Norwegian hosted an over-the-top christening ceremony on November 21 in Miami to welcome its newest and most innovative ship, Norwegian Encore, thus officially launching her first season of seven-day Caribbean cruises. The show-stopping celebration featured a special performance by Norwegian Encore’s godmother, GRAMMY award-winning artist Kelly Clarkson.

Norwegian rolled out the blue carpet to nearly 3,500 guests, made up of travel and brand partners, investors, government officials, media, and family and friends. An interactive arrival experience representative of Norwegian's commitment to world-class entertainment and innovative and meaningful experiences, encouraged attendees to share the moment and to make lasting memories.

Frank Del Rio, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings; Andy Stuart, President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line; and Harry Sommer, incoming President and Chief Executive Officer of Norwegian Cruise Line welcomed attendees and spoke to the Norwegian's history and commitment to Miami, the beauty of the new ship, her industry-leading amenities, and their gratitude for all those who ensure a memorable guest experience aboard Norwegian Encore.

During the christening ceremony, guests enjoyed a showcase of Norwegian Encore's onboard entertainment, which includes “Choir of Man” and the Tony Award®-winning “Kinky Boots.” After the traditional blessings, honorary godmother, and GRAMMY Award-winning artist, Kelly Clarkson officially christened Norwegian Encore with the symbolic champagne bottle break across the ship’s hull. Guests were then treated to a live performance of Clarkson’s “Miss Independent,” “Stronger,” “Since U Been Gone,” and other chart-topping hits.

This milestone marks the closing of Norwegian's most successful class of ships, the Breakaway Plus class, which first debuted in Miami with the introduction of Norwegian Escape in 2015. Norwegian Escape, Joy, Bliss and now Encore, have revolutionized the cruising industry with elevated experiences that include the world’s only racetracks and open-air laser tag arenas; the most sophisticated gaming and virtual reality complexes; world-class entertainment that rivals anything on land; and new, creative culinary offerings that provide even more variety at sea.

Norwegian Encore will offer seven-day voyages to the Eastern Caribbean from Miami beginning Nov. 24, 2019; Bermuda, and Canada and New England itineraries from New York City beginning Apr. 22, 2020; and voyages to the Western Caribbean from Miami beginning Dec. 12, 2020. In the spring of 2021, she will make her West Coast debut and sail to Alaska from Seattle.