Norwegian Epic, the largest ship ever to dock in the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, arrived today for her official inaugural festivities following her maiden transatlantic seven-day voyage from Southampton, UK. Norwegian Epic with a height of 200 feet cleared the Verrazano Bridge by approximately 24 inches at 7:40 a.m.

The 153,000 gross tons, 4,100 passenger Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Cruise Line’s largest and most innovative ship ever, enjoyed a smooth and successful first sailing before arriving in New York this morning. The ship, billed as the world’s largest floating entertainment venue with world-class entertainment unlike anything before seen at sea. There are 20 dining options, a Svedka ice bar, a 2-story Wii, two 3-lane bowling alleys, a rock-climbing and an aqua park, among other fun features.

The ship will be officially christened by country music superstar Reba McEntire at 2 p.m. ET on Friday, July 2. Comedian and “Curb Your Enthusiasm” star Jeff Garlin will serve as host of the ceremony. The ship, which is docked at Pier 88 at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, will then sail on a two-day preview sailing, before returning to the pier the morning of July 4th to host the Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks Spectacular.

Alaska Governor Sean Parnell signed legislation that reduces the cruise passenger head tax from $46 to $34.50 and provides incentives to support the state’s tourism marketing. After a decade of growth, the state experienced a sharp decline in cruise vactioners in 2009 and again in 2010. Over this two-year period, Alaska lost more than 260,000 visitors, $420 million in direct and indirect spending and over 5,000 jobs.

In signing the bill, Parnell stated that reversing the decline in visitors to Alaska has been a focus of his administration. “Passage of this bill sends a clear message that Alaska values visitors and tourism investment,” added Parnell. He added the change will help Alaska’s families, businesses and communities to be better positioned for tourism growth. Tourism accounts for more than 40,000 Alaska jobs during the peak summer months and $3.4 billion in direct and indirect spending.

Today, the U.S. Senate unanimously passed legislation authored by Congresswoman Doris Matsui (D-CA) in the House of Representatives and championed by Senator John F. Kerry in the Senate. H.R. 3360, the Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act, which was passed with bipartisan support in the House last November, is a critical and common-sense fix which will provide safety and security to Americans who go on cruise vacations without realizing they are not protected under U.S. laws when they leave its territorial waters. The Cruise Vessel Security and Safety Act requires cruise lines to report crimes at sea to the FBI and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Seabourn Sojourn’s christening was short, sweet, and to the point. Godmother Twiggy commenced the festivities with a blessing and the smash of the ceremonial champagne bottle. The 32,000-ton Sojourn is the sister ship to the Seabourn Odyssey, the third sister ship (Seabourn Quest) debuts next year.

Carrying just 450 passengers, Sojourn is oppulent and intimate with standout features that includes the largest spa on a luxury vessel, the two-deck Spa at Seabourn provides the ultimate pampering experience at sea. Exceptional new amenities in the 11,400-square-foot spa include a Kneipp Walk, an herbal bath facility and aroma steam bath with salt inhalation. For pure indulgence and relaxation, guests can reserve the canopied Spa Villa, with a whirlpool big enough for two, a private balcony for sunbathing, a double daybed and a full living room.

The ship has nine-hole mini golf course,two swimming pools, six outdoor whirlpools and its own water fold-out sports marina. Food connosieurs will enjoy menus designed by celebrity chef Charlie Palmer and the relaxing and a cushy, innovative Seabourn Square a multi-tasting “concierge lounge” area with a library, upscale shops, computer center, coffee bar and outdoor terrace.

Staterooms are very spacious with some ninety percent offering private balconies. All are equipped with flatscreen TVs, iPod and MP3 connections and granite bathrooms with separate bath and shower.