New Cruise Ship To Leave Southampton

Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship Norwegian Breakaway leaves the South Coast for the States this afternoon.

Francis Riley, vice president and general manager international of Norwegian Cruise Line said, "I am thrilled to announce the launch of Norwegian Breakaway to the UK and her arrival in Southampton ahead of her transatlantic sailing to New York, building momentum leading up to her christening on 8 May.

"This is an exciting time for Norwegian Cruise Line. Norwegian Breakaway continues Norwegian's long-standing tradition of innovation with features on board, such as The Waterfront and 678 Ocean Place. This unique outdoor dining and entertainment space adds a whole new dynamic to ocean cruising as guests enjoy al fresco dining along with three action-packed decks that allow guests to fully experience the ship's connection with the ocean.

"Norwegian Breakaway is also distinctive as she will homeport year round in New York, something that we are very excited about. The ship's strong ties to the Big Apple are apparent throughout the ship, from her hull designed by legendary artist Peter Max to the entertainment on board with three Broadway shows, including Rock of Ages."

Paralympic swimmer Ellie Simmonds is Norwegian Breakaway's celebrity ambassador in the UK.  

Simmonds said "I am so excited to be involved with the launch of Norwegian Breakaway and support the Breakaway Water Project. As a swimmer, I love being around water and the way that the ship has been designed gives such a great sense of place. I can't wait to see the ocean facing Waterfront and 5 slide Aqua Park - the biggest at sea!"

Norwegian Breakaway's strong connection to the ocean has been further reinforced with Norwegian's charity partnership in the UK with Just A Drop, which champions clean, safe water in communities throughout the world. Norwegian is working in partnership with Just A Drop to help bring clean water to a village in Africa through a special 'Breakaway Water Project'.

Entering service in April 2013, Norwegian Breakaway will sail from her year-round homeport of New York City to Bermuda in the summer, followed by a seven-day Bahamas & Florida itinerary in the winter.