Norwegian Sky Itineraries - Farewell to an NCL Classic

Published: January 31, 2026
Norwegian Sky vacant pooldeck, capturing the farewell to this classic cruise ship as it prepares to join another cruise line

Table of Contents

Norwegian Sky Cruise Quick Facts

  • Total Sailings: 151 sailings in dataset across 25+ ports
  • Primary Homeports: Miami, Tampa, Punta Cana, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, Istanbul, Lisbon, London (Southampton), Paris (Le Havre), Copenhagen
  • Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Northern Europe, British Isles, Canada & New England, Africa, Asia, Middle East, Panama Canal, Transatlantic
  • Typical Durations: 3-21 days
  • Deployment Pattern: Global year-round deployment including Caribbean winters, Mediterranean/Northern Europe summers, exotic world cruise segments, and transatlantic repositioning
  • Ship Details: Launched 1999, approximately 2,000 passengers, smaller intimate ship ideal for ports inaccessible to mega-ships
  • Special Status: Final sailings with NCL before transferring to Cordelia Cruises in September 2026

Compare prices on all Norwegian Sky cruises →

A Fond Farewell to Norwegian Sky

Norwegian Sky is preparing to say goodbye to the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. This beloved ship, which has served NCL guests since 1999, will transfer to Cordelia Cruises in September 2026 - making it the first cruise ship to leave NCL's fleet in nearly two decades. The last ship to depart was the Norwegian Majesty, which was sold to Louis Cruise Lines in mid-2008 and delivered in November 2009 during a major fleet modernization that also saw the Norwegian Wind, Norwegian Dream, and Norwegian Crown leave the fleet.

Following its transfer, Norwegian Sky will begin a new chapter sailing in India from ports such as Goa and Mumbai. Norwegian Sun is also set to join Cordelia in 2027, continuing NCL's fleet renewal as newer ships enter service.

Current itineraries represent your final opportunity to experience Norwegian Sky under the Norwegian flag. The Sky's smaller size and intimate atmosphere have made it a favorite among cruisers who appreciate traditional cruising combined with Norwegian's innovative Freestyle Cruising concept.

Find the best prices on these sailings using our Norwegian Cruise Line deal finder or sign up for deal alerts to get notified when prices drop.

Season Highlights

Norwegian Sky serves an extraordinary variety of homeports and destinations across the globe. The ship's diverse deployment includes 151 sailings from over 25 different embarkation ports, visiting destinations across six continents. From short 3-day Bahamas getaways to epic 21-day African odysseys, the Sky offers unparalleled variety for travelers seeking both quick escapes and extended adventures.

The ship's smaller size (approximately 2,000 passengers) provides access to intimate ports and exotic destinations that larger vessels simply cannot reach. This makes Norwegian Sky particularly valuable for world cruise segments through Africa, Asia, and the Middle East, where the ship visits ports rarely included on mainstream itineraries.

As the Sky prepares for its transition, the remaining sailings represent a unique opportunity to experience this versatile ship across its full range of deployments - from Caribbean warmth to Mediterranean culture, from British Isles charm to exotic Asian adventures. For historical context on NCL pricing, see our 2025 sailing report.

Why Choose Norwegian Sky? Your Last Chance

Norwegian Sky cruises offer a final opportunity to experience this classic ship under the NCL banner. The Sky represents traditional cruising at its best - intimate, accessible, and adventurous. Here's what makes these sailings special:

Intimate Ship Experience: With approximately 2,000 passengers, Norwegian Sky provides a more personal cruising experience compared to mega-ships. Guests appreciate shorter lines, easier navigation, and a genuine sense of community onboard.

Access to Unique Ports: The Sky's smaller size opens doors to ports that larger ships cannot visit. This advantage is particularly evident in the ship's exotic world cruise segments through Africa (Cape Town, Walvis Bay, Dakar), Asia (Singapore, Manila, Taipei), and the Middle East (Dubai, Muscat, Doha), as well as intimate Mediterranean ports and British Isles harbors.

