Asuka III

Asuka III is a small cruise ship operated by NYK Cruises. Built at Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, she entered service in 2025, carrying 770 passengers across 385 staterooms. The ship is Japan-flagged and registered in Yokohama.

Designed to reflect Japanese aesthetics, the ship features open spaces and displays works by Japanese artists throughout, including a fresco by Hiroshi Senju in the Gallery Café and paintings by Reiji Hiramatsu in the Noblesse Restaurant. Every cabin has a private step-out balcony, with 12 cabin categories ranging from the Royal Penthouse to junior suites, offering a wide span of options for different travelers.

Dining and bars include the Anchor Bar on Deck 5, which specializes in fine sake and features artwork by Sohei Iwata, while the Lumiere Theater on Deck 6 offers amphitheater seating and digital holography for shows, including an original production called KAGUYA. Deck 7 holds a library and café, a flower shop and a gaming space, while a casual night bar with digital shuffleboard sits adjacent to the casino, rounding out the evening options onboard.

The ship is powered by liquefied natural gas, making her one of the most energy-efficient cruise ships built by Meyer Werft to date. Notable amenities include a spa with a Japanese-style open-air bath, and guest rooms are decorated throughout with works by Japanese artists. Additional facilities include six restaurants, a 24-hour gymnasium and a swimming pool, giving guests plenty to explore across the ship's public spaces.

Asuka III is built for Japan-focused cruising and suits those seeking a smaller, contemporary ship with an emphasis on Japanese design and cultural enrichment, blending modern comfort with a distinctly Japanese sense of hospitality throughout the voyage.

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