Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has christened its newest ship Norwegian Prima, making history as the first major cruise ship christened in Reykjavík, Iceland. The first of six ships in the Prima Class, Norwegian Prima, debuted to more than 2,500 guests who enjoyed an immersive experience in the Icelandic capital.
“With her stunning design and unique offerings, Norwegian Prima is in a league of her own,” said Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd, in a press statement. “As the industry’s most spacious new cruise ship featuring ‘only-available-on-Prima-experiences,’ she is continuing NCL’s legacy of industry firsts. We wanted to launch Norwegian Prima in a location just as special and unique as she is, and Reykjavik’s striking landscape is the perfect setting for such a milestone occasion. We thank the Reykjavik community for welcoming us with open arms.”
Guests at the christening ceremony were treated to a performance by popular Icelandic group and 2021 “Eurovision Song Contest” fan favorites, Daði og Gagnamagnið (pronounced “Dah-they Oh Gack-no-Mak-ne”), before Norwegian Prima’s very own godmother, Katy Perry took to the main stage to officially name and christen the vessel with the ceremonial champagne bottle break across the ship’s hull. Then, Perry sang such hits as “California Gurls,” “Teenage Dream,” “Roar,” and “Firework” in the the 3-level Prima Theater & Club.
“It was so much fun to sprinkle some fairy godmother dust on Norwegian Prima and send her on her way to sail the high seas,” said Katy Perry in a press statement. “I always appreciate a family vacation and a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so I was happy to wish all the vacationing guests a happy bon voyage!”
“We have been eagerly anticipating and preparing for this special event for several years, so we are delighted to embark on NCL’s next chapter with Norwegian Prima,” said Harry Sommer, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line, in a press statement. “It’s been a joy to see our vision come to life with this landmark christening ceremony, which sets the tone for the unparalleled holidays guests will enjoy for years to come. We are so thankful to our team members and partners worldwide who have made Norwegian Prima a stunning reality.”
Norwegian Prima will depart on inaugural voyages to Northern Europe from the Netherlands, Denmark and England beginning Sept. 3, before making her way to the U.S. She will then sail voyages to the Caribbean from New York City, Galveston, Texas and Miami in October and November before settling into her homeport of Port Canaveral, FL, and Galveston, Texas for the 2023 and 2024 cruise season.
For more information, visit ncl.com.
