The Port of Southampton welcomed the largest ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet this week as the Norwegian Escape entered British waters for the first time. The first member of NCL’s Breakaway Plus class of ships arrived for a brief stay, before sailing of to Miami where she will homeport during her maiden season on the seas.
The Norwegian Escape will complete two round trips around the Isle of White, the first will be enjoyed by paying guests and senior executives of Norwegian Cruise Line, and the second will play host to a selection of travel agents, members of the media and handpicked celebrities who will serve as ambassadors for the ship.
Celebrity ambassadors including Blue Peter presenter, Helen Skelton, TV personality, Louie Spence and food blogger Niamh Shields will represent the different aspects of the ship from the sports facilities to the entertainment and the food offerings. Norwegian Cruise Line have purposefully aligned their brand with these famous faces to demonstrate the broad appeal of the ship and its amenities.
The ship will be officially christened in Miami on 9 November by musician and godfather, Pitbull, before venturing off on a range of itineraries around the Caribbean. Highlights of her maiden season include trips to the British Virgin Islands and the Bahamas.
Slightly larger than the ships in the Breakaway Class, the Norwegian Escape features a selection of firsts for the fleet including a range of new restaurants, bars and venues. Highlights of the new ship’s offerings include Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville, The District Brew House, Latin-inspired eatery, Bayamo, and NCL’s first ever wine bar.
Three extra Breakaway Plus class ships have already been planned, with the next vessel due to enter service in China in 2017. Two additional ships will enter service in the subsequent two years – although no names or homeport details have been announced for these.
Images sourced via NCL Media Centra
