Norwegian Joy Keel Laid

A keel-laying ceremony was held at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany to mark the official start of the project, with a traditional “lucky coin” being laid down prior to the placement of the first block.

Norwegian Cruise Line President and Chief Operating Officer Andy Stuart said: “We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate the Keel Laying for Norwegian Joy today with our partners at Meyer Werft. 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.”

The two-level, open-air racetrack will be located on the top deck, and will be one of several ground-breaking features on the £640million cruise ship.

With the capacity for 3,900 passengers, Norwegian Joy is being built specifically for the Chinese market and will be based in both Shanghai and Tianjin. The cruise ship measures 324 m in length, 41.4 in width.

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.