The Asuka III was recently floated out of its building dock at the Meyer Werft shipyard.

Set to be delivered this spring, the LNG-powered vessel is currently being built for NYK Group’s Asuka Cruise brand.

According to an update from Meyer Werft, the vessel left the building hall in Papenburg on Jan. 18 before moving to an outfitting dock.

During the float out operation, the shipyard also installed the ship’s funnel, which had been delivered in December 2024.

The Asuka III is now set to remain docked in Papenburg for a few more weeks while construction work takes place onboard.

In early March, the 744-guest vessel is expected to start its Ems River conveyance before arriving in the  open ocean for the first time.

The ship is then set to undergo a series of sea trials in the North Sea before being delivered to Asuka.

Joining the Asuka II in the local market, the 52,200-ton vessel is expected to arrive in Japan ahead of the 2025 summer season in Asia.

As part of its maiden season, the Asuka III will offer itineraries departing from Japanese ports to destinations in the Far East and East Asia.

The vessel offers a series of unique features, including an expansive well-being area.

The space is highlighted by Japanese hot spring facilities, as well as glass-walled saunas and a nature-inspired pool deck.

A collection of arts and crafts inspired by the local culture was also especially commissioned for the ship, with pieces signed by Hiroshi Senju, Noriko Tamura and Kazumi Murose.

According to Asuka, the collection includes a three-deck lacquer mural that will serve as the central piece in the vessel’s main atrium.

Other features of the Asuka III include a selection of dining venues, as well as a large-scale theater and a series of bars and lounges.