Japanese shipping company NYK Cruises officially took delivery of its newest maritime jewel, the Asuka III , in a ceremony held at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany. The event brought together representatives from both organizations, including Hiroyuki Endo, President of NYK Cruises, and Bernd Eikens, CEO of the German group.
Japanese design and sustainability in the Asuka III
The Asuka III is no ordinary cruise ship. Its design integrates elements of traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern spaces, offering a unique visual and cultural experience. Its interior features frescoes by artist Hiroshi Senju and works by painter Reiji Hiramatsu .
The vessel, with capacity for 740 guests, is powered by LNG, making it one of the most efficient cruise ships in terms of emissions and energy consumption. After successfully completing trials in the North Sea, the ship is ready to operate from several Japanese ports.
An inaugural season from port to port
During its first year in service, the Asuka III will visit more than 30 destinations in Japan. Highlights include Otaru, Hakodate, Takamatsu, and Moji. The most anticipated route will be the Circumnavigation of Japan, a 12-night itinerary departing from Yokohama in August.
“ Offering exceptional vacation experiences within our country, responsibly, is our priority ,” Endo stated during the event. Eikens, for his part, emphasized the timeliness of the project and the collaborative efforts of the teams involved.
The Asuka III represents a new chapter in Japanese maritime tourism, combining art, sustainability, and tradition in a unique offering for local travelers.
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Source and photo: Meyer Werft
