NCL to add two new ships
Norwegian Cruise Line is to invest €1.2bn in two new, 4,000 passenger cruise ships to be delivered in 2013 and 2014.
The 143,500 ton vessels will be built in Germany by Meyer Werft, the company announced today.
It said it had decided to expand its fleet of ‘Freestyle’ informal cruise ships following the successful launch of its largest ship to date, the 4,100 passenger Norwegian Epic.
"We have always been focused on a disciplined approach to capacity growth. Our decision to add two new ships reflects the significant progress we have made in improving our operating performance and repositioning the company over the last several years, as well as the strong market demand we are seeing for Norwegian Epic and our other ships,” said chief executive officer Kevin Sheehan.
“Building on the incredible success and popularity of Norwegian Epic, we are taking the best of what our newest ship has to offer, as well as drawing on our legacy of innovation in the cruise industry, in creating a new class of Freestyle Cruising vessel that is sure to provide our guests with the unparalleled freedom and flexibility they have come to expect with Norwegian Cruise Line.”
NCL’s ‘Freestyle’ cruises, which have a less formal vibe than traditional cruises, have multiple dining venues and a variety of accommodation.
By Linsey McNeill
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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