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Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, the Encore is getting a standing ovation! Since the first announcement of the Encore, the cruise industry has been buzzing with excitement to sail on the final ship in Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus class.

We were lucky to have Rick Zimmerman, Geoff Cox, and Marie Smith along with a group of our agents in attendance at the Encore’s naming ceremony and on board for the sailing on one of her inaugural voyages out of Miami. We caught up with them to hear all about their experience on board and learn what travel agents should know about this new and exciting ship!

Meet the Encore

Before the team set sail, they walked Norwegian’s blue carpet for the naming ceremony. At the ceremony, the ship’s godmother, Kelly Clarkson, treated guests to a live performance of several of her songs. She was then joined on stage by the President of Norwegian Cruise Line, Harry Sommer. Once the champagne was popped, the Encore’s name was official!

Stepping Onboard

After this exciting pier-side event, the attendees eagerly climbed aboard the new ship and set sail for their three-day voyage. Onboard, they had the chance to explore the dining and entertainment venues. The Encore is home to some truly stellar shows, like the six-time Tony Award® winner, Kinky Boots. It is also home to the incredible Choir of Man. This high energy show is set in an English pub and features a talented cast performing classic rock songs and pub tunes.

Of course, there’s plenty of activities as well. Some headed to the top deck to take a turn zipping around the go-cart track! For those who’d rather watch than ride, they can interact with the cars as they drive by. Each car is equipped with a laser-tag type light which spectators can take aim at, trying to score hits with on the carts as they pass. And if cruisers love the laser tag experience, the Encore has a course just for that. Along with these interactive activities, the Encore features entertainment around every turn for all ages of cruisers!

Cuisine from Around the World

The cruisers were excited to try some of the dining options the Encore had to offer, of which there were plenty. The Encore is the first ship in the Norwegian fleet to feature Onda by Scarpetta. This Italian cuisine restaurant features signature pasta dishes along with unique seafood dishes, and stellar desserts.

But Italian is just one of the many global cuisines you can try on board. The Encore has authentic Japanese at Teppanyaki, your favorite Mexican dishes at Los Lobos, and French fare at Le Bistro.

For flavors a bit closer to home, Q is the Encore’s Texas Barbeque restaurant where you can also listen to the band play country music as you dine and dance the night away. The next morning, stop over at Starbucks! The Encore has its own full-service Starbucks to get your caffeine fix.

Great Stirrup Cay

Our team was sure to get their morning coffee so they could be ready to go when it came time to visit Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island in the Bahamas. This island has undergone some major upgrades, including getting the new villas at Silver Cove. The style of villas vary, with the largest being two bedroom family suites. Situated on a section of private beach, these air-conditioned modern houses include a full bathroom and plenty of space for the whole family.

But the villas aren’t the only thing new at Great Stirrup Cay! Norwegian Cruise Line has added exciting new excursions like swimming with the pigs and a sting ray encounter. If you prefer grabbing a chair, there is plenty of room for all cruise goers to sit back and relax the day away.

Thank you to Norwegian Cruise Line for inviting of team and our agents to experience the naming ceremony and inaugural sailing of the Norwegian Encore! We are thrilled to have had the chance to experience this new ship and the revamped Great Stirrup Cay, and we can’t wait for our agents and their clients to experience it for themselves.

Are you interested in becoming a cruise travel agent? KHM Travel Group has the industry connections and educational resources to help you start and grow your own independent travel business. To find out more, fill out the form to the right or give us a call at 1-888-611-1220.