– There is MORE to Enjoy with a Greater Variety of Caribbean and Bahamas Sailings Embarking from 10 U.S. Ports Including Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans and Others –

– Several Ships of its Award-Winning Fleet will Offer Seven-Day Voyages Departing on Weekends, Including the Brand’s Newest Prima and Prima Plus Class Vessels –  

JOHANNESBURG, 18 November, 2024 – Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel with a 57-year history of breaking boundaries, is inviting guests to experience more by unveiling over 400 new voyages for its fall-winter 2026/27 season during its Black Friday Sale.

NCL’s highly anticipated Black Friday sale is happening now and includes 50% off all currently published voyages, allowing guests to start planning their dream cruise holiday well in advance while also locking in exceptional savings. With new sailings across 11 regions, including the Caribbean, Bermuda, Bahamas, the Mexican Riviera, Asia and more now available from September 2026 to April 2027, guests can embark on unforgettable voyages from 20 distinct departure ports and visit nearly 100 destinations across 38 countries.

Guests can also enjoy more value during the Black Friday sale period by combining it with More At Sea™, the cruise line’s brand-new value-added package available for all voyages beginning Jan. 1, 2025. From now until 3 December 2024, the More At Sea upgrade is available from $99 per person as part of NCL’s Black Friday sale. The year-round promotion includes more elevated offerings of the amenities guests value most, including 45% more premium spirit brands, such as Grey Goose Vodka, Casamigos Blanco Tequila, Hendrick’s Gin and Woodford Reserve Bourbon, which are all featured in the unlimited beverage package. Guests can also choose from over 100 specialty cocktails served across its more than 80 bars. Additionally, they can savour more culinary experiences with additional specialty dining meals available for guests sailing on voyages of seven days or longer. More included Wi-Fi minutes powered by Starlink’s high-speed internet, means sharing even more moments with loved ones back at home. The package also features $50 shore excursion credits and third and fourth guests sailing free on select cruises. 

“Offering our loyal guests more ways to have their own best vacation with more of what they love is central to our commitment,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “With our new fall-winter 2026/27 itineraries, we’re thrilled to provide them with even more voyage options, destinations, and ships to choose from, including our newest cutting-edge vessels, Norwegian Aqua™ and Norwegian Luna™. For added convenience, we will feature weekend turnarounds from ports across the U.S., including New Orleans, Miami, and Galveston, Texas, making it even easier for guests to set sail on their own schedule. The upcoming holiday season is the perfect time to start planning while getting the most value from your vacation.”

NCL’s new fall-winter 2026/27 deployment season highlights include:

More Caribbean Voyages from Miami, New Orleans, New York City, Philadelphia, and Others

This season, 15 NCL ships will embark on five-to-13-day Western, Eastern and Southern Caribbean sailings from 10 ports, including Miami and Port Canaveral, Fla.; New Orleans; New York City; Philadelphia; Galveston, Texas; and San Juan, Puerto Rico among others. Additionally, the Brand’s newest vessels, including Norwegian Prima, Viva, Aqua and Luna, will all offer fun-in-the-sun itineraries during this season.  

Norwegian Prima^® will debut in New Orleans making it her first season in the Big Easy offering voyages to Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico; Roatan Island, Honduras; among others. Norwegian Viva^® will return to Galveston, Texas, with Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna returning to Miami. These vessels will offer convenient weekend turnarounds on Saturdays and Sundays and are set to visit some of the Caribbean’s most popular ports. Each itinerary also includes calls to NCL’s private destinations, Harvest Caye in Belize, or Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, which will feature a new multi-ship pier by late 2025.

Norwegian Breakaway^® will make her debut at her seasonal homeport in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on Nov. 15, 2026. From La Isla del Encanto, Norwegian Breakaway will offer seven-day Southern Caribbean itineraries, visiting iconic destinations nearly every day, including Bridgetown, Barbados; Castries, St. Lucia; La Romana, Dominican Republic; Willemstad, Curacao; and Philipsburg, St. Maarten.

Meanwhile, after relaunching operations from Philadelphia in April 2026 with Norwegian Jewel’s season from April to September 2026, NCL will continue to be the only cruise line to sail from the SouthPort Marine Terminal Complex in fall-winter 2026/27. Norwegian Pearl^® will then be the second ship in NCL’s fleet to set sail from the Brand’s new homeport, providing more access to Caribbean cruises for U.S. Mid-Atlantic residents from Nov. 14, 2026, through March 20, 2027.

More to See with Adventures along the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles

Norwegian Encore will kick off her first full length Mexican Riviera season from Oct. 18, 2026 through April 4, 2027, with seven-day roundtrip itineraries from Los Angeles departing each Sunday, taking guests to popular ports like Cabo San Lucas, Mazatlán and Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. Guests will enjoy an array of exciting experiences, including a thrilling multi-level racetrack, an adults-only lounge at Spice H2O, and award-winning entertainment featuring live music and world-class entertainment.

