Costa Cruises Unites Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Oceania and Viking in 2026 to Redefine Cruises across Asia, The Ultimate Voyage Awaits

Published on November 26, 2025

Costa Cruises is set to unite some of the biggest names in the cruise industry—Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Oceania, and Viking, for a groundbreaking season in 2026. Together, these cruise giants are redefining the very concept of cruising across Asia, bringing an exciting wave of luxury, adventure, and cultural exploration. From the bustling streets of Shanghai to the serene beauty of Kyoto, these new itineraries promise to offer the ultimate voyage for travellers seeking unforgettable experiences. Costa Cruises, with its incredible new itineraries, leads the charge, setting the stage for an entirely new way to experience the best of Asia.

Whether it’s the high-energy atmosphere of Royal Caribbean, the comfort of Norwegian, the elegance of Oceania, or the immersive experiences from Viking, 2026 will be the year to embark on a journey like never before. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime!

Costa Cruises: A Game-Changer for Asia with New Itineraries in 2026

Costa Cruises, already a trusted name in the cruise industry, is ramping up its offerings for 2026 with two groundbreaking itineraries aboard the Costa Serena. This luxurious ship will be the star of the show, offering an unparalleled travel experience to some of Asia’s most iconic and lesser-known destinations.

The First Itinerary: Starting on June 1, 2026, the Costa Serena will depart from Seoul (Incheon) in South Korea. It will then travel to Busan before heading to the heart of Japan. Ports like Sasebo, Yatsushiro, Kagoshima, and Nagasaki will be included in the route, giving passengers the chance to experience Japan’s rich culture, stunning landscapes, and fascinating history. The adventure will wrap up with an overnight stay in Shanghai, China, allowing guests to immerse themselves in the dynamic, fast-paced city life.

The Second Itinerary: On October 7, 2026, the Costa Serena will embark on a route focusing heavily on Japan. Starting from Tokyo (Yokohama), passengers will visit Kobe (with an overnight stay), Kochi, Kagoshima, Nagasaki, Busan in South Korea, and Kanazawa, before heading to Hakodate. This comprehensive Japanese journey promises to be a cruise like no other, offering both popular and hidden gems throughout the Land of the Rising Sun.

Costa’s focus on Asia is undeniable. Their efforts aren’t limited to these new itineraries. Costa Serena will also offer two 14-day voyages covering Japan, Taiwan, and South Korea, as well as Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Brunei, and the Philippines. There’s even a 66-day world cruise scheduled to depart from Tokyo in October 2026, taking passengers across Asia, Oceania, and South America before reaching Buenos Aires.

This new commitment to expanding in Asia highlights Costa Cruises’ desire to provide “authenticity, charm, and comfort” for its passengers. Guests will also enjoy fly & cruise packages from major European cities, making it easier than ever to explore this amazing region.

Royal Caribbean: Expanding Horizons in China and Asia

While Costa Cruises has already announced its plans for Asia, it’s clear that competition is heating up in the region. Royal Caribbean International is jumping in with new itineraries designed to thrill cruise fans in China and other Asian markets. The company’s 2026-2027 line-up includes new voyages departing from Shanghai and Hong Kong, promising more immersive Asian experiences.

This new set of itineraries is bound to attract a diverse group of travellers. Royal Caribbean will cover popular destinations like Tokyo, Osaka, Okinawa, Nagoya, and Hakodate in Japan, as well as Busan and Jeju in South Korea, plus Da Nang and Hue in Vietnam. With both short and extended itineraries, including 2‑9 night sailings, these cruises are perfect for those seeking to explore the cultural richness of Asia in comfort.

This move by Royal Caribbean signals the cruise industry’s growing recognition of Asia as a key market, and it’s a clear signal that other companies will need to step up their game in the region to stay competitive.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Bringing the Action to the USA and Beyond

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is also getting in on the action for 2026. The company has just announced that it will operate its new home-port in Philadelphia, with an exciting range of sailings starting in April 2026. These voyages will focus on the Caribbean, the Bahamas, Alaska, and the Canada/New England region. A massive 250 new voyages will be available, meaning NCL is pulling out all the stops for the upcoming season.

This expansion marks a significant move for the company, bringing more accessibility to cruise lovers in the USA, especially those in the Northeast. While this isn’t directly related to the Asian market, NCL’s continued global growth shows how the cruise industry is diversifying its routes and destinations, and it will no doubt have long-term effects on how cruise lines approach their offerings in Asia.

Oceania Cruises: A World Cruise to Remember

Oceania Cruises has something truly extraordinary in store for 2026. The company has announced a 244-day around-the-world voyage, which will start in Miami in early 2026. This luxury cruise will offer an incredible opportunity to explore Southeast Asia, Australia, and South America. Featuring an array of exotic destinations, this world cruise will cover a stunning mix of seas, oceans, and cultures.

The Oceania World Cruise is designed for the ultimate traveller seeking to experience multiple continents in a single, luxurious voyage. It’s a bold, adventurous option for those who want to cross off a bucket list of destinations, including several Asian cities. Oceania Cruises’ exclusive offering underscores the demand for long-haul voyages and more immersive travel experiences in Asia and beyond.

India’s ‘Cruise Bharat’ Initiative: A New Era for Asian Cruises

Not just cruise lines, but even governments are taking steps to open new routes and promote cruise tourism. The Indian Government, through its Ministry of Ports, Shipping & Waterways, has set its sights on 51 new cruise circuits across 14 states and 3 union territories by 2027. This ambitious initiative, dubbed ‘Cruise Bharat’, aims to boost cruise tourism within India, making it easier for cruise ships to explore the diverse coasts, cultures, and regions of the country.

These new circuits are expected to include popular destinations, including the Goa coastline, Kerala, and Andaman Islands, as well as emerging cruise hubs like Mumbai and Chennai. Additionally, Viking is planning to launch its river cruise, the Viking Brahmaputra, in India by late 2027. This initiative underscores the importance of India as a cruise destination, complementing the rising number of cruise lines expanding in the region.

The Future of Cruises in Asia and Beyond

The announcement of new itineraries by Costa Cruises, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Oceania Cruises represents a growing trend in the cruise industry to cater to the needs of travellers seeking deeper, more immersive experiences. As cruise lines expand their operations in Asia, the offerings are becoming increasingly diverse, with itineraries that go beyond the standard tourist spots.

Whether you’re looking to experience the vibrant cities of Japan, the bustling streets of Shanghai, the untouched beauty of Vietnam, or the timeless charm of India, these new cruises promise an unforgettable adventure. Costa Cruises, in particular, stands out for its commitment to authenticity, combining popular destinations with hidden gems for a unique experience. Royal Caribbean’s expansion in China and the addition of Philadelphia as a home port by Norwegian Cruise Line further signal that the cruise industry is becoming more global and more tailored to the tastes of each region.

For those seeking adventure, luxury, and cultural immersion, 2026 is shaping up to be a banner year for cruising. As cruise lines continue to innovate and add new itineraries, there’s never been a better time to set sail on your next dream vacation. Whether you’re a seasoned traveller or a first-time cruiser, these new itineraries promise to provide memories that will last a lifetime.

With such exciting options on the horizon, it’s clear that the future of cruising is more diverse and more accessible than ever before. The world is waiting for you—so why not get onboard?