NCL Christens Norwegian Pearl
At a ceremony at the Port of Miami, talk show host Rosie O'Donnell served as Godmother and christened Norwegian Cruise Line's (NCL) newest ship, Norwegian Pearl.The new 93,530-ton Freestyle Cruising vessel boasts an industry first -- a four-lane ten-pin bowling alley; and two NCL firsts -- a rock-climbing wall and two top-of-the-ship Deluxe Owner's Suites. The christening ceremony took place alongside the striking Norwegian Pearl and included remarks from Star Cruises Chairman Tan Sri KT Lim, NCL Corporation President and CEO Colin Veitch and O'Donnell. Approximately 2,400 guests were in attendance for the ceremony that also commemorated the company's 40th birthday and kicked off a year-long birthday celebration. Norwegian Pearl accommodates 2,394 guests and includes features and amenities, including 10 restaurants, 13 bars and lounges, two swimming pools and a casino, among others. The ship is the seventh vessel purpose-built for NCL's signature Freestyle Cruising.