Norwegian Cruise Line has confirmed that the third and fourth Prima-class ships, already scheduled however not but underneath building, might be delayed as a consequence of provide chain points impacting shipyard supply schedules.
This follows the information in mid-August that the second ship within the new class, Norwegian Viva, was additionally to be delayed and had six preliminary sailings canceled.
Prima-Class Ships Delayed
In the lately launched third quarter monetary report, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings famous that the third and fourth Prima-class ships would have “adjusted delivery schedules … due to shipyard constraints.”
The two ships haven’t but begun building, however might be constructed on the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, in northeastern Italy, the identical shipyard that constructed Norwegian Prima and is presently constructing her first sister ship, Norwegian Viva.
This delay displays the continuing difficulties with cruise ship building, as shipyards are affected by provide chain points which might be impacting building schedules.
Workforce points might also be a part of the difficulties, if the expert staff essential to finish the work on high-tech vessels are unavailable as a consequence of well being and security protocols, staffing challenges, or different points.
The firm’s third quarter report additionally cited “Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine and other macroeconomic events” as impacting new ship builds for all of Norwegian Cruise Line Holding’s manufacturers, together with Norwegian Cruise Line, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, and Oceania Cruises. While additional delays are anticipated, the corporate doesn’t anticipate to wish to cancel any ordered ships.
The third vessel was deliberate to debut in late 2024 and the fourth in mid- or late 2025. Now, the ships will probably be part of the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet in early 2025 and early 2026, respectively. Names haven’t but been introduced for the third or fourth vessel.
It isn’t recognized whether or not the delays will even influence the fifth and sixth ships within the Prima class, for now, slated to debut in 2026 and 2027. It is probably going too far prematurely of these ships’ building schedules to make such predictions.
About the Prima Class
The progressive Prima class debuted with Norwegian Prima when she was christened in Iceland on the finish of August.
With a brand new energy-efficient hull design, a extra decentralized structure, custom-made structure, elevated eating and retail choices, unique Broadway leisure, and far more, the ship is a brand new appear and feel for the cruise line, whereas sustaining glorious service and excellent facilities.
Just just a few of the firsts onboard embrace the primary three-level go-kart observe at sea, the primary charcoal sauna at sea, a digital artwork assortment, and new elevated eating ideas, together with completely curated specialty eating places.
Supply chain points additionally delayed Norwegian Prima‘s inaugural crusing, however the ship is now on her inaugural tour, providing restricted sailings from numerous homeports, earlier than she’s going to homeport from Port Canaveral for the majority of the winter Caribbean season.
In the spring, Norwegian Prima will provide a number of Bermuda itineraries from New York earlier than repositioning to Europe for the 2023 summer season season.