Countdown begins for Norwegian Cruise Line’s New Zealand return

Angell said the newly refurbished Norwegian Spirit will operate an inaugural 2022/23 season of eight- to 12-day itineraries from Sydney and Auckland between December and March.

Highly sought-after destination

‘Our commitment to New Zealand, both as a guest source market and as one of the most highly sought-after destinations on our global cruise map, is steadfast and we can’t wait to resume our operations Down Under for the benefit of guests, our crew and the New Zealand economy,’ he said.

Norwegian Spirit’s upcoming Australasian deployment will see Auckland become a seasonal home port with four turnarounds, providing an additional economic boost through pre-and-post-cruise international visitor stays.

Eight NZ ports

The ship will make 45 visits to eight New Zealand ports — Auckland, Dunedin, Lyttelton, Wellington, Napier, Tauranga, Bay of Islands and Akaroa.

Her first departure from Auckland will be on January 3, 2023, followed by January 27, February 20 and March 16.

She will return for a second local season in December 2023.