Final Call

On Your Marks...

Norwegian Cruise Line is off to a flying start in the race for the biggest adrenaline rush at sea.

It seems there’s no limit to the lengths cruise lines will go to in order to attract thrill-seeking guests, with zip-lines, skydiving simulators and dizzying water slides amongst the daredevil pursuits on offer.

For Norwegian Cruise Line however, it’s the racetrack that has proven popular. Following the introduction of the world’s first racetrack at sea in 2017, the group upped the ante with the unveiling of a 1,100ft circuit on board Encore in 2019. And now, NCL is set to out-do itself once again, thanks to the recently announced experiences onboard Norwegian Prima. Along with a multi-sensory theatre, real-life game shows and freefall drop dry slides, the debut vessel of the all-new Prima-Class series – due to set sail in 2022 – will feature the first ever three-level racetrack. More than a quarter mile in length and 22% larger than its predecessor, the Prima Speedway will now go around and through the funnel of the ship, taking in unexpected twists, hill climbs and dips. In all, the experience boasts 14 nailbiting turns where 15 drivers can simultaneously race on the open ocean reaching speeds of more than 30mph. After racers have passed the black-and-white checkered flag of the finish line, they can then join the spectators and unwind at the new Prima Speedway Bar located beneath the track.

Despite the challenges of the past two years, Norwegian Prima became the cruise line’s most in-demand ship ever when it was announced earlier this year, with record bookings on the first day and week of sales; experiences such as the Prima Speedway will undoubtedly serve to keep passengers racing back for more.