Global Deployment Variety: Norwegian Sky itineraries span an extraordinary range of destinations. Whether you're seeking Caribbean sunshine, Mediterranean history, British Isles culture, or once-in-a-lifetime African and Asian adventures, the Sky delivers diverse options that few ships can match.

Traditional Cruising with Freestyle Innovation: The Sky combines the charm of traditional cruise ship design with Norwegian's signature Freestyle Cruising - no fixed dining times, multiple restaurant options, and relaxed onboard atmosphere.

Last Chance Opportunity: These sailings represent the final chapter of Norwegian Sky's service with NCL before the ship transfers to Cordelia Cruises in September 2026. Norwegian Sky will become the first ship to leave NCL's fleet in nearly two decades - for longtime fans and those who've always wanted to experience this ship, current itineraries offer a poignant farewell voyage before it begins sailing in India.

Extraordinary Journey Itineraries: Norwegian Sky specializes in extended sailings and exotic itineraries that appeal to experienced cruisers and adventure seekers. The ship's Africa, Asia, and Middle East deployments showcase destinations rarely visited by mainstream cruise lines.

Compare current prices on all Norwegian Sky cruises to find your perfect sailing.

Port & Destination Breakdown

Norwegian Sky operates from an impressive variety of homeports worldwide, making it one of NCL's most globally deployed vessels. Here's how the ship's sailings are distributed:

Miami Homeport - The Sky operates both short Caribbean getaways and longer Eastern Caribbean voyages from Miami. Quick 3-5 day sailings visit the Bahamas (Nassau, Great Stirrup Cay) and Western Caribbean ports (Key West, Cozumel), while 9-day cruises venture deeper into the Eastern Caribbean visiting Puerto Rico, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Antigua. Miami deployments typically occur during late fall through spring, offering convenient access to warm-weather escapes.

Punta Cana (La Romana) Homeport - The Sky operates as a dedicated Southern Caribbean specialist from Punta Cana with weekly 7-day cruises and extended 9-14 day sailings. These itineraries focus on the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) plus southern destinations like Grenada, Barbados, St. Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago. Round-trip sailings provide convenient access to the deepest Caribbean ports. This deployment runs from late winter through mid-spring.

Tampa Homeport - Beginning late 2026, the Sky operates from Tampa with 5-day Bahamas getaways, 10-day Caribbean cruises visiting the Western Caribbean and ABC Islands, and spectacular 11-14 day Panama Canal itineraries. The Tampa deployment includes sailings through early 2027, representing some of the Sky's final voyages with NCL.

Barcelona Homeport - Barcelona serves as a gateway for Mediterranean sailings including Western Mediterranean cruises visiting France (Cannes, Marseille), Italy (Rome, Florence, Naples), and Spanish islands (Ibiza, Palma de Majorca). The Sky also operates transatlantic repositioning cruises from Barcelona to the Caribbean via the Canary Islands and Cape Verde.

Rome (Civitavecchia) Homeport - From Rome, the Sky offers 9-12 day cruises exploring the Western Mediterranean, Italian coast, Greek Islands, and Adriatic ports (Venice, Croatia, Slovenia). These sailings typically operate during late spring and summer months.

Istanbul Homeport - The Sky operates Greek Isles and Eastern Mediterranean cruises from Istanbul, visiting Turkey (Kusadasi), Greek Islands (Mykonos, Santorini, Athens), and Italian ports. Round-trip and one-way options provide flexibility for Mediterranean explorers. These sailings run primarily during summer months.

Venice (VCE) Homeport - Venice serves as homeport for Adriatic and Greek Isles cruises featuring Croatian ports (Split, Dubrovnik), Montenegro (Kotor), Greek Islands (Corfu, Santorini, Mykonos), and Italian coastal cities. Typically offered during summer Mediterranean season.

Lisbon Homeport - Lisbon serves as a key hub for Atlantic Islands cruises visiting the Azores, Madeira, and Canary Islands, plus repositioning sailings to Northern Europe or back to the Mediterranean. The Sky operates several round-trip Lisbon sailings exploring the Atlantic archipelagos, Morocco, and Iberian coast. Available during spring and fall shoulder seasons.

