MOL Cruises Unveils New Ship ‘Mitsui Ocean Sakura’ Set to Launch in 2026

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, Ltd. (MOL) has officially announced the name of its upcoming cruise ship, the Mitsui Ocean Sakura. Operated by its subsidiary MOL Cruises, Ltd., the vessel is expected to commence operations in late 2026.

The Mitsui Ocean Sakura will proudly sail under the Japanese flag, offering short- to medium-length cruises that embark and disembark at various ports in Japan.

Featuring a gross tonnage of approximately 32,000 tons and measuring less than 200 meters in length, the Mitsui Ocean Sakura is designed to be compact enough to access a diverse range of ports. This includes remote island destinations like Okinawa and Hokkaido, as well as ports conveniently located near major urban centers.

MOL Cruises has also shared plans for the ship to offer themed itineraries, including one-night cruises that have already garnered significant interest among passengers. Additionally, the cruise experiences will be curated around festivals, fireworks displays, musical events, and culinary delights.

For its inaugural season, MOL Cruises has appointed seasoned professionals with extensive experience in Japanese cruising. Captain Satoshi Ninomiya, previously at the helm of the Nippon Maru, will serve as one of the captains of the Mitsui Ocean Sakura. Overseeing the culinary offerings will be executive chef Katsutoshi Nakayama, who brings his expertise from his time on the Nippon Maru.

Building on the tradition of hospitality cultivated on its earlier vessels, including the Nippon Maru, MOL Cruises is committed to upholding the spirit of “Omotenashi” on the Mitsui Ocean Sakura.

Joining its sister ship, the Mitsui Ocean Fuji, which commenced operations in 2024, the Mitsui Ocean Sakura aims to enhance the corporate value of the MOL Group and contribute to the realization of its Group Vision.

Reference: MOL