On July 11, 2025, under clear blue skies at Yokohama Osanbashi International Passenger Terminal, Japan’s newest maritime marvel, Asuka III, was formally named in a resplendent ceremony that heralds a new chapter for sustainable cruising. The event drew an audience of industry leaders, local dignitaries and cruise enthusiasts, marking not just the inauguration of a vessel but the revival of large-scale cruising in the Asia-Pacific region.
The ceremony unfolded in the ship’s elegant Lumière Theater, where Their Imperial Highnesses the Prince and Princess of Hitachi served as honorary patrons, bestowing the traditional bottle-smashing blessing that officially designated the ship as Asuka III. Tamiko Soga, acting as godmother, performed the champagne ritual, her toast blending tradition with the promise of future voyages. Asuka Cruises’ President and CEO, Yuji Nishijima, paid tribute to the dedication of everyone who brought the project to life, noting that Asuka III’s journey began with keel laying in December 2023 amidst challenging global conditions.
Built at Germany’s famed Meyer Werft shipyard and delivered in April 2025, Asuka III measures an impressive 230.2 meters in length with a beam of 29.8 meters and draws just 6.7 meters of water. At 52,265 gross tons, she surpasses any previous Japan-flagged cruise vessel in scale. The ship accommodates up to 740 guests across 385 all-sea-view balcony cabins, supported by a crew of 470. Public spaces span nine decks and include six restaurants, multiple cafés, a full-scale theater, a casino, and men’s and women’s wellness areas.
A hallmark of Asuka III is its thoughtful incorporation of Japanese culture and contemporary art. Passengers will discover Hiroshi Senju’s sweeping fresco in the Gallery Café on Deck 6 and Reiji Hiramatsu’s vibrant works in the Noblesse Restaurant, alongside rotating installations by emerging Japanese talents. Interior design balances open, airy promenades with minimalist touches inspired by traditional aesthetics, ensuring every lounge, bar and suite exudes a sense of Zen harmony.
As the first dual-fuel LNG cruise ship operating under the Japanese flag, Asuka III represents a major leap toward reducing maritime emissions. Liquefied natural gas propulsion cuts sulfur oxide and nitrogen oxide emissions by over 90% compared to conventional marine fuels, aligning with NYK Cruises’ commitment to carbon intensity reduction. Just days after her naming ceremony, Asuka III received her maiden LNG bunkering via KEYS Azalea — Japan’s pioneering dual-fuel bunkering vessel — at Hakata Port, underscoring the nation’s emerging LNG infrastructure.
Anticipation is high for Asuka III’s maiden voyage, scheduled to depart Yokohama on July 20, 2025. The inaugural 12-night “Japan Circumnavigation” will call at Hakodate, Otaru, Kanazawa, Maizuru, Moji and Beppu, offering passengers an immersive tour of coastal Japan. Throughout the summer season, the ship will serve a variety of itineraries, featuring stops at more than 30 domestic ports including Nanao, Sado and Shimizu, and occasional international sailings to South Korea and Russia.
For Asuka Cruises, Asuka III is more than an addition to its fleet; it is a strategic cornerstone in its ambition to lead high-end, eco-conscious cruising in Asia. With Asuka II still in operation, the new vessel boosts capacity and elevates the brand’s competitive position amid a global surge in luxury expedition and ocean cruises. Industry analysts view the launch as a bellwether for post-pandemic recovery, reflecting resilient traveler demand and renewed confidence in maritime travel.
As the champagne bottles fell silent and the Japanese anthem concluded, Asuka III’s crew prepared to welcome her first guests. The ship’s state-of-the-art navigation systems, allergy-friendly cabins and bespoke wellness programs ensure a seamless fusion of safety, comfort and cultural engagement. Asuka Cruises’ expansion into LNG-powered vessels signals the cruise industry’s pivot toward sustainability without compromising on luxury.
In the wake of its grand christening, Asuka III stands ready to chart new waters, embodying innovation, tradition and environmental stewardship. As she slips her lines and embarks on her maiden voyage, Asuka III not only carries passengers but also a hopeful vision for the future of cruising — one where growth, heritage and green technology sail in harmony.
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