Following a month-long show-stopping tour around the US including previews in New York, Miami and Los Angeles, Norwegian Cruise Line’s highly-anticipated ship, Norwegian Bliss, was officially christened in her summer home of Seattle.
Norwegian Bliss was welcomed to her summer home with a sky-high water-canon salute by the Seattle Fire Department, as she cruised into Port of Seattle. The recently renovated and expanded Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66, a public-private investment between Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and the Port of Seattle, received the 168,000-gross-ton ship with a capacity of 4,004, double occupancy, early this morning. The enhanced terminal features three times the square footage, increasing the usage capacity by 300 percent, a dedicated lounge for suite guests and more guest-facing elements providing a seamless, comfortable and stylish ship-to-shore experience.
The christening ceremony took place on board the ship, for another Norwegian first. The meticulously orchestrated event was a testament to the company’s commitment to entertainment. Led by the godfather, Elvis Duran and The Morning Show crew, nearly 2,400 people witnessed the christening ceremony as it was broadcasted throughout the ship, making it an interactive experience for all on board. The main event took place in the 900-seat Bliss Theater with satellite activations in Q – the debuting Texas Smokehouse, the new 20,000-square-foot Observation Lounge offering 180-degree views, the Atrium and other venues throughout.
Frank Del Rio and Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line, welcomed travel partners, investors and industry representatives on board Norwegian Bliss, and spoke to the beauty of the ship, the excitement of her incredible inaugural tour, the industry leading amenities and their gratitude to all those who ensure a memorable guest experience aboard Norwegian Bliss. Special guests included governor of Alaska Bill Walker and local officials from Seattle. Also in attendance was the internationally renowned marine life artist Wyland, whose larger-than-life mural adorns the hull of Norwegian Bliss, and stands as an inspiring reminder of the splendor of Alaska and the importance of preserving the world’s oceans.
After the traditional blessings, honorary Godfather, Elvis Duran, officially christened Norwegian Bliss with the symbolic bottle break across the ship’s hull, wishing a safe voyage to all guests and crew wherever in the world she may travel, and commencing an evening full of show-stopping surprises.
Norwegian Bliss will cruise seven-day voyages to Alaska from Seattle and then in October she will sail select voyages to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles. For her fall/winter season, she will sail to the Eastern Caribbean from Miami and in 2019; she will sail from New York City to the Bahamas and Florida, the Southern and Western Caribbean.