Norwegian Cruise Line plans to ‘deconstruct the traditional cruise product’ as it introduces new ships to attract first-time cruise passengers.
The cruiseline plans to have the youngest cruise fleet in November when it takes Norwegian Crown out of service, bringing its average ship age to five-and-a-half years.
Earlier in the week the steel was cut for its 150,000-ton ‘F3’ class of ship, which will come into service in 2010.
Speaking at the launch of Norwegian Gem in Dover on Friday, NCL executive vice-president of sales and marketing Andy Stewart, said: “Our new ships are being built to blow your mind and change what people think about cruising. You cannot be in this business without growth.”
Stewart also said that with ex-UK and European bookings doing well on its three ships deployed for the UK market, he would expect to add capacity and ships for 2009.
The Passenger Shipping Association held its annual dinner on board Norwegian Gem on Friday night. Cunard president and PSA chairman Carol Marlow announced that next year’s dinner will take place on P&O’s new superliner Ventura in early April.