7 Things You Didn't Know About Norwegian Joy

Sponsored Content.

Norwegian Cruise Line is about to spread joy along the West Coast — Norwegian Joy, that is. Originally built to cruise in Asian waters, Norwegian Joy is bringing its grandeur to the West Coast by offering year-round sailings to Alaska, the Mexican Riviera, the Pacific Coast, and the Panama Canal starting in April 2019. Before taking on the new itineraries, Norwegian Joy will undergo $50 million in upgrades, including a Starbucks® store. But that's not all. Norwegian Joy also has a few tricks up her sleeve, including some stunning Observation Lounges and a race track. 

Here are seven things you didn't know about Norwegian Joy, one of Norwegian’s most stunning cruise ships in the fleet.

1. It is a Sister Ship to Norwegian Bliss

Built in 2017, Norwegian Joy has a guest capacity of 3,802 passengers and offers several decks full of amazing shops, restaurants, and entertainment just waiting for you to enjoy. Sound familiar? That's because Norwegian Joy is a sister ship of the spectacular Norwegian Bliss. It sports those same fantastic Observation Lounges with expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, cozy sitting areas, and amazing views of wherever you'll be cruising. Staying true to its eastern beginnings, the vibrant hull art on Norwegian Joy is the work of Chinese artist Tan Ping. It features a mythical red phoenix and vivid ocean waves. 

2. It Has an Onboard Race Track

On Deck 19, Norwegian Joy offers one of the coolest features at sea — an actual race track. Seriously. The first ever of its kind at sea, this thrilling two-level race track offers an exhilarating combination of hairpin turns, a covered pit lane, and a viewing platform, as well as floodlights and a timing system as you head for that checkered flag. When you zoom around the double-height track in your electrically-powered race car, you'll even be rewarded with amazing ocean views. The track hugs the stern of Norwegian Joy.

3. It Boasts Virtual Reality and Laser Tag

Whether you're already into virtual reality experiences or want to try one for the very first time, the Galaxy Pavilion on board Norwegian Joy is the place to do it. There's an interactive video wall plus interactive virtual reality experiences to get your thrill on, including a Star Wars cockpit simulator and an exhilarating hang-gliding ride. 

Have you tried laser tag? Even if you have, you probably haven't experienced a laser battle outdoors on Deck 20 of a ship in the middle of the ocean — just saying. You'll have a blast as you run around and strategize against your opponents.

4. It Features an Outdoor Promenade, The Waterfront

Designed to connect you with the ocean, the walkable promenade known as The Waterfront offers an enticing combination of restaurants, bars, and fresh ocean air as you meander around its quarter-mile length at your leisure. It can be a refreshing way to start your morning or a romantic end to a fun-filled day of adventures as you sip a hand-crafted cocktail while soaking up the sunset. Stop and savor decadent cuisine with ocean-side dining available at La Cucina, where the lobster fettuccine is to-die-for, or relax in the Humidor Cigar Lounge.

5. It's the Perfect Ship for Families

Unique to Norwegian Joy, Concierge Staterooms offer more space - enough to fit your family comfortably. These staterooms with upscale amenities range from awesome Concierge Family Inside cabins with two bedrooms and a virtual balcony to Concierge Penthouse and Villa Suites with actual balconies. Some Concierge Staterooms even offer the convenience of walk-in closets, so you'll feel like you can move right in. And, of course, you'll also have private Concierge access, making your planning onboard a breeze so you can focus on making memories you'll always cherish.

6. It Has an Exclusive Retreat Called The Haven

Norwegian Joy is home to Norwegian Cruise Line's most luxurious and spacious accommodations, known as The Haven. Besides suites and villas of up to 1,458 square feet, this serene, exclusive retreat offers even more pampering amenities, such as 24-hour certified butler service, private pool access, and an incredible two-story observation area, Horizon Lounge, along with a sundeck, a hot tub, and an upscale restaurant. As an added bonus, guests of The Haven are able to skip the queues and be personally escorted on and off Norwegian Joy at ports of call, embarkation, and debarkation. The Haven is basically heaven at sea.

7. It Has a Wide Array of Dining Options

What's not to love about three main dining choices? The Manhattan Room, Savor Restaurant, and Taste Restaurant offer delicious cuisine, including Chef's Signature Dishes with paired wine recommendations. The Garden Café offers buffet-style dining, while The Local serves up traditional pub food. 

Specialty Dining choices include a fun American Diner, amazingly delicious barbecue at Q, entertaining Teppanyaki dining, and mouthwatering picks at Cagney's Steakhouse. Food Republic and Le Bistro showcase foods from around the world, while La Cucina serves up the flavors of Tuscany. Follow up with a premium coffee at Starbucks®.

Get in on the Joy. Book your 2019 Alaska cruise vacation adventure today so you'll have the best choice of staterooms on board Norwegian Joy. Just think of the views from the spectacular Observation Lounges. Grab your kids and go on a Mexican Riviera getaway. Soak up the culture — and the sun — as well as getting in on the fun with activities such as scuba diving, zip lining, and even swimming with dolphins. Touring the Panama Canal is the crown jewel for many cruisers, and there's no better way to enjoy this unique cruise than by sailing on Norwegian Joy. And for Pacific Coastal cruises, Norwegian Joy offers panoramic views of the stunning coastlines of the west coast.