NCL grows shoulder season cruises to meet GCC demand

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NCL ship sailing in Akureyri, Iceland

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has expanded its European sailings during shoulder seasons to cater to increasing demand from travellers in the GCC.

The cruise line’s European itineraries for 2025-2026 now includes more than 160 shoulder season voyages across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe and the British Isles, a record number for the line.

As the Middle East’s leading cruise line for three years running, NCL has observed a growing preference among GCC guests for spring and early autumn sailings.

These off-peak months offer milder weather, fewer crowds and longer days in port, allowing cruisers to connect more deeply with local cultures and explore landmark destinations at a more leisurely pace and without the summer rush.

NCL’s European itineraries for 2025 and 2026 range from seven to 15 days and include multiple embarkation points such as Athens (Piraeus) in Greece, Barcelona in Spain, Rome (Civitavecchia) in Italy and Lisbon in Portugal.

NCL sailing to Lisbon in Portugal

Passengers can benefit from extended stays in sought-after locations such as Istanbul, where overnight visits provide ample time to see both famous landmarks and hidden gems. Ports such as Livorno in Italy serve as gateways to the scenic Tuscan countryside and charming hill towns, giving travellers a more immersive experience.

For autumn 2025, NCL has itineraries exploring the Greek Isles, Italy, and Croatia when the crowds are lighter and the weather is more pleasant.

Looking ahead to spring and early summer 2026, NCL’s Norwegian Pearl’s Greek Isles voyages sail from May through August between Venice (Ravenna) and Athens (Piraeus), offering island-hopping through picturesque desitnations such as Santorini and Mykonos.

Alternatively, GCC travellers can explore Northern Europe without the peak summer crowds, with Norwegian Star’s 10- or 11-day Iceland and Norway itineraries, departing from Southampton in May and June 2026.

Garden Villa Master Suite onboard NCL ship

When it comes to cruising Europe, NCL takes the ‘More’ approach, offering more time in port, as well as more space and freedom onboard with multiple activities and experiences, plus more elevated dining options.

And with the cruise line’s new More At Sea upgrade, guests can access specialty dining, high-speed Wi-Fi powered by Starlink, unlimited open bar packages and many other perks, all bundled in.

To partner with NCL, email Rebecca Ransom, Business Development Manager Middle East, rransom@ncl.com, call/WhatsApp: +44 7961 300 729; for more information, visit www.ncl.com