Norwegian Launches Newest Ship, “Prima,” from Galveston

Norwegian Cruise Line launched its newest ship last week in an inaugural event showcasing the unparalleled sailing experience Prima will deliver. From graffiti artwork gracing the hull of the ship to the artistically decorated and comfortably appointed staterooms, the attention to detail is the perfect way to pave the way for the future of sailing. With this ship, the first in Norwegian’s Prima class of ships, passengers, including family travelers, are made to feel as if they are guests in someone’s home, rather than on a cruise ship, but with an elevated sense of luxury and elegance.

© Eugenia Lazaris

Approximately 2,400 passengers boarded the ship Oct. 27 to enjoy a five-day trip through the Gulf of Mexico to the Mexican port of Progreso, near the historic city of Merida. The guest list included 100 teachers, all winners of Norwegian’s 2022 Giving Joy contest. This extraordinary program rewards teachers by recognizing their ability to inspire others through their dedication and hard work.

Kelly Clarkson, the ship’s ambassador, started the inaugural sailing party with a high-energy concert for the ship’s passengers in the revolutionary Prima Theater. This onboard venue transforms from a comfortable triple-deck theater designed to host events like The Price is Right Gameshow during the day. Other hosted events include Summer: The Donna Summer Musical at night. After hours, lower-level seating retracts to create a Vegas-style nightclub for music and dance parties.

© Eugenia Lazaris

Outdoor spaces onboard Prima are designed with equally meticulous care, with smaller pool spaces such as infinity pools and hot tubs placed around the decks, allowing guests to spread out rather than congregate in a single, overpopulated location. With 14 different restaurants and bars, ranging from the rock ‘n roll-themed, pub-style Syd Norman’s Pour House to the elegant and sustainably focused Metropolitan Bar, guests have plenty of dining options to work with their tastes, styles and schedules.

Whether guests want to experience the rush of a 10-story dry slide or relax in Mandara, the spa and salon featuring thermal treatments along with salt and ice rooms, the designers of this incredible ship captured every detail of creating an exceptional vacation experience.

Following this inaugural sailing to Progreso, Prima will begin offering multiday cruises featuring ports of call such as Cozumel, Roatan, Curaçao, Aruba and Norwegian’s private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay.