Norwegian Cruise Line to Introduce New Youth Program

Norwegian Cruise Line plans to replace its current Kid’s Crew program, which has been in place since 1999, with a new program that will be introduced on Norwegian Gem in mid-February. The rebranded program will then roll out to the rest of the fleet. "We’ve already taken family programming to the next level by offering Nickelodeon experiences on some ships," said Norwegian CEO Kevin Sheehan. "In fact, close to 150,000 children sailed on our ships in 2010 and that number continues to rise." The revamped program will divide children among new age groups: 3 to 5 years old; 6 to 8 years; 9 to 12 years; 13 to 14 and 15 to 17 years. There will also be programming for babies and toddlers ages 6 months to 2 years. The new curriculum is being produced in conjunction with The King’s Foundation and Camps, a U.K.-based organization that provides sport and activity programs. More focus will be placed on sporting activities, arts and crafts, theater and technology. Activities will change every 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the age group, and will be set within blocks of programming time in the morning, afternoon and evening. Norwegian also has engaged Cirque Du Jour, a New York-based company that specializes in teaching children circus skills such as scarf juggling, ball juggling, plate spinning, clowning and acrobatics. Circus workshops and shows will also be offered for the entire family. The company also is increasing the ratio of staff to children and establishing new criteria for the hiring of counselors, including the requirement of a college degree in recreation or child care or the equivalent experience. The line currently offers Nickelodeon family events on three ships: Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Gem beginning mid-February.