By
Cherie Rowlands |
Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) 4,000-passenger newbuild was floated out of the Meyer Werft dock in Papenburg, Germany, on 26 February, marking the final phase of the vessel’s construction.
The 146,600-ton ship – the largest to be built in Germany – left the cover of the building dock II, bow first, for the first time since building began in September 2011.
“Norwegian Breakaway represents a significant achievement both for Meyer Werft and Norwegian Cruise Line in terms of innovation and design,” said Norwegian Cruise Line CEO Kevin Sheehan. “Celebrating her float out today brings us closer to her much-anticipated delivery on 25 April when she will make her debut in Europe before arriving in her homeport of New York City on 7 May. We can't wait.”
Following the float out, Norwegian Breakaway was berthed alongside the yard's outfitting pier where further tests were carried out in the harbour. The first crew members will move into their onboard staterooms on 4 March, to familiarise themselves with the ship and ready her for guests. Breakaway is scheduled to sail down the river Ems towards the North Sea, on 10 March – weather permitting – where she will prove her seaworthiness.
“This new vessel is a further milestone for us. Its construction complies with the latest safety standards, and the ship meets all valid environmental regulations. Beyond that Norwegian Breakaway includes a lot of unique design elements and technical innovations,” said Meyer Werft managing partner Bernard Meyer.
Norwegian Breakaway is expected to arrive at her year-round homeport of New York in early May 2013.