MIAMI — On the heels of a US$50+ million renovation to make it almost identical to Norwegian Bliss, sister ship Norwegian Joy has set sail on the first of two inaugural preview cruises before its first official sailing out of Seattle to Alaska on May 4.

The 15th ship in the company’s fleet of 16 ships, and the second in the Breakaway-Plus Class, NCL says Norwegian Joy is one of the most innovative in the fleet, with industry firsts including an onboard go-kart track, open-air laser tag arena and Galaxy Pavilion, a dedicated virtual reality and gaming venue.

Norwegian Joy is also the only ship in the fleet to offer the Concierge-level stateroom category, which spacious suites with 24/7 concierge service and private dining.

Following the extensive revitalization, Norwegian Joy boasts an enhanced go-kart track and Galaxy Pavilion as well as a variety of new dining and bar venues.

Norwegian Joy will offer seven-day Alaska cruises from Seattle with calls to Ketchikan, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Skagway and Victoria. Beginning in the fall, the ship will sail to the Mexican Riviera from Los Angeles as well as the Panama Canal from Los Angeles and Miami. Norwegian Joy will cruise to the Caribbean from Miami beginning in 2020.

“We are so happy to bring Norwegian Joy to North America to sail alongside her sister ship, Norwegian Bliss,” says Norwegian Cruise Line President and CEO Andy Stuart. “These preview cruises will allow us to properly showcase this innovative ship to members of the media as well as our travel partners, who will experience first-hand how incredible she is.”