Norwegian Cruise Line and Nickelodeon today announced the expansion of their  exclusive partnership, extending the popular family entertainment and  programming from two to three ships with the addition of Norwegian Gem,  beginning in February 2012. Nickelodeon-themed family events, shows and  activities were first introduced in April 2010 on Norwegian Jewel and in July  2010 on Norwegian Epic.
“We’ve  had tremendous success with the Nickelodeon-themed entertainment and programming  to date on Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Jewel,†said Kevin Sheehan, Norwegian  Cruise Line’s chief executive offer. “Families are flocking to these ships for  the unique experience available to them through Nickelodeon. Based on this  success, we wanted to give more families the opportunity to experience sailing  with their favorite Nickelodeon characters, so we are pleased to roll out this  programming on Norwegian Gem.â€
“Nickelodeon’s  entertainment programs on Norwegian have resonated with families around the  world,†said Pam Kaufman, chief marketing officer, Nickelodeon Networks Group.   “We look forward to expanding the program and offering even more kids and  families the opportunity to experience Nickelodeon alongside all the wonderful  amenities on Norwegian’s amazing cruise ships.â€
Each Norwegian  Gem cruise will feature a live Nickelodeon-themed interactive show in the main  theater; Nick Live Poolside!, where families can take part in interactive games and activities by the pool;  Breakfast with the Characters, where kids – and adults – can eat, sing and play  with SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the Explorer, Patrick, Diego and more; Dora’s Dance Party, where kids can join  Dora and the Nickelodeon cast to dance and sing along; meet and greets with  popular Nickelodeon characters, including SpongeBob SquarePants, Dora the  Explorer and many more. In addition, there are also other family activities  offered, including Nick Jr. Story Time, family trivia and special arts and  crafts sessions.
Norwegian  Gem will begin offering Nickelodeon programming year-round beginning on the  February 19, 2012 cruise, sailing from New York City to the Bahamas & Florida. The  ship is sailing a series of seven-day Bahamas & Florida voyages from  New York City  through September 1, 2012. Ports of call include Orlando and the Beaches (Port Canaveral), Florida; Great Stirrup Cay (Norwegian’s private island)  and Nassau,  Bahamas, as well  as three relaxing days at sea.
If  the kids can’t wait until next February to experience Nickelodeon, Norwegian  Epic and Norwegian Jewel both already offer the family-friendly programming.  Norwegian Epic  returns to Miami in time for Thanksgiving Break, sailing the Eastern Caribbean  with stops in Phillipsburg, St. Maarten; St.  Thomas, Virgin Islands and Nassau, Bahamas. Norwegian Jewel is currently  sailing from New York City on seven-day  Bahamas and Florida cruises, calling on Orlando and the Beaches (Port Canaveral), Florida; and Great Stirrup Cay and Nassau, Bahamas.
To book a cruise  on Norwegian, contact a travel professional, visit www.ncl.com; or call 888-NCL-CRUISE  (625-2784).
