Norwegian Joy, soon to be Norwegian Cruise Line’s first cruise ship custom designed for China, was floated out of Meyer Werft’s covered buildings earlier in Papenburg, Germany.

The 168,800-ton ship has been under construction since September 2015.

The 3,850 passenger vessel, with her distinctive hull artwork designed by Chinese artist Tan Ping, departed building dock II earlier.

Norwegian Joy is the second ship in the line’s Breakaway Plus Class.

Arriving in Summer 2017 with home ports in Shanghai and Beijing (Tianjin), Norwegian Joy will be Norwegian Cruise Line’s first purpose-built ship for the
Chinese market and designed to deliver on the promise that guests will enjoy ‘First Class at Sea’ experiences.

Norwegian Joy’s float out represents a major milestone in the vessel’s construction.

With the ship being well on her way to completion, she will now move into the final phase of construction with delivery taking place on April 27th, 2017.

“We are thrilled that Norwegian Joy is now one step closer to delivery and one step closer to delivering on our promise to create a First Class at Sea experience for our Chinese guests,” said David Herrera, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings China president.

From the ship’s beautiful and symbolic hull artwork to her thrilling first-ever racetrack at sea, Norwegian Joy represents Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to providing an unparalleled cruise experience for Chinese consumers.

Norwegian Joy is Norwegian Cruise Line’s first purpose-built ship customised for China.

The name Norwegian Joy emphasises the experience that the ship will offer, a promise that guests will ‘Experience Paradise on the Sea.’

Norwegian Joy will offer engaging and innovative activities including a first at sea two-level competitive racetrack, an open-air laser tag course, thrilling simulator rides and interactive video walls at the Galaxy Pavilion as well as hover craft bumper cars, a state-of-the-art racing simulator and two multi-story waterslides.

In addition, Norwegian Joy will house a tranquil open space park as well as the line’s largest upscale shopping district, complete with everything from exceptional duty-free shops to world-renowned global luxury brands.