Norwegian Asia initiative
NORWEGIAN Cruise Line’s deployment of Norwegian Joy out of Shanghai and Tianjin is evidence of the company’s strong commitment to Asia, which has been spearheaded by Steve Odell since he established the company’s regional head office in Sydney just two years ago.
Speaking at the inaugural visit of Joy to Hong Kong yesterday, NCLH vice president of international business development Harry Sommer recounted the dream he and Odell had to grow in Asia, which has since seen new offices set up in Mumbai, Tokyo, Singapore, Shanghai, Hong Kong, and Beijing as well as Sydney.
“That really shows our commitment to the market, and one that is beginning to pay off enormously for us,” Sommer said.
He said Asia Pacific was now Norwegian’s fastest growing source market, and the strong interest in the brand was evidenced by huge demand from Hong Kong locals to visit the ship in the city’s harbour yesterday.
Norwegian Joy is touted as the first ship to be customised for the Asian market - but many features will appeal to Australian cruisers too with a massive array of activities on board along with innovative restaurants and luxury accommodations.
Sommer said Joy aimed to embody Norwegian’s principles of freedom and flexibility, offering excellent food and outstanding service to create the best holiday experiences for passengers.
Odell confirmed that while the Chinese market was key, Australian travel agents were also now able to sell berths on Norwegian Joy & bookings were already flowing in from some select outlets.
KARAOKE booths, restaurants galore, artworks, upmarket shopping and unique on board activities were showcased yesterday in Hong Kong, where Norwegian Joy’s first visit to the city was celebrated by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.
Joy ( pictured) is described as the “optimum holiday choice for the premium contemporary vacationer,” and it certainly offers an array of choice and innovation.
New for Norwegian on this ship is the ‘Concierge Class’ cabins along with a spacious Concierge lounge - for those who don’t quite stretch to the top level Haven accommodations.
The Haven is really exclusive, with its own pool, bar and restaurant as well as butler services in a private enclave ideal for those who crave the separation of the classes.
The 3,900 passenger ship offers more basic staterooms too, right down to inside ‘virtual balcony’ cabins which sleep up to four and offer a view of the world outside on a large screen complete with a ship’s railing.
One of the big drawcards is the two-level go-kart track which sits at the rear of the ship, while an outdoor laser-tag arena will also appeal to adventurers.
There’s a peaceful Serenity Garden overlooked by a massive screen - ideal for a moviewatching picnic in the park, and of course a theatre presenting world class performances.
Food choices on board are sublime, with a huge array of eateries offering a variety of cuisine - even Japanese-Peruvian fusion - along with fine wines, cocktails and teas.
For a full gallery of pictures showcasing Norwegian Joy see facebook.com/cruiseweekly.