After a momentary disruption that briefly delayed its departure, the Norwegian Star is now confidently back on course, continuing its much-anticipated 14-night cruise through Canada, Greenland, and Iceland. Operated by Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the transatlantic voyage originally departed from Manhattan Cruise Terminal in New York Cityon Saturday, July 12, 2025, promising travelers a journey through some of the North Atlantic’s most scenic and remote destinations.
However, the voyage encountered a brief technical setback shortly after setting sail. A propulsion system failurealong the Hudson River left the vessel temporarily powerless, with disrupted access to core onboard systems such as air conditioning and running water. With summer temperatures in New York hovering in the upper 80s (°F), passengers faced growing discomfort, although no serious medical issues or safety concerns were reported.
Quick Response Ensures Passenger Safety
The Norwegian Star’s crew acted swiftly to ensure the safety and security of passengers. The ship, assisted by two tugboats, made a controlled return to New York City. Docking back at Manhattan Cruise Terminal later that evening, the vessel underwent immediate technical repairs.
Norwegian Cruise Line confirmed that by 12:30 a.m. on July 13, the issue had been resolved and the ship was cleared to sail once again by the U.S. Coast Guard. The propulsion malfunction, while unfortunate, did not derail the itinerary. Passengers resumed their cruise with only a slight delay and are still expected to reach their first port of call, Halifax, Nova Scotia, on July 14, as originally scheduled.
Itinerary Continues as Planned Through July 26
Following its stop in Halifax, the Norwegian Star will proceed to several Atlantic coastal gems:
- Sydney, Nova Scotia
- Prince Edward Island, Canada
- Nuuk and Paamiut, Greenland
- Multiple ports in Iceland
- Concluding the voyage in Reykjavik on July 26
Despite the delay at the outset, NCL has reassured passengers that all scheduled ports will be visited, with no omissions from the original itinerary. Passengers remain on track to experience the full spectrum of Nordic landscapes, including fjords, glacial coastlines, and vibrant Arctic communities.
A History of Propulsion Issues Resurfaces
This recent propulsion issue has drawn attention to the Norwegian Star’s technical history, particularly surrounding its Azipod propulsion system, a pod-based drive technology that has been the focus of prior reliability concerns.
The ship, launched in 2001, previously made headlines due to repeated propulsion-related interruptions. In 2022, Norwegian Cruise Line successfully obtained a $159 million settlement following litigation related to performance issues with the Azipod systems on multiple vessels.
While the cruise line has not confirmed whether the July 2025 incident was tied to the Azipod system, the event has reignited scrutiny around long-term mechanical reliability and the need for preventive maintenance, especially on voyages crossing remote oceanic regions.
Commitment to Guest Experience Remains Strong
Despite the setback, passengers aboard the Norwegian Star remain in high spirits. NCL has implemented several onboard enhancements to maintain a positive experience for all guests. Complimentary experiences and enrichment programs have been offered to ease the initial inconvenience, and communication from crew members has been transparent throughout the situation.
The cruise line has reiterated its commitment to safety, guest satisfaction, and operational excellence, noting that its fleet-wide maintenance protocols remain robust. The company continues to operate some of the most ambitious cruise itineraries in the industry, with the Norwegian Star playing a prominent role in NCL’s 2025 summer lineup.
The Allure of the Atlantic: Nature, Culture, and Arctic Wonders
This summer cruise offers more than just a traditional vacation—it’s a deep dive into some of the planet’s most dramatic coastal environments. Passengers are treated to views of towering cliffs, glacial bays, historic fishing villages, and UNESCO-listed landscapes.
- In Halifax, the Atlantic Canada charm is matched with maritime museums and seafood delights.
- Greenland’s ports, such as Nuuk, offer a blend of Indigenous culture and Arctic exploration.
- Iceland, the voyage’s final destination, presents travelers with volcanic beauty, hot springs, and Nordic hospitality.
The cruise’s diverse route is a favorite among seasoned travelers looking for cooler summer temperatures, scenic cruising, and enriching excursions. It’s also particularly attractive to those wishing to visit remote destinations that are otherwise difficult to reach by air.
Conclusion: A Promising Journey Continues
While the Norwegian Star may have encountered a rocky start, the cruise is now back on smooth waters. The swift resolution of the propulsion issue demonstrates NCL’s preparedness in managing unexpected technical disruptions while prioritizing guest welfare.
Now fully operational, the Norwegian Star is set to deliver the scenic Atlantic journey it promised, complete with Arctic landscapes, cultural discoveries, and unforgettable coastal ports. With its unique route and onboard hospitality, the voyage remains a standout in the 2025 summer cruise season.
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