When passengers plea, Norwegian Cruise Line listens. The company has once again proved its commitment to keeping sailors satisfied, announcing that in 2017, Norwegian Jade will be based out of Southampton.
While Norwegian Cruise Line hasn’t based a ship in the UK since 2010, executives have confirmed that they are simply responding to customer feedback, as well as fortifying their goal of strengthening the company’s Northern European presence.
“Part of it is reflective of the growth of the company. A few years back we only had eight or nine ships and it was difficult to respond to demand for a UK-based ship, but now we have 14 ships,” said Harry Sommer, Executive Vice President International Business Development.
Meet the ‘new look’ Norwegian Jade
As a 2402 passenger ship, Norwegian Jade will undergo a complete refurbishment before starting her 2017 Southampton season. It’s all part of the line’s £280 million ‘Norwegian Edge’ upgrade programme that will see its entire fleet reimagined with a new era of stellar amenities, entertainment, on-board services and more.
“This is not a Botox job it is a real refit,” stressed Nick Wilkinson, Norwegian Cruise Line’s General Manager for Northern Europe. “She will be better than the day she was delivered.”
British based, European itineraries
When she emerges from her makeover, she’ll set sail on seven night Northern Europe voyages to Holland, Belgium and France. Passengers will also enjoy the option of nine night Norwegian Fjords itineraries, as well as four-night taster-cruises to Hamburg. For British cruise aficionados, it represents a fantastic opportunity to embark on European bound cruises, without having to set foot in an airport. Southampton has extremely efficient rail, bus and road networks, which means passengers will be able to make their way to Hampshire’s most vibrant city in a matter of hours.
“We are an incredible fly-cruise operator,” said Wilkinson, “but having Norwegian Jade in Southampton gives another opportunity to see how we can grow the market and entice our passengers back again and again.”
2017 is shaping up to be a Europe centric year for Norwegian, with fellow fleet member Getaway based in Copenhagen. From here she’ll sail across the Baltic, stopping at scenic Scandinavian capitals, as well as majestic St Petersburg. It’s easier than ever to reach the Danish city, with British airlines offering affordable flights from London, Newcastle, Manchester and Glasgow.
Would you like to set sail from Southampton?
To secure your Southampton based cruise, get in touch with the travel experts at Cruise 1st. Whether you want to head off on a week-long voyage to Northern Europe or a whirlwind German getaway, we’ve got something for every taste, budget and calendar. For more information, call 0808 2746 777 today!
Image via Flickr Creative Commons. Photo credits: Will Taylor, Robert Pittman
