The Asuka III has recently embarked on a set of sea trials in the North Sea.

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

After transiting the Ems River earlier this month, the Asuka III sailed from Eemshaven, Netherlands, for the tests on March 9, 2025.

The 51,950-ton vessel is now undergoing a series of extensive trials that will evaluate its seaworthiness and maneuverability, as well as its technical and safety systems.

Company executives, as well as shipyard workers and classification society officials, are onboard for the operation.

Following the sea trials, the Japan-flagged ship is expected to be handed over to the NYK Group in early April.

Ordered in March 2021, the Asuka III is the first cruise ship built for the Asuka Cruise brand in over three decades.

Sailing alongside the Asuka II, the 744-guest ship is scheduled to offer cruises departing from various ports in Japan.

During its maiden season, the vessel will visit over 30 destinations across the country, including Hakodate, Otaru, Takamatsu, Shingu, Muroran, and Moji.

Extending between July and October 2025, the deployment features a series of four- to 12-day cruises departing from Yokohama, Kobe and Hakata.

The season is highlighted by the “Japan Circumnavigation Cruise,” which sails from Yokohama in early Augus

As part of the 12-night itinerary, the Asuka III is set to visit Hakodate, Otaru, Kanazawa, Maizuru, Moji and Beppu before returning to its homeport.

According to Asuka, the vessel features a design that blends open spaces with traditional Japanese aesthetics.

The ship also showcases Japanese artists, including Hiroshi Senju’s fresco in the Gallery Café (Deck 6) and Reiji Hiramatsu’s paintings in the Noblesse Restaurant (Deck 6).