New 4,200-passenger Epic Debuts from NCL

Norwegian Cruise Line's newest vessel, the 4,200-passenger Epic, was christened in New York city last Friday by country music star Reba McEntire. The ship has three meeting rooms -- two boardrooms that each seat 20, and  the Epic Theater, which accommodates 681 -- as well as 40 clubs, bars and restaurants that can be used for private events. The cruise line has partnered with established entertainment acts including Blue Man Group, Headliners in Concert, the Second City comedy troupe, Cirque Dreams and, for the kiddie set, Nickelodeon. The ship will be based in Miami, sailing Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Beginning next May, it will be based in Barcelona, Spain, for Mediterranean cruises.