NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line has returned both Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Gem to service following scheduled drydockings that combined technical maintenance with a series of passenger-facing upgrades, including the introduction of NCL's Vibe Beach Club concept aboard both vessels.
The two JEWEL-class ships completed refurbishment periods at separate shipyards.
Norwegian Jade entered drydock in Victoria, BC Canada, on April 20th, while Norwegian Gem concluded a comparable refit in Marseille, France, after completing a transatlantic crossing.
Works aboard Norwegian Jade included routine maintenance, statutory inspections and technical overhauls, together with the installation of the adults-only Vibe Beach Club on Deck 14. The new venue replaces a former public space and introduces private cabanas, upgraded loungers and an additional whirlpool/sundeck area intended for a more secluded outdoor experience.
Norwegian Jade resumed operations on May 4th with departures from Vancouver BC for Alaska itineraries, including open-jaw voyages between Vancouver and Whittier AK.
Norwegian Gem underwent similar refurbishment works, and also received a Vibe Beach Club solarium. The vessel returned to service on May 11th. Its Mediterranean schedule is based on homeporting in Barcelona, Civitavecchia-Rome and Ravenna.
The addition of Vibe Beach Club facilities on both ships aligns them with the remainder of NCL's JEWEL-class fleet. Norwegian Pearl and Norwegian Jewel received comparable upgrades during refurbishment periods in late 2025, alongside minor updates to accommodations and public areas.
The refurbs are part of NCL's fleet revitalisation program, introducing new dining concepts, cinema venues, expanded outdoor areas, redesigned staterooms and updated entertainment facilities as the company continues to standardise onboard offerings while modernising existing vessels.
The continued rollout of the Vibe Beach Club concept reflects a wider industry movement toward premium-access outdoor spaces intended to provide differentiated guest experiences while contributing additional onboard revenue opportunities.
NCL's latest drydocks also illustrate the balance increasingly sought by cruise companies between essential technical maintenance and hospitality upgrades as vessels remain in continuous deployment across major regions.