Press Release Nippon Yusen Cruises Holds Naming Ceremony for First New Cruise Ship in 34 Years, “Asuka III”

【Press Release】NYK Cruises holds naming ceremony for first new cruise ship in 34 years, “Asuka III” ​ Yusen Cruise Co., Ltd. Press Release: July 11, 2025 Attention Media NYK Cruises holds naming ceremony for Asuka III, first new cruise ship in 34 years Launching on Sunday, July 20, 2025. Providing an extraordinary and high-quality journey. The opening cruise is scheduled to call at 30 ports in Japan. NYK Cruises Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Yokohama City; President and CEO: Nishijima Yuji) held a naming ceremony for the Asuka III (52,265 gross tons), the first new passenger ship in 34 years, on Friday, July 11, 2025, aboard the Asuka III, which was docked at the Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal in Yokohama Port.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-af60db8e8317099ebcfb7f0875a06746-1280×1031.jpg Asuka III is the first new cruise ship for NYK Cruises in 34 years, and after its launch on Sunday, July 20th, the two ships will begin operation together with Asuka II (launched in 2006/50,444 gross tons). The naming ceremony for the Asuka III was held in the ship’s Lumiere Theater, which uses cutting-edge digital technology to implement holographic and LED screens. In his speech, Yuji Nishijima, president and CEO of NYK Cruises Co., Ltd., expressed his gratitude for the launch of the Asuka III and spoke about future prospects, including the operation of the two ships together with the Asuka II. In the guest speeches, Hiromasa Nakano, Minister of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism, Takeharu Yamanaka, Mayor of Yokohama, and Tatsuya Kataoka, President and CEO of the Bank of Yokohama, Ltd., gave speeches. Afterwards, the ship was named by Tamiko Soga, wife of Takaya Soga, president of Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, who named the ship, and a champagne splash was held, a traditional ceremony to pray for the safety of the new ship. Furthermore, at the Captain’s Party held in the Asuka III’s main atrium, Asuka Plaza, after the naming ceremony, Captain of the Asuka III, Hisashi Kokue, gave a speech and spoke about his aspirations for the ship’s launch on July 20th. ■Greetings from Yuji Nishijima, President and CEO of NYK Cruises Co., Ltd. It has been 34 years since the first “Asuka” was launched in 1991, and 19 years since the “Asuka II” was launched in 2006. Today, all of us at NYK Cruises are honored to hold such a grand naming ceremony for the “Asuka III”. The construction contract for the “Asuka III” was announced in 2021, when the COVID-19 pandemic was still in full swing, and construction in Germany was successfully completed after about two years. The ship arrived at its home port of Yokohama on June 2nd of this year, and final preparations are underway for its launch on July 20th. In addition to being an environmentally friendly cruise ship, the onboard facilities have been carefully designed to ensure that guests can enjoy their stay in comfort, and the ship is decorated with art and craft works by famous artists. All our staff on shore and sea will work together to provide our passengers with the “best time” on this ship. With the launch of the Asuka III, Asuka Cruises will operate two ships, the Asuka II and the Asuka III, for the first time. The two ships will work together to improve each other and weave more “best time” for our passengers, paving the way for the future of Japanese cruise culture. ■ Greetings from Captain Hisashi Kogue of the Asuka III Asuka III was born in Germany on April 10th, and about three months later, it was named today. In Japan, the number “3” has been said to be an auspicious and lucky number since ancient times, and it is said to have the power to obtain new things and the energy to make things develop greatly. Asuka III also has the number “3”, we would like to carry the number “3” and run at the forefront of the Japanese cruise industry in the future. I would like to introduce the good fortune of this ship. The “Asuka III”, which departed from Germany, happened to meet the current “Amadea”, the ship that was active as the first “Asuka” until 2006, off the coast of Africa. After that, it also rendezvoused with “Asuka II” off the coast of St. Helena Island. Although “Asuka III” was born in Germany, it was able to greet the eldest daughter, the first generation “Asuka”, and the second daughter, “Asuka II”, in order. In this way, I think that “Asuka III” has been a very lucky ship since its birth. I hope that it will become the flagship of Japanese cruises, so I would appreciate your cooperation, support, and your participation on board “Asuka III”. After launching on Sunday, July 20, the Asuka III will call at 30 ports in Japan (excluding Yokohama Port) on its opening cruise. You will travel around Japan while spending time in the extraordinary, high-quality space on board. The maiden voyage, “Maiden Voyage Hakodate-Otaru,” is a seven-day slow trip around two ports in Hokkaido during the best season. The cruise will visit Hakodate and Otaru, popular for their nostalgic, historic streets and delicious food. In addition, the “Asuka III” will also offer its first “Japan Cruise.” The “Asuka III” will create new values ​​for cruises in a new era, offering more freedom and enrichment.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-70dd0787a25222ec6c38b7eaf67fe2a4-3600×2400.jpg Commemorative photo taken on the “Asuka III”
