Three lines will base ships in Shanghai next year

[Photo provided to China Daily]

Norwegian Joy will set out from Shanghai in June. It can carry 3,850 guests.

Chinese artist Tan Ping designed its hull artwork－a colorful phoenix. The mythical bird, which is said to be the ruler of all birds, is "auspicious" in Chinese culture.

"We want to make a good first impression with our best ship. As our first ship in China, it's especially designed for our Chinese guests," says David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings China.

It will offer as many as 28 restaurants and pubs on board, including a teahouse. Guests can have wide choices of dining experiences such as China's regional cuisines and French and Japanese dishes.

"Food is essential for any cruise line. In China, meals are more important because you send much time dining with family and friends. Of course we have to prioritize that on our ship," Herrera says.

He says he enjoys the multi-generation travel in China－father, mother, children and grandparents.

"We need to attract everyone in the family," he says. "Our activities on board are appealing to all of them."