The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Gene Sloan

Looking for a cruise where you can do what you want, whenever you want, without a lot of structure and rules? Norwegian Cruise Line could be your brand.

The Miami-based cruise line pioneered the idea of "freestyle cruising" — cruising without rigid dining schedules, dress codes and formal nights — and it's still the go-to line for vacationers who want a floating resort experience with a casual, laissez-faire vibe.

Instead of a few big main restaurants with fixed seating times, Norwegian ships offer a wide range of eateries and no assigned seating times — just make a reservation. When it's time for dinner, if you want to dress up, fine. There's no rule saying you must, though.

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Norwegian vessels also offer lots of options for daytime fun but are particularly well known for evening entertainment. You'll find everything from music halls with Beatles cover bands and dueling piano bars to theaters with some of the most elaborate shows at sea — including some big-name Broadway productions.

Norwegian ships are also loaded with bars, lounges and nightclubs, including always-busy casinos. Put it all together, and you have vessels with a very lively atmosphere — particularly at night. If you had to compare Norwegian ships to something on land, you'd probably say they were like floating versions of the casino resorts you find in Las Vegas.

Just to be clear, Norwegian is a big-ship line . Its largest vessels are among the biggest cruise ships at sea (they must be, to accommodate everything mentioned above). If you want an intimate cruise experience, Norwegian probably isn't a good choice.

That said, the line does offer some smaller ships that aren't quite as big and bustling as its giants.

Norwegian is also a mass-market brand, not a luxury cruise operator. Still, as we'll explain below, it offers a wide range of accommodations, some of which fall squarely in the luxury segment. In some cases, its ships have an exclusive area full of high-end cabins and suites called The Haven that comes with its own private pools, lounge areas and even restaurants.

In short, if you want to turn a Norwegian cruise into a luxury experience , you can do that, too. Norwegian really is the line where you make the trip what you want it to be.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you?

3 things TPG loves about Norwegian Cruise Line

  • The do-what-you-want freestyle vibe
  • The wide range of restaurants, bars and nightspots
  • The stellar entertainment

What we could do without

  • The sky-high extra charges

The Norwegian Cruise Line fleet

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Norwegian is the world's fourth-largest cruise line by passenger capacity, with 19 ships that together offer 56,780 berths.

Smaller only than Royal Caribbean , Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises , the brand has become increasingly known for having some of the biggest, most amenity-filled vessels at sea. The line doesn't just operate giant ships, though. More than half of its fleet is comprised of vessels that, by today's standards, are considered almost midsize.

Indeed, Norwegian is essentially two cruise lines in one. The line's nine newest ships are big, bustling floating megaresorts that can carry upwards of 3,000 to 4,000 passengers at double occupancy (and even more with every berth filled). At around 143,000 to nearly 170,000 tons, all eight currently rank among the 50 biggest cruise ships in the world (although their rankings will shift downward as more big ships debut).

Related: How to book a cruise with points and miles

However, Norwegian's 10 older ships are much more modest in size, measuring around 75,000 to 94,000 tons and carrying closer to 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Norwegian thus appeals both to cruisers who like a giant resort vibe and those who prefer something more modest. The key, depending on your tastes, is getting on the right ship in the fleet.

On the big-ship end of the spectrum, Norwegian's four relatively new Breakaway Plus-class vessels — Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape — are the line's premier offerings. While not quite as big as Royal Caribbean's giant, Oasis-class ships , they are firmly in the pantheon of the world's cruising giants. They are the Norwegian vessels most packed with restaurants, bars, entertainment and over-the-top attractions.

Unveiled in 2019, Norwegian Encore is, notably, the 23rd biggest cruise ship in the world as of this story's publishing (it will drop in the rankings over the coming years as additional megaships debut). At 169,116 tons, it's bigger than all but three Carnival ships. Only Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises have significantly more bigger vessels.

One step down in size from the Breakaway Plus ships are the still-quite-large Breakaway-class ships — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — as well as the one-of-a-kind Norwegian Epic and the recently unveiled Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva .

Around 17% smaller than Norwegian's biggest vessels, Prima and Viva are the first tow of six sister ships that the line will roll out between now and 2027 that will significantly change the composition of its fleet. While not the biggest vessels in the Norwegian fleet, these ships will be notably packed with restaurants, bars, entertainment venues and decktop attractions. They also mark a more upscale turn for the line, with more space per passenger than earlier Norwegian ships and lots of suites.

Related: I've been on nearly every Norwegian ship. Here are my first impressions of Norwegian Prima

Norwegian's 10 smaller vessels break down among five classes, but many are roughly the same size and offer similar amenities.

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One notable outlier among the smaller ships is the 2,186-passenger Pride of America. Sporting a patriotic U.S. theme (you'll find venues named after Thomas Jefferson and John Adams), and a distinct array of lounges and entertainment, it's the only big cruise vessel based year-round in Hawaii.

Pride of America notably operates with a mostly U.S. crew, in keeping with regulations governing cruise itineraries that only include U.S. ports.

Related: Our take on the new Norwegian Encore

Destinations and itineraries

Norwegian sails almost everywhere in the world, but its heaviest presence is in the Caribbean, Europe and Alaska.

In a typical summer, the line will deploy nearly half its ships to Europe while sending several more to the West Coast to sail to Alaska from Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia; and Seward, Alaska. It'll also operate trips to Bermuda from New York City and Boston, usually with two ships, and trips to the Bahamas and the Caribbean out of Miami.

During the winter, the line will move many of its vessels to North America to operate sailings to the Caribbean and Bahamas. It also sends a few ships to Asia, Australia and South America, and it'll typically keep a single vessel in Europe, too.

As mentioned above, the line also operates one ship (Pride of America) in Hawaii year-round. It's the only cruise line to offer year-round voyages in Hawaii.

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In North America, Norwegian ships sail out of Baltimore; Boston; Galveston, Texas; New York City; Miami; Tampa; San Juan, Puerto Rico; New Orleans; San Diego; Los Angeles; San Francisco; Seattle; Honolulu; Vancouver, British Columbia; Quebec City; and Seward, Alaska.

In Europe, Norwegian ships sail out of Amsterdam; Stockholm; Copenhagen; Oslo and Tromso, Norway; Southampton and Portsmouth, England; Le Havre, France; Reykjavik; Lisbon, Portugal; Barcelona; Civitavecchia (the port for Rome) and Trieste, Italy (near Venice); Piraeus, Greece (the port for Athens); and Istanbul.

Related: The best Caribbean cruise for every type of traveler

Who sails Norwegian Cruise Line?

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Norwegian appeals to vacationers who want a big-resort experience at sea with lots of options for dining and entertainment. In that, it's similar to Royal Caribbean — perhaps its closest competitor.

However, unlike Royal Caribbean, Norwegian hasn't retained any of the trappings of old-style cruising. There are no formal nights, as you'll still find on Royal Caribbean ships, or dress codes. Norwegian has also thoroughly done away with the concept of big main restaurants with fixed seating.

Because of that, Norwegian is popular with people who are seeking flexibility — freedom to eat when they want, with whom they want and to dress however they want, for sure, but also more freedom in general to just set their own schedule day and night.