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-2f2fd0eac6bd73592dc07acace127e17-3600×2400.jpg Naming ceremony at Lumiere Theater (Deck 6)
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-5c5547b8d5f3ee3d1d6346dc9a601d49-3393×2142.jpg Ms. Tamiko Soga, wife of Takaya Soga, president of Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-8969df0d664eb4cb62dae8951f7c27d3-3600×2400.jpg Champagne splashing ＜Introducing the Asuka III＞ The concept of “Asuka III” is “a journey that expands to suit your tastes.” The interior of the ship is a unique space that combines bright and open layers of light with traditional Japanese beauty. While maintaining the comfortable hospitality cultivated on “Asuka II,” the ship is characterized by offering a wide range of options and services that can meet the needs of all generations, needs, and styles. Asuka III’s main atrium “Asuka Plaza” and the ocean resort “Albatross Pool” The main atrium of the Asuka III, the three-story atrium “Asuka Plaza”, is decorated in natural colors, creating a calm atmosphere. In the center is a magnificent lacquer work measuring 8.8m in height and 3m in width by Kazumi Murose, a holder of the Important Intangible Cultural Property (Living National Treasure) for Maki-e. Another feature of the Asuka III is that art works by Japan’s leading artists are displayed in various places on board, including the Asuka Plaza. The “Gallery Cafe” (deck 6) is decorated with a fresco painting by Hiroshi Senju called “Waterfall on Colors,” which creates a special space that soothes the soul during the voyage. In addition, works by promising young artists and works selected from public art exhibitions will also be added. These art works are displayed not only in public spaces such as restaurants and cafes, but also in the guest rooms. In addition, the Albatross Pool is equipped with two jet baths, allowing you to fully enjoy an offshore resort while gazing at the stars shining across the sky.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-7f670c16f5bf080cbed7f21a093f29a0-3900×2600.jpg Asuka Plaza (5 decks)
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-c30b2bf062545b75579704e1922c8ff1-3900×2600.jpg “Albatross Pool” (11 decks) Guest Rooms All guest rooms on the Asuka III have a private balcony on the ocean side, offering a spectacular view of the ocean. There are three types of guest rooms: the Penthouse, which offers the ultimate butler service for a luxurious stay; the Suite, which is designed to pursue comfort and freedom and is perfect for workcations; and the Balcony, which is designed with Japanese lifestyles in mind. You can choose according to the purpose of your trip and how you want to spend your time. The “Asuka Balcony” won the Best Stateroom Award at the CSI Awards 2024, an international cruise ship interior competition.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-e3b121e7d03c1b677b56be520b073b0f-3701×2379.jpg Royal Penthouse (Capacity: 1-4 people) Only 2 rooms available on Asuka III. Butler service provided by a dedicated chief concierge. Image
URL: https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-7a8cb0843acf8498b0f6d541db748ae5-3900×2597.jpg Midship Suite (Capacity: 1-2 people *Some 3 people) The “ASUKAIII meets 47 prefectures” project is being implemented, where you can choose a room themed on one of the 47 prefectures in Japan. Image
URL: https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-1d7a0815f7011118a9bbe8bb11e274ee-3900×2597.jpg Asuka Balcony (Capacity: 1-2 people) The most numerous guest rooms in Asuka III, it offers a comfortable space designed with Japanese lifestyles in mind.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-e407e7b0000c14979c0c6bdf771d6677-3872×2581.jpg Solo balcony (maximum capacity: 1 person) A spacious bed and a relaxing sofa are provided for one person. It also has a large desk, making it ideal for workcation. Restaurant The blissful “culinary experience” is also one of the attractions of “Asuka III”. Inheriting the traditions of Asuka Cruises, it has evolved even further, expanding the world of fine cuisine even further. A wide variety of cuisines, including French cuisine, Italian cuisine, and Kappo cuisine, made with carefully selected ingredients, are served at six restaurants. You can enjoy your favorite restaurant and menu at any time depending on your mood of the day.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-08e1ca27dd556b0f8c4086887b774245-3900×2600.jpg Signature Restaurant “Noblesse” (6 decks)
