Norwegian Cruise Line has taken delivery of its newest ship Norwegian Prima at Fincantieri shipyard in Marghera, Venice.

The milestone marks the arrival of the first ship in NCL’s Prima Class. Six more ships of this class will be delivered through 2027.

"Today we usher in a thrilling new era in cruising as we celebrate the delivery of Norwegian Prima, the long-anticipated first ship in our extraordinary new Prima Class,” said Harry Sommer, NCL president and CEO. “She is a true testament to our Guest First philosophy as well as our commitment to deliver unforgettable experiences that exceed expectations.”

At 965 feet/294 meters long, 142,500 gross tons and with capacity for 3,100 guests, Norwegian Prima is staking a claim as the most spacious new cruise ship in the contemporary category.

Prima features include the brand’s first open-air food hall, Indulge Food Hall; the first three-level racetrack at sea on the Prima Speedway as well as The Drop, the world's first freefall dry slide offering a 10-story plunge experience that reaches more G-forces than an accelerating F1 race car.

Other onboard highlights include Ocean Boulevard, which wraps around the entire deck; that’s over 44,000 square feet/4,000 meters long, allowing guests to connect to the ocean while enjoying alfresco dining.

Infinity Beach boasts two infinity pools positioned close to water-level to take in the vastness of the ocean with uninterrupted views, as well as Oceanwalk, where two glass bridges are designed to make guests feel as though they are walking on air over the water.

Norwegian Prima will also play host to The Concourse, the first outdoor sculpture garden at sea with six installations created by international metal artist Alexander Krivosheiw and an art wall designed by David Harber.

Along with Sommer, Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd was on hand for the ceremony. The delivery celebration was followed by the traditional flag exchange ceremony.

Luigi Matarazzo, general manager of the Merchant Ships Division of Fincantieri said: "We’re glad to work with Norwegian Cruise Line to create a world-class series of ships, and it’s a proud day seeing the first of the six Prima Class vessels delivered today. Norwegian Prima is packed with world-firsts, never-before-seen features, and extraordinary attractions you would never expect at sea".

Later this month, TravelPulse Canada’s John Kirk will be on board when Norwegian Prima becomes the first major cruise ship christened in Iceland, commencing her eight-day inaugural voyage in the Icelandic capital of Reykjavik on Aug. 27.

Global pop star Katy Perry, who serves as Norwegian Prima’s Godmother, will fulfil the longstanding maritime tradition of blessing and officially naming the ship, as well as performing during the christening ceremony.

Following her inaugural voyage, Norwegian Prima will sail a series of eight-day voyages from Amsterdam and Copenhagen offering guests the opportunity to explore Northern Europe and the Norwegian Fjords.

She’ll then sail Bermuda from Oct. 10; Caribbean itineraries from October 15; and Western Caribbean voyages from December 11, 2022 to March 19, 2023, before returning to Bermuda from March 28 to May 7, 2023. She’ll then offer cruises to Northern Europe from May 14 through September 17, 2023.