Norwegian Cruise Line ship leaving fleet, cruises cancelled

It's always sad when a cruise line sells or scraps a ship that has been in service for decades. That's because it seems like every ship has passengers who consider it their favorite.

What some see as old and outdated, others find quaint and welcoming. Passengers also often have a soft spot in their hearts for whatever their first ship was. 

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Sometimes, people will consider that ship a favorite and visit it every now and again. Ships, however, do have a lifespan. Usually, that's around 30-35 years.

Norwegian Sky entered service in July 1999, over 25 years ago. The ship was actually ordered by Costa Cruises and was supposed to be the Costa Olympia. Norwegian bought the ship as an unfinished hull and it eventually became the Norwegian Sky.

Now, that ship is nearing the end of its journey with the cruise line.

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Norwegian Cruise Line sells Norwegian Sky

Norwegian Sky, at 77,000 gross tons, with a passenger capacity of just under 2,000 is one of the smaller ships in the NCL fleet. 

"Come aboard Norwegian Sky and discover a more intimate and traditional cruising experience. Sail the Bahamas, Greek Isles, go on one of Norwegian's Extraordinary Journeys, and more on this ship. From onboard pools to the award-winning Mandara Spa, get ready to enjoy some well-deserved 'me time," the cruise line shared on its website. 

Norwegian Sky will soon leave the cruise line's fleet, according to a letter sent to passengers.

"Dear Valued Guests and Travel Partners, We're writing to you today with the news that one of our renowned ships from the acclaimed Sun-class series, Norwegian Sky, will leave Norwegian Cruise Line's award-winning fleet to embark toward new horizons," the cruise line shared.

This, of course, does impact passengers.

"Unfortunately, this means that your upcoming cruise on Norwegian Sky has been canceled. Cordelia Cruises, India's leading premium cruise line, has agreed to a long-term charter of Norwegian Sky beginning September 30, 2026, in Dubai, UAE. While we are excited for her new chapter, it does mean, sadly, that to accommodate her timely arrival in Dubai, UAE on September 30, 2026, all Norwegian Sky sailings embarking on or after August 20, 2026, will be canceled," it added.

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Norwegian explains what's next

The cruise line was apologetic about the change.

"Travel partners are asked to please ensure that impacted clients review this information. We fully understand that this cancelation was not in your plans and sincerely apologize for the disappointment this news may cause. As Norwegian Sky is a favorite to many, we are truly grateful for their years of service," it shared.

Norwegian did not that its fleet is continuing to as it's adding new Prima Plus Class ships, Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna.

"Now, let's talk about what happens next. We're committed to making this as smooth as possible for you: A full monetary refund of the fare paid will be automatically returned to the original form of payment provided at the time of reservation. No further action is required; the refund will be automatically processed within 30 business days," the cruise line wrote.

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People who paid via future cruise credits are covered as well.

"For those reservations paid via a previously issued Future Cruise Credit (FCC), 100% of the FCC used will be automatically re-applied to your Latitudes account within 10 days of the cancelation date. No further action is required," it added.

The cruise line is also giving a small bonus for those who had their trip canceled.

"As a small token of our appreciation to say thank you for being part of the Norwegian Cruise Line family and giving us another chance to create an unforgettable experience for you, we will be providing you with a 10% discount on your next voyage with us in the form of a FCC to be used towards any of our published sailings through December 31, 2026. The FCC will be available for use beginning on April 15, 2025," it added.

(The Arena Group will earn a commission if you book a cruise.)

Make a free appointment with Come Cruise With Me's Travel Agent Partner, Postcard Travel, or email Amy Post at amypost@postcardtravelplanning.com or call or text her at 386-383-2472.