Norwegian Edge: Andy Stuart Announces Major Refurbishment
by Daniel McCarthy /Norwegian Cruise Line is investing $400 million to refurbish 11 of its ships and expand its culinary program.
The Norwegian Edge project, announced today in Miami, is “a major investment in the guest experience,” said president and CEO Andy Stuart.
The Fleet Enhancements part of the project has already begun, with the refurbishment of the Norwegian Epic. It included the debut of The Cavern Club and makeovers of a number of the Epic’s restaurants, including La Cucina and Cagney’s.
Upgrades to Norwegian Gem followed in November, with a complete makeover of the Bliss Lounge, upgrades to the Haven Courtyard, and new pool-deck furniture.
Over the next two years, seven more ships will be dry-docked for enhancements—the Pride of America and Norwegian Sun in spring 2016; Norwegian Dawn in summer 2016; Norwegian Spirit, Sky, and Pearl in winter 2017; and Norwegian Jade in spring 2017.
Each ship will be renovated to reflect the look and feel of Norwegian’s newest ships, with some of the more recent features retrofitted to its other vessels, though enhancements will vary by ship. Only the newest ships will not be included—the Norwegian Breakaway, Getaway, and Escape.
On the culinary side, enhancements include upgraded complimentary dining-room menus and the addition of à la carte priced items in the main dining rooms. New specialty dining menus that debuted on the Norwegian Escape will be added across the fleet, starting with the Norwegian Breakaway on Jan. 31.
Norwegian’s private island in the Bahamas, the Great Stirrup Cay, will get new bars and lounges, and a new area for Haven guests.
More details on upgrades specific to ships will be released at a later date.
Pic: Visitor7