Norwegian Joy
Beginning in Spring 2019, Norwegian Joy will relocate from its China-based itinerary to join its sister ship, Norwegian Bliss, in Alaska. Norwegian Cruise Lines has decided to relocate Joy to complement their successful Norwegian Bliss in the highly sought-after North American market, with additional destinations like the Mexican Riviera, the Pacific Coast, and the Panama Canal included as well. Bliss has been setting records for Norwegian while sailing in Alaska, and Joy has now undergone a $50 million upgrade to make it nearly identical to Bliss and more suited to American cruisers. Browse NCL Joy cruise ship itinerary, dates, and prices for 2019 and 2020.
Norwegian Joy Cruise Ship Information:
Gross Tonnage: 167,725
Guest Capacity: 3,802
Year Built: 2017
Ship Crew: 1,821
Here is what you can expect when sailing on Joy, the second ship in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Plus class of cruise ships.
- Family-Friendly Cabins
Originally designed for its China-based market, Norwegian Joy boasts a very family-friendly layout for its cabins and suites. The Family Interconnecting Cabin is new to Norwegian and consists of two bedrooms and a living room. The living room is complete with a virtual balcony displaying real-time views of the ocean.
Unique to Joy is the new Concierge Level accommodations category where guests enjoy a number of added perks including concierge access and a private bar and lounge area. Joy also features Norwegian’s signature ship-within-a-ship concept, the Haven. The Haven is accessible only by keycard and offers butler and concierge service, priority access, a private restaurant, and other perks.
- On-Board Activities
Keeping with the family-friendly theme, Norwegian Joy has plenty of activities for all ages. Joy is the first cruise ship to offer a race track on the sea, where you can race electric carts on the split-level race course. For the adventurous cruisers, there is also a rock climbing wall, laser tag course, and children’s’ aqua park with fun water slides.
For the adults, Joy offers the largest upscale shopping available on Norwegian’s fleet of cruise ships. With more than fifty high-end brand names such as Rolex, Cartier, and Calvin Klein, there are shopping options for every mood. Joy’s onboard spa, the Mandara Spa is the perfect place to unwind and indulge in a number of spa and beauty treatments, as well as a Finnish sauna and saltwater pool. The Pulse Fitness center offers Zumba, yoga and Pilates classes.
- Restaurants & Bars
With 29 restaurants onboard including free and premium dining options, Joy has something for everyone. Like its sister ship Bliss, Norwegian Joy features the Manhattan Room, with a wide array of both Asian and western cuisines. Savor and Taste also serves as the ship’s main dining rooms, offering Chinese cuisine with Korean and Japanese influences.
Cagney’s Steakhouse is the ship’s main chophouse, while Teppanyaki is Norwegian Cruise Line’s popular Japanese hibachi restaurant. You can also choose fine Italian dining at La Cucina, or Le Bistro for French cuisine. The Grand Tea Room offers high-end tea service, and there is also a brand new Starbucks aboard Norwegian Joy.
Making its debut on Joy, Le Cave is an upscale wine bar with tastings and wine pairings. Spice H20 is an adult-only outdoor bar, while VIBE is a limited-access beach club.
- Entertainment
Last but not least, Norwegian Joy has a variety of family-friendly entertainment options for all ages. The Joy Theater offers two live revue-style shows, Paradis and Elements. Joy also has eight private karaoke rooms and the largest casino on Norwegian’s fleet of cruise ships. The Galaxy Pavilion features a variety of virtual reality simulators including hovercraft bumper cars, a racing simulator, and a simulated hang glider. Joy’s 4D cinema and Star Wars battle pods video game are also great entertainment for kids and grown-ups alike.
Browse NCL Cruise deals 2019 which currently includes the Take 5 FREE for ocean view and above cabins.
Editor’s Note: This post was originally published with 2019 information and has been retained as a useful reference. Cruise itineraries, pricing, and ship deployments change seasonally. For current 7+ year updated availability, pricing, and itinerary details, contact Atlas Travel Center — our advisors track every cruise line’s current offerings in real time. We’ve been booking cruises since 1987 and can find you the best available options today.
