Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is excited to announce a captivating series of cruises specially designed for literary enthusiasts seeking to explore real-life locations that inspired some of the world’s most cherished novels.
As the trend of literary tourism continues to gain momentum, these unique voyages present travelers with the opportunity to connect with the settings that shaped renowned stories, traversing from the historic heart of Europe to the breathtaking vistas of Alaska and the expansive Pacific.
One standout journey is an 11-port Mediterranean cruise that will set sail from Venice (Trieste), Italy, on October 9, 2025.
This itinerary will lead guests through several iconic European cities, including Barcelona and Naples, both of which have captured the imagination of literary figures.
In Barcelona, famed as the backdrop of Carlos Ruiz Zafón’s novel ‘The Shadow of the Wind,’ travelers can wander through its enchanting Gothic Quarter, where the old-world charm harmonizes with the mystery and drama embedded in the story.
Naples, a pivotal location in Elena Ferrante’s ‘My Brilliant Friend,’ offers an opportunity to immerse oneself in the rich history and delightful piazzas that frame the novel’s characters’ lives.
The cruise will make additional stops in Rome, Florence, Messina, Palma, and along the captivating Croatian coast, each site providing unique insights into the literary inspirations that define them.
Another attractive option for literary fans is a 10-day cruise from Rome (Civitavecchia) to Greece and Italy, scheduled for departure on August 22 and October 1, 2025.
This voyage will take passengers to Messina, known for its vibrant markets and port charm, which are vividly depicted in ‘To Sicily with Love.’
Here, travelers will immerse themselves in the warmth and liveliness of this scenic location.
The journey will also include visits to Argostoli, Kefalonia, the heart of ‘Captain Corelli’s Mandolin,’ where the themes of love and war come alive against the backdrop of World War II, further enriching the travel experience.
In the Pacific, NCL offers a seven-day round-trip cruise from Honolulu that promises an unforgettable expedition through Hawaii’s stunning islands, echoing the narrative of ‘The Unhoneymooners’ by Christina Lauren.
Running year-round, this itinerary encompasses stops at four islands, featuring overnight stays in Maui and Kaua‘i, each renowned for their natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere that mirror the story’s adventurous spirit.
Alaska is another remarkable destination, particularly in relation to Kristin Hannah’s ‘The Great Alone.’
NCL’s seven-day cruise from Seattle, available from July through September 2025, invites guests to delve into themes of survival and isolation.
Travelers will visit Ketchikan, Sitka, and Icy Strait Point, where the rugged wilderness vividly reflects the haunting journeys faced by the book’s characters, creating a profound connection to the narrative.
For those exploring Asian literature, NCL presents a 14-day cruise from Tokyo aboard the Norwegian Jade, departing on October 29, 2026.
This itinerary will include pivotal stops in Busan and Osaka, as depicted in Min Jin Lee’s ‘Pachinko,’ allowing readers to wander through the vibrant markets and neighborhoods described in the multigenerational family saga.
Additional stops in Hiroshima, Nagasaki, and Kyoto enrich the cultural experience, letting passengers engage with Japan’s historical context as reflected in the novel.
These book-themed cruises present a one-of-a-kind opportunity for literature enthusiasts to step into the worlds of their favorite stories.
Starting at around US$1,500 per person, these voyages beautifully blend literature with travel, enabling guests to discover and appreciate iconic destinations through a literary lens.
Whether guests are roaming the streets of Barcelona, admiring the rugged landscapes of Alaska, or basking in the serene beauty of Hawaii, these literary cruises offer an unforgettable experience, uniting literature and exploration.
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