bohemianwanderer – Norwegian Line Holdings (NCL) and Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri have finalized a landmark agreement for the construction of four new cruise liners. A deal valued at approximately 9 billion euros ($9.34 billion). This marks Fincantieri’s largest single order in its history, according to a source familiar with the matter.
The newly ordered ships will be constructed at Fincantieri’s Monfalcone shipyard in northeastern Italy, further strengthening the company’s reputation as a global leader in cruise ship manufacturing. Moreover, this project will enhance Fincantieri’s industry dominance by expanding its portfolio of high-end cruise liners. As a result, the company is expected to attract more large-scale contracts while reinforcing its long-standing partnership with Norwegian Line.
Timeline and Agreement Details
Fincantieri confirmed that the deal is subject to financing and standard contract terms. The agreement stems from an initial letter of intent signed in April 2024. Fincantieri will deliver the first of the four cruise ships in 2030, followed by the remaining three in 2032, 2034, and 2036.
“This agreement holds significant value for both parties, strengthening our long-standing relationship with Norwegian Line,” Fincantieri stated. The company remains committed to delivering cutting-edge cruise ships that will enhance the luxury travel experience for passengers worldwide.
With this multi-billion-dollar order, Fincantieri continues to expand its footprint in the global cruise industry. Setting the stage for the next generation of innovative, state-of-the-art vessels.
Fincantieri $9.3B Cruise Ship Deal Expands Fleet with 226,000-Ton Vessels
Fincantieri has announced that each of the four newly ordered cruise ships for Norwegian Line Holdings (NCL) will weigh approximately 226,000 tonnes and accommodate more than 8,300 people, including crew. The Italian shipbuilding giant continues to expand its cruise fleet while also strengthening its presence in defense and underwater technology.
As part of its broader growth strategy, Fincantieri has raised its full-year revenue forecast to exceed 8 billion euros. The company remains committed to its core shipbuilding operations, but it is also investing heavily in defense and submarine development.
Fincantieri Expansion into Defense and Strategic Partnerships
In May, Fincantieri acquired Leonardo’s UAS division, a deal that valued its submarine business at 415 million euros. CEO Pierroberto Folgiero emphasized that Fincantieri is actively seeking collaboration opportunities with the warship division of Thyssenkrupp, a major European conglomerate.
Strong Market Performance and Investor Confidence
Fincantieri’s strategic moves and record-breaking cruise ship order have fueled strong stock market performance. Over the past 12 months, Fincantieri’s share price has surged 106%, making it the fourth-best performing stock on the Milan bourse.
Following the announcement of the NCL deal, Fincantieri’s stock rose by 5.6% in early trading, before stabilizing at a 2.83% increase by 08:21 GMT.
With this massive cruise ship contract and expanding defense investments, Fincantieri is positioning itself as a dominant force in both commercial and military shipbuilding industries, solidifying its global influence.