The Norwegian Jewel from Norwegian Cruise Line just received a set of improvements while the cruise ship was in dry-dock for two weeks ahead of its Alaskan summer season. The updates are all part of the new Norwegian NEXT program set to enhance the entire fleet.
Norwegian NEXT
Through 2015, Norwegian is investing more than $250 million dollars in the new program which, according to the cruise line, “encompasses ship revitalizations, dining enhancements, new experiences in entertainment and guest activities, along with innovations in technology, new tropical destinations and the line’s continued commitment to the environment.”
“The youngest fleet at sea continues to get even better with our robust enhancement program taking place over the next two years,” said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian Cruise Line’s chief executive officer. “We want to continue to provide fresh and relevant experiences to our guests every time they sail with us. We are investing significantly in making sure that our guests have the vacation of a lifetime and fully experience what it means to Cruise like a Norwegian.”
Fleet-wide improvements include new menus in the main dining rooms and Garden Cafes, the addition of the H2GLOW Party from the Norwegian Breakaway and Getaway, and entertainment specific to each ship and itinerary such as new production shows. See what updates have been made to the Jewel specifically below.
Jewel Dining
The Norwegian Jewel is the first ship in the fleet to be retrofitted with O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, the pub atmosphere first found on the Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Breakaway and newest Norwegian Getaway. Also straight from the Getaway is the addition of the Sugarcane Mojito Bar next to the newly relocated Moderno Churrascaria Brazilian steakhouse, now more intimately placed on Deck 13. Plus, sweet treats from Carlo’s Bake Shop are now available at the Java Café.
Other Jewel Enhancements
Additional improvements were made to the casino, photo gallery, pool deck and galley areas, and new carpeting and flooring were added to guest spaces as well as windows replaced. First introduced on the Norwegian Breakaway, the digital touch signage where passengers can, as the line describes, “order specialty items, get directions and reserve dining and shore excursions simply with a scan of their stateroom key” will make their way onboard over the course of the summer.
Jewel Technical
To improve shipboard environmental operations, Green Tech Marine Scrubbers were installed to filter exhaust emissions and enhance energy use. Fuel efficiency is further improved with an azipod hydrodynamic propulsion upgrade, silicone paint application on the hull and the addition of shore power connectivity. Lastly, lifeboat and tender release systems were upgraded, thrusters and stabilizers were maintained, and ballast and bilge piping was replaced.
For more information on the Norwegian Jewel, visit Norwegian Cruise Line‘s website here.
HEADER IMAGE SOURCE: NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE