Norwegian Cruise Line has taken delivery of Norwegian Prima from the Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera near Venice, marking what the cruise line’s CEO said was a “new era” for the company.

Norwegian Prima is the first of six planned sister ships in its new Prima-class, which are based on a prototype project developed by Fincantieri for Norwegian Cruise Line.

The new class of ships is intended to enhance NCL’s signature offering of freedom and flexibility with a new design that expands the Waterfront concept introduced aboard the Breakaway-class, as well as other key innovations.

Harry Sommer was joined by Frank Del Rio, President & CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Luigi Matarazzo, GM of the Merchant Ships Division of Fincantieri, as well as other notable NCLH and Fincantieri executives for the traditional flag exchange ceremony.

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“Today we usher in a thrilling new era in cruising as we celebrate the delivery of Norwegian Prima, the long-anticipated first ship in our extraordinary new Prima Class,” said Harry Sommer, President & CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. “She is a true testament to our Guest First philosophy as well as our commitment to deliver unforgettable experiences that exceed expectations.”

Harry Sommer was joined by Frank Del Rio, President & CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, Luigi Matarazzo, GM of the Merchant Ships Division of Fincantieri, as well as other notable NCLH and Fincantieri executives for the traditional flag exchange ceremony.

Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima’s remaining five sister ships will be delivered annually through 2027. The next will be Norwegian Viva, in 2023.

Norwegian Prima will homeport in Galveston for the 2023/24 winter cruise season, offering 7-night cruises to the Western Caribbean. She’ll call in Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; Harvest Caye, Belize; and Roatan Island, Honduras, with all port calls lasting eight to nine hours.

Norwegian Prima features a waterfront promenade deck that wraps around the entire ship.

In addition to the expansive promenade deck, which is designed to operate as a waterfront area with indoor and outdoor eateries, cafes and bars, the ship also brings to the Norwegian fleet the largest racetrack at sea and the world’s first venue that transforms from a three-story theatre into a Vegas-style nightclub, along with freefall drop dry slides.

Onda by Scarpetta

The main dining menu aboard Norwegian Prima will also be completely revamped, while existing venues in the fleet, such as the Le Bistro, Cagney’s Steakhouse, Food Republic and the Observation Lounge, will all be enhanced. Norwegian Prima will also feature the line’s first three-level lobby, the Penrose Atrium.

When it comes to entertainment, Norwegian Prima will feature Tony Award-nominated musical Summer: The Donna Summer Musical as its interactive headlining act, as well as numerous cruise industry first and new-to-brand elevated onboard experiences.