Damian Borg, Senior Director of Sales Strategy & Operations, Asia Pacific, at Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is doubling down on the Indian outbound market for 2026, pairing a significant Asia-Pacific fleet expansion with a landmark shift in its trade compensation model. As the cruise line prepares to deploy Norwegian Jade for two full seasons of immersive Asia itineraries through 2028, it has confirmed the permanent elimination of Non-Commissionable Fares (NCFs) for all sailings departing from May 1, 2026.
The move, designed to simplify the booking process and maximize agent margins, comes as NCL reports a surge in demand from Indian multi-generational families and "fly-cruise" travellers targeting regional hubs like Singapore, Tokyo, and Hong Kong.
In an interview with Travel daily Media, Damian Borg, Senior Director of Sales Strategy & Operations, Asia Pacific, at Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) shares more...
Travel Daily Media (TDM): Do tell us more about the rising popularity of cruising among Indian travellers? How has the market share grown for you from India?
Damian Borg (DB): India continues to be a very strategic market for NCL, and interest in international cruising grows year on year. Our immersive Europe and Alaska itineraries remain firm favourites among Indian travellers, and we’re also seeing increasing demand for sailings across both Asia and the Bahamas. Our 3–9‑day Bahamas cruises, are gaining traction as they offer a tropical getaway that includes a visit to our private island, Great Stirrup Cay, with a choice of ships ranging from our more intimate vessels to our newest Prima‑class ships, including the brand‑new Norwegian Luna.
With a fleet of 21 ships sailing to over 350 destinations worldwide, NCL offers a truly effortless escape. Our curated experiences, stress‑free touchpoints and flexible options make cruising especially appealing for Indian couples and multigenerational families who want to holiday exactly the way they choose.
TDM: What kind of partnerships do you have with the travel trade in India?
DB: Our travel partners remain central to our success in India. Their guidance and expertise have been instrumental in building the NCL brand locally and in introducing new travellers to international cruising.
We have been running our Partners First programme in India for the past 10 years as part of our commitment to long‑term trade support. In recognition of the invaluable contribution of our travel advisors, we have eliminated Non‑Commissionable Fares (NCFs) on all cruise fares for sailings departing from May 2026 onwards. This enables partners to earn higher commissions on the full cruise fare (excluding taxes and fees).
Advisors can also earn commission on both our Free at Sea and our new Free at Sea Plus package, giving them an additional opportunity to grow their revenue.
TDM: What entertainment and new‑age designs can tourists look forward to in the NCL cruise ships?
DB: We’re thrilled about what’s ahead for NCL, especially with the arrival of our newest ship, Norwegian Luna, which really showcases the next generation of NCL’s design and onboard experience.
The ship features expanded outdoor spaces, enhanced adults only areas including the Vibe Beach Club, a diverse culinary offering, beautifully designed public areas and accommodation, and new relaxation zones that create a modern, spacious, resort style atmosphere. We’re also introducing a brand-new headline production, Rocket Man – A Celebration of Elton John, which we expect will resonate strongly with guests.
With our new brand campaign, ‘It’s Different Out Here,’ Norwegian Luna brings this philosophy to life—delivering freedom, flexibility and experiences that truly stand apart.
Beyond our new ships, we’re continuing to enhance the experience both at sea and shoreside. On our private island, Great Stirrup Cay, we’ve added a resort style pool and expanded adults only spaces, and in summer 2026 we’ll debut the Great Tides Waterpark, featuring 19 slides, the 170foot Tidal Tower and a dedicated kids’ splash zone.
Alongside these onboard and island upgrades, we’re offering one of our most expansive destination portfolios to date.
In Europe, guests can choose from 10 ships across the 2026–2027 seasons, departing from 11 ports and visiting more than 120 destinations across the Greek Isles, Mediterranean and Northern Europe—often with a new port nearly every day, extended port hours and select overnight stays.
In Alaska, travellers have a choice of five ships and a range of port rich 7–16 day itineraries designed to maximise scenic cruising and outdoor experiences.
Closer to home our Asia offering continues to grow with 30+ immersive itineraries on Norwegian Jade across two full seasons from 2026–2028, sailing from iconic cities including Singapore, Hong Kong, Seoul (Incheon) and Tokyo.
Whether guests are seeking contemporary ship design, immersive itineraries or flexible, personalised holiday options, there is a lot for Indian travellers to look forward to with NCL.
TDM: Do you see India mainly as a source market for international cruises or as a cruise destination itself?
DB: At present, India is primarily a strong source market for our international cruise itineraries.
However, the country holds long‑term potential as a cruise destination given its diverse coastline, cultural heritage and unique port cities.
TDM: Do you expect growth mainly from luxury travellers, families, or younger travellers in India?
DB: We’re seeing strong interest from both couples and multi‑generational families in India. Cruising works particularly well for families travelling together, as it allows everyone to enjoy a shared holiday while still choosing the activities, dining and entertainment that suit them best.
We’re also seeing consistent demand from couples seeking destination‑rich itineraries—whether that’s Europe, Alaska, Asia or the Bahamas. With flexible dining, diverse entertainment and curated shore experiences, NCL appeals to travellers who value choice, ease and the freedom to holiday in their own style.
TDM: Which Indian ports have the strongest potential for cruise tourism development?
DB: Our ships call at ports including Mumbai, New Mangalore, Goa and Kochi. There is strong potential for further development of these ports as cruise tourism continues to grow.
TDM: What are the biggest challenges cruise lines face when operating in India?
DB: Like many emerging cruise markets, the key challenges revolve around infrastructure development, streamlined customs and immigration processes, and improved connectivity. Addressing these areas will help support long‑term growth for the cruise sector.
TDM: How big do you expect the Indian cruise market to become in the next 5–10 years?
DB: India has tremendous potential as an international source market, supported by a rapidly expanding middle class and increasing appetite for global travel. Over the next decade, we expect India to strengthen its position as one of the leading source markets for the global cruise industry.
TDM: How do you think the Middle East crisis will impact the cruise industry globally?
DB: We are closely monitoring the evolving situation in the Middle East. While some destinations in the region currently have heightened travel advisories, Norwegian Cruise Line is not operating in any of the affected areas at this time, so there is no direct impact on our itineraries.
The safety and security of our guests and crew remain our highest priority. Our teams continuously review global guidance and intelligence to ensure we maintain a safe, seamless holiday experience for all guests.
For travellers seeking alternative cruise options—including long haul guests from India—our Australia and New Zealand season aboard Norwegian Spirit is proving to be an exceptional choice. From short 4night getaways to 11night explorations and extended journeys, our 2026–2027 program represents our largest Australia and New Zealand–focused deployment to date, featuring 10 Sydney departures, including five roundtrip Sydney itineraries.