London (Southampton) Homeport - The Sky operates an extensive British Isles program from Southampton with 10-11 day round-trip cruises visiting Scotland (Edinburgh, Inverness, Isle of Skye), Northern Ireland (Belfast), Ireland (Dublin, Cork), and continental Europe (Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris). This deployment runs from late spring through early fall, offering a comprehensive British Isles experience.

Copenhagen & Paris (Le Havre) Homeports - The Sky operates short 7-day Northern Europe cruises alternating between Copenhagen and Paris/Le Havre, visiting Hamburg, Amsterdam, London, and Brussels. These convenient one-week sailings provide efficient Northern Europe explorations during late spring and summer.

Asia & Middle East Homeports - The Sky completes extraordinary world cruise segments from Singapore, Manila, Taipei, Dubai, and Doha. These exotic deployments include Southeast Asia (Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia, Philippines), East Asia (Japan, South Korea, Taiwan), Indian Ocean (Seychelles, Maldives, Mauritius), and Middle East (Oman, UAE, Qatar). These once-in-a-lifetime itineraries operate during winter and spring months.

Africa Homeports - The Sky operates remarkable repositioning cruises from Cape Town and Port Louis (Mauritius), including epic 21-day transatlantic voyages from South Africa to Europe via West Africa, and exotic Indian Ocean sailings. These extraordinary journeys represent some of the most adventurous itineraries in NCL's portfolio.

Canada & New England Homeports - Fall foliage cruises operate from Boston, Quebec City, and Baltimore, featuring classic New England and Canadian maritime ports. Brief deployment during September-October for autumn leaf-peeping season. The Sky also completes spectacular 10-14 day repositioning cruises from New England to Europe.

Norwegian Sky Seasonal Cruise Calendar

Winter-Spring Caribbean Season (November - April)

The Sky anchors Norwegian's Caribbean program during winter and spring months with deployments from Miami, Punta Cana, and Tampa. These sailings offer consistent warm-weather escapes with durations ranging from quick 3-day weekend getaways to immersive 14-day Southern Caribbean explorations.

From Miami, the Sky operates a mix of short 3-5 day Bahamas and Western Caribbean cruises perfect for quick getaways, plus 9-day Eastern Caribbean sailings visiting six ports across Puerto Rico and the Lesser Antilles. These weekly departures provide reliable winter sun for North American travelers.

The Punta Cana deployment showcases the Sky's strength in Southern Caribbean itineraries. Operating from La Romana, the ship focuses on ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curaçao) combined with deeper Caribbean gems like Grenada, Trinidad, Barbados, and St. Lucia. Weekly 7-day cruises and extended 9-14 day options deliver comprehensive Southern Caribbean coverage impossible from most U.S. homeports.

Tampa deployments beginning late 2026 add Western Caribbean variety with 5-day Bahamas runs, 10-day Western Caribbean/ABC Islands combinations, and spectacular 11-14 day Panama Canal transits. The Panama Canal itineraries include full canal crossings with calls at Costa Rica, Belize, Colombia, and Cozumel.

Season: November - April Homeport(s): Miami, Punta Cana (La Romana), Tampa Destinations: Caribbean, Bahamas, Panama Canal, Southern Caribbean Typical Duration: 3-14 days Frequency: Multiple weekly departures

Spring-Summer Mediterranean Season (April - November)

Norwegian Sky operates an extensive Mediterranean program spanning Western Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Adriatic, and Eastern Mediterranean regions. This deployment showcases the ship's versatility with homeports across Barcelona, Rome, Venice, Istanbul, and Lisbon.

Barcelona serves as the primary Western Mediterranean base with sailings exploring the French Riviera, Italian coast, and Spanish islands. Rome (Civitavecchia) provides access to comprehensive Italian and Greek explorations. Venice focuses on Adriatic gems including Croatia, Slovenia, and Montenegro combined with Greek Islands.

Istanbul deployments deliver authentic Greek Isles and Eastern Mediterranean experiences, visiting Turkey's Aegean coast (Kusadasi), classic Greek Islands (Mykonos, Santorini, Athens), and Cyprus. These 10-12 day sailings provide deeper immersion than typical 7-day Greek Isles cruises from other homeports.

