With the new year, our thoughts are turning to new ships. In particular, the Norwegian Breakaway. Now granted, with offices near New York City, we’re partial because of its location. After all, it isn’t too often that brand new ships make New York City their homeport – but there are some truly unique features that make the Breakaway worth sailing on. We’ve come up with three great ones that we thought we’d share today.

1. The Ice Bar

OK, so its cold outside and a bar kept at 17 degrees is probably the last thing on anyone’s mind – but this is still a pretty amazing feature on a cruise ship. Introduced on the Norwegian Epic, the Ice Bar just looks like a lot of fun, and keeping with the New York City theme, the bar will feature ice sculptures of the Brooklyn Bridge, the Chrysler building and other iconic features of the city that never sleeps. Plus enjoy special New York themed cocktails and mocktails at the bar. All things being equal, the Ice Bar on the Norwegian Breakaway is a cool feature – figuratively and literally.

2. A Salty Experience

Spas on the sea have become a big deal. And its biggest on the Breakaway with a 23,000 square foot spa and fitness complex on board ship. What makes this spa special? The first ever salt room at sea. Salt room therapy is good for the respiratory system and for the skin, and the grotto like setting just looks stunning. 21 other treatment rooms make up the complex including 24Karat Gold facials and special bliss spa treatments as well.

We also love the idea of the barber shop for men, also something relatively new for the cruising industry, in addition to the traditional salon. We’re also a fan of Black Light Spinning classes in the gym too. There’s also something called the Freestyle Fight Klub. We’re pretty sure it isn’t like the movie at all, but just in case, we’re not going to talk about Freestyle Fight Klub. Just experience it, once on board.

3. Wet and Wild

We’re suckers for a good pool area. And the Breakaway does not disappoint with the Breakaway’s Aqua Park. Two big swimming pools, four hottubs, and five waterslides, including twin free-fall slides. There’s also the “Whip.” Racing water slides that twist and turn high above the water. It’s going to be crazy, and we’ll be first in line to head down those slides. Check out this video for more great information about the Aqua Park.

2013 is shaping up to be a banner year for New York ships, thanks to the Norwegian Breakaway! There is plenty of space left to enjoy the ship in its inaugural season. Click here to find your favorite date!