Norwegian cruises are very unstructured vacations, and that's by design.

Like Royal Caribbean ships, Norwegian vessels have an inordinate amount of teen- and tween-friendly attractions — everything from some of the largest waterslides at sea to the only go-kart tracks on the ocean . That makes them particularly appealing to families, including multigenerational groups. Families are a big part of Norwegian's business.

It's not just families that flock to Norwegian, though. The line's ships are designed to offer a little something for everyone, and thus they appeal to a wide demographic, including couples of all ages and even solo travelers (the line has been a leader in adding solo cabins to ships in recent years). They also draw customers with a wide range of incomes.

At their core, Norwegian ships are mass-market ships, with entry-level cabins that are affordable to middle-class travelers. However, overlaid across most vessels are high-end suites and services that are at a luxury level, and the line draws a good number of luxury-seeking travelers.

The exclusive, keycard-accessed suite complex called The Haven (found on 13 of Norwegian's 19 ships) comes with private lounges, pools and other tony features. It's essentially a small, luxury vessel that has been planted atop otherwise middle-class, mass-market megaships. These complexes appeal to well-heeled travelers who want a luxury cruising experience while also getting all the fun attractions, entertainment and dining venues only a mass-market megaship can offer.

Cabins and suites

Norwegian is known for offering a wide range of accommodations on its ships. You'll find everything from relatively low-cost, windowless inside cabins that measure as little as 135 square feet (perfect for the budget traveler) to massive, multi-room suites that are more than 50 times that size.

At the high end, the accommodations are aimed at affluent travelers who, for whatever reason, prefer the megaship experience to that of a luxury ship, and they truly are among the most spectacular accommodations at sea.

Some, such as the giant Garden Villas found on six Norwegian ships — Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star — sprawl over thousands of square feet and have as many as three bedrooms plus separate living rooms and dining rooms.

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The Garden Villas also have private outdoor sun decks and courtyards with hot tubs. Additionally, the Garden Villas on Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star include private outdoor dining areas and steam rooms.

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Depending on the ship, top suites can come with perks such as private butlers and concierges who attend to your every need, access to a private restaurant, a private suite lounge and sun deck, reserved seating in entertainment venues and priority boarding and disembarkation.

On more than half of Norwegian's ships, many of the top suites are part of The Haven. Billed as an upscale "ship within a ship" and aimed at luxury travelers, The Haven is located at the very top of vessels and often comes with private lounges, pools, sunning areas and even restaurants.

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Norwegian is also heralded for kicking off the trend of more solo cabins on cruise ships . In 2010, it debuted an entire zone of small studio cabins for one — 128 in all — on its then-new, 4,070-passenger Norwegian Epic, and it has since added them to seven more new ships.

The studio cabins are tiny at just 100 square feet. However, they're superbly designed to maximize storage space. On the ships that have them, they are clustered around an exclusive Studio Lounge where solo travelers can mingle at daily happy hour gatherings.

Related: What it takes to get concierge lounge access on a cruise ship

Restaurants and dining

Norwegian was an early pioneer of the idea of giving cruisers lots of choices when it comes to restaurants on ships, and even its smallest vessels offer a wide range of options.

On Norwegian's recently built Breakaway Plus-class ships, there are up to 20 places to grab a bite, ranging from high-end French restaurants and steakhouses to casual pubs.

Every vessel has two or three main restaurants and a casual buffet where meals are included in the fare — the latter is usually called the Garden Cafe.

Other included-in-the-fare venues found on some ships include O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar and Grill, a casual pub; an outdoor bar and grill called Topsiders; and casual Asian restaurants that go by many names including Shanghai's Noodle Bar, Ginza and Bamboo.

Also, every ship has a least four and often many more extra-charge eateries. Two found across the entire fleet are Cagney's, the line's signature steakhouse, and Le Bistro, a fine French restaurant. Every ship also has an Italian restaurant, called Onda by Scarpetta or La Cucina. There also are churrascaria restaurants called Moderno on most Norwegian vessels.

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On some ships, you'll also find Ocean Blue, a seafood restaurant; The District Brew House, a gastropub serving craft beers; and a Mexican spot called either Los Lobos or Los Lobos Cantina. Every vessel has some sort of sushi restaurant, often called Sushi or Wasabi, and there are hibachi-style teppanyaki restaurants on nearly every Norwegian vessel.

You might even find Starbucks stores on some ships (the one-year-old Norwegian Prima has two!) and there are Starbucks products on every Norwegian vessel. Also, some ships have private restaurants just for passengers staying in The Haven.

Some of the extra-charge restaurants come with a flat fee (the teppanyaki outlets are $59 per person, not including the cost of drinks). However, most are a la carte, with sometimes hefty pricing. One thing you need to know upfront about going on a Norwegian cruise is that there are a lot of extra charges — and sometimes quite high extra charges — on the line's ships, particularly for things like restaurants.

A surf-and-turf dish at Ocean Blue that combines an 8-ounce filet mignon with a lobster tail costs $55, for example. If you just order a whole lobster, you'll be out $49. The least expensive entree on the menu, a roasted cauliflower steak, is $22.

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If you know you want to eat at several extra-charge restaurants during a single voyage, you can buy one of several dining packages that offer meals at a discount.

Related: The 7 best meals you can have at sea

Entertainment and activities

Few lines offer as broad a range of entertainment and activities on their ships as Norwegian. The line's biggest vessels offer multiple entertainment venues, from theaters to comedy clubs; a wide range of deck-top attractions; large casinos; full-service spas; and even virtual reality attractions. You'll also find a seemingly endless array of bars, lounges and nightspots.

Theaters and shows

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Entertainment is one of the core areas where Norwegian excels, and if you're the kind of person who loves nights out with live music and lively performances on your vacations, you're going to love the line.

Many of Norwegian's biggest ships have state-of-the-art theaters as big as those you'd find on Broadway, with big-name productions to match. Norwegian Bliss, for instance, has the Tony Award-winning "Jersey Boys."

In some cases, the Broadway shows are cut down slightly from the original versions, and the casts aren't quite as seasoned as what you'll find on Broadway. However, these are quality productions. The best part is they are entirely free. Compare that with the hundreds of dollars you'd spend to take your family to a show in New York City.

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Norwegian ships also are jam-packed with music venues. Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Epic, for instance, have the Cavern Club, a reproduction of the British club that gave rise to the Beatles. It comes complete with a cover band that plays the group's greatest hits.

There are also Howl at the Moon dueling piano bars on some Norwegian ships, and there's the lively Q Texas Smokehouse found on Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy (a music-and-food concept that pairs live music with barbecue).

In addition, several Norwegian ships offer dinner theater venues with circus-type productions, and one vessel, Norwegian Getaway, features a magic-infused dinner theater show in a steampunk-inspired space called The Illusionarium.

Several ships also offer comedy club entertainment.

Other interior attractions and activities

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In addition to entertainment spaces, the interiors of Norwegian ships are loaded with other venues where passengers can kick back and let loose day and night.