More Immersive Itineraries across Asia from Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and Singapore

Following a season of Alaska voyages in summer 2026, Norwegian Jade^® will journey eastward, marking her return to Asia for the first time since winter 2019/2020. Delivering some of the most diverse deployments in the region, the ship’s expansive seven-month Asia season, from Oct. 7, 2026 through April 10, 2027, will feature a total of 16 open-jaw voyages between four seasonal homeports, including Incheon, South Korea; Hong Kong; Singapore, as well as two roundtrip voyages from Tokyo. Offering an exceptional variety of destinations while underscoring NCL’s commitment to port-intensive and immersive itineraries, Norwegian Jade will make maiden calls to Muara, Brunei Darussalam; Kaoshiung, Taiwan; Jeju (Jeju Island), South Korea; Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia as well as Coron, Philippines. Additionally, select sailings will include an overnight stay in Hong Kong as well as late departures from key ports in Japan and South Korea, such as Osaka, Kanazawa, and Busan, offering guests the opportunity to dive deeper into the local nature, cuisine, culture and nightlife.

More to Explore Down Under with Cruises to Australia’s Wine Regions and “Taster” Sailings

Just in time for the holiday season, Norwegian Spirit^® will arrive in Sydney on Dec. 12, 2026, following a repositioning sailing from Lautoka, Fiji. During her seasonal deployment to Australia and New Zealand, she will offer a collection of five consecutive roundtrip voyages from Sydney, including two specially curated 11-day cruises embarking on Dec. 12, 2026 and Jan. 10, 2027 to some of Australia’s top-rated wine regions. The voyages will call to Hobart, Tasmania and Kangaroo Island, South Australia, along with overnight stays in Adelaide, South Australia and Melbourne, Victoria. These itineraries are designed to offer wine enthusiasts the chance to explore celebrated vineyards near each port of call, including the iconic valleys of Barossa, Derwent and Yarra.

Guests looking for a shorter Australian getaway can opt for roundtrip four-day “taster” sailings from Sydney with a stop in Hobart, Tasmania. For those interested in longer voyages, the 11-day open-jaw sailings between Sydney and Auckland are a must-do for a deeper dive into the beauty and culture of Australia and New Zealand. These journeys call to Eden and Melbourne, Australia as well as Dunedin (Port Chalmers) and Tauranga, New Zealand, enabling guests to immerse themselves in breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cities and rich traditions. From the stunning scenery of New Zealand’s fjords to the dynamic atmosphere of Sydney, these sailings offer unforgettable memories and a chance to experience the best of both countries.

More Short Escapes to the Bahamas from Miami and Port Canaveral, Fla.

As short Bahamas cruises continue to grow in popularity, NCL will launch Norwegian Joy’s^® first-ever season of voyages to the Bahamas beginning Nov. 2, 2026. The three- and four-day sailings will feature convenient Friday and Monday departures from Miami.

Additionally, Norwegian Getaway’s Bahamas season will extend to April 2027 with three- to five-day cruises calling to Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas from Miami and Port Canaveral, Fla. These short, action-packed getaways provide the perfect opportunity for guests to escape to paradise for a few days, enjoying the sun, sand, and signature NCL experiences that make every journey memorable.

These Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Getaway sailings will open for sale later this month.

For more information about Norwegian Cruise Line’s award-winning 19-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 021 200 6586  or visit www.ncl.com.

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About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 57 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionised the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal holiday on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 400 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveller staterooms, club balcony suites, spa-suites and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 021 200 6586 or visit www.ncl.com  For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the NCL Newsroom and follow Norwegian Cruise Line on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter @CruiseNorwegian.

Norwegian Cruise Line is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH). To learn more, visit https://www.nclhltd.com/.

NCL Media Contact

PublicRelations@ncl.com

The attendees represent the top 10 selling advisors from each of Flight Centre Independents five regions: Australia, Canada, New Zealand, South Africa and the United States. Along with a guest of their choice, Icons were flown to Heritance Aarah Maldives Resort via private sea plane and greeted with spa vouchers and champagne before commencing four days of celebration, exploration and rejuvenation.

Global Managing Director Danielle Galloway said Icons encapsulate the essence of what it means to be a Flight Centre Independent member.

“Icons is not just a reward but a testament to the extraordinary efforts of the people who strive for excellence and help propel our brand forward.

“As we gather at the breathtaking Heritance Aarah Resort, we celebrate not only individual achievements but the collective spirit that unites us as the Flight Centre Independent family. The heart of the Maldives perfectly aligns with our vision of being the home and heart of the travel industry, where aspiration, connection, and exceptional experience converge.

“I cherish the opportunity to connect with our highest performing members and wonderful event partners every year at Icons and come away so energised from each conversation. We have some incredible entrepreneurs as part of our global network.”

