On April 10, NYK Cruises officially took delivery of the Asuka III from Meyer Werft at a ceremony held in Emden, Germany. The event was attended by NYK Cruises President Hiroyuki Endo, Meyer Group CEO Bernd Eikens, Captain Hisashai Kogue, and other executives and crew members. The traditional flag-changing ceremony marked the vessel's formal entry into the NYK Cruises fleet.
The Asuka III is a 51,950 gross tonnage cruise ship with a passenger capacity of 740. She is powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), making her one of the most energy-efficient cruise ships constructed by Meyer Werft.
Designed to reflect Japanese aesthetics, the ship features open spaces and will showcase works by Japanese artists, including a fresco by Hiroshi Senju in the Gallery Café and paintings by Reiji Hiramatsu in the Noblesse Restaurant.
Following her delivery, the Asuka III will sail to its home port in Yokohama, Japan, where final outfitting will be completed. The ship's inaugural season includes visits to over 30 destinations across Japan, such as Hakodate, Otaru, Takamatsu, Shingu, Muroran, and Moji. A highlight of the season is the 12-night "Japan Circumnavigation Cruise," departing from Yokohama in early August, with calls at Hakodate, Otaru, Kanazawa, Maizuru, Moji, and Beppu.
The Asuka III represents a significant addition to NYK Cruises' fleet, emphasizing sustainable operations and a design that caters to the Japanese market. The vessel's construction and delivery mark a notable achievement in cruise shipbuilding, particularly as it was the first cruise ship order for Meyer Werft during the pandemic period.