Norwegian Joy returns to service following extensive renovation [PHOTOS]

The 2017-built Norwegian Joy returns to service after a three-week dry dock.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) refurbished cruise ship now boasts new spa amenities, including a spacious Thermal Suite and more staterooms.

Bigger and Better Mandara Spa and Salon

After undergoing refurbishments from January 22 to February 12, 2024, Norwegian Joy is back with the biggest Thermal Suite among the Breakaway-Plus class cruise ships.

It also offers a new sauna, steam room, ice room, and four senses loungers through its Mandara Spa and Salon.

Renovated Suites

The vessel’s ship-within-a-ship area, called The Haven, now has three bedroom and 3.5 bathroom suites, new furniture in its master bedrooms and outdoor balconies, completely renovated living rooms, and dining areas with views of The Haven Horizon Lounge.

More Spacious Vibe Beach Club

Meanwhile, the Vibe Beach Club has been expanded and occupies Deck 20’s former laser tag arena. Guests can now enjoy private cabanas and a layout patterned after Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore’s versions of the beach club venue.

NCL President David J. Herrera announced that the changes were made according to passenger preferences. He said, “Our guests have asked for these enhancements to Norwegian Joy, and we delivered. We strive to evolve the onboard experience based on our guests’ wants and needs, and this is another example of how we put them first in our decision-making.”

Norwegian Joy’s Other Amenities

Aside from these upgrades, guests can look forward to Norwegian Joy’s 16 restaurants, 21 bars and lounges, and a wide selection of entertainment options. Passengers will enjoy the mini-golf course and the Norwegian Joy Speedway race track. There are also onboard shows like Elements and Deal or No Deal.

In January 2023, NCL canceled a month’s worth of sailings to make room for Norwegian Joy’s renovations. It emerged from the Rotterdam dry dock last February 11 and left for an 11-day cruise from Southampton, UK to Miami. 

This is the ship’s second major upgrade after being transferred from Asia to the US market in 2019.