Moon Climber adventure course.
Deck eight features Ocean Boulevard, a promenade that encircles the ship and includes expanded seating, hot tubs, and an outdoor bar. Infinity Beach, part of Ocean Boulevard, comprises infinity pools, daybeds, hot tubs, and a full-service outdoor bar. Horizon Park on deck 19 offers lounging and lawn games, while Vibe Beach Club serves as an adults-only area with infinity hot tubs, a
central oceanfront bar, and sun loungers.
The expanded pool deck is over 15% larger than those on Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna and includes an infinity hot tub and a large LED entertainment screen. Family-oriented areas include Little Explorers’ Cay for ages 2 to 6, Adventure Alley for ages 6 to 10, and Surf’s Bay, a teen retreat.
Norwegian Bella has nearly 2,000 staterooms, including inside staterooms, studios, balcony cabins, and 159 suites in The Haven by Norwegian. The Haven, designed by Piero Lissoni and located aft, features private elevators, a sundeck with an infinity pool and two hot tubs,
an outdoor sauna and cold room, plus both family-friendly and adults-only zones. Guests in The Haven have access to a private restaurant, bar, lounge, 24-hour butler and concierge service, and priority embarkation, disembarkation, and reservations.
Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line, described Norwegian Bella as the culmination of the award-winning Prima Class design, integrating guest feedback and innovations. “Every detail has been thoughtfully designed to give guests the freedom and flexibility to vacation exactly how they want to, without anyone having to compromise,” he said.
George Rose, the artist behind the hull art, expressed enthusiasm for the project. She
said the design reflects the excitement of travel and discovery through vibrant colors and organic shapes and hopes her artwork becomes part of guests’ journey memories.
Travelers can book cruises on Norwegian Bella now, with voyages focusing on freedom and a wide range of guest experiences in the Mediterranean starting May 2028.
The itinerary details beyond the named ports and pricing information for Norwegian Bella cruises have not been disclosed.