All but one Norwegian ship (Pride of America) has a casino, and on the line's bigger vessels, they are huge operations. The casino on Norwegian Encore has more than 300 slot machines and 26 table games (including blackjack, roulette, poker and craps), plus its own bar.

On the line's big Breakaway-class and Breakaway Plus-class ships, the casino — along with a large proportion of all onboard restaurants, bars and clubs — sprawls across three central decks connected by an atrium-like space known as 678 Ocean Place (the name derives from the location of the decks, which on each ship are decks 6, 7 and 8). At night, these three-deck complexes become bustling places.

The Breakaway- and Breakaway Plus-class ships have innovative outdoor promenades called The Waterfront lined with seating for many restaurants and bars. The Waterfront is located on Deck 8 of each of the ships, which is one of the main decks for restaurants on them all.

Like the ships of the Breakaway and Breakaway-plus classes, the Prima Class ships have a lively zone that mixes casino space, bars, eateries and entertainment that sprawls across decks 6, 7 and 8. These vessels also have outdoor eating space in an area called Ocean Boulevard.

In addition, Norwegian two new Prima Class ships (Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva), as well as another relatively new Norwegian vessels — Norwegian Encore — have innovative gaming and virtual reality zones called Galaxy Pavilion (a fourth Galaxy Pavilion area on Norwegian Joy is being removed during an overhaul in dry dock scheduled for early 2024).

There's nothing quite like Galaxy Pavilion in the cruise world. The venue has an amazing array of high-tech virtual reality experiences, including incredibly realistic race car simulators (on Norwegian Encore, there are eight in a row along one wall), hang gliding simulators, virtual mazes and a virtual reality "Jurassic Park" ride.

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The Galaxy Pavilion on Norwegian Encore is the biggest of them all. Among added features, it includes a 45-minute escape room experience laced with special effects. Themed around a Spanish galleon, it's designed to be played by up to six people at a time.

Just be warned that you'll pay a hefty fee to play in the Galaxy Pavilion. A weeklong pass to the venue will set you back $199 per person. There also are hourlong passes available for $29 per person, or you can sample a single ride for $8 (except for the escape room, which is priced separately at $15 per person).

There's also a bowling alley on Norwegian Epic and duck pin bowling lanes on Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Breakaway.

Norwegian ships also all have Mandara Spas, which can be quite big on the bigger vessels, and there are fitness centers on every ship.

Deck-top attractions

What you'll find on the top decks of Norwegian ships will vary quite a bit depending on the vessel. The line's smaller ships will have at least one or two pools, sunning areas and usually a sports court area — but not all that much else.

The big ships are a different story.

On the line's Breakaway-, Breakaway Plus- and Epic-class ships, you'll find giant waterslides and kiddie splash zones and, in some cases, even more over-the-top attractions such as go-kart tracks and laser tag arenas.

The go-kart tracks (now on Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy) are quickly becoming Norwegian's signature can-you-believe-this-is-on-a-ship attraction, and they truly are impressive. The biggest two of them, on Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima, are nearly 1,400 feet long and sprawl over three decks.

Note that this is some serious go-karting. The cars that Norwegian uses can hit speeds up to 32 miles per hour. Three of the speedways, on Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Encore, also feature middle-of-the-track observation areas where your family and friends can cheer you on to victory — and even shoot you with "lasers" that'll give you a boost of power.

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The open-air laser tag arenas also are significant venues that are unlike anything you'll find atop the ships of other lines. The one on Norwegian Encore, which is the largest laser tag arena ever put on a ship, is themed around the lost city of Atlantis and spans the back of the vessel.

As is the case with the Galaxy Pavilion attractions mentioned above, the go-kart and laser tag experiences on Norwegian ships don't come cheap. You'll pay $15 per person for an eight-lap romp on the go-karts. Joining a five-minute laser shootout costs $10 per person. In both cases, you can buy a weeklong pass for $199.

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The top decks of a few Norwegian ships — mostly the bigger ones — also have a ropes course, a climbing wall or both. Some vessels also have miniature golf courses.

You'll find an exclusive, extra-charge, adults-only VIP sunning area on seven Norwegian ships called Vibe Beach Club. The biggest of these areas is on Norwegian Encore, where Vibe Beach Club is an expansive private lounge with a full-service bar, cabanas and two hot tubs designed to hold up to 270 people — far more than on other ships.

For those with money to burn (pricing on Norwegian Encore recently was $99 per person for a day pass), the Vibe Beach Clubs are lovely, secluded deck-top hideaways. However, there's a downside for everyone else on board the ships that have them, which is that they take away from the deck-top lounge space available to everybody else.

Related: The 12 cruise ships with the most spectacular attractions at sea

Children's programs

As is typical for big-ship cruise lines, Norwegian has an extensive children's program, with programs and activities for children as young as 6 months through the age of 17.

The heart of the program, called Splash Academy, brings free, supervised activities daily for children ages 3 to 12. The line splits children here up into three age groups: Turtles (ages 3 to 5), Seals (ages 6 to 9) and Dolphins (ages 10 to 12), and they each have their own age-appropriate activities ranging from treasure hunts to video game competitions. On many ships, there are extensive dedicated spaces for the different groups.

While the free programming ends at 10:30 p.m., you can pay extra to leave your kids at Splash Academy past 10:30 p.m. until 1:30 a.m., when it's billed as the Late Night Fun Zone.

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Norwegian also has rooms on its ships for babies and toddlers ages 6 months to 3 years. Called Guppies, the program offers parents a place to play with their youngest children, with occasional youth staff-led activities and games.

Norwegian also offers dedicated teen zones and programming on ships for children ages 13 to 17. Called Entourage, the teen zone is a place for teens to hang out, dance and play games, and it's supervised by counselors who plan activities and challenges.

What to know before you go

Required documents.

A passport is required for all cruises leaving from a non-U.S. port and all Panama Canal sailings (regardless of departure port). If you're a U.S. citizen, you don't need a passport for most sailings from U.S. ports (including sailings to the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, the Mexican Riviera and Alaska).

Instead, you can travel with a state-certified birth certificate or other proof of citizenship and a driver's license or other government-issued photo identification. That said, Norwegian strongly recommends that all travelers bring a passport.

Passports must be valid for at least six months after your trip, and the name on your reservation must be exactly as it's printed on your passport or other official proof of nationality.

Norwegian adds an automatic service charge of $20 to $25 per person, per day, to final bills, depending on your cabin category. Depending on the service you receive, you can adjust the amount up or down at the guest services desk before disembarking. In addition, a 20% gratuity is added to the bill at bars, extra-charge specialty restaurants and ship spas.

Related: Everything you need to know about tipping on a cruise ship

Norwegian has been rolling out faster Wi-Fi systems across its fleet in recent years, so you can now stream video on ships.

Pricing changes over time, but the fastest "premium" service on Norwegian vessels recently was priced at $39.99 per person per day, if you bought it in advance. Norwegian also offers a less expensive plan that doesn't allow video streaming for $29.99 per person per day if purchased in advance.

This pricing is quite a bit higher than what some other lines, such as Carnival or Princess, charge for Wi-Fi. Princess recently was charging just $14.99 per person per day for a WiFi package.

