Norwegian Cruise Line president and CEO Harry Sommer says that the line’s new ship Norwegian Prima represents the “next chapter” in the cruise line’s story.

The 3,100-guest vessel – the first in a new six-strong class of ships – was christened in Reykjavik on 27 August, with the Icelandic capital playing host to its first major cruise ship christening ceremony.

Those in attendance – and many more watching online via stream – were treated to a star-studded evening, including a special performance by the ship’s godmother, global popstar Katy Perry.

Sommer said: “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.

“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.”

Perry added: “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.

“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.”

Norwegian Prima in ‘a league of her own’

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings president and CEO Frank Del Rio added: “With her stunning design and unique offerings, Norwegian Prima is in a league of her own.

“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.”

The ship will depart on inaugural voyages to Northern Europe from the Netherlands, Denmark and England, beginning 3 September, before making its way to the US.

From there, it will sail voyages to the Caribbean from New York, Galveston, and Miami, in October and November, before settling into its homeports of Port Canaveral and Galveston, for the 2023 and 2024 season.