Updated: November 29, 2024 at 9:54 a.m.

THE Norwegian gem in the shipyard (Photography by Blaire Simmons)

Norwegian Cruise Line has promised to invest in Bermuda as a destination, increasing cruise calls to the island in 2026.

The Ministry of Transport has announced an expansion of the partnership between the ministry, the cruise line and the Bermuda Land Management Corporation, which will include an extension of the King’s Wharf jetty to Dockyard.

Wayne Furbert, the transport minister, said the company’s commitment to the island was “further underlined” by its collaboration with BLMC on the 2025-2026 King’s Wharf development project.

He added: “This project will expand the jetty to match the size of Heritage Wharf, improving the island’s ability to comfortably accommodate the larger vessels that currently dock at Heritage Wharf.

“King’s Wharf will be under construction from October 2, 2025 to March 31, 2026. The 200-foot pier extension will significantly improve the guest experience, allowing all NCLH (Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings) ships to dock primarily in a beautifully modernized port at the Royal Dockyard.

Mr Furbert added that the NCLH cruise ship operating agreement with the Department of Transport has been extended until 2037, demonstrating the liner’s commitment to Bermuda.

“This collaborative effort highlights Bermuda’s position as a leading global destination while supporting the government’s strategic initiatives to improve the island’s cruise tourism infrastructure and its long-term economic impact” , he declared.

“In addition, NCLH works with the Bermuda Tourism Authority each year to sponsor product development experiences that delight visitors. »

Dan Farkas, Executive Vice President, General Counsel and Chief Development Officer of NCLH, added: “We are delighted to expand our partnership with Bermuda and play a key role in the island’s growing appeal as a premier cruise destination.

“Expanding King’s Wharf Pier to comfortably accommodate our largest vessels, as Heritage Wharf does today, is a major step in our shared vision to improve the overall visitor experience.

“This long-term agreement not only highlights our commitment to the island, but also supports the sustainable growth of its cruise tourism industry for years to come.”

The ministry stated that the Norwegian Prima is expected to return to the island for a series of visits in April 2025.

THE Norwegian Aquawhich will debut next spring, will make a series of trips from New York to Bermuda starting in mid-August before returning in April 2026 for a full summer season.

THE Océane Allurameanwhile, is expected to begin port calls to Bermuda in 2026 after making its maiden voyage late next year.

A ministry spokeswoman added that across NCLH’s three brands – including Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises – the cruise line had planned more than 350 calls in Bermuda between 2025 and 2025.

This year, the Norwegian joy was to make 23 visits to the island, while the Norwegian gem had to make 22 calls and the Norwegian Getaway had to make 13 stops.

Bermuda was also due to receive a visit from the Norwegian escapeTHE Norwegian escapeTHE Norwegian pearl and the Norwegian Prima, with Oceania brand ships View, Badge, Nautical And Siren.