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German shipbuilder Meyer Werft has cut the first piece of steel to mark the construction of Norwegian Cruise Line’s second Breakaway Plus class ship, set for delivery in spring 2017.

The steel cutting ceremony took place at Meyer Werft’s yard in Papenburg, Germany on Tuesday, September 15.

Andy Stuart, President of Norwegian Cruise Line, pushed the button to start the plasma torch during the steel cutting ceremony in the laser center. This plate will become part of Block 46, the first to be assembled for the new vessel.‎

‎”On behalf of the more than 20,000 Norwegian team members worldwide, we are thrilled to mark the start of construction of the second ship in our company’s Breakaway Plus class and the continued evolution of the Norwegian brand,” said Stuart.

“Not only will this ship fully embody the Norwegian brand and the freedom and flexibility that a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation means, but the combined expertise of the company’s new leadership team will create what is sure to be the epitome of contemporary cruising‎.”

Having a tonnage of 165,600 gross tons and reaching more than 1,000 feet in length, the ship will carry 4,200 guests, reaching speeds of up to 23 knots.

The company currently has four vessels on order at Meyer Werft for delivery in fall 2015, spring 2017, spring 2018 and fall 2019.