After completing its transpacific voyage from the US, the Norwegian Spirit arrived in Sydney Australia on a beautiful sunny day. The Norwegian Spirit sailed by the iconic Opera House and Harbor Bridge before docking at the Sydney Harbour as NCL’s first cruise ship to return down under in three years.

“Australia and New Zealand are incredibly important markets for us, both as a source market and a destination, and we are committed to this region for the long term. I’m thrilled to be here in person to celebrate our return to Australia after a three-year hiatus, and to join the festivities as Norwegian Spirit spends an extended overnight visit in Sydney before she sets sail on her Christmas,” said NCL President and CEO Harry Sommer.

Guests on the Norwegian Spirit cruise will spend Christmas in Tasmania and the metropolitan city of Melbourne. Then it's off to exploring the beauties of New Zealand with two days at sea. First, the Fiordland National Park and some destinations on the South Island of New Zealand are called before heading over to the North Island shortly before the end of the cruise. The first Australia and New Zealand cruise of the season ends at New Zealand capital Auckland. Post-season, Norwegian Spirit will be sailing the Pacific again for summer 2023 Alaskan cruises. 

The Norwegian Spirit was delivered to Star Cruises in 1998 by the Meyer shipyard in Papenburg. The ship, which is now sailing for Norwegian Cruise Lines, was extensively renewed in 2020. The $100 million investment brought Norwegian Spirit in line with other modern cruise ships to continue sailing in NCL's fleet for several more years. The 1006 cabins and suites on board can accommodate a maximum of 2414 guests. With a ship length of 268 meters and a width of 37 meters, the Norwegian Spirit is the smallest ship in the NCL fleet.