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Norwegian inks deal with Fincantieri for four + two new class of ships

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Major fleet expansion with up to six ships worth €4.8bn total investment
Fincantieri has signed a deal with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. for the construction of four new generation cruise ships with an option for additional two, for the Norwegian Cruise Line brand.

The value of each ship is approximately €800m, with one delivery per year from 2022 to 2025, stretching to 2027 if the options are confirmed.

Cassa Depositi e Prestiti and Sace, together with a pool of export credit lenders, played a crucial role in the success of the order and the shipowner’s decision, giving Fincantieri the chance to offer an appealing technical, commercial and financial package, still subject to some conditions, the builder noted.

These ships will form the backbone of the future NCL fleet. They measure about 140,000gt, stretch almost 300mtr and accommodate 3,300 passengers.

The order is based on a prototype project developed by Fincantieri, which enhances the consolidated features of NCL’s signature offering of freedom and flexibility, qualified by an innovative configuration for an enhanced passenger experience.

In addition, focus was set on energy efficiency, with the twofold aim of optimizing consumption at sea and reducing environmental impact, compliant with all the most recent regulations.

'This new class of ships will continue Norwegian Cruise Line brand’s legacy of introducing meaningful innovation to the cruise industry,' said Frank Del Rio, president and ceo of NCLH.

'This order continues to highlight our disciplined newbuild program, extends our growth trajectory well into the future, enhances our already attractive earnings profile and drives expected long-term returns for our shareholders,' he added.

'Commenting the announcement, Giuseppe Bono, ceo of Fincantieri, said: 'This outstanding result allows us to include a new prestigious client in our portfolio, which confirms Fincantieri’s ability to develop with a flexible approach leading-edge solutions for every segment and demand of the modern cruise industry. We are very proud of the project for these ships. We developed it internally and we presented it to the shipowner, which appreciated it so much to order an entire class.'

Bono concluded: 'Different stakeholders of the export chain have contributed decisively to achieve this goal and they have gained our full recognition.'