Norwegian Cruise Line announces major refurbishment for Norwegian Joy

Norwegian Joy is due to undergo her second major refit and refurbishment since she entered service in 2017, with an overhaul scheduled for January 22nd to February 12th, 2024.

The ship’s time in drydock will be spent upgrading the ship’s spa, observation lounge, adults-only beach club, and many of her state room categories, according to Norwegian Cruise Line.

Norwegian Joy, which was the first in the cruise line’s Breakaway series, featuring go-karts up top and a huge ocean boulevard-style promenade deck, will resume sailing on February 13th, 2024, crossing the Atlantic from Southampton to Miami for a season in the Caribbean.

“Delivering exceptional experiences across our fleet is what we strive to do,” said David J. Herrera, President, Norwegian Cruise Line. “We have listened to our guests and have taken action.”

“With this revitalisation, we are adding some of the most beloved spaces and offerings across our ships to enhance the guest experience aboard Norwegian Joy,” he added. “Guests will have a greater variety of staterooms to choose from and a world-class, full-service spa to spend their days at sea fully immersed in relaxation.”

Enhancements will include a new Thermal Suite in the Mandara Spa and Salon, an expanded Vibe Beach Club, new staterooms, refreshed bedrooms and more.

The elevated Spa Thermal Suite will feature a more centralized layout with elegant sculptures and an entrance corridor with waterfalls. There will be a separate lounge area with many more hot tile loungers.

Guests will be able to relax in the sauna, ice room and aromatic steam room. New treatments will include a new Biostation with IV Drip Therapy, rejuvenating treatment for the body; four-senses loungers; and Kneipp haptic foot therapy.

Part of the Observation Lounge will be converted into 24 new balcony staterooms, while 40 existing staterooms will be recategorised as spa balcony staterooms.

Additionally, Premier Owner’s Suites in the Haven luxury enclave will be expanded to three-bedroom accommodations, and the adults-only Vibe Beach Club will be expanded to include new private luxe cabanas.

This is the second major refit for the six-year-old vessel. Her first was a $50 million upgrade in 2019 that saw the introduction of the musical production Footloose onboard.

Cruise ships legally require a technical refit every 3 to 5 years, but cruise lines usually take the opportunity for upgrades during these refits as well, especially for new ships that have been subject to guest feedback.