Norwegian Cruise Line is a popular cruise line that offers various travel destinations across the globe. Many people often wonder whether Norwegian Cruise Line is owned by Carnival or not. In this article, we will explore the truth behind this common misconception.
Is Norwegian Cruise Line Owned by Carnival?
The answer is no, Norwegian Cruise Line is not owned by Carnival. In fact, both companies are competitors in the cruise industry and have their own unique offerings to attract travelers.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Cruise Line was founded in 1966 and has since become one of the most well-known cruise lines in the world. The company offers a vast array of travel destinations such as Alaska, Europe, Hawaii, and the Caribbean to name a few. They are known for their “Freestyle Cruising” concept which allows passengers to customize their experience according to their preferences.
Carnival Corporation
Carnival Corporation is another major player in the cruise industry that was founded in 1972. They own several other cruise lines such as Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Costa Cruises among others. Carnival Corporation offers a diverse range of travel destinations such as Australia, Asia, Europe, and South America.
The History Behind The Misconception
The confusion behind whether Norwegian Cruise Line is owned by Carnival may stem from a historical event that took place in 2014. At that time, Chinese investors purchased a 9% stake in Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., which owns both Norwegian Cruise Line and Oceania Cruises.
Carnival Corporation also announced around the same time that they had formed two joint ventures with China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC) – one for shipbuilding and another for port development. This may have led to some confusion among people who assumed that there was some sort of collaboration between Norwegian Cruise Line and Carnival Corporation due to their involvement in the Chinese market.
The Bottom Line
In conclusion, Norwegian Cruise Line is not owned by Carnival. While both companies are major players in the cruise industry, they are competitors and offer their own unique travel experiences. It’s important to research and compare different cruise lines before making a decision on which one to choose for your next vacation.