Lisbon operates as both a homeport for Atlantic Islands cruises (Azores, Madeira, Canary Islands) and a connection point for repositioning sailings between Mediterranean and Northern Europe. Round-trip Lisbon sailings explore Morocco, Iberian coast, and Atlantic archipelagos often missed by mainstream itineraries.

The Sky's smaller size proves advantageous in the Mediterranean, accessing intimate ports like Portimão (Portugal), Motril (Spain), Kotor (Montenegro), and smaller Greek Islands that larger ships cannot visit.

Season: April - November Homeport(s): Barcelona, Rome, Venice, Istanbul, Lisbon Destinations: Western Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Adriatic, Eastern Mediterranean, Atlantic Islands Typical Duration: 9-15 days Frequency: Continuous deployment with overlapping itineraries

Summer British Isles & Northern Europe Season (April - September)

The Sky operates a robust British Isles program from London (Southampton) featuring comprehensive 10-11 day round-trip cruises. These sailings visit Scotland's dramatic coastline (Edinburgh, Inverness, Isle of Skye), Northern Ireland (Belfast), Ireland (Dublin, Cork, Liverpool), and continental Europe (Amsterdam, Brussels, Paris).

British Isles itineraries typically depart weekly or bi-weekly from late May through September, providing peak summer season coverage when weather is most favorable. The longer 10-11 day duration allows for overnight stays or extended port visits in key cities like Edinburgh and Dublin.

Supplementing the Southampton program, the Sky operates shorter 7-day Northern Europe cruises alternating between Copenhagen and Paris (Le Havre). These efficient itineraries visit Hamburg, Amsterdam, London, and Brussels - perfect for travelers seeking a one-week Northern European sampler without committing to longer voyages.

Season: April - September Homeport(s): London (Southampton), Copenhagen, Paris (Le Havre) Destinations: British Isles (Scotland, Ireland, Northern Ireland), Northern Europe (Netherlands, Belgium, Germany) Typical Duration: 7-11 days Frequency: Weekly departures during peak summer months

Extraordinary World Cruise Segments (November - April)

Norwegian Sky completes remarkable world cruise segments through Africa, Asia, Middle East, and Indian Ocean - regions rarely visited by mainstream cruise ships. These extended sailings represent some of the most exotic itineraries in NCL's entire fleet.

Africa & Middle East Segments include epic 21-day voyages from Cape Town to Europe via West Africa (Angola, São Tomé, Ivory Coast, Senegal), 13-16 day Southern Africa and Indian Ocean sailings (South Africa, Mozambique, Madagascar, Mauritius, Seychelles), and 14-16 day Arabian Gulf and Red Sea transits (Dubai, Oman, Jordan, Egypt, Israel).

Asia & Southeast Asia Segments feature 10-16 day sailings exploring the Philippines, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, and Brunei. These itineraries often operate as one-way segments connecting major Asian cities, allowing travelers to build custom extended journeys.

Indian Ocean Segments showcase rare island destinations including Seychelles, Maldives, Mauritius, Reunion, and Madagascar, combined with East African ports. These exotic sailings typically range 13-17 days and operate as repositioning cruises between Middle East, Asia, or Africa.

These Extraordinary Journey sailings require adventurous spirits and appeal to experienced cruisers seeking destinations beyond typical Caribbean and Mediterranean routes. The Sky's smaller size provides access to remote ports and islands that mega-ships physically cannot reach, making these itineraries truly unique within the cruise industry.

Season: November - April (repositioning between regions) Homeport(s): Singapore, Dubai, Doha, Manila, Taipei, Cape Town, Port Louis, Athens Destinations: Africa, Asia, Southeast Asia, Middle East, Indian Ocean, Red Sea Typical Duration: 10-21 days Frequency: Limited sailings as repositioning between major deployments

Transatlantic Repositioning Cruises (April, September-December)

The Sky completes multiple transatlantic crossings each year as it repositions between Caribbean, European, and world cruise deployments. These one-way voyages offer exceptional value and appeal to travelers who enjoy extended sea days and crossing oceans.