Related: Wi-Fi on ships really is getting better

Carry-on drinks policy

Norwegian allows you to bring bottles of your own wine or Champagne on board, but it will charge you a hefty corkage fee of $15 per bottle for the privilege — even if you plan to drink the bottle in your room. This is a more draconian policy than you'll find at most lines. Most lines allow passengers to bring at least a bottle or two of their own wine on board at no charge.

Smoking policy

On all ships, smoking (including e-cigarette smoking) is only allowed in designated outdoor areas, cigar lounges (for cigar smoking only) and casinos. It's forbidden in cabins and on cabin balconies. Passengers caught smoking in their cabins will be fined $250 per occurrence.

Unlike many cruise vessels, Norwegian ships do not have self-serve launderettes on cabin decks for passenger use. Instead, the line offers extra-charge laundry and dry cleaning services.

Related: Everything you need to know about cruise ship laundry services

Electrical outlets

All cabins on Norwegian vessels have standard North American-style, 110-volt outlets and European-style, 220-volt outlets. Some cabins also have USB ports.

The currency used on all Norwegian itineraries is U.S. dollars. All vessels operate on a cashless system with any onboard purchases you make posting automatically to your onboard account. You'll receive a cruise card you can use to make charges. This same card also lets you into your cabin.

Drinking age

The official drinking age on Norwegian ships is 21. That said, passengers who are 18 to 20 can purchase and consume beer or wine on ships in international waters with permission from parents or legal guardians. The parent or legal guardian must be on board and sign a waiver at guest services. The lower drinking age in international waters does not apply during sailings in Alaska and Hawaii.

Norwegian Cruise Line may be the most laid-back line out there when it comes to dress codes. You can basically wear whatever you want, whenever you want.

The line specifically says that casual wear (think: khakis, jeans, shorts and casual shirts for men; casual dresses, skirts, shorts, jeans and tops for women) is just fine anytime during the day, at the buffet and in most specialty restaurants.

The line just recommends a step up to "smart casual" outfits in its more formal dining rooms and upscale specialty restaurants. In keeping with Norwegian's laid-backness, this might still mean nothing more than a crisper pair of jeans, or maybe slacks with a collared shirt, for men. Definitely no need for a jacket. For women, slacks, jeans, dresses, skirts and tops will do fine.

Related: What to pack for your first cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line loyalty program

Norwegian has a point-based frequent cruiser program, Latitudes Rewards, that has seven tiers, ranging from Bronze (requiring 1 point) to Ambassador (700 points).

Members earn points for every night they sail on one of the line's ships. They get an additional point for every night they stay in a concierge room, a suite (not including stays in minisuites, or stays in suites resulting from an upgrade) or a room in The Haven. They also get an additional point for every night booked through a Latitudes Rewards Insider Offer.

Hitting the first tier, Bronze, takes one cruise. Reaching the second tier, Silver (20 points), would take at the most three cruises if you're doing seven-night trips.

Related: Everything you need to know about the Norwegian loyalty program

Lower tiers don't bring all that much in terms of truly valuable benefits. You'll get things like priority check-in and discounted spa treatments performed while ships are in port. However, higher levels of the program start to be enticing.

Platinum (75 points) brings free dinners at two extra-charge restaurants, a discount on an internet package, behind-the-scenes ship tours and concierge service.

The top Ambassador level brings a truly wonderful perk: a one-time complimentary seven-night cruise in a balcony cabin. You can pick almost any sailing except trips around Christmas and the new year.

In contrast to airline frequent-flyer programs, cruise line loyalty programs do not require you to requalify for status every year. So, yes, the perks with lower tiers aren't great. But it's not as difficult as it might at first seem to hit the more rewarding higher tiers in just a few years if you're cruising a lot.

A passenger staying in suites and booking through Latitudes Rewards Insider Offers could get to the Platinum level with just four seven-night cruises.

Related: The TPG guide to cruise line loyalty programs

How much does a Norwegian cruise cost?

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Norwegian designs its ships to appeal to a broad mix of people, in part by offering a wide range of cabin types at varying price points. On a typical sailing, you might find an entry-level cabin for around $100 a night while a high-end suite is five to 15 times that amount.

At the time of this story's posting, A The Haven two-bedroom family villa on Norwegian Jewel for a seven-night Alaska cruise in August 2024, for example, was going for $13,978 per person, based on double occupancy. That's more than 13 times the cost of the least expensive inside cabin (which was starting at $1,058 per person, based on double occupancy). Oceanview cabins on the same sailing started at $1,698 per person, based on double occupancy.

Note the "based on double occupancy" caveat in the above paragraph. As is typical for cruise lines, Norwegian charges on a per-person basis, not per room, and it prices most cabins based on two people occupying a room. It does offer some cabins for solo travelers on some ships that are priced based on single occupancy.

In general, Norwegian's newer ships including Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima and the Breakaway-class and Breakaway Plus-class vessels will be more expensive than the line's older, smaller ships. However, there are many factors that go into pricing for any given cruise, including the popularity of the specific itinerary, the time of year when the cruise is taking place and changing demand trends.

As you might expect, pricing for all ships will generally be lower during offseason periods such as September and October.

The timing of when you book can also matter. Cruises book up much further in advance than airplanes or hotels, and many cruisers will tell you the best pricing for any given sailing often is available when cruises first go on sale (which can be a good two years before a departure). Booking far in advance will also give you the best chance of getting your preferred cabin type and location on a ship.

Once on board a Norwegian ship, you'll pay extra for most drinks, extra-charge restaurants, spa services, shore excursions, internet service and a few other things — unless you've bought a package for some of these items in advance. Some onboard activities such as go-karting also come with an extra charge. What's included in the fare is your lodging, meals (in non-extra-charge restaurants) and most entertainment.

Related: 15 ways that first-time cruisers waste money on a cruise

How to book

If you're sure you know what sort of cabin you want, on which ship, on which itinerary — and about a dozen other things — you can head over to ncl.com to make a booking directly.

That said, given the complexity of booking a cruise (there are a lot of decisions to make during the booking process — trust us) we recommend you use a seasoned travel agent who specializes in cruises.

A good travel agent will quiz you about your particular interests, travel style and preferences, and steer you to the perfect cruise line, ship, itinerary and cabin for you. They can also help you if something goes wrong just before, during or after your voyage.

If you're sure Norwegian is your line, look for a travel agent who specializes in trips with the brand. You want someone who understands all the little quirks that are unique to Norwegian's cabin categories and, preferably, has done ship inspections to see the cabins firsthand.

Whether you use a travel agent or not, make sure to maximize your purchase when paying for the cruise by using a card that offers extra points for travel purchases . This could be the Chase Sapphire Reserve , which offers 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and dining (excluding the annual $300 travel credit), or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card , which brings 2 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on travel and 3 Ultimate Rewards points per dollar spent on dining.

Bottom line

For big-ship lovers, Norwegian pretty much has it all. There's tons of great entertainment on Norwegian's vessels, plenty of venues for eating and drinking, and all sorts of deck-top diversions — at least on the line's newest ships. Throw in the brand's low starting prices, and it's an even more compelling package.

