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BREMERHAVEN, Germany — Norwegian Cruise Line on Thursday took delivery of its 15th ship and the first built for the Chinese market.
“Norwegian Joy’s delivery is an exciting milestone for us, signifying our official entry into the Chinese cruise market,” said Andy Stuart, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. He thanked builder Meyer Werft for “another wonderful ship.”
At 167,725 gross tons and carrying 3,883 passengers at double occupancy, Norwegian Joy is the sister of Norwegian Escape but with some key differences.
Among the new features are the first racetrack at sea, a sophisticated virtual reality zone, a laser tag course, tearooms, multiple casinos and family accommodations that sleep up to six people.
The Haven by Norwegian, the line’s luxury suite complex, for the first time has an Observation Lounge featuring 180-degree views. Also new is a Concierge level that provides another VIP experience with its own ample Observation Lounge and larger balcony staterooms.
The open-air Serenity Park, with artificial grass and trees, offers space for yoga, tai chi and square dancing (as the Chinese call line dancing).
Among the 28 dining venues are Norwegian standards like Cagney’s Steakhouse and the French Le Bistro. Two restaurants have round tables equipped for Chinese hot pot or Korean barbecue.
In customizing for the Chinese market, Norwegian tapped consultants and did extensive market research. “We’ve really worked hard to do this right,” Stuart said. “We’ve tried to be thoughtful and appropriate. This is not a tweak.”
David Herrera, China president for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, said Norwegian Joy combines the best of the East and the best of the West. He praised the “beautiful finishes, decadent suites and outstanding design.”
The 787-foot racetrack zigzags across two upper decks. Ten electric go-carts dressed up like sports cars can race at the same time. After three minutes, the fastest clocked speed wins.
There are more racing possibilities in Galaxy Pavilion, the virtual reality zone, where passengers can climb into an original 2009 Williams, a Grand Prix race car, put on Oculus goggles and experience the sensations of Formula 1 competition.
Far tamer, but fun for kids, are the bumper cars. Passengers can also virtually pilot a plane, go hang gliding, shoot Zombies in a 7-D room and walk a plank that appears suspended terrifyingly high in the sky.
“It’s really cool. It’s different. I haven’t seen anything like it,” Stuart said.
The company hasn’t disclosed which of Norwegian Joy’s novel features may be aboard next year’s Norwegian Bliss, set to debut in Alaska before settling into year-round cruises from Miami.
Following the ship’s naming on June 27 (Chinese pop star Wang Leehom is the godfather), the Norwegian Joy will sail from Shanghai and Tianjin.
Sоurсе: travelweekly.com