Chantal Gouws, GM of South Africa, said the retreat provided a wonderful opportunity to celebrate its extraordinary members and connect with other regions.

“Watching our members not only celebrate their achievements but connect with the extended global family to share advice and form friendships was incredibly rewarding and is reflective of the brand’s core values – engagement, entrepreneurship and endurance.

“The Maldives is a truly aspirational destination that relaxes and inspires, which is exactly how we wanted our members to feel when they walked away from this four-day celebration.”

Rachel Beaumont-Smith, Journey Beyond Strategic Account Manager said the organisation is honoured to have been a platinum partner of Icons 2024.

“The connections forged during this event are truly invaluable and are sure to last a lifetime. The genuine interest and professionalism displayed by the group towards our incredible range of Journey Beyond experiences is inspiring.  

“We are looking forward to further integrating Flight Centre Independent into Journey Beyond’s strategic sales strategy and solidifying our commitment to delivering exceptional experiences to the travel industry globally.

“This partnership marks an exciting chapter for Journey Beyond.”

Ama Waterways and Europ Assistance were also platinum partners for the event. Gold Partners included Azamara Cruises, Cover More Travel Insurance, Exoticca, Expedia TAAP, Intrepid Travel, Addicted to Maldives, Viking Cruises and Inclusive Collection, part of the World of Hyatt. Etihad Airways was a Silver Partner of Icons 2024. 

Flight Centre Independent recently announced South Africa as the location of Icons 2025, which will follow the brand’s largest annual event, Worldwide, also hosted in South Africa. Worldwide is open to all Flight Centre Independent members and features partner exhibits, engaging panel sessions, and hand-selected speakers focusing on topics that empower Flight Centre Independent members to thrive.

LEFT TO RIGHT: Nick Queale, GM Australia; Anita Emilio, VP & GM Canada; Chantal Gouws, GM South Africa; Danielle Galloway, Global Managing Director; Astrid Richardson, Director of Operations; Christina Pedroni,  VP & GM USA and Jason Buckley, GM New Zealand. 

ENDS 

Note to editors: 

About Flight Centre and FCTG Independent 

After starting with one shop in the early 1980s, Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG) (ASX:FLT), has enjoyed remarkable growth to become a $20 billion business consisting of more than 30 brands. One of the world’s largest travel agency groups, it has company-owned operations in 23 countries and a corporate travel management network that spans more than 90 countries. FCTG was listed on the Australian Securities Exchange in 1995 (ASX: FLT). Flight Centre Travel Group employs more than 11,000 people globally.  

FCTG Independent is a global network of over 1,400 independent travel agents and agencies across the USA, Canada, South Africa, Australia and New Zealand.  

MEDIA CONTACT: 

Tracy Porter 

Phone: +27 (0)82 891 4353 

Email: tracy.porter@flightcentre.co.za 

There may be disruptions to normal operations, particularly in Maputo and at key border crossings. Travellers to Mozambique might experience interruptions at the Lebombo/Ressano Garcia Border Post, potential business disruptions, protest action (especially in Maputo), impacts from a proposed nationwide strike, and possible security force presence.

“Now is the time to postpone, not cancel, your Mozambique travel plans,” says David Frost, CEO of SATSA. ” While we always put traveller safety first, cancelling trips outright is premature and could unnecessarily impact this incredible destination. This approach not only protects travellers’ holiday investments but also demonstrates solidarity with our regional tourism partners during challenging times.”

Jillian Blackbeard, CEO of Africa’s Eden Tourism, reinforces this position: “Mozambique remains one of Africa’s most compelling destinations, and any disruption will likely be temporary. By postponing rather than cancelling trips, we can help protect the livelihoods of thousands of tourism workers and their families while ensuring our clients don’t miss out on experiencing this remarkable destination. We’re asking our members to work closely with their Mozambican partners to secure flexible rebooking terms for affected travellers.”

Travellers who must travel during this period and are intending to cross the border by car should confirm the status of the border posts, exercise increased caution, monitor local news and official communications, and maintain flexible itineraries.

Both SATSA and Africa’s Eden Tourism will continue to monitor the situation closely and provide updates as developments occur.

Ends

ABOUT SATSA:

SATSA is the unified voice of the inbound tourism industry in Southern Africa and represents the private sector trade associations in five SADC countries. Our mission is to support the sustainable growth of travel and tourism to and within Southern Africa.

About Africa’s Eden:

Africa’s Eden is a leading organisation committed to promoting tourism and advancing tourism leadership across Southern and Central Africa. Representing the eclectic regions of Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Angola, Malawi, Mozambique, and Madagascar, the organisation prioritises sustainable practices, community engagement, and cooperative growth.

As a not-for-profit entity, Africa’s Eden offers tourism businesses exceptional opportunities for partnership, visibility, and influence, shaping the future of travel in these remarkable destinations. Its mission is to showcase the breathtaking natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and distinctive experiences that position the region as a top choice for travellers around the world.

