37th Festuris: Andre Mercanti, Commercial Director of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Brazil, talks about expansion in the Caribbean and luxury at sea

Andre Mercanti enthusiastically recalls the beginning of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings' journey in the Luxury Space at Festuris. "When the space was created, we were just seven exhibitors, and our company was one of the first to believe in the project," Mercanti remembers. Over the decade, the space grew and consolidated itself as a strategic meeting point for luxury tourism, bringing together international brands and select agencies.

Seasons that connect around the world.

Although Norwegian does not operate flights from Brazil, Mercanti explains that the company maintains a global travel calendar that covers virtually every continent. “We have seasons in the Caribbean, Europe, Alaska, New Zealand, Australia, Japan, Asia, and Northern Europe. Operations alternate according to summer and winter in the hemispheres,” the director points out.

According to him, the company is now starting its Caribbean season, which runs from November to April, with 18 ships in operation. "There are itineraries for the eastern, western, Mexican, and southern Caribbean, as well as departures from New York and Bermuda. It's one of the largest offerings we've ever had in the region," he added.

New ships and significant growth

Mercanti also comments on Norwegian's expansion phase. "This year we launched the Norwegian Aqua, and in March 2026 the Norwegian Luna will be inaugurated, also debuting in the Caribbean," he reveals. Even with geopolitical and economic challenges, the executive assesses 2025 as a positive year: "We grew about 20% compared to last year. The second half showed a significant recovery in sales volume."

Partnerships and market presence

Relationships with the tourism industry are one of Norwegian's cornerstones. "We work with all segments of the tourism industry, from luxury tour operators to more diversified premium agencies," explains Mercanti. He notes that interest in cruises has increased not only among high-end travelers, but also among new audiences seeking differentiated experiences.

The strength of the Asian market

The director points to Asia as a growing trend. “Tourism lives in cycles, and today the Asian market is a global trend. Many countries have reopened after the pandemic, and Brazilians, who are already well acquainted with Europe and the United States, are now discovering Asia,” comments Mercanti. According to him, the increase in the supply of destinations and cultural curiosity are driving this global movement.

Luxury in details that enchant.

When discussing the group's three brands — Norwegian, Oceania, and Regent — Mercanti explains the differences between them. “Norwegian represents the premium segment, Oceania is our luxury line, and Regent, the ultra-luxury. The Regent experience is truly unparalleled,” he states.

He enthusiastically describes the level of service on board. “On Regent, there are more crew members than guests by the pool. The staff calls you by name and understands what you need even before you ask. It’s a level of attention that wins you over,” says the executive.

The luxury revealed in the smallest gestures.

To illustrate, Mercanti shares a striking memory: “Once I ordered a very cold beer, explaining that we Brazilians like it at minus five degrees. The waiter went to the freezer, adjusted the temperature, and brought the beer with a thermometer, exactly as I had described. That's ultra-luxury—genuine attention to detail.”

With a decade of presence at Festuris and an expanding global operation, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings reaffirms its commitment to tourism excellence, where luxury goes far beyond refinement: it lies in the attention to the passenger and the art of transforming each trip into an unforgettable experience.

Held from November 6th to 9th at Serra Park in Gramado (RS), Festuris focused on the theme "Reimagining Tomorrow".

Reporting and photo: Mary de Aquino.