JOHANNESBURG, 14 January, 2026 – Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has announced a landmark change for partners and travel agents commemorating the 15th anniversary of its Partners First philosophy. Effective immediately, NCL will permanently eliminate non-commissionable fares (NCFs) across all cruise fares for sailings departing from 1 May 2026 onwards. This bold move means travel advisors will now earn commission on the full cruise fare (excluding taxes and fees), including the popular Free at Sea™ upgrade.
This enhancement is not a limited-time initiative, but a permanent shift designed to simplify and clarify commission structures, making NCL the easiest cruise line to work with. It reflects NCL’s ongoing commitment to partnership, transparency, and the long-term success of travel professionals.
“Removing NCFs is a meaningful commitment to strengthening our partnership and ensuring travel agents are fully rewarded for the value they bring to their clients and to NCL,” says Nirosha Sidat, NCL Country Manager, Africa. “With 21 ships and voyages to more than 350 destinations worldwide on sale, including Europe, the Caribbean, Alaska and Asia, there is no better moment to plan and book an effortless escape with NCL.”
Beyond simplifying commission structures, this change delivers tangible advantages for travel partners. First, higher commission earnings: the full cruise fare (excluding taxes and fees) is now commissionable, delivering more revenue with every booking. Second, a simplified and transparent structure: the streamlined fare model enables advisors to understand their earning potential upfront, present NCL confidently, and focus on selling the experience. Finally, a partnership that puts partners first: NCL recognises the critical role travel advisors play in delivering exceptional holidays worldwide, and this enhancement represents a direct investment in their business success.
To learn more about NCL’s new commission structure, travel advisors are encouraged to visit Norwegian Central.
For more information about the Company’s award-winning 20-ship fleet and worldwide itineraries, or to book a cruise, please contact a travel professional or visit www.ncl.com
