This morning's general session at Vacation.com's 13th International Conference & Trade Show was nothing short of chock full of news. Kevin Sheehan, CEO of Norwegian Cruise Lines was the first to break the ice with a slew of new developments, including the announcement of two brand new ships to its fleet.
Travel Agent learned that the new ships will be taking the best parts of all of Norwegian's fleet, with the theme "modern boutique hotel meets the sea."
The rooms will feature 26-inch flat screen televisions, full size closets and a sofa bed with more storage. There will also be over 200 mini suites on board.
The ship will go on sale as of October, with a debut schedule for April 2013 as well as April 2014. Agents can check out NCL's Facebook page in July for the announcement of new room categories.
Other news on Norwegian's horizon: The company will refurbish two of its ships over the next year as well (Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Jade). A $25 million enhancement will be put into the line's private island, Great Stirrup Cay.
As far as the agent is concerned Norwegian is rolling out some key enhancements. A $7 million investment will be put toward online booking improvements, as well as a $16 million investment in customized marketing tools and improving and enhancing NCL University.
Sheehan also announced that that NCL will be joining Vacation.com's Vacation Vignettes program for 2012 and 2013 sailings, which will include a concierge service, cocktail reception on board and an included shore excursion.
Visit www2.ncl.com.