First Japanese-flagged Cruise Ship in 35 Years Launches with Luxury Amenities

The new cruise ship, Asuka III, is the first to be built under the Japanese flag in almost 35 years. Constructed at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, this 52,250 gross ton vessel marks a significant expansion in the Japanese cruise market. The ship, powered by LNG, was ordered in March 2021 and steel cutting began in September 2023. It will have 385 passenger cabins and accommodate approximately 740 passengers with a crew of 470. The ship features luxurious amenities tailored to the Japanese market, including a spa with a Japanese-style open-air bath.

NYK, a company with a long history in passenger shipping, has maintained cruise operations for the Japanese market with a series of newly built cruise ships. The new Asuka III, unlike its predecessors, is being built in Germany by Meyer Werft. The vessel, uniquely outfitted for the Japanese market, will offer a variety of dining and entertainment options, as well as large luxury suites. The ship is expected to make its conveyance to the North Sea in the spring and will be homeported in Yokohama.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) is also expanding its cruise offerings in the Japanese market. In September 2024, MOL acquired the Seabourn Odyssey from Carnival Corporation’s Seabourn Cruises, rechristening it as Mitsui Ocean Fuji. This new luxury cruise brand, Mitsui Ocean Cruises, launched in December 2024 and plans to market internationally. MOL, known for operating the Nippon Maru, a 22,500 gross ton vessel, is also planning the construction of new cruise ships to further diversify its operations.

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