NCL christens Norwegian Viva in Miami amid much fanfare

More than 1500 people were on hand to witness the christening of Norwegian Viva in a lavish Latino-themed celebration in Miami on Tuesday.

Balloons dropped from the ceiling of the Norwegian Cruise Line's (NCL) grand terminal and, with the push of a button, a champagne bottle was smashed on Viva's hull, welcoming the new ship to NCL's expanding family.

Puerto Rican-American singer and YouTube sensation Luis Fonsi was appointed "godfather" of the ship, and officially named and christened the vessel, before boarding Viva and performing into the night, delighting fans with songs including No Me Doy Por Vencido and his 2017 hit Despacito.

For Miami-based Fonsi, the partnership with Viva is fitting.

"I feel connected to this great vessel in two ways," the Grammy-award nominee said.

"Viva is homeporting in San Juan, where I was born. She is being christened here in Miami where NCL and myself call home."

Paying tribute to NCL's crew during the christening ceremony, NCL president David Herrera was optimistic about the future of the company, and the industry.

He said Viva, the second ship in the Prima Class which promises to "elevate modern cruising", offered "so much to do" on board "from the three-storey Viva Speedway to the wrap-around promenade that brings guests closer to the ocean than ever".

"Launching a ship is no solo endeavour. I am overwhelmed with gratitude towards the entire NCL team, our partners and especially our amazing crew who have contributed to bringing Norwegian Viva to life," he said.

"While Norwegian Viva represents the latest ship, we have so much more going on," he said.

"Just a few weeks ago we announced the next of the Prima Class, the next ship Norwegian Aqua. Aqua is going to be bigger and offer more diverse experiences."

NCL chief executive officer Harry Sommer said it had been a "milestone" year for the company with the debut of next-generation ships across its three brands, Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

"The addition of Norwegian Viva further elevates our world-class fleet," he said.

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Viva debuted in August and has already completed its inaugural summer season of European voyages.

At nearly 300 metres long with the capacity for 3099 guests, Viva features adrenaline activities including the three-storey Viva Speedway; as well as the Indulge Food Hall, an open-air food market featuring 11 eateries; and an art collection including a 15-metre wide interactive work, Every Wing Has a Silver Lining, by British digital artist Dominic Harris.

Following the inaugural sailing and select voyages from Miami, the ship will reposition to San Juan, Puerto Rico, from December 15. Viva will sail Caribbean itineraries through to April 2024, before repositioning to Europe.

The writer was a guest of NCL.