“This inaugural survey gives us concrete data to work with for the first time,” says Rosemary Anderson, National Chairperson of FEDHASA. “The findings challenge assumptions about career commitment in hospitality. Despite significant obstacles, women are investing in long-term careers and actively pursuing leadership roles.”

The data paints a complex picture of the female experience in hospitality. While 85% felt their workplaces offered equal opportunities, a concerning 29% experienced or witnessed gender discrimination. Work-life balance (cited by 63% as the biggest challenge) and concerns about salary and funding were also significant hurdles. However, these challenges haven’t dampened ambition: nearly 40% aspire to leadership positions and 11% plan to start their own businesses within five years. Existing support structures, such as mentorship programmes (accessed by 80% of respondents), provide a foundation for further growth.

A majority (59%) work in female-dominated environments, and 47% have 16+ years of experience, showcasing deep commitment to the industry. However, the coexistence of strong female representation with ongoing discrimination highlights the need for sustained focus on equity.

“This survey shines a light on a reality that’s both inspiring and sobering. Women in hospitality are not just filling roles—they’re redefining leadership, even while navigating a landscape that still presents significant barriers. This data is our mandate to push for change. One of the ways we have tackled it, is at a leadership level at the FEDHASA Cape Board where the majority of our directors are women. The survey findings also highlight that women in hospitality are striving for more than employment, they’re wanting to start businesses, own businesses and create employment. Now this is how we can drive meaningful, sustainable change.” says Lee-Anne Singer, FEDHASA Cape Chairperson.

***ENDS***

About FEDHASA 

Founded in 1949, a restructured and transformed FEDHASA (Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa) is recognised by Government as the official representative of the hospitality industry of South Africa. With industry support, FEDHASA remains the umbrella association for hotels, restaurants, conference centres, caterers, self-catering accommodation, home hosting establishments (B&Bs and guest houses), clubs, taverns, shebeens, suppliers and trainers, consultants and service providers to the hospitality industry. For more information, visit https://fedhasa.co.za/ 

The MOTY Awards, which are run under the auspices of the Southern African Vehicle Rental and Leasing Association (SAVRALA), recognises the motor manufacturers for the level of service and support provided to members, who manage roughly 400,000 vehicles per year through rental and leasing channels.

These awards are based on two comprehensive surveys completed by 41 car rental and leasing companies in South Africa, measuring the service from the manufacturers they interact with regularly and whose vehicles they have in their fleets. The surveys cover various areas of their business such as communication and contact with the manufacturers, support provided, maintenance issues, financial aspects, and B-BBEE compliance.

The participating rental and leasing companies are required to submit questionnaires completed by a panel of people who depend on and deal directly with each manufacturer. This results in obtaining an accurate, objective, unbiased and company-wide perspective of the service levels experienced. The results from this competition enable each manufacturer to identify their strengths and work on areas of weakness as highlighted to them by their customers.

Awards are made in both the rental and leasing category, as well as combined rental and leasing performance. Toyota is the winner in the rental category for the second consecutive year, followed by BMW in second position and Hyundai in third.

In the leasing category, Toyota improved from its bronze award in 2023 to gold in 2024. Last year’s winner, Isuzu, now shares second place with Hyundai, while Kia moved into third place.

Automotive manufacturers, together with their rental and leasing partners, continue to operate in a challenging environment ruled by tough economic conditions, and just remaining operational is no small feat. Yet, the positive picture of improvement painted by the graph below reveals the typical South African grit and never-say-die attitude at the heart of it all, demonstrating how the industry works together for the greater good, even in the toughest times.

Rental Results for 2024:

Toyota maintained their top spot in the rental section for the second consecutive year. BMW, who last appeared in the top 3 rental positions in 2018, achieved the 2^nd position this year, with Hyundai moving into 3^rd place in the rental division.

The Value Award is presented to the automotive member that has scored the most combined points for the financial section, and for the seventh year running, the winner is Toyota in the rental section.

The Tutuka Award recognises the best-scoring automotive member who supplies lower and niche vehicle volumes to the car rental industry, and the 2024 award goes to Renault.

The Rental Award for the manufacturer who improved the most since the previous year was awarded to Chery.

The below table shows the top three rental positions for the last 5 years.

Leasing Results for 2024:

Toyota improved from their 3^rd position held last year to take top honours in leasing as well as rental in 2024.  This moved last year’s winner, Isuzu, down to 2^nd place in 2024 which they share with Hyundai, having achieved the same scores in the leasing section. Kia took third place in 2024, their first podium appearance in leasing, though they have been second in rental last year.

The Value Award for the manufacturer scoring the best for the financial section on the leasing survey was awarded to Toyota, which has won this award five times in the last seven years.

