Thursday, June 5, 2025
Mitsui Ocean Cruises, the luxury cruise brand of Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), has announced the retirement of its beloved cruise ship, Nippon Maru, set to conclude its distinguished service on May 10, 2026, in Yokohama. This marks the end of an era for the 422-guest vessel that has been a cornerstone of Japanese cruising for over three decades.
A Storied Legacy
Since its debut in 1990, Nippon Maru has embarked on more than 2,000 cruises, covering a staggering 2,877,642 nautical miles—approximately 133 times around the globe. The ship has welcomed over 600,000 guests and visited more than 400 ports in Japan and internationally, becoming a symbol of Mitsui Ocean Cruises’ commitment to excellence in hospitality and service.
“With full hearts and deep gratitude, we bid a bittersweet farewell to Nippon Maru, which has served us well for over 35 years,” said Tsunemichi Mukai, President of Mitsui Ocean Cruises. “Though a difficult decision, it is time to retire her for operational and economic reasons. We’re excited to carry on her legacy of fine hospitality aboard our new luxury ships, Mitsui Ocean Fuji and our recently announced second ship, where many of our cherished crew will continue to serve.”
Notable Voyages and Contributions
Nippon Maru has been renowned for its extensive and unique itineraries, including:
- 62-day Hawaii, Caribbean, and Alaska Cruise (1995): An extensive voyage that showcased the ship’s long-range capabilities.
- 48-day Mauritius Precious Cruise – Paradise FUNATABI Around the Indian Ocean (2022): A journey highlighting the ship’s versatility and appeal to adventurous travelers.
- Nine World Cruises: Offering guests the opportunity to circumnavigate the globe in luxury.
Additionally, Nippon Maru pioneered themed cruises such as the “Platinum Entertainment Cruise” and the “Oasis Nippon Maru Cruise,” uniquely created especially for women.
The ship also introduced the now-standard “Fly & Cruise Hokkaido” program, attracting a wider range of guests and enhancing accessibility to Japan’s northernmost island.
Beyond leisure travel, Nippon Maru played a significant role in international youth exchange programs, serving as a vessel for the “Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth” and the “Ship for World Youth” projects, fostering cultural understanding and diplomacy.
Culinary Excellence at Sea
A hallmark of Nippon Maru’s offerings has been its exceptional cuisine, which incorporates local ingredients from ports of call and seasonal dishes, ensuring a fresh and regionally inspired dining experience. The ship’s chefs have skillfully blended traditional Japanese techniques with international flavors, creating memorable meals that have become favorites among guests, including the renowned roast beef.
Retirement Celebrations and Final Season
In honor of Nippon Maru’s illustrious service, Mitsui Ocean Cruises has planned a series of special events and cruises during its final season. These will feature commemorative gifts and menus showcasing seasonal ingredients from the ship’s beloved ports of call.
The final cruise, culminating in Yokohama on May 10, 2026, will be a poignant farewell, celebrating the ship’s legacy and the cherished memories created over 35 years of service.
Looking Ahead: New Horizons for Mitsui Ocean Cruises
As Nippon Maru prepares to retire, Mitsui Ocean Cruises is poised to continue its tradition of excellence with the introduction of new luxury vessels.
- Mitsui Ocean Fuji: Formerly known as Seabourn Odyssey, this ship joined the fleet in December 2024 after undergoing a significant refit. It offers an intimate cruising experience, accommodating 458 guests, and is designed to navigate the scenic waters of Japan’s Seto Inland Sea.
- Second Luxury Ship: A second luxury vessel, currently the Seabourn Sojourn, is set to join the fleet in late 2026. This acquisition underscores Mitsui Ocean Cruises’ commitment to expanding its offerings and enhancing the cruising experience for its guests.
These additions reflect the company’s dedication to preserving the legacy of Nippon Maru while embracing innovation and growth in the luxury cruise market.
Conclusion
The retirement of Nippon Maru marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of Mitsui Ocean Cruises. The ship’s contributions to Japanese cruising, its innovative programs, and its role in fostering international goodwill have left an indelible mark on the industry.
As the company looks to the future with new vessels, the spirit of Nippon Maru will undoubtedly continue to inspire and shape the experiences of travelers for years to come.
