NCL today revealed the full range of innovative accommodation on board its next generation Freestyle Cruising ship, Norwegian Epic, which will include the biggest ship-within-a-ship suite complex at sea and a new category of inside staterooms called The Studios.NCL is introducing the ship with another industry first, by today opening group block space reservations exclusively for its travel partners, before the ship goes on sale to the general public later this spring.

At the Seatrade Cruise Shipping Miami Convention today, NCL revealed that the 4,200-passenger Norwegian Epic, set for delivery in May 2010, will feature the biggest ship-within-a-ship suite complex at sea, comprising 60 suites and villas on two private decks at the top of the ship.  Guests in these suites will have exclusive access to the Courtyard Villa complex featuring a pool, two whirlpools, gym, saunas, sundeck, indoor and outdoor dining, a bar and nightclub, and concierge lounge.

 

For the budget-conscious traveller, NCL also unveiled a new category of inside staterooms - The Studios.  A first in design for the cruise industry, these 128 ultra-modern staterooms maximise space and feature a large, round window that looks out into the corridor, along with customisable colour changing light effects that mirror different stages of the day or the guests’ moods, including a love setting for those romantic nights at sea.

 

The Studios occupy two decks and have exclusive key-card access to the Living Room, a two-story shared private lounge featuring a concierge, bar, room service, two large TV screens and comfortable seating for guests to relax, read or enjoy a cocktail before dinner.

 

For the first time NCL is also introducing 39 spa balcony and deluxe balcony staterooms and suites located within the spa, which include complimentary access to the ship’s thermal suite and state-of-the-art fitness centre.

 

For families travelling on Norwegian Epic, NCL has placed the majority of its family-friendly staterooms, both deluxe balcony and balcony staterooms - many that connect - on two decks within close proximity to NCL’s biggest-ever Kids’ Crew.

 

“True to its name, Norwegian Epic takes Freestyle accommodation to the next level, offering a wide range of staterooms, suites and villas to suit every type of guest,” said Kevin Sheehan, NCL’s chief executive officer.

 

“Since this is our largest and most innovative Freestyle Cruising vessel to date, we’ve taken a fresh approach to our stateroom mix, offering niche accommodations such as family and spa categories, along with creative, ground-breaking design such as The Studios with Living Room and our largest Courtyard Villa complex.”

 

These specialised accommodations complement the ship’s New Wave inside, balcony and deluxe balcony staterooms announced last year.  These New Wave staterooms feature curved walls and lines creating a modern and chic experience.  NCL has maximised the living space with a bathroom that is completely unique with a separate shower stall, water closet and a modern vanity top sink. Norwegian Epic is also a balcony-rich ship, with all of its outside staterooms featuring private balconies.

NCL plans to reveal two more chapters about Norwegian Epic. Chapter Four details will be revealed on April 3, 2009 at the Cruise3Sixty show in Ft. Lauderdale and Chapter Five details will be revealed in New York City in May 2009.
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