The Leasing Award for the manufacturer who improved the most since the previous year was awarded to Mitsubishi.

The below table shows the top three leasing positions for the last 5 years.

Overall results for 2024:

The rental and leasing scores for qualifying manufacturers are combined to calculate the overall winner. This year’s overall winner is Toyota, improving from last year’s second position. Hyundai achieved the overall second position moving last year’s winner, Isuzu, down to third place in 2024.

Best Representative Awards for 2024:

The rental and leasing companies nominate individuals for the best representative awards based on their performance and support during the year. Jeanette Bossert from Nissan was voted the best Account Representative in the leasing section. The award for the best Account Representative in the rental section was shared by Sarah Burkey from Suzuki and previous winner Lebo Lekalakala, representing Toyota.

The winner of the best Technical Representative award in the rental section is Lufuno Nephawe from Toyota, winning this award for the second consecutive year. Lebo Mabowa from Volkswagen was voted the best Technical Representative in the leasing section, also for the second consecutive year.

We extend our warmest congratulations to all our incredible winners. Your hard work, dedication, and passion have truly paid off. Your achievements challenge us all to raise the bar even higher in the coming year as we look forward to the impact you will continue to make in this challenging industry that we find ourselves in.

A groundbreaking partnership announced during a recent meeting between Minister of Public Works & Infrastructure Dean Macpherson, KZN MEC for Public Works Martin Meyer, and FEDHASA (Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa)’s Rosemary Anderson and Brett Tungay marks a decisive shift in approach to tourism recovery.

Minister Macpherson highlighted Durban’s tourism potential and key advantages ahead of the December season. “Durban offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience compared to Cape Town, while also being more affordable,” he said, pointing to the city’s strong value proposition. He also addressed concerns about beach safety, clarifying that 95% of eThekwini’s beaches are open and safe for swimming, helping to dispel any misconceptions.

The recovery strategy centres on repositioning KwaZulu-Natal as a standalone destination rather than an afterthought to Cape Town or Kruger National Park itineraries. “We have everything in one province,” explained Brett Tungay of FEDHASA. “We’ve got the culture, the beaches, the mountains, the battlefields, the Midlands, and game parks that easily surpass Kruger, but we need to put that out into the public domain that we are a one-stop tourism destination.”

A key priority is regaining Blue Flag status for beaches, an internationally recognised certification crucial for attracting overseas visitors. This involves comprehensive infrastructure improvements and more efficient water quality monitoring systems. The initiative comes as domestic bookings for December show promising signs of recovery, despite the significant lag in international visitors.

Air access presents another critical challenge. While King Shaka International Airport’s landing fees are competitive with other South African airports, attracting more international carriers depends on demonstrating sustained tourist demand. Travel Indaba, Africa’s premier tourism trade show, represents a crucial platform for KwaZulu-Natal to showcase its renewed tourism offering to international markets. With the province’s contract to host the event expiring after next year’s show, securing its future in KwaZulu-Natal is considered vital for maintaining direct access to international tourism networks and buyers.

Infrastructure development forms a crucial part of the recovery plan. Minister Macpherson announced that on November 7th, the department will release details of vacant public buildings available for development proposals, aimed at rejuvenating key tourism areas. These improvements, coupled with the province’s natural advantages and competitive pricing, position KwaZulu-Natal to capture a growing share of the mid-market travel segment.

The public-private partnership is already yielding results. “In my 20 years on tourism boards, my entire relationship with government has just been one of confrontation,” noted Tungay. “The last 3-4 months have seen a complete transformation in how we work together.”

“Within the next 12 months, there’s going to be huge changes in the tourism environment in KwaZulu-Natal,” Tungay predicted. With this unprecedented level of cooperation between government and industry stakeholders, the province appears well-positioned to reclaim its status as one of South Africa’s premier tourist destinations, potentially closing the gap on international visitor numbers while building on its domestic tourism success.

The initiative comes at a critical time as the province works to overcome the combined impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, floods, and civil unrest. The focus on practical solutions, improved infrastructure, and coordinated marketing efforts signals a new chapter in KwaZulu-Natal’s tourism story, with stakeholders united in their vision for recovery and growth.

Ends*

About FEDHASA

FEDHASA is the voice of the hospitality industry in South Africa. It represents the interests of hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality businesses at all levels of government. FEDHASA provides its members with a wide range of services, including advocacy, training, and networking opportunities.

– Both Ships to Feature Enhanced Spa Services Including a New Clay Sauna and IV Drip Therapy –

Johannesburg (23 October, 2024) – Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the innovator in global cruise travel, today unveiled details about the brand-new onboard experiences and expanded venues that will be available aboard sister ships Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, the first two vessels in the cutting-edge Prima Plus Class set to launch in April 2025 and 2026, respectively.