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-1f1f74d60e02bb0b2463ef0da45a2c0b-3900×2599.jpg Almare Italian Restaurant (6 decks) Grand Spa (large open-air bath with a view and an open-air bath) and wellness area The Grand Spa, located at the bow of the ship, is a type of hospitality that is unique to Japanese ships. This is a facility that Asuka III is particular about, where you can relax in the bath while watching the ship’s course from the large open-air bath with a view and the ocean changing from the open-air bath. You can also enjoy the beautiful sunset and the arrival of the ship from the Vista Lounge, which has a great view and is located at the bow of the ship. In addition, there are various wellness areas, such as “Asuka Field,” which is equipped with a paddle tennis court and a 3-on-3 basketball court, and “The Links,” which is equipped with a golf simulator.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-532ea1016a5ff4c2c7be036eff6d4003-3900×2600.jpg “Grand Spa (large observation bath)” (12 decks)
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-5e68c89a533e7542c71a887bf5442c0d-3900×2600.jpg “Vista Lounge” (11 decks) Bridge (wheelhouse) Asuka III is the first Japanese cruise ship to be equipped with a D.P.S. (Dynamic Positioning System) and POD propulsion system, as well as a power supply system and an engine that is compatible with LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) fuel, making for an environmentally friendly cruise.
https://prcdn.freetls.fastly.net/release_image/159405/7/159405-7-96bd854074fdb3507b2650f3fc8c3e86-3900×2600.jpg ＜First Japanese cruise ship (※1) to feature D.P.S. and POD propulsion＞ D.P.S. (Dynamic Positioning System The vessel positioning control system automatically calculates external forces such as wind, tides, and waves without dropping anchor, and maintains the vessel’s heading and position, enabling it to enter and anchor without damaging the seabed environment. In addition, the POD propulsion system has an electric motor that is directly connected to the propeller and rotates 360 degrees, which is located underwater, making it possible to orient the propeller’s thrust in any direction. ※1 This is the first time that both devices have been installed on a Japanese cruise ship. ＜Cruise ship running on “LNG fuel”> The Asuka III is equipped with engines that can run on three types of fuel: LNG, heavy oil, and diesel. LNG is considered the cleanest fossil fuel, reducing emissions of sulfur oxides and nitrogen oxides and mitigating the environmental impact. ＜The first use of “shore power” on a Japanese cruise ship＞ The “Asuka III” is equipped with an AMP power receiving device (※2) that meets global standards. In ports where shore power supply is available, the ship’s engine can be shut down because the power supply can be received from a highly efficient shore power source, reducing the environmental impact. ※2 AMP power receiving device (Alternated Maritime Power) ■ Asuka Cruise Overview https://www.asukacruise.co.jp/ Asuka Cruises offers a blissful cruise experience that conveys the charm of Japanese hospitality and Japanese culture in a high-quality space unique to Japanese ships. “Asuka II” operates a wide range of routes, such as overseas cruises to Asia and Oceania, cruises around Japan’s summer festivals, and one-night cruises, with the concept of “a journey that suits the customer’s preferences.” All rooms face the sea, and the ship is equipped with ample facilities such as spacious spaces and open-air baths, as well as a variety of meals and entertainment to suit the customer’s tastes. The Asuka III is based on the concept of “a journey that expands to suit the customer’s preferences” and offers a wide range of routes, including 3-night, 4-day cruises, cruises around Japan, and even overseas cruises. While inheriting the cruise culture and Japanese hospitality that has been cultivated so far, it offers a variety of dining, entertainment, wellness, and other programs that satisfy the mind and body, creating a new era of cruises that are more free and rich. With two ships in operation, the brand concept is “to convey encounters and impressions with the real thing,” and we aim to create the “best time” that can only be obtained on Asuka Cruises and develop Japan’s cruise culture. “Asuka II” Registry: Japan Port of registry (home port): Port of Yokohama Gross tonnage: 50,444GT Length: 241m Number of passengers: 872 Number of crew members: Approximately 490 Number of rooms: 436 (all rooms facing the sea) “Asuka III” Registry: Japan Port of registry (home port): Port of Yokohama Gross tonnage: 52,265GT Length: 230m Number of passengers: 740 Number of crew: Approximately 470 Number of cabins: 381 (all rooms with ocean-facing balconies) More details about this release *This email was sent automatically, so please do not reply.