Norwegian Drops Seven Ports From a Single 2027 Cruise Itinerary

Norwegian Cruise Line has made some big changes to an upcoming voyage. Here’s what travelers need to know about the updated Norwegian Star itinerary.

Norwegian Star’s 2027 Itinerary Gets a Major Overhaul

Norwegian Cruise Line has changed six ports of call for a Norwegian Star sailing set to depart on November 12, 2027. The cruise line also switched the departure port from Lisbon to Tarragona, Spain.

The original nine-night trip was focused on the Canary Islands and Madeira. It included stops in Funchal, Santa Cruz de Tenerife, Arrecife, Agadir, Casablanca, and Palma de Mallorca, ending in Barcelona.

Why Did Norwegian Make These Changes?

Norwegian says the departure port switch came down to availability. “Although we coordinate closely with port authorities to confirm every detail well in advance, operational conditions can change, and at times we’re informed that space is no longer available,” the company explained.

It’s not unusual for cruise lines to face port availability issues. Busy ports like Lisbon can fill up quickly, especially years in advance.

What Does the New Itinerary Look Like?

The updated sailing now focuses on the Western Mediterranean. Only Palma de Mallorca survived the cut from the original route.

The new stops include Marseille, La Spezia, Livorno, Civitavecchia, Salerno, and Valletta, Malta. That’s a lineup packed with history, food, and stunning architecture.

Norwegian described the shift in a positive light. “This transition brings a new rhythm and perspective to the voyage, shifting from Atlantic and North African ports to a collection of historic Mediterranean cities celebrated for their culture, architecture and culinary traditions,” the company said.

How Is Norwegian Handling Disappointed Guests?

Norwegian acknowledged that changes like this can be frustrating. “We understand that itinerary changes can bring disappointment, and we truly appreciate your understanding and flexibility,” the company added.

Guests who were booked on the original itinerary received direct communication about the updates. If you’re affected, it’s worth reviewing your booking details carefully.

What’s Next for the Norwegian Star?

After this sailing, the Norwegian Star will offer a ten-night cruise to the Canary Islands and Morocco. The ship will then reposition to South America for the winter season in early December 2027.