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Norwegian Joy sports racetrack, hovercraft bumper cars, new Concierge Level

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Hovercraft bumper cars are among the many diversions in the Galaxy Pavilion
A competitive racetrack, hovercraft bumper cars, many virtual-reality entertainment experiences, new concierge level accommodations, virtual balconies in interior rooms and ample duty-free shopping are among the first announced features of Norwegian Joy 喜悦号 (Xǐ Yuè Hào).

The ship will sail from Shanghai and Tianjin, and is designed to provide 'First Class at Sea' experiences specifically for the Chinese traveler.

The 3,900-passenger Norwegian Joy's VIP accommodations include The Haven by Norwegian with a new Observation Deck, plus a new Concierge Level of spacious balcony rooms.

The Haven by Norwegian will have 74 suites, a dedicated concierge, priority access to entertainment and specialty dining, a private restaurant and enclosed courtyard. It also will feature a new Observation Deck with 180-degree views, and gourmet canapés and premium beverages.

The Concierge Level will offer larger balcony staterooms with luxurious en suite amenities and a dedicated concierge, plus a concierge lounge with a private bar and refreshments available throughout the day.

Norwegian Joy also has a wide array of mini-suite, balcony, ocean-view and interior staterooms, many with virtual balconies. There will be staterooms designed for families and a multitude of connecting staterooms.

The top of the ship will sport a two-level racetrack and an open-air laser tag game where friends and families can compete.

The Galaxy Pavilion will offer virtual reality experiences, simulator rides and interactive video walls. Passengers can go for a spin on hovercraft bumper cars or start their engines in a professional single-seat racecar that’s been converted into a racing simulator. Three interactive dark ride simulators provide real-time 3D graphics, 360-degree surround sound and multi-sensory special effects, while flight and car simulators will let users take flight or take to the road.

Other attractions are a Star Wars battle pods video game and six Xbox console stations. Virtual optic experiences by Oculus include designing and then riding a personal roller coaster, soaring to new heights over mountains and oceans or walking along a cliff or atop a 10-story building.

Outdoors, Norwegian Joy will offer multi-story waterslides. The high-speed Double Aqua Loop free fall slide includes two loops, one that extends out over the side of the ship and a second see-through loop that stretches down to the deck below. The tandem Aqua Racer slide allows side-by-side racing on inner tubes.

The ship's top deck will also feature a tranquil open space park, with a partially covered serene setting designed for relaxation. With greenery, a soothing pool and chaise lounges, it’s a spot for sea-gazing, meditating or practicing tai chi and yoga.

The upscale shopping venue will be the largest in Norwegian’s fleet with high-end international brands in fashion, jewelry and electronics.

Norwegian Joy will offer bow to stern Wi-Fi connectivity, the fastest in the Norwegian fleet.

The 164,400gt ship is under construction at Meyer Werft in Papenburg for 2017 delivery.