If we have a gripe with the line, it's about the "extra-charge creep" we've been seeing for attractions on Norwegian ships such as go-karts and laser tag in recent years, and the higher a la carte prices spreading across the line's onboard restaurants.

Then again, you get what you pay for, as the saying goes. If you're on a tight budget, there are plenty of included-in-the-fare choices for dining and entertainment. If money is no object, you can follow a different "journey" through the ship, as Norwegian executives like to say, to a far more high-end vacation.

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I sailed on Norwegian Cruise Line's new $1.1 billion Prima cruise ship with two Starbucks, a 10-story slide, and a go-kart track — see what it was like

  • Norwegian Cruise Line's newest $1 billion Norwegian Prima ship is ready for revenue sailings in the US.
  • The cruise ship is the first of six "Prima class" vessels that'll be delivered from 2022 to 2027.
  • Let's take a look around the 18-deck cruise ship with amenities for travelers of all ages.

Norwegian Cruise Line's newest cruise ship — the Norwegian Prima — is finally ready for revenue sailings in the US five years after it was first announced.

norwegian cruise line inside

Source: Insider , Norwegian Cruise Line 

And while it's not the biggest new vessel we've seen over the last few years, the 18-deck cruise liner certainly has enough amenities to keep travelers of all ages entertained.

norwegian cruise line inside

Source: Insider

In 2017, Norwegian announced its new Prima class, a group of six ships that will be delivered from 2022 to 2027 starting with this eponymous ship that cost more than $1 billion to build.

norwegian cruise line inside

Source: Norwegian Cruise Line 

And when it first opened for bookings in 2021, the Prima quickly became Norwegian's "most in-demand ship ever" after it saw record number of bookings within the first day and week, the cruise line announced in 2021.

norwegian cruise line inside

Source: Norwegian Cruise Line

With all its onboard amenities, it's easy to see why travelers have flocked to this new ship.

norwegian cruise line inside

So let's take a look around the 965-foot-long Norwegian Prima that can accommodate 3,100 guests and a little over 1,506 crew.

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In a bid to attract families, the Prima has a long list of activities and amenities for travelers of all ages, whether it be the water park for children …

norwegian cruise line inside

… the go-kart track for the whole family …

norwegian cruise line inside

… or the spa and adults only lounge for parents.

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The heart of the new ship is the Penrose Atrium on deck six, an airy and modern three-story gathering space that branches into bars, the casino, and the Prima Theater for live shows.

norwegian cruise line inside

Nighttime shows are a staple cruise ship entertainment offering.

norwegian cruise line inside

Here, the new ship brings travelers back in time with a "The Price Is Right Live" show and a Broadway-ready "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical" …

norwegian cruise line inside

… while adding a modern and fresh flair with a tap dancing and beat boxing mashup in the "Noise Boys" show.

norwegian cruise line inside

Back to the atrium and up its stairs, cruise goers will find themselves on deck seven, the home of one of Prima's Starbucks outposts and a glass walking bridge.

norwegian cruise line inside

Drinks and entertainment flow throughout this deck with a comedy club, a cover band bar and venue, and a cocktail bar that uses syrups and liqueurs made — some of which are made with the ship's discarded food scraps.

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Above this on deck 8, the outdoor walking path and lounges are the star of the show.

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For warm days at sea, travelers can relax on the Ocean Boulevard ...

norwegian cruise line inside

… an open-air stretch of lounge chairs, pools, and a sculpture garden.

norwegian cruise line inside

The spa and gym are then located on deck 16 …

norwegian cruise line inside

… the same deck as "The Haven," an exclusive lounge, restaurant, and sundeck for travelers staying in the higher-end Haven staterooms.

norwegian cruise line inside

But the Prima's true leisure and entertainment showpieces are nestled on the ship's 17th and 18th deck.

norwegian cruise line inside

Here, Norwegian's efforts to appeal to families truly shines through with the addition of a virtual reality arcade …

norwegian cruise line inside

… tri-level go-kart track …

norwegian cruise line inside

… a collection of outdoor games like a mini-golf course, a modern take on traditional darts, and a pickleball court ...

norwegian cruise line inside

... and a glass-enclosed observation lounge with an adjacent bar.

norwegian cruise line inside

Most cruise ships have at least one pool and hot tub.

norwegian cruise line inside

But on the Prima, there are three pools, four hot tubs …

norwegian cruise line inside

… a petite children's water park, and a waterslide, the latter an increasingly popular addition to cruise ships.

norwegian cruise line inside

If the waterslide doesn't provide enough thrill, there's also a freefall slide — this one's dry — that drops passengers down ten decks in just a few seconds.

norwegian cruise line inside

And what would be a cruise trip without an abundance of food?

norwegian cruise line inside

There are several on board and specialty restaurants scattered throughout the ship for travelers to dine on sushi, Mediterranean food, and even teppanyaki at sea.

norwegian cruise line inside

For hungry diners who thrive in the face of decision paralysis, the Prima also has an indoor-outdoor food hall with 11 restaurants and a touchpad ordering system …

norwegian cruise line inside

… giving travelers the chance to try an international noodle bar, Indian restaurant, and rotisserie concept all in one meal.

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The multiple kitchens and two food trucks turned this expansive hall into the Prima's most expensive and difficult dining concept to pull off, Wesley Cort, the cruise line's vice president of food and beverage operations, told Insider during a media panel.

norwegian cruise line inside

But this effort may be worth it: With all the onboard restaurants, an additional buffet, and this food hall, guests could avoid having a repeat meal during their cruise.

norwegian cruise line inside

"[This ship] is a huge investment but the return on investment is phenomenal," Simon Murray, Norwegian's vice president guest experiences and innovation, said during the panel.

norwegian cruise line inside

"These ships are difficult to build," he continued. "There's only so much expertise in the planet that has the knowledge and the know-how to build these things."

norwegian cruise line inside

Throughout 2023, the new ship will bring passengers to a wide variety of destinations and climates like the Caribbean and Iceland.

norwegian cruise line inside

The popular cruise line has several itineraries sailing for under $80 a day in 2023, according to data compiled by Cruise Sheet.

norwegian cruise line inside

Source: Cruise Sheet

But don't expect these low rates to apply to the new Prima.

norwegian cruise line inside

Rates per person aboard the new ship in 2023 begin at almost $780 for a week-long roundtrip from Orlando, Florida to the Caribbean, a spokesperson told Insider in an email.

norwegian cruise line inside

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20+ Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know

Sailing aboard a Norwegian cruise? You’re no doubt excited, but might have some questions on what exactly to expect and maybe some tips to help your trip go more smoothly. 

NCL sign

Above all, you should know that you’re about to have a great time. Norwegian is a popular cruise line, and one of our personal favorites.

But if you’ve never been on the cruise line, there things to know that can make your trip better. 

Overview: What It’s Like to Sail Aboard Norwegian

Before we get into the things to know, you might be wondering what it’s like to sail aboard Norwegian Cruise Line… and how it is different from other cruise lines. For that, we have an entire guide to sailing NCL here .

