Mitsui Ocean Cruises has officially welcomed its newest ship, Mitsui Ocean Sakura, to its fleet, bringing the Japanese luxury cruise line to two ships.
The 32,477-ton, 458-guest vessel was named during a traditional ceremony in Yokohama on Sept. 16, ahead of its inaugural sailing from Yokohama Port on Sept. 19, 2026. The addition gives the line a second ship alongside Mitsui Ocean Fuji, which debuted in December 2024.
A New Chapter for Mitsui Ocean Cruises
The naming ceremony took place aboard Mitsui Ocean Sakura, where Mitsui Ocean Cruises’ crew members and employees collectively served as namers. Captain Satoshi Ninomiya, the ship’s inaugural captain, represented them during the ceremony. The ceremony also included the traditional breaking of a bottle.
Mitsui Ocean Sakura is designed to provide an intimate luxury cruise experience while maintaining access to a broad range of Japanese ports. Its smaller size lets the ship call at destinations larger cruise ships may not reach, including smaller ports and locations closer to city centers.
The all-suite ship features ocean views from every suite. The line has announced 61 cruises through September 2027, with 29 departures scheduled during the ship’s first three months in service. Early itineraries include one- to 3-night sailings themed around autumn scenery, Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Japanese Cuisine and Hospitality at Sea
Mitsui Ocean Sakura also introduces new ways for travelers to experience Japanese culture onboard.
At Sushi Bar Shiosai, a specialty restaurant on Deck 5, guests can order multi-course menus featuring sushi, seasonal small dishes and sake. The ship’s Grand Pool on Deck 8 adds another Japanese touch with an open-air footbath where guests can relax between shore excursions and onboard activities.
The ship’s inclusive offering covers suite accommodations, dining, more than 200 alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, entertainment, WiFi, select onboard activities and half-day shore excursions in most ports.
The name itself connects the new ship to Japan and the company’s maritime history. “Sakura,” the Japanese word for cherry blossom, is closely associated with the country’s culture and also appeared in the names of the historic Sakura Maru and Shin Sakura Maru.
For more information, visit mitsuioceancruises.us.
