It’s Teacher Appreciation Week and Norwegian Cruise Line’s Giving Joy is back! The Giving Joy contest recognizes and celebrates educators throughout the United States and Canada by awarding 20 deserving teachers with a free 3- or 4-day cruise. Additionally, 3 grand prize winners will enjoy Norwegian Luna’s christening voyage–a 3-night sailing from Miami–when she debuts in the spring of 2026.
Nominations will be accepted for any certified or accredited educator between now and May 31, 2025. The public can submit their nominations at nclgivingjoy.com by simply registering and then sharing how the nominee has made a lasting impact on their students’ lives and the teaching community; explaining how the nominee has been recognized by their peers or community; and finally how the teacher has overcome challenges within their school. A three-person panel will evaluate each nomination and select the winner based on the mentioned criteria.
“At NCL we are all about delivering exceptional experiences, including honoring communities who make a difference in the world, such as teachers,” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line. “We’re so proud to celebrate six years of our Norwegian’s Giving Joy program and continuing to shine a light on incredible teachers who are shaping our future generation. This year, we’re excited to reward 20 exceptional teachers with an unforgettable vacation with MORE ways to relax and explore on board one of our many spectacular NCL ships.”
Since its inception in 2019, NCL’s Giving Joy contest has received nearly 61,000 nominations, awarded 270 cruises and, with the support of the cruise line’s valued partners, donated more than $515,000 to the teachers and their schools.
This year’s Grand Prize winners will be among the first to experience Norwegian Luna. Like her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua, Norwegian Luna will feature the hybrid roller coaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster, and new dining venues, Sukhothai and Planterie.
Following her christening voyage, Norwegian Luna will offer 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruises from Miami with ports of call in Puerto Plata, Tortola, St. Thomas and the cruise line’s private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay.
Norwegian Cruise Line also supports educators year round through its Teacher Cruise Discount–a 5% cruise fare discount and $50 onboard credit.