Norwegian Cruise Line’s Full Fleet Returns to Service with Newly Refurbished Norwegian Spirit
by Dori Saltzman
Norwegian Spirit is the final NCL ship to return to service. Photo: Norwegian Cruise Line
With the departure of Norwegian Spirit from Papeete, Tahiti this past Saturday, Norwegian Cruise Line’s full 17-ship fleet officially returned to service. The complete “Great Cruise Comeback” comes less than a year after Norwegian Jade became the first ship in the NCL fleet to set sail on July 25, 2021 after a 500-day pause.
“This is an incredibly important day in our history and a defining moment for our future,” said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We are moving full speed ahead, having already welcomed more than half a million guests for an exceptional vacation at sea.”
Norwegian Spirit returned to service sporting an extensive $100-million-plus bow-to-stern refurbishment that included the addition of 14 new venues, additional and updated staterooms, enhanced public areas and new hull art.
Enhancements include a double-in-size Mandara Spa that now includes an expansive thermal suite and relaxation areas, an expanded Pulse Fitness Center, and the second Onda by Scarpetta restaurant at sea. New complimentary dining venues include an additional main dining room; the 24-hour The Local Bar and Grill; and the Garden Cafe, along with a Great Outdoors Bar.
Also new to Norwegian Spirit are The Social Comedy & Night Club, the adults-only Spice H2O, and Spinnaker Lounge. The latter features a Humidor Cigar Lounge.
The ship is currently sailing in French Polynesia visiting eight ports in 12 days before arriving in Honolulu on May 19.

