Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Cruise Line’s first ship to be built for the Chinese cruise market, began the journey to her home port of Shanghai with the slowest of slow 14-hour manoeuvres from the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany, along the Ems River towards the open sea.
The 168,800–gross-ton Norwegian Joy negotiated the narrow passage in reverse through the shipyard’s locks, passing the structure with just 1.2 meters separating the ship from the “bumpers” installed along the locks.
Norwegian Joy at the start of her 14-hour manoeuvre of the River Ems
After passing through the sea lock in Papenburg, Norwegian Joy continued along the river, stern first. Due to the strong propulsion in the aft section of the vessel, travelling stern first helps with maneuverability, which is a key component when navigating the vessel through such narrow passages.
“We are thrilled Norwegian Joy has officially begun her journey to China,” said David Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings China. “As the first custom-built ship for the Chinese cruise market, she will offer a First Class at Sea experience for our guests and we cannot wait to officially welcome her to the fleet this June.”
After successfully undergoing sea trials in the North Sea, Norwegian Joy will be delivered on 27 April and then sets sail for China, where she will be showcased through a grand inaugural port tour featuring one-day events at the ports of Qingdao, Shenzhen, and Hong Kong, as well as VIP partner cruises from Norwegian Joy’s home-ports of Shanghai and Tianjin.
A spectacular inaugural celebration on 27 June in Shanghai will include an exclusive concert led by her Godfather, iconic Mandopop artist Wang Leehom, and an overnight cruise for selected guests.
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