In celebration of Teacher Appreciation Week (May 5–9, 2025), Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has launched the return of its beloved Norwegian’s Giving Joy campaign. This initiative shines a spotlight on the incredible impact teachers make in the lives of their students and communities.
Now in its sixth year, this heartwarming program recognizes 20 exceptional educators across the U.S. and Canada with a free three or four-day cruise. In an exciting twist for 2025, the top three grand prize winners will also receive a coveted spot aboard the christening voyage of Norwegian Luna, set to debut in Spring 2026!
How It Works: Nominate a Deserving Teacher
From May 5 to May 31, 2025, NCL is inviting the public to nominate accredited teachers by sharing personal stories that highlight their passion, dedication, and creativity in overcoming challenges in the classroom. Nominations can be submitted at www.nclgivingjoy.com.
A panel of NCL leaders and partners will evaluate submissions, and the top 20 teachers will be awarded a cruise vacation for two. The top three will also enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to sail aboard Norwegian Luna’s inaugural celebration from Miami.
“We’re so proud to celebrate six years of our Norwegian’s Giving Joy program and continuing to shine a light on incredible teachers who are shaping our future generation,” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line.
What’s New for 2025: Christening Voyage Aboard Norwegian Luna
The three grand prize winners won’t just be cruising, they’ll be among the first to experience Norwegian Luna, sister ship to the recently launched Norwegian Aqua. Highlights of this new ship include:
- Aqua Slidecoaster: A first-of-its-kind hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide at sea
- Sukhothai: A Thai specialty restaurant serving both traditional and imaginative dishes
- Planterie: A plant-based eatery located in the Indulge Food Hall
- Upgraded Great Stirrup Cay: Featuring a new pier, expanded pool area, splash zone, and bar
Norwegian Luna will sail 7-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami starting April 2026, visiting ports including Puerto Plata, Tortola, St. Thomas, and NCL’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay.
Celebrating Teachers, Year-Round
Since the launch of Giving Joy in 2019, NCL has received nearly 61,000 teacher nominations, awarded more than 270 cruise vacations, and donated over $515,000 to educators and their schools, made possible by generous partnerships.
In addition to this annual program, NCL offers a year-round Teacher Cruise Discount, available to verified teachers and school staff in the U.S. and Canada. This includes:
- 5% cruise fare discount
- $50 onboard credit
Available to classroom teachers, principals, school staff, and university faculty. Details are available at ncl.com/teachers.
“It was such a joy to be a Norwegian’s Giving Joy winner and experience a pampered celebration for doing something I love—teaching!” said Nancy Altimore, a 2024 winner from Pembroke Pines, Florida.
How to Nominate a Teacher:
Know an outstanding educator who deserves a dream getaway? Submit your nomination at nclgivingjoy.com by May 31, 2025.
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Do you have any upcoming cruise plans on board Norwegian Aqua or Norwegian Luna? Please let me know in the comments below.
Happy Cruising!
Ethan
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Ethan Schattauer, a seasoned cruiser since the age of four, has gone on over 40 cruises with his family. Drawing from his extensive travel experiences, Ethan offers a fresh and youthful perspective on the world of cruising. He also writes about cruise cuisine, onboard experiences, and practical tips, providing valuable insights for cruise travelers worldwide.