Japanese cruise operator unveils new ship Mitsui Ocean Sakura

Yokohama - Mitsui O.S.K. Lines' cruise subsidiary revealed its new Japan-registered cruise ship, Mitsui Ocean Sakura, to journalists on September 16. The ship is scheduled to embark on its maiden voyage on September 19, succeeding the Nippon Maru, which was decommissioned in May. The Sakura measures 198.15 meters in length, 26 meters in width, and possesses a gross tonnage of 34,138.

Its smaller size compared to other cruise ships will allow it to dock at smaller regional ports and remote island ports more conveniently. The vessel offers 229 guest rooms, accommodating 458 passengers, with most rooms featuring balconies. Traditional flavors such as roast beef and curry will continue to be served, along with a refreshed sushi bar and a newly installed foot bath.

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines' cruise division aims to expand its presence in the domestic market, with demand potentially surpassing supply at any given time. MOL Cruises President Tsunemichi Mukai stated at a business briefing that the company will evaluate the optimal moment to expand its fleet. The company's fleet will comprise two ships, including the Mitsui Ocean Fuji, which commenced operations in December 2024 as MOL Cruises' first new cruise ship in 34 years.

The Japanese government aims to boost the number of Japanese cruise passengers to 1 million by 2030. As of 2025, the number of Japanese passengers on domestic and international cruises totaled 243,000, slightly lower than the 356,000 recorded in 2019 before the COVID-19 pandemic. However, foreign cruise ships calling at Japanese ports are on the rise.