The soon-to-debut ships will feature the Company’s first-ever Aqua and Luna Game Zone, an all-new gaming experience and evolution of NCL’s popular Galaxy Pavilion and arcade venues. The sister vessels will boast even more expanded and redesigned spaces, including Bull’s Eye Bar, a now complimentary experience with interactive dart games and a new full-service bar; and Tee Time, a supercharged version of mini golf where guests can play 12 interactive holes across two decks.

The Mandara Spa and Salon and Pulse Fitness Center will also be refreshed to include sophisticated design updates, and new revitalising service additions including a clay sauna, IV drip therapy and thalassotherapy loungers aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.

“We provide our guests with more to do with a variety of fun, exciting and elevated experiences for every type of traveller,” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. “The two sister ships will introduce a brand-new venue to the fleet, the Aqua and Luna Game Zone, along with thoughtfully redesigned spaces and bringing back many more of our best-in-class offerings, beloved by our guests and inspired by their feedback. We look forward to our guests enjoying more of what they love on board and creating unforgettable memories aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.”

Immersive and Interactive Guest Experiences for All Ages

As the next evolution of Norwegian Cruise Line vessels, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna will feature the Aqua and Luna Game Zone, a reimagined version of NCL’s beloved Galaxy Pavilion and arcade offerings. The venue will showcase a wide range of games and activities that appeal to every kind of guest, including virtual reality experiences such as Space Racing and Beat Hero where guests dance to the rhythm of the beat with dual swords, plus a mix of retro arcade games like Ms. Pac-Man; Donkey Kong; and Down the Clown.

The sister ships will also offer The Bull’s Eye Bar, an innovative take on traditional dart games, now boasting a full-service bar so guests can indulge in hand-crafted cocktails while playing. As a complimentary experience, guests will enjoy the fun of darts with elevated and virtual components designed to make the game more interactive and simplify the scoring process. With six different games available ranging from beginner to advanced, onboard players can take aim at a classic dart board that features added video-game-style graphics and automated scoring that are projected onto a big-screen TV.

Tee Time, the Prima Class interactive minigolf area themed around the “Wonders of the World,” will return to Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna two and a half times bigger than Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, providing 12 holes across two decks to offer a more enhanced experience to guests of all ages. Lastly, as a result of guest feedback to provide them with more of what they love to do, the Pickleball Court will return to its own dedicated space separate from the Stadium.

A Wellness Retreat at Sea with Enhanced Mandara Spa & Fitness Facilities

Masterfully crafted by world-class architects at the Rockwell Group, both the Mandara Spa and Salon and Pulse Fitness Center aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna will be redesigned to encourage serenity and rejuvenation. The Mandara Spa once again features its breathtaking two-story cascading indoor spa waterfall and sleek marble staircase, creating a perfect environment for rest and relaxation.

Guests can now unwind with a brand-new Clay Sauna, an invigorating spa service that revitalises the skin through detoxifying cleansing and gentle exfoliation, leaving the body refreshed and radiant. The thalassotherapy pool in the Mandara Spa and Salon aboard the two ships will also feature all-new thalassotherapy loungers which promote relaxation, soothe muscle tension, and improve circulation. New to the Prima Class, IV Drip Therapy will be available to guests and provide a powerful boost of hydration and essential nutrients, designed to enhance energy, immunity, and overall well-being.

The Thermal Suite aboard Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna will now feature twice as many heated loungers compared to Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, inviting more guests to enjoy some calm and relaxation with expansive ocean views. Lastly, guests can further invigorate the senses with returning favourites, including the charcoal sauna, ice room, salt room, and the floatation salt pool which creates a sensation of weightlessness to melt any stress away while bathing the skin in nourishing antioxidants.

Pulse Fitness Center will flaunt a new design to offer guests a sleek, modern sanctuary complete with state-of-the-art workout equipment; cardiovascular machines; and a dedicated spin studio. Additionally, guests will be able to partake in a variety of workout classes including yoga, mat Pilates, cycling, stretching and so much more.

More to See on Tropical Voyages to the Caribbean Aboard the Company’s Latest Vessels

Beginning April 2025, Norwegian Aqua will sail seven-day Caribbean itineraries departing from Port Canaveral, Fla., featuring calls to the tropical island destinations of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas which will include a brand-new, multi-ship pier in late 2025. Following the ship’s Caribbean season, it will offer five and seven-day voyages to Bermuda from New York City from August 2025 through October 2025 and then cruise five and seven-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami, the “Cruise Capital of the World,” beginning October 2025 through April 2026.

On April 4, 2026, Norwegian Luna will kick off its inaugural Caribbean season from Miami with two western itineraries to Roatan Island, Honduras; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Harvest Caye, Belize, the Brand’s resort-style destination. The ship will then sail seven-day cruises with calls to the beautiful Eastern Caribbean destinations of Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay.