Spring transatlantic sailings typically operate westbound from Caribbean or Mediterranean to North America, often visiting Bermuda, Azores, or Canary Islands en route. Fall transatlantic sailings run eastbound from North America to Europe, with select itineraries continuing to Africa or Middle East.

Transatlantic itineraries range from 13-16 days and include multiple sea days ideal for relaxation, enjoying ship amenities, and participating in enrichment programs. These repositioning cruises often provide significant value compared to standard round-trip sailings.

Season: April, September-December Homeport(s): Various (New York, Boston, Barcelona, Lisbon, Miami, Tampa, Punta Cana) Destinations: Transatlantic, Azores, Bermuda, Canary Islands Typical Duration: 13-16 days Frequency: Multiple sailings during spring and fall repositioning periods

Fall Canada & New England Season (September-October)

The Sky operates a brief but picturesque fall foliage program in Canada and New England. These 7-14 day cruises depart from Boston, Quebec City, and Baltimore, visiting classic maritime ports including Halifax, Sydney (Cape Breton), Charlottetown (Prince Edward Island), Saint John (Bay of Fundy), Bar Harbor, and Saguenay.

Fall foliage cruises typically operate during September and early October when autumn colors peak across New England and Eastern Canada. The Sky's smaller size allows access to intimate ports like Bar Harbor, Saguenay, and Bay of Fundy that showcase nature's autumn spectacle.

Select sailings include overnight stays or extended calls in Quebec City and Boston, providing time to explore these historic cities. Some itineraries operate as one-way repositioning cruises connecting with European or Caribbean deployments.

Season: September - October Homeport(s): Boston, Quebec City, Baltimore, New York Destinations: Canada & New England (Quebec, Nova Scotia, Maine, Massachusetts) Typical Duration: 7-14 days Frequency: Limited sailings during peak foliage season

Planning Tips

  • Book quickly for farewell sailings - With Norwegian Sky transitioning to another cruise line, popular sailings and cabin categories are booking faster than usual. Travelers wanting to experience this ship under the NCL flag should book early to secure preferred dates and accommodations.

  • Consider exotic world cruise segments - The Sky's Africa, Asia, and Middle East deployments offer once-in-a-lifetime destinations that are difficult to reach by other means. These extraordinary journeys visit ports rarely included on mainstream cruise itineraries and showcase the Sky's unique advantages as a smaller, more adventurous ship.

  • Leverage the smaller ship experience - With approximately 2,000 passengers, Norwegian Sky provides a more intimate cruising experience than mega-ships. Expect shorter lines, easier navigation, more personalized service, and genuine community atmosphere. The smaller size also means access to ports that larger vessels cannot visit.

  • Match duration to your travel style - Short 3-5 day getaways from Miami and Tampa work well for quick Caribbean escapes and first-time cruisers. Week-long 7-9 day cruises provide comprehensive destination coverage. Extended 10-21 day sailings suit experienced travelers seeking in-depth exploration and exotic destinations.

  • Time your British Isles cruises carefully - Summer months (June-August) offer longest daylight hours and most favorable weather for Scotland and Northern Europe. However, these months also bring higher demand and peak pricing. Shoulder months (May, September) provide better value with still-pleasant conditions.

  • Explore repositioning cruise value - Transatlantic and world cruise repositioning segments often provide exceptional value compared to round-trip sailings. These one-way itineraries appeal to travelers who enjoy sea days, are flexible with travel dates, and seek adventure over convenience.

  • Pack for diverse climates - Norwegian Sky's global deployment means dramatic climate variations. Caribbean and Mediterranean sailings require warm-weather clothing and sun protection. British Isles and Northern Europe demand layers and rain gear. World cruise segments through Africa and Asia may experience both extremes. Research your specific itinerary's climate patterns.

  • Take advantage of Freestyle Cruising - Norwegian's signature approach means no fixed dining times, multiple restaurant options, casual dress codes, and flexible daily schedules. This works particularly well on smaller ships like the Sky where accessing dining venues and entertainment is quick and convenient.

