Norwegian Cruise Line experienced an unprecedented year-to-date increase in booking volume during its “Year of the Freestyle Vacation” wave season promotion in January and February.  In addition, group business was up close to twofold.  The company also saw a strong interest in its new ship debuting in June, Norwegian Epic, and for its Hawaii-based ship, Pride of America.  Because of this demand, prices are set to increase fleet wide up to seven percent as of Thursday, April 2, 2010.

“Our first quarter wave season promotion definitely persuaded consumers to book a Norwegian cruise vacation as we saw heavy call volumes translating to exceptional bookings,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line chief executive officer.  “As we move out of wave season, consumers and travel partners can expect to see our prices rise across the fleet, especially for our new, highly anticipated ship Norwegian Epic.”

Travel partners should take advantage of the current pricing environment for their individual bookings and to block group space up to four months prior to sailing without paying a deposit.