Norwegian Sun sails into Aussie waters for the first time

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced the debut of Norwegian Sun in local waters for her first-ever Australia and New Zealand season.

The arrival marks a new chapter for NCL in the region, offering a series of immersive itineraries, maiden port calls and turnarounds in Sydney and Brisbane, before an extended Asia season.

Norwegian Sun arrived in Brisbane 17 and heads to Melbourne tomorrow, 21 December. During her inaugural season, she will embark on port-intensive voyages exploring the Great Barrier Reef, South Pacific, New Zealand and Asia. Highlight sailings include a 14-day Brisbane to Lautoka itinerary departing 23 April 2025 and a 14-day Sydney to Lautoka journey on 20 August 2025.

The season will also feature several maiden experiences, including NCL’s first visit to Townsville and brand-first sailings from Lautoka to Sydney (6 August 2025) and Bali to Brisbane (9 April 2025). Additionally, Norwegian Sun will offer island-hopping South Pacific itineraries from Papeete (Tahiti), showcasing turquoise lagoons, vibrant villages and lush rainforests.

A new way to explore

“We are excited to welcome Norwegian Sun to local waters for the first time so guests can experience first-hand how cruising with NCL offers more to see, more to do, more to enjoy and provides more value,” NCL VP/MD (APAC) Ben Angell said.

“This collection of close-to-home voyages combines convenient Brisbane and Sydney turnarounds with even more ways to explore the South Pacific, New Zealand, Far North Queensland and Asia. Plus, guests can follow the Sun to a bucket list collection of destinations including ‘Fire and Ice’ sailings between Hawaii and Alaska, providing guests with even more options to discover the world by sea.”

More at Sea 

Guests aboard Norwegian Sun, with a capacity of 1,936, can enjoy:

• 15 dining options, including French, Italian and Brazilian cuisine, alongside signature venues like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Los Lobos Mexican Cantina.
• Mandara Spa for ultimate relaxation.
• Entertainment, including Rock You Tonight, a tribute to rock icons like Queen and The Who.

NCL’s new More At Sea package further enhances the cruising experience with benefits such as a premium beverage package, specialty dining meals, and high-speed internet powered by Starlink.

Exclusive offers

To celebrate the holiday season, NCL has launched its New Year’s Sale, offering up to 50 per cent off cruise fares to over 400 destinations worldwide, plus $500 in bonus savings.

With an array of itineraries and onboard luxuries, Norwegian Sun promises an unforgettable season for travelers seeking immersive cruise experiences close to home and beyond.