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Jason Leppert
Jason LeppertCruise Editor

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Preview: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Bella

Oct 31, 2026
Cruise  Norwegian Cruise Line  Western Europe  
A large colorful cruise ship sails on calm blue sea.
Norwegian Cruise Line's upcoming Norwegian Bella will sail through the Mediterranean when it debuts in May 2028.
Credit: 2026 Norwegian Cruise Line

Before the brand moves on to introduce its next ship series, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) will launch its sixth and final Prima-Class vessel. Coming in May 2028 is the new Norwegian Bella, which will debut in Europe and take many design cues from the preceding, Caribbean-based Norwegian Aura.

"Norwegian Bella marks a milestone moment in our fleet as the culmination of our award-winning Prima Class,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of NCL. “Drawing on the innovations and guest feedback that have shaped the class from the very beginning, Norwegian Bella brings together our most sought-after experiences in one extraordinary ship. From enhanced outdoor spaces and family-friendly attractions to elevated venues for relaxation and connection, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to give guests the freedom and flexibility to vacation exactly how they want to, without anyone having to compromise. We look forward to welcoming guests to discover the Mediterranean with us onboard Norwegian Bella.” 

Bella will navigate destinations such as Rome, Florence and Salerno, Italy; Marseille, France; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.

Measuring 170,000 gross tons and approximately 1,129 feet in length, Bella will carry 3,921 guests at double occupancy, making it and Aura the biggest ships in the NCL fleet. Both are currently under construction by Fincantieri in Italy ahead of Aura’s May 2027 introduction.

A seaside resort deck with pink chaise lounges overlooking the ocean and a pool.
Norwegian Bella's Infinity Beach will feature daybeds and infinity pools.
Credit: 2026 Norwegian Cruise Line

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Of course, a unique feature for Bella will be its signature hull livery from acclaimed Australian contemporary artist George Rose, known for her botanical compositions and murals.

"Designing the hull art for Norwegian Bella was an opportunity to capture the sense of wonder that travel inspires,” she said. “Through vibrant color, organic forms and a feeling of movement, I wanted to create a piece that reflects the excitement of exploration and discovery. I’m looking forward to seeing my artwork come to life on a ship that will visit some of Europe's most remarkable destinations, and I hope it becomes part of the memories guests create throughout their journey." 

Ocean Heights and Ocean Boulevard

Bella will again include the Ocean Heights activity complex, spanning decks 18 through 21 with outdoor attractions that transform into a vibrantly lit social hub in the evening. Features carried over from Aura but branded for the new ship include the Bella Free Fall waterslide, side-by-side Eclipse Racers and The Wave, a pendulum-style raft slide for up to four riders at a time, as well as series-signature The Drop, a dry slide descending 10 decks in just seconds. Also on hand: the Bella Ropes Course, the harness-free Moon Climber adventure course, classic carnival-style fun at the Bella Midway and a nine-hole mini-golf course.

RELATED: Preview: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Aura

Ocean Boulevard, meanwhile, will serve as a promenade level wrapping around the entire ship at deck eight, with more seating than the smaller Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, but still showcasing an outdoor bar, hot tubs and the Infinity Beach area with infinity pools and daybeds.

Here, younger guests (ages 2-6) will also have Little Explorers' Cay, outfitted with a playhouse and slides, plus Adventure Alley (for ages 6-10) with another playground featuring a series of crawl spaces, tunnels and other ocean-inspired avenues. Meanwhile, teens can enjoy Surf's Bay retreat and its selfie-ready surf wall photo installation.

Pool Deck Fun and Activities

Bella’s pool deck will also be more than 15% larger than that on Aqua and Luna. It will feature a central pool flanked by an infinity hot tub and an expansive LED screen for added entertainment. The Kids' Aqua Park will also contain a reimagined splash pad with interactive water features, in addition to two nearby family-friendly waterslides: The Party Slide and the figure-eight Infinity Loop.

RELATED: Review: Norwegian Luna

Elsewhere, Horizon Park will sport both outdoor lawn games and lounging. Or, for adults only, Vibe Beach Club will offer even more infinity hot tubs and enhanced relaxation areas complete with a central bar, more sun loungers and additional daybeds.

The Haven Accommodations and Amenities

The ship will also reprise NCL’s The Haven ship-within-a-ship complex of 159 elevated private suites and exclusive shared venues. 

Modern sea-view hotel room with a navy blue bed setup.
With design features inspired by Norwegian Aura, Norwegian Bella will also include The Haven ship-within-a-ship complex.
Credit: 2026 Norwegian Cruise Line

Other related amenities will extend to private elevators, a restaurant, a separate bar and lounge, a sundeck with an infinity pool, two hot tubs and an outdoor sauna and cold room, besides delineated family-friendly and adults-only areas. 

Guests therein will also be treated to 24-hour butler and concierge service, as well as priority embarkation, disembarkation and reservations.

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