Asuka II

Another update from the archive brings us to these photos of Asuka II, taken during her visit to Bergen on 16/05/2014.

Japanese Cruise Ship Asuka II in Bergen, Norway
Asuka II in Bergen, Norway
Built in Nagasaki, Japan, by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, she was launched in 1990 as Crystal Harmony, and sailed successfully for American-based, Japanese-owned Crystal Cruises for many years.

Japanese Cruise Ship Asuka II in Bergen, Norway
Surprisingly few passengers headed oustide to watch the sailaway
In 2006, the parent company Nippon Yusen made the decision to transfer Crystal Harmony to serve the Japanese market, and she was renamed Asuka II.

Japanese Cruise Ship Asuka II in Bergen, Norway
Asuka II pulls away from her berth at Bontelabo
With a gross tonnage of just over 50,000 and a length of 241m, Asuka II can accommodate up to 960 passengers, served by a crew of 565. This makes her, by some margin, the largest cruise ship operating for the Japanese market.

Japanese Cruise Ship Asuka II in Bergen, Norway
Her long, sleek bow gives Asuka II an attractive profile
Asuka II predominantly sails short 3- or 4-night cruises, from her home port of Yokohama, but also sails wordwide on longer voyages, bringing her to ports such as Bergen.

Japanese Cruise Ship Asuka II in Bergen, Norway
A tug assists Asuk II as she turns ready for departure
She is a handsome ship, and her attractive profile and large number of provate balconies helping her to look younger than the 25 years she has spent in service.

Japanese Cruise Ship Asuka II in Bergen, Norway
Asuka II departing Bergen
After a day alongside at Bontelabo, Asuka II slipped her moorings and departed Bergen.

Location: Vågen, Bergen, Bergen, Norway

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