Global cruise liner Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) christened its newest ship Norwegian Prima on August 27, which made history as the first major cruise ship christened in Reykjavík, Iceland. At 965 feet (294 meters long) and more than 143,535 tons with a capacity for 3,100 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Prima offers the highest staffing levels and space ratio of any contemporary or premium cruise ship. The vessel has 20 decks, featuring nearly 1,600 staterooms, 18 dining venues and 17 bars and lounges.
Norwegian Prima will depart on inaugural voyages to Northern Europe from the Netherlands, Denmark and England beginning September 3, before making her way to the US She will then sail voyages to the Caribbean from New York City, Galveston, Texas, and Miami in October and November before settling into her homeport of Port Canaveral, Fla, and Galveston, Texas for the 2023 and 2024 cruise season.
“With her stunning design and unique offerings, Norwegian Prima is in a league of her own,” said Frank Del Rio, President & CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.
“As the industry’s most spacious new cruise ship featuring ‘only-available-on-Prima-experiences,’ she is continuing NCL’s legacy of industry firsts. We wanted to launch Norwegian Prima in a location just as special and unique as she is, and Reykjavik’s striking landscape is the perfect setting for such a milestone occasion. We thank the Reykjavik community for welcoming us with open arms.”
Her variety of recreational activities including the fastest slides at sea – The Rush and The Drop – and the Prima Speedway, the first three-level racetrack at sea, provide guests with adrenaline-pumping moments. Spaces like Ocean Boulevard, the 44,000 square foot outdoor walkway which wraps around the entire ship; The Concourse, which boasts a multi-million-dollar outdoor sculpture garden; and expansive pool decks and infinity-style pools at Infinity Beach.
With this delivery, the Norwegian Cruise Line has added its first ship in NCL’s Prima Class which will see six new ships delivered through 2027. Norwegian Prima is 965 feet/294 m long, 142,500 gross tons and it comes with a capacity for 3,300 guests. The ship features wide-open spaces, thoughtful design, and a variety of brand and industry-first experiences.
“We have been eagerly anticipating and preparing for this special event for several years, so we are delighted to embark on NCL’s next chapter with Norwegian Prima,” said Harry Sommer, President and CEO, Norwegian Cruise Line. “It’s been a joy to see our vision come to life with this landmark christening ceremony, which sets the tone for the unparalleled holidays that guests will enjoy for years to come. We are so thankful to our team members and partners worldwide who have made Norwegian Prima a stunning reality.”
