A NEW cruise ship with its own race track and escape room is set to make its debut in Southampton.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Encore is set to arrive in the city for the first time tonight, ahead of an event on Saturday.

The 1,100-foot-long ship, which boasts a guest capacity of nearly 4,000, is on its way to Southampton from the German port of Bremerhaven There bosses at Norwegian Cruise Line officially took delivery of the new ship, which was built by German shipbuilding firm Meyer Werft.

Speaking at the event in Bremerhaven yesterday, Andy Stuart, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line, said: “We celebrate the delivery of our 17th ship and the close of our history-making Breakaway Plus class – a feat that was made possible through a special collaboration with our partners at Meyer Werft.

“Our dedication to creating next-level offerings onboard, will allow us to continue to deliver meaningful experiences for our guests, when Norwegian Encore arrives home to Miami.”

Tim Meyer, managing partner of Meyer Werft, said: “We’re happy to deliver another world-class ship to Norwegian Cruise Line.

“We are extremely proud of our partnership of over 16 years and honoured to have been part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s most successful class of ships.

“We are confident that Norwegian Encore will continue the Company’s legacy.”

The new ship will depart on her first transatlantic voyage from Southampton to the U.S on November 2, arriving to New York on November 10.

She will then voyage to Miami for a series of events, concluding with the christening ceremony and celebration on November 21, which includes a live performance by Norwegian Encore’s godmother and Grammy Award-winning singer and television host Kelly Clarkson.

Bosses at Norwegian Cruise Line say the Encore features the world’s longest race track at sea at 1,100 feet with four high-speed curves extending up to 13 feet over the side of the ship.

It also features the largest outdoor laser tag arena at nearly 10,000 square feet with the addition of augmented reality element, as well as an escape room.

In addition to featuring many of the highly-rated restaurants and lounges the Encore will debut a new elevated Italian dining experience while the Tony Award-winning musical, “Kinky Boots” will headline the entertainment.