In general all those things that you love about taking a cruise on any line apply to Norwegian. If you’ve sailed other lines, you will likely find the experience to be similar overall.

For instance, the ships are almost works of art (especially newer ones) and an engineering marvel. There’s a big focus on things to do on the ship, and it starts with your time around the pool, often with large pool decks, plenty of chairs, as well as things like putt-putt, sport courts, and more to keep everyone occupied. There’s also a big focus on food and drink; there’s no way that you will go hungry or thirsty on your cruise.

But while Norwegian Cruise Line might offer an experience that cruisers know and love, there are some touches that set the cruise line apart from others.

A Focus on Outdoors : While any cruise ship will have outdoor space, Norwegian seems to be on a trend toward opening up the outdoors to the indoors. For instance, some newer ships have observation lounges with tall multi-story windows with 180-degree views. Ships also focus a lot on outdoor dining, and promenades that offer seaviews around the entire ship. NCL also likes to put open promenades down closer to the ocean, putting you closer to the sea.

The Haven : If you’re a cruise passenger with a higher budget, then Norwegian offers The Haven, which is unique to their ships. Instead of just offering a suite, The Haven is essentially a “resort within a resort.” In addition to luxurious (and large) rooms, the area has private entry, its own pool, restaurant, and bar. It offers the small ship experience with larger ship amenities.

Cruise Line Size : We like to think of Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian as the “Big Three” cruise lines. They dominate the market. But when it comes to size, Norwegian is the smallest of these three. What does that mean for you? Once on the ship, it means very little. But when planning, Norwegian sails from fewer ports and has fewer total sailings than its bigger rivals, so you don’t have as many options.

Onboard Expenses: Every cruise line aims to get passengers spending on the ship, but Norwegian seems to have prices that are higher than rivals like Carnival and Royal Caribbean. Internet and drink packages — two major areas of onboard spending — are good examples. Specifically the basic drink package is $109 per person, per day . Compare that to Carnival, which charges around $60. 

Tips & Things to Know About Sailing Norwegian Cruise Lines

norwegian cruise line inside

Now that you have an idea of what you can expect on board, below we’ve pulled together some of our favorite tips and things to know for sailing on a Norwegian cruise. Use these ideas to make your trip as much fun as possible, but also potentially save money, time, and have a better vacation.

Sail on the Newer Ships When Possible (There’s a Big Difference!)

Over the last few years Norwegian has made big headlines by introducing some of the most extravagant ships at sea. Ships like the Norwegian Joy , Bliss, Encore , Prima , and Viva take cruising to another level with the public areas, restaurants, and things to do on the ship. For instance, you can even ride go-karts or dabble in virtual reality — all on a ship that’s built with a luxury feel (especially the new Prima-class vessels).

While older ships are typically cheaper to sail, we’ve found them smaller and with fewer things to do on board. Unless you only want to sit by the pool and relax, newer ships offer so much more to passengers, and the design and atmosphere is second-to-none.

So if you have the means, we recommend sailing on the newer ships.

Download the Cruise Norwegian App (It’s Free)

Everyone has an app these days, including cruise lines. The big difference? Instead of doing something silly like showing how you will look when you’re older, the cruise line apps — including the  Cruise Norwegian app  — are extremely useful.

Download it for free and you can use it for tons of things on the ship. It includes deck plans (so you don’t get lost), an overview of your onboard spending, the daily schedules, and you can even book reservations and excursions. Best of all, you don’t have to purchase wi-fi on the ship to use the app. It can save you a ton of time and headache.

Make Reservations Early (As Early As You Can)

norwegian cruise line inside

These days there is a lot to do on new ships from specialty restaurants to activities onboard. Some Norwegian ships even have go-kart tracks at sea ! The thing is that with thousands of people on the ship and only a certain amount of open spots, the restaurants and things to do can fill up quickly. That’s why Norwegian has implemented a reservation system.

One piece of advice — sign up as early as you know you want to do something. Space is at a premium. You can do so through the app, through your online account, via phone, or once you are on the ship. No matter how you do it, just make sure you try and reserve a spot early so that you don’t miss out.

The “Free at Sea” Offer May Still Cost Gratuities

One of the big draws to Norwegian has been their  “Free at Sea” offer . You book a cabin and you can get the regular bare-bones fare, or you can get a number of perks included for a slightly fare. The perks include everything from shore excursion credit to alcohol packages to wi-fi.

You can choose whether or not to take advantage of the deal and even which perks you would like.

One thing to watch out for is gratuity. If you select an option that typically has gratuity — like the alcoholic drink package — then you still have to pay this amount. For instance, the drink package is normally $109 per person, per day. But it also has a 20% gratuity on top of that. So even with the free drinks offer, you’re paying around $20 per day. A couple on a weeklong cruise would pay a total of about $300 in gratuities on the free drink offer.

Keep this in mind. You’re still getting a good deal as far as a drink package for $20, but it might be an added expense you didn’t realize you’d have to pay.

Know That Prices for “Free at Sea” Are Often Higher (But Usually Not By Much)

We mentioned the “Free at Sea” offer above that’s been popular for Norwegian. Depending on which cabin you cruise, you can get a number of freebies included with your cruise like free drinks or free wi-fi.

One thing to watch, however, is that you actually end up paying more for the ‘free’ perk. For instance, we did a recent search for a balcony cabin on an upcoming 7-night cruise. The headline price shown was $1,599 per person, for a “sail away” balcony. This is a cabin where Norwegian picks your room, and it isn’t eligible for any of the perks in the “Free at Sea” offer.

Want to get perks included? The cheapest balcony cabin in our example search with the free perks was $1,649 — $50 more per person . This $50 per person increase seems to be consistent in our check.

That’s not exactly “free,” but it’s a small price to pay for a drink package, wi-fi, shore excursion credit, and specialty dining.

Norwegian Casinos Are a Great Place to Learn Games

Table games and slot machines on a cruise

Lots of people that go on cruises love the casino. It’s a fun way to spend some time at sea whether you’re a serious gambler or just like to bet a few bucks.

Always wanted to try a new casino game but been too intimidated? That’s understandable. It’s scary to saddle up next to a bunch of pros at a blackjack table or when rolling dice in a craps game.

On Norwegian, the casino offers daily classes on games. Here, newbies can take their turn learning the rules and playing practice rounds without risking cash.

Even without the classes, cruise ship casinos are a great place to get your feet wet with new games. Limits are low , making it less intimidating for beginners.

Want to Cruise Hawaii? Norwegian Is Your Best Bet (Here’s Why)

Is Hawaii on your bucket list? Then check out cruises aboard NCL’s Pride of America. Through U.S. law, foreign-flagged vessels can’t pick up passengers from an American port and take to to another American port without having a stop in a foreign country. The vast majority of cruise ships are flagged under a foreign nation. That means to go to Hawaii, they have to put in a visit to another country along the way. 

That’s why most cruise lines leave a port like Los Angeles, sail to Hawaii, and then return for a quick visit to Mexico before heading home. Given the distance, it ends up to be a lot of time at sea.

