Asuka III: The Next Generation of Luxury Cruising Has Set Sail!

The Japanese cruise industry is celebrating a major achievement with the unveiling of the Asuka III, a new cruise ship that will sail under the Japanese flag for the first time in almost 35 years. Built by Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, the vessel signifies the growth and modernization of Japan’s cruise offerings.

On January 18, 2025, the 52,250-GT Asuka III was floated out of the shipyard’s building hall and moved to the fitting-out dock, where its funnel was installed, a task that required special clearance due to height restrictions in the building area.

This LNG-powered ship spans approximately 755 feet (230 meters) and is the first large passenger ship commissioned post-COVID crisis, with its contract signed in March 2021 and construction commencing with steel cutting in September 2023. NYK Line, a prominent player in the shipping industry, is positioning Asuka III as the flagship for Japan’s growing cruise market. Unlike earlier vessels, it was built abroad to utilize Meyer Werft’s expertise specifically for Japanese travelers.

Asuka III offers 385 passenger cabins designed for around 740 guests, supported by a crew of 470. Its amenities include a spa featuring a Japanese-style open-air bath, luxurious suites, and various dining and entertainment options.

The ship is set to be delivered in the summer and will make a relocation voyage from Germany to Japan before being homeported in Yokohama. Asuka II, which was built in 1990 and repurposed for the Japanese market in 2006, will continue to operate shorter roundtrip itineraries from Yokohama.

This development highlights broader ambitions within Japan’s cruise sector, where other operators, such as Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL), are also expanding their fleets. Recently, MOL launched the Mitsui Ocean Fuji, a rebranded luxury vessel that commenced operations in December 2024, indicating a commitment to enhancing Japan’s cruise tourism both domestically and internationally while embracing sustainable practices.

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