Work has begun on the first building phase for the latest member of the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, the company said in its press release. Directors of the American shipping company were joined by representatives of MEYER WERFT for the keel laying ceremony on 5 April 2016. During the ceremony, block 45 of the 168,800 GRT ship was hoisted into the shipyard’s covered building dock II.
After its completion, Norwegian Joy will begin its first voyage to China in summer 2017. The ship has been developed specially for the Asian market and will be used solely for Chinese passengers.
The cruise ship measures 324 m in length, 41.4 in width and is offering a capacity for 4,200 passengers. The new-build will combine all the advantages of the Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Escape and has an additional deck to offer the passengers many added features and attractions.