NCL, however, operates Pride of America — the only major cruise ship we know of that’s flagged under the United States. That means it can sail all around the Hawaiian Islands, instead of spending days traveling to another country to comply with the law. So instead of spending days at sea, you spend more time exploring Hawaii and simply fly back and forth from the mainland.

Dine Outside for Fantastic Views

norwegian cruise line inside

For some reason cruise ships seem to keep getting bigger and better but continue to bring you more inside to the shops and the restaurants. One thing that Norwegian does really well is give passengers places to connect with the ocean. One example is their outside dining.

Now, you might think that sitting outside to eat during a cruise is pretty simple. Truth is, there’s a lot to take into consideration, including the sun, rain, and the constant wind as the ship is underway.

Norwegian, however, takes all this into account with covered spots to eat that are also out of the wind. The result? A number of great places where you can sit outside, sip a drink, and enjoy a meal without having to worry about a sunburn or the wind carrying your napkin away.

The Fish (Or Other Designs) Face Forward to Tell You Where You’re Headed

norwegian cruise line inside

A quick and easy tip to help you get your bearings on the ship — the fish face forward. Let us explain…

In the halls of the ship where there aren’t any windows, it’s easy to get turned around. All the cabin doors look the same and the hallways are long. You could walk for hundreds of feet before realizing you’re going in the wrong direction. In this case, just look down.

Many Norwegian ships have carpets with a design with lots of small fish. Other ships it’s a design with random triangles. As an aid to passengers, all the of these face forward. So you are walking in the direction of the fish or the triangles on the carpet, you’re going forward. Walking the opposite direction? Then you’re headed aft.

This can save you a lot of time, frustration, and wasted steps as you leave the cabin and head to go have fun. Look down, and the fish will tell you where to go.

Get Your Spot at the Pool Early on Harvest Caye

Pool on Harvest Caye island

One of the favorite stops by Norwegian ships is Harvest Caye . The private island in the southwest Caribbean is a beach-lover’s paradise. There’s ample space to lay out by the beach, a huge freshwater pool, restaurants, bars, shops, ziplines and more. And because it’s only for Norwegian cruise ships, it’s like your own personal paradise.

One tip is to head to the pool first thing on the island and stake out a spot. Even visiting on a smaller ship, we’ve found that the chairs around the pool fill up quickly. It’s by far the most popular spot on the island.

If you head over in the late morning or early afternoon, there might not be a single open chair. During our visit we didn’t hit the pool until the peak time and had to just set our stuff on the ground. Crowds are much thinner in the early morning or late afternoon when many have headed back to the ship already.

Now, we’re not saying to be a chair hog. So don’t just set your stuff down and leave. But if you know you want some pool time, try to do it early.

Head to the 24-Hour Restaurant for Fresher Food

While cruise ship buffets are on every ship, not everyone is a fan of them. Want something fresher that’s made special for you? Head to the 24-hour restaurant on the ship.

Each Norwegian ship will have a restaurant (O’Sheehans on some, The Local on others) that serves around the clock. Have a seat, get whatever you want on the menu, and you don’t have to pay anything. The nice part is that there is a variety of things to eat, and it’s prepared for you instead of being intended to feed the masses.

Are You an Investor? You Could Get Up to $250 Onboard Credit

Most of the major cruise lines are actually part of larger public companies, including Norwegian. That means you can actually own a stake in the ship that you sail. Shares of the company trade under the ticker “NCLH”. And for those owning at least 100 shares at the time of sailing, then you are eligible for a shareholder benefit.

The amount of the benefit depends on the length of your cruise, and is currently set as follows:

  • $250 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings of 15 days or more
  • $100 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings of 7 to 14 days
  • $50 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings of 6 days or fewer

You’ll need to submit some documentation before you sail. If you want to take advantage, then you can read more about the benefit here .

No Reservation? There Might Still Be Space Available

Miss out on making a reservation before a specialty restaurant was booked up? Head down anyway. Reservations are important, but there is still a chance you can get a seat.

Often times people make reservations and then don’t show. Or other times there is still a space, even if the reservation list is full.

The best bet is to show up early or late in the dining time — not during the peak when most people want to eat. In fact, we’ve personally showed up to a restaurant that had a full reservation list and found it largely empty when it first opened, allowing us to grab dinner with no problem.

NCL Has the Youngest (Major) Fleet in the Industry

norwegian cruise line inside

There’s no arguing that the salt and sun take a toll on anything near the coast — especially ships. At the same time, the pace of development on cruise ships is breathtaking. A ship built 20 years ago barely even compares to a ship built today.

That’s why it’s noteworthy that NCL features the youngest fleet of any of the major cruise lines. In fact, its oldest ship was built just over 20 years ago, but many more ships have been built recently. And with the addition of its Prima class — where one new ship is slated to join the fleet each year through 2027 — that fleet should continue to stay fresh.

Want a Deal? Look for the Drink of the Day

On some cruise lines, the Drink of the Day isn’t anything special. The cruise line literally just calls a drink the “Drink of the Day” to make it seem special and charges the same amount.

Norwegian is different. On their cruises the Drink of the Day is actually discounted a couple of bucks. So if a cocktail is normally $11, it will be priced at only $9. It’s a small difference, but it’s nice to get a little discount. So not only can you try something new each day, but you can also save money doing so.

Be Prepared For Higher Prices

As mentioned above, Norwegian’s “Free at Sea” offering is popular… and for good reason. For just a little more, you can get a lot of extras included with your cruise. This can be everything from wi-fi minutes to drink packages to shore excursion credit. 

One thing to note, however, is that if you don’t opt for this — and even if you do — you should be prepared for higher prices than what you see on many other lines. 

We mentioned that the drink package starts at $109 per person, per day plus a 20% gratuity. That’s considerably higher than most lines. Unlimited wi-fi runs as much as $40 per day. Gratuities cost $20 per person, per day for most cabins (and $25 for higher-end rooms). Then there are charges for things like the go-karts and the Galaxy Pavilion (a high-end video gaming experience) on newer ships.

Bottom line, it seems that NCL prices many things at a premium. Don’t have sticker shock.

Weather at Great Stirrup Cay Can Cause Cancellations

You wake up, the sun is shining, the sea is blue, and your day at Great Stirrup Cay (NCL’s private island) is… cancelled?

Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas is a must-see. It features beautiful beaches, activities, food, and more, and it’s all for the exclusive use of NCL passengers. But the ship anchors offshore and then a smaller boat (a tender) brings you in.

Unfortunately, we’ve been on a cruise where the stop was cancelled because, while the weather was beautiful, it was too windy for the tenders to operate. Instead, we spent the day at sea. To be sure, it is disappointing. Just know that since there is no dock, weather is a bigger issue on if you’ll actually be able to visit.

Sugarcane Mojito Bar Can’t Miss

Every cruise line has their own unique bars like Carnival’s Alchemy Bar or Royal Caribbean’s Bionic Bar. One of the special ones on NCL is the Sugarcane Mojito Bar.

This spot features an intimate setting that’s filled with comfy leather seats and dark wood panels that give you a Cuban vibe. But what’s special is the menu. It’s all focused on mojitos.

