Norwegian Bella Opens for Sale: NCL’s Largest Ship Sets Sail From Barcelona in May 2028
Start planning that European getaway now. Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has officially opened sales for its next cutting-edge vessel, Norwegian Bella, which will offer seven-day round-trip Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona, Spain beginning in May 2028.
At approximately 1,129 feet long and 170,000 gross tons, Norwegian Bella will accommodate 3,921 guests at double occupancy. She will join Norwegian Aura as the largest ships in the NCL fleet.
Her inaugural season will take guests to some of Europe’s most captivating destinations, including Rome, Florence and Salerno, Italy; Marseille, France; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
On board, Norwegian Bella will offer experiences similar to Norwegian Aura, the company’s latest vessel, due for delivery in May 2027. With Bella sailing in Europe and Aura in the Caribbean, NCL will bring its newest guest experiences to two of the world’s top cruise destinations. Both ships are being built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri, with interiors designed by world-class architects AD Associates, Piero Lissoni, Rockwell Group, SMC Design, and Studio Dado.
“Norwegian Bella marks a milestone moment in our fleet as the culmination of our award-winning Prima Class,” said Marc Kazlauskas, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Drawing on the innovations and guest feedback that have shaped the class from the very beginning, Norwegian Bella brings together our most sought-after experiences in one extraordinary ship. From enhanced outdoor spaces and family-friendly attractions to elevated venues for relaxation and connection, every detail has been thoughtfully designed to give guests the freedom and flexibility to vacation exactly how they want to, without anyone having to compromise. We look forward to welcoming guests to discover the Mediterranean with us aboard Norwegian Bella.”
Ocean Heights: Thrills From Day to Night
Spanning decks 18 through 21, Ocean Heights is a multi-level, open-air complex that shifts with the hours. By afternoon it’s a sun-soaked playground; after dark it becomes a social hub under the stars, lit up with immersive lighting and LED projections.
Adventure seekers can race side-by-side on Eclipse Racers, take the plunge on the Bella Free Fall waterslide, or ride The Wave, a pendulum-style raft slide that fits up to four riders. For the ultimate adrenaline rush, there’s The Drop, the signature Prima Class dry slide that sends guests speeding down 10 decks in a matter of seconds.
The fun keeps going with the Bella Ropes Course and the Bella Midway, which brings classic carnival-inspired games to sea. On deck 20, guests can perfect their putt on the nine-hole mini golf course or tackle Moon Climber, a vibrant, multi-level, harness-free adventure course.
Ocean Boulevard and Infinity Beach
Wrapping the entire ship on deck eight, Ocean Boulevard is the signature Prima Class promenade. On Norwegian Bella it gets additional seating compared to Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna, plus hot tubs and an outdoor bar. At its heart is Infinity Beach, with infinity pools, upscale daybeds, hot tubs and a full-service outdoor bar.
Younger cruisers get spaces of their own:
Little Explorers’ Cay – a playhouse and slides for ages two to six
Adventure Alley – an immersive playground for ages six to 10, filled with crawl spaces, winding tunnels and ocean-inspired adventures
Surf’s Bay – a contemporary teen hangout with a striking surf wall photo installation made for selfies at sea
A Bigger Pool Deck, Family Water Play and an Adults-Only Escape
Norwegian Bella’s pool deck is over 15% larger than those on Norwegian Aqua and Norwegian Luna. Expect more space and seating, an infinity hot tub and a large LED entertainment screen for lazy sea days.
Up top, the Kids’ Aqua Park features a reimagined splash pad and interactive water features. Nearby are two family-friendly waterslides: The Party Slide, a wide and shallow ride built for groups, and Infinity Loop, a figure-eight slide. On deck 19, Horizon Park offers ample lounging, outdoor lawn games and ocean views.
For a more elevated escape, Vibe Beach Club delivers NCL’s signature adults-only experience, complete with infinity hot tubs, a central oceanfront bar, enhanced relaxation areas, sun loungers and luxurious daybeds.
