Norwegian Joy Christened in Shanghai
Norwegian Cruise Line’s first custom-designed ship for the Chinese cruise market, Norwegian Joy, was christened in a ceremony held onboard the vessel in Shanghai that featured a performance by the ship’s Godfather, singer songwriter, music producer, actor and film director, Wang Leehom.
At 167,725–gross-tons and accommodating 3,883 guests, Norwegian Joy’s design, finishes and amenities are tailored specifically to the tastes of Chinese guests. The vessel was built by German shipyard Meyer Werft.
“After years spent carefully designing this amazing vessel, my team and I are both proud and thrilled to finally christen the world’s first cruise ship custom-designed for the wonderful people of China,” said Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer for Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. “This is truly a special moment for the entire Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings family, our valued travel partners, honored guests and dedicated officers and crew across our fleet.”
In homage to Norwegian Joy’s eye-catching hull art, designed by Chinese artist Tan Ping and featuring a majestic phoenix, the christening ceremony began with a performance by dancer and choreographer Yabin Wang, with her interpretation of the spirit of the phoenix through dance. Tan Ping, who also made a special guest appearance at the ceremony, selected the phoenix as the focal point for the ship’s hull artwork, as the iconic bird represents beauty and good luck in Chinese culture.
During the ceremony Wang Leehom, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings executives and local Chinese government officials simultaneously smashed bottles of champagne against the side of a replica ship hull, which released an oversized bottle of Veuve Cliquot that shattered against the ship’s actual hull.
Leehom, who serves as Godfather and brand ambassador for Norwegian Joy, ended the ceremony with a performance for the crowd of VIP Chinese and Western guests.
Norwegian Joy’s christening marks the end of a month-long grand inaugural tour where she has been showcased through events at the ports of Singapore, Qingdao, Shenzhen and Hong Kong, as well as VIP partner cruises from Norwegian Joy’s homeports of Shanghai and Tianjin.