Norwegian Cruise Line today took delivery of the Norwegian Joy, the first ship designed specifically for the Chinese cruise market since Meyer Werft, during a ceremony held on board in Bremerhaven, Germany. At 167,725 gross tons and with a capacity for 3,883 passengers, the Norwegian Joy is the second ship in the cruise line's Breakaway Plus class. It features an innovative design with tailored amenities to provide a "first-class at sea" experience for Chinese passengers, along with the freedom and flexibility for which Norwegian Cruise Line is known worldwide.
“As Norwegian Cruise Line continues its global expansion, the delivery of Norwegian Joy marks our official entry into the Chinese cruise market,” explained Andy Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “With this incredible ship, we’ve taken the signature Norwegian onboard experience and expanded and personalized it with features, services, and amenities that blend the best of East and West,” commented David Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings China. “We are thrilled to deliver this spectacular ship to our Chinese guests and can’t wait to see Norwegian Joy come to life as it welcomes its first passengers when it arrives in China in June.”.
Prior to the delivery, David Herrera and executives from Norwegian's China offices gathered for a traditional blessing from the Chinese Goddess of the Sea, Mazu, at the Mazu Temple in Shanghai. A year ago, the Norwegian team held a ceremony there to receive a blessing for the coins used in the keel-laying ceremony of the Norwegian Joy, which marked the start of construction in April 2016. Following this recent visit, a ceramic statue of Mazu was presented to the company by temple representatives and brought to Germany to commemorate the ship's delivery. The statue has been given pride of place on board the Norwegian Joy and will carry Mazu's blessings on its voyage to China.
Following its delivery, the Norwegian Joy will begin its journey to China, where it will be showcased during a grand inaugural port tour with one-day events in the ports of Singapore, Qingdao, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, as well as voyages for VIP members from the Norwegian Joy's homeports in Shanghai and Beijing (Tianjin). The ship will be christened during an exclusive star-studded event for honored passengers on June 27, with the ceremony led by its godfather, Wang Leehom, the "King of Chinese Pop.".
The Norwegian Joy is Norwegian Cruise Line's first custom-built ship specifically for the Chinese market. The name Norwegian Joy emphasizes the experience the ship offers, promising passengers "paradise at sea." Accommodating 3,883 passengers, the ship is designed to provide first-class experiences at sea with onboard amenities tailored to fulfill Chinese passengers' desire for a unique vacation. The Norwegian Joy will offer a wide range of VIP accommodations, including The Haven by Norwegian, the ship's exclusive luxury suite complex within the ship, which will also feature a new observation deck with 180-degree views and a Concierge Level, a brand-new accommodation category offering a VIP experience with larger balcony staterooms. The accommodation options will also include staterooms specifically designed for families, as well as a wide selection of mini-suites, balcony staterooms, both outside and inside, many with virtual balconies.
The Norwegian Joy will offer innovative and exciting activities, including a two-level go-kart track, an aerial laser tag arena, incredible simulator rides and interactive video walls in the Galaxy Pavilion, and two multi-story water slides. It also features a tranquil outdoor park and the cruise line's largest shopping district, with duty-free shops and luxury brands.
