Why Is Norwegian Cruise Line Called Norwegian?

Have you ever wondered why Norwegian Cruise Line is called “Norwegian”? It’s a question that has puzzled many people over the years.

At first glance, it might seem like a bit of an odd name for a cruise line, especially since the company didn’t originate in Norway. However, there is an interesting history behind the name that is worth exploring.

The Origins of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line was founded in 1966 by Knut Kloster and Ted Arison. At the time, the company was known as “Norwegian Caribbean Lines” and was based in Miami, Florida. The founders had originally intended to operate cruises between Miami and the Caribbean, but they soon realized that there was a market for cruises to other parts of the world as well.

Why “Norwegian”?

So why did Kloster and Arison choose to call their new company “Norwegian Caribbean Lines”? The answer lies in their heritage.

Both men were from Norway originally and had grown up in families that were involved in shipping. In fact, Kloster’s family owned one of Norway’s largest shipping companies.

A Tribute to Their Roots

By naming their new venture “Norwegian Caribbean Lines,” Kloster and Arison were paying tribute to their Norwegian heritage while also highlighting their new focus on cruises to the Caribbean. The name was also meant to evoke a sense of adventure and exploration – qualities that are often associated with Scandinavia.

Changes over Time

Over the years, Norwegian Cruise Line has undergone several changes. In 1987, it was acquired by Star Cruises – a company based in Malaysia – but it continued to operate under its original name. In 2010, the company underwent another rebranding effort and changed its name from “NCL” to “Norwegian Cruise Line” to better reflect its global presence.

In Conclusion

So there you have it – the story behind why Norwegian Cruise Line is called “Norwegian.” While the name might seem a bit perplexing at first glance, it actually has a rich history that speaks to the company’s origins and the sense of adventure that it seeks to evoke. Next time you’re on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, you can impress your fellow passengers with your knowledge of the company’s name!