Norwegian Cruise Line sets sail for the Metaverse with NFT auction

Norwegian Cruise Line sets sail for the Metaverse with NFT auction

Unique digital artworks will be sold to mark the launch of line’s new class of ship

Cruise operator Norwegian Cruise Line is to sell six unique artworks as NFTs (Non Fungible Tokens) to mark the inauguration of its latest ship.

NFTs are digital assets whose value is determined by identification codes that verify their authenticity using Blockchain technology.

The NCL artworks have been created by Manuel Di Rita, or ‘Peeta, the artist behind the hull art on the operator’s new Prima class of vessels.

An auction for the NFTs will take place at 2pm on April 13 in NCL’s new NFT marketplace.

The first piece will be auctioned at a starting value of $2,500, with the remaining sold for $250 upward. 

The winner of the auction will also be awarded a balcony stateroom on one of Norwegian Prima’s US inaugural voyages departing from NCL’s new PortMiami terminal.

Proceeds from the auction will go to Teach For America which finds, develops, and supports a network of leaders who expand opportunity for children.

The cruise line said the pioneering move was its first step into the Metaverse, the future of virtual online worlds being pushed by tech giants like Meta, formerly Facebook. 

Harry Sommer, president and chief executive, said: “We are so excited to partner with Peeta on this first for our brand and for the industry. 

“Peeta is a talented artist who has brought the magic and beauty of the ocean to our ships, so we are happy to share this with our guests and to donate the proceeds of this new venture to Teach For America, an organisation and a cause very near and dear to our hearts.”

The most highly valued NFT collectable resembles the hull art on Norwegian Prima and provides the buyer an opportunity to own a digital piece of the new ship. 

The other five pieces showcase some of the 3D designs in Peeta’s works and will be featured onboard Prima.

Scott Piccolo, chief digital experience officer at Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, said: “We strive to adopt the most cutting-edge technology at Norwegian Cruise Line and strongly believe that providing our guests the opportunity to own digital assets that connect them with an unforgettable cruise experience is an essential step forward.

“We are incredibly proud to work with Peeta on the cruise industry’s first ever NFT collection.” 

Launching August 2022, Norwegian Prima’s christening voyage will depart from Reykjavík, Iceland and will feature a performance from newly announced godmother, global popstar Katy Perry.