Asuka III: A Milestone for NYK Cruises on Its Way to the North Sea

Bild: Webcam Meyer Werft
The Asuka III, a new luxury liner from Japanese cruise operator NYK Cruises, is expected to be transferred from Meyer Werft in Papenburg to the North Sea in early March. To facilitate this process, the Ems Barrier in Gandersum will remain closed until March 3, 2025, as the river needs to be dammed. Since Ems transfers are highly dependent on weather conditions, an exact date for the Asuka III's passage has not yet been determined.

Currently, the new cruise ship is located in the small construction dock of Meyer Werft. In the coming weeks, the vessel will be floated out to undergo further construction work. Once outside the dock, the ship’s funnel, which is already on-site, will be installed. Before the actual Ems transfer, the Asuka III is expected to remain in the shipyard’s harbor for several weeks.

Following the planned transfer in early March, the ship will undergo extensive sea trials in the North Sea. These trials are designed to test the vessel’s technical systems under realistic conditions and ensure they meet stringent standards. Delivery to NYK Cruises is scheduled for spring 2025. Subsequently, the ship will be transferred to Asia to commence operations in time for the 2025 summer season.

The Asuka III has been specifically designed for the Japanese cruise market. Construction is being carried out under the strict supervision of Japanese maritime authorities. Its future home port will be Yokohama, a city near Tokyo. For the first time, the cruise line is employing liquefied natural gas (LNG) as an environmentally friendly propulsion system. The Asuka III is the first and likely the only vessel of this design series.

Technical Data of the Asuka III:

  • Length: 230.2 meters
  • Width: 29.8 meters
  • Shipyard: Meyer Werft, Papenburg (Germany)
  • Cabins and Suites: 385
  • Maximum Guest Capacity: 744
  • Crew Members: 470