The Epic Arrives!

The new Norwegian Epic arrived today in Southhampton to begin a 2 night press cruise. The arrival was not without a few challenges as it was delayed several hours due to a faulty bearing in one of the propeller shafts. While it does not affect the safety of the ship, it did result in slower than normal cruising speeds resulting in about a 6 hour arrival delay. According to NCL officials the bearing will be replaced while in Southhampton and the ship is expected to depart on schedule for its transatlantic sailing to New York on June 24th. The ship will arrive in New York for naming by singer (and huge NCL fan) Reba McEntire on July 2 followed by a 2 night industry cruise. You can catch the ship on NBC national TV broadcast on July 4th as it plays official host to the Macy’s National Fireworks display. The Epic will then deadhead to Miami and following a few days of pre-inaugural sailings will begin regular one week Caribbean cruises on July 10th.
Stay tuned because the Cruise Professor and my www.iCruise.com colleagues will be on board the ship in New York and we will be posting some live updates once we have a chance to explore this exciting new ship in person. But if you just can’t wait to book, the personal cruise consultants at www.iCruise.com are ready to put you aboard the Epic. There is a special Cruise Combo package just for the Epic that includes a free pre-cruise hotel and other bonus options. Just call them at 1-800-i Cruise (800) 427-8473 or visit online at www.iCruise.com