NCL celebrates keel laying ceremony for Norwegian Joy

Norwegian Cruise Line, together with executives at Meyer Werft, have celebrated the keel laying ceremony in Papenburg, Germany, for Norwegian Cruise Line’s first ever ship styled exclusively for Chinese guests – Norwegian Joy.

The ship is scheduled to be delivered tin summer 2017.

During the ceremony, the first of 80 blocks that will comprise the 164,600 gross ton vessel was lifted into the covered building hall, officially marking the start of the ship’s assembly.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings executives were present in the hall and laid the traditional “lucky coin,” before the first block, weighing 680 tons, was placed by a massive crane.

“We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the Keel Laying for Norwegian Joy today with our partners at Meyer Werft,” said Norwegian Cruise Line president Andy Stuart.

“Norwegian Joy is yet another evolution for Norwegian Cruise Line and we know the outstanding work of the teams at Meyer Werft will truly make her a first class vessel.”

A special commemorative coin featuring the ship was created to celebrate the day’s activities.

In a ceremony held at the XingTian Temple at Fang Ta Park in Shanghai on March 31st, 2016, NCLH China executives gathered for a traditional prayer and pledge ceremony to the Chinese Goddess of the sea, Mazu, to bring blessings to the coins, the ship and all of the guests who sail on her.

The same coin was then placed under the block during the ceremony.

“We are carefully designing every element of Norwegian Joy, from her VIP accommodations to gourmet dining venues, outstanding recreation and entertainment choices and family-friendly features, to create a First Class at Sea experience that is completely focused on exceeding the expectations of our Chinese guests,” said NCLH China president David Herrera.

In addition to the ceremony, Norwegian Cruise Line also announced the appointment of David Herrera as president, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings China.

Previously Senior Vice President and Managing Director for China, David will assume new responsibilities for the sales, marketing, public relations and operations for all three brands within the NCLH portfolio in his new role. To lead the launch efforts for Norwegian Joy, Mr. Herrera and his family will be relocating to Shanghai this summer.

Norwegian Joy’s experiences include a multitude of VIP accommodation, from exclusive suite complex The Haven by Norwegian, an all-new Concierge category and the most family-friendly stateroom options in the fleet; along with a technology-driven interactive Galaxy Pavilion outfitted with bumper cars, Oculus Rift virtual reality; car racing simulators and much more.

The ship’s top decks will feature the only race track at sea and laser tag, along with two waterslides and a serene open space for relaxation and renewal.

Norwegian Joy will also offer international luxury shopping boutiques with renowned global luxury brands, in fashion, jewellery and electronics.