The Asuka III, a 52,200-gross-ton cruise ship constructed by Meyer Werft for NYK Cruises, is set to commence her conveyance along the Ems River on Sunday, March 2nd.
This operation will transfer the vessel from Papenburg (Germany) to the Dutch port of Eemshaven. Upon arrival, the ship will undergo technical and nautical trials in the North Sea before proceeding to Emden (Germany) for final outfitting. Delivery to NYK Cruises is anticipated in spring 2025.
Notably, the Asuka III is the first passenger ship in 3 decades to be constructed under the supervision of the Japanese flag and stands as the largest Japanese-flagged cruise ship to date. The vessel is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), enabling significant reductions in emissions, including particulate matter, nitrogen oxides, sulfur oxides, and carbon dioxide.
Construction of the Asuka III commenced in September 2023, with the ship being floated out of the building dock in January 2025. The vessel measures 230 meters (755 ft) in length and 29.8 meters (98 ft) in width, accommodating ~740 passengers.
The upcoming Ems River conveyance is a critical phase in the ship's completion, marking a significant milestone for both Meyer Werft and NYK Cruises.