Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), a trailblazer in the global cruise travel industry with over five decades of innovation, has set sail on a new adventure with the debut of its latest masterpiece, the Norwegian Viva.

• This magnificent vessel, the second of the ground-breaking Prima Class, promises an unparalleled voyage of luxury, entertainment, and exploration for its fortunate guests.
• With a grand entrance into Europe, Norwegian Viva is poised to redefine the cruise experience as it embarks on its maiden voyage from the charming port of Venice (Trieste), Italy.
• With great fanfare, the Norwegian Viva commenced its inaugural nine-day voyage through the Mediterranean.
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Whisking its guests away from the enchanting canals of Venice to the vibrant city of Lisbon, Portugal, this floating marvel will stop at some of Europe’s most alluring seaside destinations, including the idyllic Salerno nestled along Italy’s picturesque Amalfi Coast, the glitz and glamour of Cannes on the stunning Cote d’Azur in France, and the vibrant island of Ibiza, Spain, in the Balearic archipelago.

The vessel mirrors the design of its award-winning sibling, Norwegian Prima, offering an array of standout onboard experiences that cater to every traveler’s desires. Thrill-seekers can quench their need for speed on the Viva Speedway, a three-level racetrack that promises heart-pounding excitement. Culinary enthusiasts can savor the upscale offerings of the Indulge Food Hall, a gastronomic paradise showcasing 11 distinct eateries that elevate onboard dining to new heights.

Adventure seekers will find their adrenaline fix on the fastest slides at sea, The Drop and Rush, providing a thrilling plunge into the crystal-clear waters. One of Norwegian Viva’s crowning jewels is the Metropolitan Bar, an industry-exclusive sustainable cocktail bar that not only serves delectable libations but also highlights the cruise line’s commitment to sustainability and responsible tourism.

The Concourse, an outdoor sculpture garden boasting multi-million-dollar artwork, beckons passengers to engage with the visual wonders that surround them. Among these masterpieces stands an interactive digital art piece, Every Wing Has a Silver Lining, by renowned British artist Dominic Harris. Exclusively crafted for Norwegian Viva, this dynamic installation responds to passing movements, creating an engaging and immersive experience for viewers.

Entertainment takes center stage on Norwegian Viva, with a world-class line-up that promises to keep guests enthralled from dusk till dawn. As inaugural voyages go, the widely reported delay of the Tony Award-nominated comedy Beetlejuice: The Musical might have left some passengers disappointed. Norwegian Cruise Line advised passengers and travel agents alike that the headline production show would not be ready for the ship’s August maiden trip.

Following its maiden voyage, Norwegian Viva is set to continue its Mediterranean and Greek Isles itineraries, leading up to its official Christening ceremony in Miami on 28 November 2023, which The Sandton Times will be attending.

This momentous event will be graced by the presence of Latin GRAMMY award-winning artist Luis Fonsi, who serves as the godfather to Norwegian Viva. Joining him in the celebration are the illustrious Queen of Latin Pop, Paulina Rubio, and Miami-native Marcello Hernandez of Saturday Night Live fame. Singer Pedro Capó completes the star-studded line-up, adding his voice to the chorus of celebration.

Looking ahead, Norwegian Viva’s journey will take it to the enchanting Caribbean, where it will make its home in San Juan, Puerto Rico, for a season of unforgettable voyages. The ship will call at a myriad of Caribbean destinations, from the breath-taking British Virgin Islands to the captivating shores of St. Lucia.

Then, in May 2024, Norwegian Viva will return to Europe, offering travellers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty and culture of this timeless continent. With ample time to explore each port and the luxury of world-class accommodations, guests can savor the convenience of unpacking once while waking up in a new and exciting European city each day.

As Norwegian Viva sets sail on its ocean-breaking journey, it promises to redefine luxury cruise travel, offering guests a voyage that seamlessly combines opulence, entertainment, and exploration. From the breath-taking Mediterranean shores to the vibrant Caribbean destinations, Norwegian Viva invites travellers to embark on the ultimate cruise experience.

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