How to Find the Best Deals on Norwegian Sky Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line pricing fluctuates based on demand, booking time, and availability. Here's how to maximize value:

  • Book early for popular farewell sailings - With the Sky transitioning to another cruise line, popular dates and cabin categories are booking faster than usual. Early booking secures best availability and often captures promotional fares available 12-18 months in advance.

  • Monitor price drops actively - Fares change weekly as NCL adjusts pricing based on booking pace. Set up deal alerts to track your preferred Norwegian Sky sailings and receive notifications when prices decrease.

  • Consider shoulder season timings - Late April/early May and September/October offer lower demand for Mediterranean and British Isles sailings compared to peak summer months. Late April/early May and September/October also work well for Caribbean deployments between peak winter and hurricane season.

  • Evaluate repositioning cruise value - Transatlantic and world cruise repositioning sailings often provide exceptional per-day value compared to round-trip itineraries. These one-way cruises appeal to flexible travelers seeking adventure and longer voyages.

  • Compare multiple homeports - Norwegian Sky operates from diverse homeports worldwide. The same Mediterranean or Caribbean region may be accessible from different ports with varying price points. Consider positioning yourself to less-popular homeports for potential savings.

  • Embrace the shorter durations - Three-day and five-day getaways from Miami and Tampa provide budget-friendly entry points to experience the Sky before it leaves NCL's fleet. These quick escapes often feature aggressive promotional pricing to fill cabins.

  • Solo traveler strategies - How to cruise for less as a solo traveler covers booking timing strategies applicable to these farewell sailings

Compare current prices across all Norwegian Sky sailings →

Our deal finder shows real-time pricing across Norwegian Sky departures, helping you identify the best value for your preferred dates, ports, and itineraries. Don't miss your final chance to sail this beloved ship under the Norwegian flag.

Saying Goodbye to Norwegian Sky

Norwegian Sky's diverse itinerary portfolio - from Caribbean warmth to Mediterranean culture, British Isles charm to exotic African and Asian adventures - represents nearly three decades of service to Norwegian Cruise Line guests. When the ship transfers to Cordelia Cruises in September 2026, it will become the first vessel to leave NCL's fleet in nearly two decades. The Sky will begin a new chapter sailing in India from ports like Goa and Mumbai, with sister ship Norwegian Sun following to Cordelia in 2027.

Current sailings offer a poignant opportunity to experience this intimate vessel one last time under the NCL banner before it embarks on its next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where does Norwegian Sky sail from?

Norwegian Sky operates from multiple homeports including Miami, Tampa, Punta Cana, Barcelona, Rome, Venice, Istanbul, Lisbon, London (Southampton), Copenhagen, and Paris (Le Havre). The ship also completes transatlantic repositioning cruises and extensive world cruise segments through Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

What destinations does Norwegian Sky visit?

Norwegian Sky visits an extraordinary range of destinations including the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Mediterranean, Greek Isles, Northern Europe, British Isles, Canada & New England, Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The ship's diverse deployment includes exotic ports rarely visited by mainstream cruise ships.

How long are cruises on Norwegian Sky?

Norwegian Sky offers sailings ranging from 3-day weekend getaways to 21-day extraordinary journeys. The most common durations are 7-day, 9-day, 10-day, and 11-day cruises, with extended 14-16 day options for transatlantic and world cruise segments.

Is this Norwegian Sky's last season with NCL?

Norwegian Sky will transfer to Cordelia Cruises in September 2026, becoming the first ship to leave NCL's fleet in nearly two decades (the last was Norwegian Majesty in 2008-2009). Following the transfer, Norwegian Sky will sail in India from ports such as Goa and Mumbai. Norwegian Sun will also join Cordelia in 2027. Current itineraries represent the final opportunity to sail Norwegian Sky under the Norwegian Cruise Line flag.

What makes Norwegian Sky unique?

Norwegian Sky is a smaller, more intimate ship (approximately 2,000 passengers) launched in 1999. Its size allows access to ports that larger ships cannot visit, making it ideal for exotic world cruise segments. The ship offers a more traditional cruising experience with Norwegian's signature Freestyle Cruising.