NYK has announced that its new luxury cruise ship, set to enter service in May 2027, will be named “Amane” (海音) and will operate Tokyo Bay cruises out of Tennoz. Succeeding the dining ship Lady Crystal, the vessel will feature refined French cuisine, dedicated butler service, and a sophisticated design by an elite creative team. Additionally, the Amane will serve as an eco-friendly platform showcasing NYK’s commitment to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and supporting regional revitalization.
Tokyo, Japan | July 6, 2026 – Global maritime leader NYK has officially announced that its brand-new cruise ship, scheduled to enter service in Spring 2027, will be named “Amane” (海音). The vessel is designed to carry forward NYK’s rich, historic passenger-ship heritage while delivering an intimate, highly refined cruising experience on Tokyo Bay.
Succeeding the popular dining ship Lady Crystal, currently operated by NYK Group subsidiary The Cruise Club Tokyo, the Amane aims to set a new benchmark for boutique maritime hospitality. A dedicated official website has launched to provide ongoing updates: AMANE NYK
Origin of the Name
The ship’s name is formed by combining two distinct kanji characters:
- 海 (Kai / “Sea”)
- 音 (Ne / “Sound”)
Together, they evoke the serene imagery of a peaceful voyage accompanied by the natural, soothing sounds of the ocean. Furthermore, the name reflects NYK’s overarching aspiration for both the vessel and its corporate vision to resonate deeply with guests and the wider public.
Onboard Service & Culinary Excellence
The Amane is engineered to offer guests a comfortable, relaxing, and personalized environment tailored to individual preferences:
- Exclusive Hospitality: A dedicated butler service will be provided for guests staying in private rooms, paired with attentive, high-touch service for all passengers throughout the journey.
- Gastronomic Tradition: Onboard dining will carry on the celebrated tradition of French cuisine once served aboard classic NYK passenger liners. Course menus will feature carefully curated Japanese ingredients, crafted under the direction of Kenji Hayama, executive chef of Lady Crystal.
World-Class Design and Project Team
To curate an unforgettable atmosphere, NYK has assembled an elite team of design and lifestyle experts:
- Project Consulting: Led by Shimpei Terada, President of Tysons & Company, focusing on an integrated customer journey that flows seamlessly from the shoreside lounge to the vessel interior.
- Total Vessel Design: Spearheaded by Masamichi Katayama, Founder and Principal of Wonderwall®, crafting a sophisticated and unique onboard aesthetic.
- Brand Logo Design: Created by renowned designer Naomi Hirabayashi.
Vessel Particulars at a Glance
- Scheduled Service Entry: Around May 2027
- Length Overall: Approx. 48.0 meters
- Beam: Approx. 9.5 meters
- Draft: Approx. 2.1 meters
- Gross Tonnage: Approx. 480 tons
- Builder: Maehata Shipbuilding Co., Ltd., Sasebo, Nagasaki
- Operating Area: Tokyo Bay cruises based in Tennoz
A Platform for NYK’s Future Initiatives
Beyond luxury tourism, NYK is positioning the Amane as an interactive showcase for the Group’s broader corporate values and environmental initiatives.
The vessel will serve as a floating platform highlighting key modernization goals, including the advancement of green technologies targeting net-zero emissions by 2050 and supporting regional revitalization through the procurement of locally sourced domestic ingredients. Through these efforts, Amane will offer a next-generation cruise experience that allows guests to directly engage with NYK’s ongoing innovations.
About NYK
Established in 1885 in Japan, NYK, formally known as Nippon Yusen Kabushiki Kaisha, has emerged as a global leader in the maritime industry over its 135-year history. Operating a diverse fleet, including container ships, bulk carriers, and tankers, NYK serves over 800 locations worldwide, offering a comprehensive suite of shipping services.
NYK Line has earned recognition for its commitment to innovation, sustainability, and safety, navigating the complexities of global logistics with diligence and foresight. This ongoing dedication underscores NYK’s pivotal role in shaping the future of ocean transport and reaffirms its status as a cornerstone of the maritime landscape.
Source: NYK Line