The expansion brings a notable upgrade in capacity and on-board offerings
In a significant move for India’s cruise tourism sector, Cordelia Cruises, a leading cruise operator in India, has signed an agreement with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) to acquire two of its vessels, Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun. The addition marks a major expansion in Cordelia’s fleet, boosting its capacity and enabling broader domestic and international cruise operations across Asia and the Middle East.
In a press statement Cordelia Cruises says that the newly acquired ships, both part of NCL’s Sun-class series, will more than double Cordelia’s fleet size. Each ship measures approximately 259 metres in length and has a gross tonnage of about 77,000.
It adds that these ships are designed to accommodate around 2,000 guests and 900 crew members each.
The statement adds that the expansion brings a notable upgrade in capacity and on-board offerings. Both vessels feature over 1,000 cabins each, spanning categories such as solo staterooms, balcony rooms, and suites.
It adds that facilities include multiple restaurants, theatres, casinos, fitness and wellness centres, pools, and dedicated family entertainment areas.
Cordelia Cruises says that it entered the market in 2021 with Cordelia Empress, which has since hosted over 600,000 guests across more than 450 sailings. With the acquisition of the two ships from NCL, the company aims to broaden its reach across India, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East.
Jurgen Bailom
The cruise operator is expected to announce deployment timelines and destinations soon. The new additions will support plans for longer itineraries, expanded port access, and increased sailing frequency.
It further adds that the Cordelia Cruises is positioning this move as a step toward making cruise travel more accessible to Indian travellers, while also strengthening India’s presence in the global cruise market.
“We are thrilled to welcome these iconic vessels to the Cordelia fleet, building on the overwhelming success of Cordelia Empress, which redefined cruise holidays for Indian travellers. With the addition of Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun, we are entering a new era of cruise holidays for Indian guests one that is bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever before,” says Jurgen Bailom, President and CEO, Cordelia Cruises.
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