OSLO: The world’s first full-scale shipboard racetrack is now on the water for owner Norwegian Cruise Line, special thanks in part to Dutch marine decking specialist, Bolidt. Norwegian Joy is the first cruise ship built by NCL specifically for the Chinese market, and will be homeported in Shanghai and Tianjin.
The 326m long, 167,800gt cruise liner Norwegian Joy entered the water at Germany’s Meyer Werft in March, showing off the new surface from Bolidt that has been extensively used for road works, car parks and bridges, but which has never before been requested for go-karting afloat. Her maiden cruise is expected to commence in June this year.
Some 230m of track have been manufactured, using Bolideck Racetrack, a synthetic material that is based on established road surfacing technology. The breakthrough delivery has been possible due to the product’s high flexibility and hard-wearing qualities, which will allow 20 electrically powered karts onboard to race around on its slip-resistant surface at any one time.
The race track is located on the ship’s upper decks, 18 and 19, and features a viewing platform, covered pit lane, workshop, storage room, timing system and floodlights. RiMO also supplied the race karts that will use special technology to ensure they work well under the very particular conditions encountered at sea, with high levels of UV and saltwater exposure.
Norwegian Joy is the first cruise ship built by NCL specifically for the Chinese market, and will be homeported in Shanghai and Tianjin. Her maiden cruise is expected to commence in June this year.
Bolidt also provides a more conventional range of high performance non-slip marine decking products.
