Norwegian Cruise Line has designed a boat conceived specifically for the Chinese market, a bet announced at the summit CruiseWorld from Shanghai by its CEO, Frank Del Río, with a clear message: "With this ship, Norwegian Cruise Line will offer our Chinese guests a superior product and introduce a new level of innovation and excellence to the market."
This vessel aspires to position itself in the premium segment of China, adjusting accommodation, gastronomy and experiences to the vacation preferences of its travelers. For its construction and design, the company has counted on the collaboration of local partners and experts who have refined the cultural subtleties to create a product in line with those expectations.
A Breakaway Plus tuned for China
The ship is the second of the Breakaway Plus class of Norwegian Cruise Line and maintains the concept Freestyle Cruising of the shipping company. While initial figures indicated 4.200 seats, operational capacity has been established at around 3.883 passengers, in line with the final design focused on more common spaces, better VIP options and connecting family cabins.
Personalization includes the complex The Haven by Norwegian (the exclusive "ship within the ship" suite area), a observation deck with 180º views and a Concierge level with larger balcony cabins. Added family cabins, abundant connected units and interior options with virtual balconies, as well as a careful selection of mini suites, exteriors and balconies.
Everyday elements that make a difference have also been taken into account: signage and service in Mandarin, plugs and facilities in accordance with the country's standards, and a crew with high command of the language to ensure smooth interaction on board.
Innovations and leisure: go-karts, virtual reality, and duty-free
Among the most acclaimed activities are a two-level go-kart track with perimeter layout, a outdoor laser circuit and Galaxy Pavilion, a state-of-the-art space with simulators, virtual reality and interactive walls. The aquatic area offers two multi-story slides and relaxation areas, as well as a outdoor park which acts as a haven of tranquility.
The commercial offer on board includes the largest shopping district of the shipping company, with duty-free shops and international luxury brands. They complement the proposal karaoke rooms, tea rooms and a powerful Asian gastronomic offering (Korean barbecue, sushi, noodles), without giving up international restaurants for all tastes.
The ship incorporates several casinos, including spaces VIP and Super VIP Inspired by Macau standards. Following regulations, the rooms open in International waters, adding a leisure alternative highly in demand by travelers in the region.
Helmet Art and Symbols: Tan Ping's Phoenix
The work of the renowned Chinese artist Tan Ping wrap the helmet with a Phoenix, a cultural icon that symbolizes beauty and good fortuneIts modernist design uses Red (happiness), yellows (greatness) and blue (the sea), primary colors that evoke an auspicious beginning. This visual identity underlines the bridge between east and west that proposes the on-board experience.
The ship was sponsored by Wang Leehom, an internationally renowned artist, during a ceremony in Shanghai which included the traditional champagne bottle clash, a nautical gesture that wishes good luck to all sailors. In addition, the company received the Mazu's blessing, Chinese goddess of the sea, whose symbol travels on board as an amulet.
NCL's operations and expansion in China
To support the expansion, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings has opened offices in Pekin (Guomao CBD), Shanghai (Xintiandi) and Lithuania, Vilnius (Quarry Bay), supporting its three brands: Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises y Regent Seven Seas CruisesThe strategy includes itineraries highly valued by Chinese travelers, with getaways to Japan and nearby ports, and a service adapted to the family travel, with an emphasis on activities for all ages.
The multinational has studied market preferences for years, consolidating a superior product for China that combines freedom and flexibility with resort-style amenities, and that reinforces the brand's presence in Pacific Asia.
France strengthens its position as a cruise destination
On the other hand, and in another order of things, the French government has launched a strategy to position itself as the main cruise destinationespecially for the Chinese market, according to the French Tourism Director, Michel Durrieu. France is currently the first tourist destination in the world and the second maritime territory after the US, if we take into account its overseas territories such as Martinique, Guadeloupe, Polynesia, New Caledonia or Reunion, it also has 8.500 kilometers of navigable rivers. To this we must add that it is one of the powers in the construction of mega cruise ships.
With its tailor-made design, cultural and technological offering, and detail-focused operation, NCL's project for China is consolidating itself as a reference in innovation within the Breakaway Plus class, aligned with the luxury, entertainment and service expectations of the contemporary Chinese traveler.