For guests planning their next cruise holiday aboard Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Luna, or any ship in NCL’s fleet for sailings beginning on Jan. 1, 2025, the Company’s brand-new program, More At Sea™, offers travellers more value with an unlimited open bar featuring more premium beverage brands, more specialty dining credits and more Wi-Fi minutes. The package also includes $50 shore excursion credits and third and fourth guests sailing free on select cruises. For more details on NCL’s new More At Sea offering, visit www.ncl.com/cruise-deals/more-at-sea.

For more information about the Company’s award-winning fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional, call 888-NCL-CRUISE (625-2784) or visit www.ncl.com.

Additional images of Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna can be found on the NCL Newsroom here.

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About Norwegian Cruise Line

As the innovator in global cruise travel, Norwegian Cruise Line has been breaking the boundaries of traditional cruising for 57 years. Most notably, the cruise line revolutionised the industry by offering guests the freedom and flexibility to design their ideal holiday on their preferred schedule with no assigned dining and entertainment times and no formal dress codes. Today, its fleet of 19 contemporary ships sail to 400 of the world’s most desirable destinations, including Great Stirrup Cay, the company’s private island in the Bahamas and its resort destination Harvest Caye in Belize. Norwegian Cruise Line not only provides superior guest service from land to sea, but also offers a wide variety of award-winning entertainment and dining options as well as a range of accommodations across the fleet, including solo-traveller staterooms, club balcony suites, spa-suites and The Haven by Norwegian®, the company’s ship-within-a-ship concept. For additional information or to book a cruise, contact a travel professional, call 021 200 6586 or visit www.ncl.com  For the latest news and exclusive content, visit the NCL Newsroom and follow Norwegian Cruise Line on Facebook, Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube @NorwegianCruiseLine; and Twitter @CruiseNorwegian.

Norwegian Cruise Line is a wholly owned subsidiary of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE: NCLH). To learn more, visit https://www.nclhltd.com/.

NCL Media Contact

PublicRelations@ncl.com

JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – 22 October 2024 – Linhas Aéreas de Moçambique (LAM) remains an active participant in good standing within the Billing and Settlement Plan (BSP) and CASS settlement systems, confirmed Otto De Vries, CEO of the Association of Southern African Travel Agents (ASATA), today. This clarification addresses recent inaccurate reports regarding LAM’s alleged suspension from the BSP.

“ASATA has received direct confirmation from IATA that LAM remains a full participant in BSP and CASS,” stated De Vries. “The airline’s current challenges are limited to its participation in the IATA Clearing House (ICH), a separate matter entirely, which LAM is actively working to resolve.”

This clarification comes in response to a trade notice issued by Emirates Airline on October 18th, which cited LAM’s purported BSP suspension as the reason for terminating their interline agreement. The notice outlined procedures for rebooking or refunding passengers holding affected tickets.

“We understand the confusion this situation has caused within the travel trade,” De Vries continued. “It’s crucial to distinguish between participation in the BSP, which facilitates payment for airline tickets, and the ICH, which manages interline settlements. LAM continues to operate and accept bookings through the BSP.”

ASATA encourages travel agents and advisors to contact LAM directly or refer to IATA’s official resources for the most up-to-date information regarding the airline’s operational status and ticketing procedures.

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About ASATA 

Established in 1956, the Association of Southern African Travel Agents is a representative forum registered as an Association of Persons, that promotes professional service in the travel industry for both members and their clients. Representing over 95% of the industry at a head office level, ASATA’s membership is voluntary and includes South African retail travel agents, travel management companies, wholesalers and suppliers of travel-related products and services. 

For more information about ASATA, please visit www.asata.co.za.  

JOHANNESBURG, 14 OCTOBER 2024: SATSA is encouraged by the work being done by Minister Leon Schreiber and his team at the Department of Home Affairs (DHA), including the launch of the remote working visa scheme (officially gazetted on 9 October) and the new immigration directives published last week – which bring welcome reforms to the country’s immigration policy.

SATSA CEO David Frost says there has been significant movement from the DHA in recent months: “A positive shake-up was long overdue. We’ve been talking about access, visa reform and the need for streamlined, digital visa processes for years. The fact that we have a Minister committed to simplifying visa requirements and processes, especially for key source markets, is a massive win for the tourism industry – but it is just the beginning.”

The new Remote Work Visa will attract ‘digital nomads’ from across the world, with extended stays benefitting the entire value chain. But for Frost, even more significant is the standardisation of entry requirements for South Africa’s visitors’ visa.

“In particular, SATSA welcomes the announcement that the Minister has issued a directive preventing officials from requesting additional documentation from people who are seeking tourist visas to visit South Africa. Immigration regulations only allow staff to request a passport, bank statements, itinerary and flight details and yet applicants are routinely asked for more, including minimum bank balances or letters from their employers. The directive explains that no official or embassy may require any additional documentation when processing a visa application. The additional requirements have made it very difficult for prospective tourists to visit South Africa, especially those from India and China which are two of the world’s fastest growing markets,” says Frost.

