Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings chief Frank Del Rio, left, accepts delivery of Norwegian Escape from Meyer Werft managing partner Bernard Meyer

Norwegian Cruise Line has taken delivery of the line’s largest ship to date, the 164,600 gross ton Norwegian Escape, from Meyer Werft during a ceremony in Bremerhaven, Germany.

The handover follows a building period of only 17 months.

Norwegian Escape is the first ship in the company’s new Breakaway Plus Class, signifying an evolution of Norwegian Cruise Line and bringing to life the brand’s promise of freedom and flexibility with a premium experience from bow to stern.

Following delivery today, the ship sets sail for Hamburg for the start of her European inaugural festivities.

After a two-night stop in Southampton, Norwegian Escape will make the crossing to her year-round homeport of Miami on October 29th.

The ship will be christened in Miami on November 9th. 

“Norwegian Escape’s arrival marks a true evolution for our brand - we’ve capitalised on the best of our Breakaway Class ships and taken freedom and flexibility to the next level with this incredible new ship,” said Andy Stuart, Norwegian Cruise Line president and chief operating officer.

“Once again, the team at Meyer Werft, along with our new build and operations teams, and all of the ship’s officers and crew have done a remarkable job and we cannot wait to welcome guests on board this spectacular new vessel.”

Norwegian Escape, the largest in Norwegian’s fleet of 14 vessels, features an elevated design that makes for a decidedly upscale experience.

Quality finishes, curated artwork and the most luxurious The Haven by Norwegian exclusive ship-within-a-ship suite complex are just a few of the standout features that put Norwegian Escape in a class of her own.

Norwegian Escape’s Haven is the largest in the fleet and the most luxurious.

At the heart of the private enclave on the top of the ship lies a three-story covered courtyard. An expanded forward sundeck with a cantilevered whirlpool, along with a new outdoor dining space in the Haven’s private restaurant make Norwegian Escape’s Haven the ultimate small ship experience, while still providing the freedom to enjoy large ship dining, entertainment and amenities.