VIDEO: NCL floats out first ship in new class

Written by Nick Blenkey
Norwegian Prima is first ship in new NCK class

Norwegian Prima ready for float out. [Photo © Filippo Vinardi]

Norwegian Prima, the first of six ships in Norwegian Cruise Line’s first new class of vessels in nearly 10 years, has been floated out from her building dock at Fincantieri’s shipyard in Marghera (Venice), Italy, marking a major construction milestone

At 965 feet long, 142,500 gross tons and with a capacity for 3,215 guests at double occupancy, the vessel is billed by NCL as the most spacious new cruise ship in the premium and contemporary categories, offering extensive outdoor deck space and the most expansive accommodations of any new build.

She boasts multiple NCL firsts, including Ocean Boulevard, wrapping around the entire deck over 44,000 square feet, allowing guests to connect to the ocean while enjoying alfresco dining and amenities such as Infinity Beach, where two infinity pools are positioned to give uninterrupted views of the ocean and Oceanwalk, where two glass bridges are designed to make guests feel as though they are walking on air over the water.

The float out signifies the completion of the ship’s external works and painting, including the striking hull artwork designed by Italian graffiti artist Manuel Di Rita, or “Peeta.”

Work now continues on the ship’s interior fittings and guest accommodations, before she is officially delivered to the cruise line and commences sailing in summer 2022.

“A ship’s float out is always a significant milestone, but this one is particularly special,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Our 18th ship, Norwegian Prima represents an exciting new chapter for our Brand and the first vessel to be delivered in our groundbreaking new Prima Class. We’ve worked closely with our partners at Fincantieri to deliver a truly remarkable vessel. Their passion, skill and craftsmanship has brought to life one of the most stylish and innovative ships to ever set sail. I’m thrilled we’re now one step closer to welcoming our guests onboard in just 12 months’ time,” Sommer concluded.

“The float out of Norwegian Prima signifies a renewed confidence in cruising and a new era for shipbuilding,” said Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of the merchant ships division of Fincantieri. “We are glad to celebrate not only many months of hard work, but also the true spirit of collaboration between our brands—a partnership that will lead the way for a pioneering class of ships in NCL’s Prima Class.”

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