“It’s a game-changer,” says Frost. “Officials working in South African Missions abroad are often a law unto themselves, and the new immigration directive is a seminal change. In addition to a valid passport, there are now only three items required to process a visa: a statement detailing a visitor’s purpose and duration of stay, a valid return airline ticket, and three months of certified bank statements,” says Frost. “It’s much simpler and straightforward – and leaves no room for interpretation. Officials have to adhere to the guidelines and cannot complicate the process with spurious requests.”

“The new Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) also holds vast potential” says Frost. “It’s an interim measure, initially aimed at China and India, that will allow accredited and registered tour operators to deal with large group visa applications. This will alleviate the pressure from applications processed via the usual system, facilitating individual applications. However, with the new directive issued by Minister Schreiber reducing the amount of supporting documentation required, this is an overall win for the market.

SATSA continues to engage with the DHA around the final implementation of the TTOS, and Frost believes that it has to be an open and consultative process. “Both China and India hold enormous potential for South Africa, and we cannot afford to drop the ball. The TTOS will be an important blueprint moving forward.”

For Frost, the ultimate goal is a fully electronic system similar to the one Kenya launched at the beginning of the year:

“Kenya have taken a bold approach. All foreign nationals can now enter the country without a visa for leisure or business travel for stays of up to 90 days. Visitors obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online prior to travel – which costs USD 30 and takes up to three business days to process,” explains Frost.

It’s working for Kenya, which has seen remarkable recovery, reaching 142% of their pre-Covid tourist arrivals by the middle of 2024. In comparison, South Africa reached 84% recovery (or 1.2 million visitors).

“Kenya’s tourism strategy focuses on digital transformation and e-visas, and it’s paying huge dividends, says Frost. “They’re on track to meet their ambitious goal of attracting 2.5 million tourists by the end of 2024.”

The launch of the Remote Visa Work, TTOS and the implementation of the Points-Based System for Work Visas (which addresses past gaps and inefficiencies), will definitely attract people to South Africa, but we have to do much more.

“SATSA remains firm on issues like 90-day visas for all visitors, and waivers for EU countries that still require a visa,” says Frost. “Minister Schreiber’s vision for transforming Home Affairs into a digital-first organisation is a commendable one – but we have to ensure it includes visa reform across the board, making South Africa one of the most accessible, welcoming countries in the world.”

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ABOUT SATSA:

SATSA is the unified voice of the inbound tourism industry in Southern Africa and represents the private sector trade associations in five SADC countries. Our mission is to support the sustainable growth of travel and tourism to and within Southern Africa.

These reforms are expected to bring an influx of long-term visitors who will contribute substantially to local economies. “Remote workers and digital nomads are like long-term tourists,” explains Rosemary Anderson, National Chairperson of FEDHASA. “They’ll be staying in our guesthouses, dining in our restaurants, working from our coffee shops, and exploring our tourist attractions. This sustained economic activity is exactly what our industry needs to thrive and create more jobs.”

The Department of Home Affairs’ announcement aligns perfectly with President Cyril Ramaphosa’s July directive to overhaul the visa regime to attract skills, investment, and grow the tourism sector. In addition to the new visa categories, a recent directive has streamlined the application process for 3-month visas. “The clarification that only three requirements are needed for short-term visas will ensure consistency among immigration officers and make South Africa more welcoming to visitors,” Anderson said.

“We have long advocated for a digital nomad visa, and its implementation is music to our ears,” Anderson continued. “These individuals, while employed abroad and not competing with local workers, bring valuable foreign currency into the country, supporting a wide range of hospitality businesses.”

The Remote Work Visa, requiring a gross annual income of R650,000, is arguably the most attractive of its kind globally, according to Home Affairs Minister Leon Schreiber. Its appeal is further enhanced by relaxed tax requirements for those from countries with double taxation agreements.

FEDHASA also celebrates the implementation of the Points-Based System for Work Visas. This transparent system objectively evaluates applicants for Critical Skills and General Work Visas, addressing past inefficiencies and promoting fairness. This streamlined approach will be instrumental in bringing much-needed expertise into South Africa, benefiting various sectors, including the hospitality industry.

“These reforms demonstrate a commitment to modernising South Africa’s immigration policies and creating a welcoming environment for skilled individuals,” added Anderson. “We are confident that these changes will stimulate economic growth, generate employment opportunities, and enhance South Africa’s global competitiveness in the tourism market.”

FEDHASA looks forward to collaborating with the government to ensure the successful implementation of these reforms and maximise their positive impact on the hospitality and tourism sector.

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About FEDHASA

FEDHASA is the voice of the hospitality industry in South Africa. It represents the interests of hotels, restaurants, and other hospitality businesses at all levels of government. FEDHASA provides its members with a wide range of services, including advocacy, training, and networking opportunities.