Norwegian Luna Adds Overnight Stays in Barcelona, Gibraltar for Maiden Voyage

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced notable itinerary changes for the highly anticipated maiden voyage of the Norwegian Luna, set to depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) on March 10, 2026, and conclude in Miami on March 23, 2026. The transatlantic journey has dropped its originally planned stop in Tangier, Morocco, replacing it with visits to Barcelona, Spain, and Gibraltar due to required refueling operations. Despite these adjustments, the departure and arrival dates remain unchanged, ensuring a seamless experience for booked guests.

Refuel-Driven Adjustments to the Itinerary

The revised maiden voyage itinerary introduces an overnight stay in Barcelona from March 11–12 and an extended visit to Gibraltar on March 14. Norwegian Cruise Line emphasized that these changes were made to prioritize guest experience while addressing the logistical needs of the ship. Following Gibraltar, passengers will embark on an eight-day consecutive transatlantic crossing, spending a total of nine days at sea during the 13-night voyage.

An official statement from the cruise line clarified the reasoning for the update: "When an itinerary change is necessary, it’s never just a line on a map. With that in mind, we’ve made a few adjustments to your itinerary due to necessary refueling operations in Barcelona and Gibraltar, ensuring a seamless and immersive journey from port to port."

• Departure: March 10, 2026, from Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy
• March 11–12: Overnight stay in Barcelona, Spain
• March 13: Day at sea
• March 14: Extended visit to Gibraltar
• March 15–22: Eight consecutive days at sea
• Arrival: PortMiami on March 23, 2026

The Norwegian Luna: Design and Features

The Norwegian Luna is the second vessel in Norwegian Cruise Line's Prima-plus class, following her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua. Constructed at the Fincantieri shipyard in Italy and floated out earlier this year, the ship incorporates lunar-themed hull art, panoramic outdoor designs, and innovative amenities to engage travelers with the sea and sky.

Standout onboard features include the second-ever slidecoaster, a hybrid waterslide and roller coaster first introduced on Norwegian Aqua. Other attractions include The Drop, a 10-story free-fall slide, and the 46,000-square-foot Ocean Boulevard, an outdoor promenade with stunning ocean views, sculptures, and glass walkways. Guests will also enjoy specialty dining venues, high-energy entertainment productions, and the exclusive Vibe Beach Club, catering to a diverse array of preferences.

Post-Maiden Voyage Deployment

Upon arrival at PortMiami, the Norwegian Luna will begin a short Bahamas cruise before transitioning to a year-round schedule of seven-night Eastern Caribbean itineraries starting in April 2026. Typical destinations include Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, Tortola in the British Virgin Islands, Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, and Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian's private island.

These itineraries are designed to balance adventurous exploration with luxury and relaxation, aligning the guest experience with Norwegian Cruise Line’s reputation for innovation and excellence. Booked passengers can expect a sophisticated inaugural cruise and exciting options for future sailings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Why was Tangier removed from Norwegian Luna's maiden voyage?

The change was necessitated by refueling needs in Barcelona and Gibraltar to ensure operational efficiency and a seamless experience for guests. Tangier was replaced with two iconic European stops.

Are the departure and arrival dates affected by these changes?

No, the transatlantic voyage will depart from Civitavecchia (Rome) on March 10, 2026, and arrive in PortMiami on March 23, 2026, as originally planned.

What features can guests look forward to onboard the Norwegian Luna?

Guests can enjoy exciting attractions like the slidecoaster hybrid waterslide, the free-fall slide The Drop, Ocean Boulevard with glass walkways, and specialty entertainment and dining venues. The ship also offers private beach club amenities at the Vibe Beach Club.

How many consecutive sea days are now part of the itinerary?

After departing Gibraltar, the ship will undertake an eight-day consecutive transatlantic crossing, totaling nine sea days during the voyage.

What are Norwegian Luna's plans after the maiden voyage?

After March 23, 2026, the ship will initiate her South Florida operations, starting with a Bahamas cruise, followed by year-round seven-night itineraries to the Eastern Caribbean, including visits to Great Stirrup Cay and other tropical destinations.