Norwegian Cruise Line’s Viva has launched its first sailings from Galveston, adding new capacity and attractions as the Port of Galveston continues to grow as a major U.S. cruise hub.
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Norwegian Cruise Line's Viva has arrived in Galveston, starting a new season of seasonal sailings that boost the island's cruise industry presence.
The Norwegian Viva made its first journey from Galveston over the weekend, starting a series of one- and two-week voyages through April 2026 and October 2026 through April 2027. The ship's arrival continues Galveston's rapid growth as a cruise line homeport.
The Viva's seven-day itineraries include Harvest Caye, Norwegian's private resort in southern Belize, and Caribbean sites like Cozumel, Costa Maya, and Roatan. Norwegian says cabins for the Dec. 20 voyage start at $1,369 per person. The following week's New Year's cruise is complete. Fourteen-day trips to Jamaica, Puerto Rico, Antigua, and the Bahamas start next month.
Norwegian's maiden sailing from Galveston's $156 million Terminal 16 took place on Saturday, following its debut in November with MSC Cruises' Seascape. Norwegian Cruise Line signed a 10-year port lease with multiple renewals in October 2024.
“We recognize the strategic importance of this city, not just for its prime location but for the warmth and hospitality of the people here,” Norwegian Cruise Line Executive Vice President Dan Farkas said, calling Galveston a “key hub” for the firm.
In December 2023, the Norwegian Prima began operating from Galveston. The Viva replaced it. Both ships are Prima-class, although the 2023-built Viva is newer. Ocean Boulevard, a wraparound promenade with two infinity pools and a glass bridge overlooking the ocean, and the Drop Slide, a 10-story free-fall thrill on decks 8–18, are shared attractions.
The three-story Viva Speedway go-kart track, the longest at sea at 1,400 feet, and a Broadway-style Beetlejuice show are also onboard.
Galveston's cruise economy is booming when ships arrive. Cruise operations now account for almost 60% of Galveston's revenue, and officials expect over 2 million cruise passengers next year.
"Having MSC and Norwegian Cruise Line homeporting in Galveston highlights our strong position in both the U.S. and global cruise markets,” Port of Galveston Director and CEO Rodger Rees said in November.
Galveston, one of the fastest-growing cruise ports in the country, welcomes another high-profile ship with the Viva.
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