NCL heralds its comeback in 'Embark' docuseries starting April 15

'Embark' includes unscripted conversations with leaders including Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings President and CEO Frank Del Rio and NCL President and CEO Harry Sommer.

8 p.m. EDT Thursday

The first of five episodes premieres at 8 p.m. EDT Thursday at www.ncl.com/embark.

The first episode covers technology to enhance embarkation, how the crew and entertainers have been managing over the last year and how the pause has affected small businesses and valued partners, including Miami-based distillery Wynwood Brewing Co.

Live pre-show Q&A at 7:30 p.m.

The nearly 30-minute episode will stream at www.ncl.com/embark and on Facebook, with a live pre-show conversation and question and answer session featuring Sommer and NCL executives and team members at 7:30 p.m. EDT.

'We're looking forward to reconnecting with our guests, crew, employees and partners in person as well as through the Embark with NCL platform, which will showcase our return to cruise journey through the people of NCL,' Sommer said.

VIVA Creative

The company engaged the Emmy Award-winning production team at VIVA Creative to produce the platform content, adhering to strict COVID-19 protocols in place at the time of filming to capture timely conversations and behind-the-scenes footage. Where travel restrictions existed, local film crews were engaged, and virtual interviews conducted.

'While the idea for Embark with NCL was born from the need to engage with our extended NCL family of guests, partners and team members during this pandemic, the platform will not only allow us to share our journey leading up to the redeployment of our fleet this summer, but it will enable us to directly share news of future products, offerings and innovations,' said Christine Da Silva, VP communication and events.

Cruising in July

NCL's first scheduled sailing is July  25 from Piraeus, Greece, however the company has also requested clearance to sail from the US as early as July 4.

'Embark — The Series' follows Embark Spotlights featuring 'Choir of Man: Live from London' and 'NCL: Live from Broadway' virtual performances, which aired in late 2020 and reached nearly 900,000 viewers.