NCL’s newest ship floats out from building dock in Germany

Norwegian Joy, soon to be Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship and first cruise ship custom-designed for China, was floated out of its building dock at Meyer Werft shipbuilders in Papenburg, Germany on March 4, bringing the ship closer to joining its sister ships on the high seas.

Norwegian Joy after float-out at Meyer Werft shipbuilders at Papenburg, Germany
Norwegian Joy after float-out
“Norwegian Joy is now one step closer to delivery and one step closer to delivering on our promise to create a First Class at Sea experience for our Chinese guests,” David Herrera, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings China President, said in a statement announcing the float-out.

The second ship in the line’s Breakaway Plus Class, the 168,800-ton ship with its distinctive hull artwork designed by Chinese artist Tan Ping will carry 3,850 passengers. The vessel has been under construction since September 2015 and will enter service in the summer of 2017.

Norwegian Joy, which will home port in Shanghai and Beijing (Tianjin), will be Norwegian Cruise Line's first purpose-built ship for the Chinese market, “[D]esigned to deliver on the promise that guests will enjoy 'First Class at Sea’ experiences,” according to the cruise line.

From the ship’s symbolic hull artwork to her first-ever racetrack at sea, Norwegian Joy represents Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to providing an unparalleled cruise experience for Chinese consumers, the company said.

Designed to provide First Class at Sea experiences with on-board amenities that cater to the unique vacation desires of Chinese guests, Norwegian Joy’s VIP accommodations will include The Haven by Norwegian®, the line’s exclusive, ship-within-a-ship suite luxury complex, which will also include an all-new Observation Deck that features 180 degree views. The ship will also feature a Concierge level, an all-new accommodations category which will provide a VIP experience and feature larger balcony staterooms.

Norwegian Joy in dry dock at Meyer Werft shipbuilders at Papenburg, Germany
Norwegian Joy in dry dock
Other accommodation categories will include staterooms designed specifically for families. That category offers several staterooms that connect with each other to accommodate extended families traveling together. Norwegian Joy will also offer an array of mini-suite, balcony, ocean view and interior staterooms, many with virtual balconies.

Customized for China, even the name Norwegian Joy was specifically chosen to emphasize that the ship will allow guests to “Experience Paradise on the Sea,” according to the cruise line.

Norwegian Joy will also offer innovative activities including a first two-level competitive racetrack at sea, an open-air laser tag course, and simulator rides and interactive video walls at the Galaxy Pavilion. The ship will also offer hover craft bumper cars, a state-of-the-art racing simulator and two multi-story water slides.

For those who prefer a more serene sailing, Norwegian Joy offers a tranquil open space park as well as the line’s largest upscale shopping district with offerings ranging from upmarket duty-free shops to world-renowned global luxury brands.

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Photos provided by Norwegian Cruise Lines
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