You can try a jalapeno cucumber mojito, or a pineapple coconut style. One that we thought sounded most interesting is the Floridita, made with Bacardi, grapefruit juice, maraschino liqueur, and lime.

Even if you’re not a huge mojito fan, the vibe and atmosphere is something you’ll want to stop and enjoy.

Bring White (or Neon) Clothing for the Party

One tip is if you are sailing the Caribbean, you’ll want to bring some white or neon clothing with you. On trips to this area, the cruise line often puts on white — or now moving to “glow” — parties on the pool deck. So you’ll head out to poolside at night, listen to some music, dance, and generally have a great time while all glammed up in either white or neon.

And after the main party, there is likely an afterparty located in the ship’s nightclub.

Wi-Fi Package Prices Fall Through the Trip

There’s no arguing that NCL likes to push prices higher. In fact, cruise line executives have said as much. That can lead to some pricey items on the ship. For example, the highest-tier of wi-fi service runs a staggering $40 per day if bought onboard, and you buy service for a whole cruise.

But there is a way you can save some money. We’ve noticed with sailing NCL that after each day you can still buy the Internet package, but the total cost reduces day by day. So if you buy the $40 service on the first day of a 7-day cruise, you’ll pay about $280 for the trip. Wait until the next day, and the price drops to around $240, and so on.

So if you can go without for a couple of days at the start of the cruise, you should be able to save some considerable money.

Boarding Early Means Waiting on a Cabin

norwegian cruise line inside

We all want to get on the ship early and start our vacation. What we’ve noticed, however, is that boarding early (before 1-2 p.m.) usually means having to wait for your cabin to be ready. So you’ll board the ship and find that the doorways to the cabin hallways will be closed off.

You can still enjoy the ship, but you’ll either have to drop off your luggage as you board and come back later to pick it up (there is a location where they will hold bags until rooms are ready), or explore the ship with your bag in tow.

Or you can just wait to board later and be able to go right to your room as you get on the ship.

Souvenir Glasses Make Cool Keepsakes

Souvenir glasses for drinks aren’t anything new in cruising. But often they are honestly pretty tacky or gaudy. They may be fun on the cruise ship, but they are nothing you’d really use at home.

On Norwegian Cruise Line, it’s a bit different. They offer souvenir glasses you can take home, but they offer cool styles. For instance, there is a porcelain tiki glass that would be perfect for sipping something in the summer back home. Or maybe you’d rather a porcelain pineapple mug?

The point is, instead of being junky plastic cups that get tossed after a few months, these glasses are things that you’ll actually want to use back home. 

Norwegian Doesn’t Allow Drinks Onboard

Something to know for those soda drinkers who might have a favorite brand — NCL as a whole serves Coca-Cola products. You won’t find Pepsi or other products from that company on the ship.

As well, Norwegian also doesn’t let you bring on beverages (other than a bottle of wine/champagne) when you board, unlike other cruise lines. So you can’t just bring on your preferred beverage for your trip.

So if you have a drink that you just can’t live without, then you’re going to have to wait until you reach a port of call.

More on Sailing NCL:

  • Worth It? Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide
  • Norwegian Cruise Line Gratuities (Tips): Full Guide to Cost & How They Work

Good Deal? Everything to Know About Norwegian’s “Free At Sea” Sale

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The New Attraction on Cruises: A Thermal Suite inside the Spa

Norwegian cruise line introduces a thermal spa suite, expanded three-bedroom suites, a larger vibe beach club, and new balcony rooms on norwegian joy..

  (photo credit: courtesy of NCL)

The Points Guy

The best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for every type of traveler

W hat's the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship? Over the years, I've sailed on all but three of Norwegian's 19 vessels, and my personal favorite is Norwegian Prima. I love its stylish design and upscale feel, as well as its wide mix of eateries, bars and entertainment.

Still, Norwegian Prima isn't necessarily the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for you. Whether you'll have a better time on one of the other 18 vessels in the Norwegian fleet will depend a lot on the type of traveler you are.

Norwegian has some vessels, such as Norwegian Encore, that are loaded with family-friendly attractions such as waterparks and go-kart tracks that are perfect for families with teens and tweens. To me, Norwegian Encore is an even better choice than Norwegian Prima for families with school-age kids.

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Other Norwegian cruise ships, such as Norwegian Epic and Norwegian Sun, have specific features that might make them better options for solo travelers or retirees. Certain Norwegian ships are best for budget travelers, while others are best for luxury travelers.

In short, the best Norwegian cruise ship for you will depend on a bunch of factors, and which ship is best for a trip with your family might not be your top pick for a couple's cruise or girlfriends' getaway.

Here we list our top picks for the best Norwegian cruise ships for five different types of travelers.

Norwegian Encore: Best for families

The best Norwegian Cruise Line ships for families, hands down, are the four giant, activity-packed ships of its Breakaway-Plus class: Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape. Of these, Norwegian Encore — the biggest of them all — is our top pick.

At 169,116 tons and carrying 3,958 passengers, Norwegian Encore is the largest ship in the Norwegian fleet. That means it has the most space for the many over-the-top family fun zones that are at the core of the four Breakaway-Plus vessels — a series of ships that was specifically designed with families in mind.

For starters, Norwegian Encore is home to some of the most thrilling waterslides at sea, as well as a kiddie splash zone that will have your little ones squealing with delight. But those are just the appetizers when it comes to family fun on the top deck of the ship.

Norwegian Encore is also the setting for one of the biggest go-kart racing tracks at sea . (Yes, this is a thing — Norwegian debuted the concept on its Breakaway-Plus-class ships and now has a go-kart track on five vessels.) Two decks high and nearly 1,150 feet long, the Norwegian Encore Speedway includes four sections that extend up to 13 feet over the sides of the vessel. The racecourse also features a middle-of-the-track observation area where your family and friends can cheer you on to victory — and even shoot you with "lasers" that'll give you a boost of power.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for families

In addition, Norwegian Encore has a large laser tag area on its top deck (one that I can tell you from personal experience is a blast) and a massive indoor gaming and virtual reality zone called the Galaxy Pavilion. Both are tween and teen favorites.

That's all on top of dedicated children's play areas, pools and family-friendly entertainment that will keep your family busy from morning to night.

In short, there are so many family-friendly things to do on Norwegian Encore that you and your kids likely won't be able to do it all in a single, weeklong cruise.

Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva: Best for luxury lovers

Luxury lovers have two new top choices in the Norwegian fleet: Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva .

Unveiled in 2022 and 2023, respectively, the 3,195-passenger vessels are the first entrants in a new class of Norwegian ships that the line has designed to be more upscale than its earlier vessels. An "elevation" of the brand is how executives describe it.

The upscale turn included loading Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva with the largest variety of suites and high-end cabins (13 categories in all) of any ships in the NCL fleet, including the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessel. If it's swanky digs you're after (and you have the money to spend), you'll find plenty of options on these ships.

Extra suite categories are just the start of what makes Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva the best Norwegian cruise ships for luxury lovers.

Notably, the entire back of each of these ships is dedicated to an upscale luxury zone for the fancy set called The Haven. Rising eight decks high, it's home to 107 of the aforementioned suites, a sprawling private indoor lounge area, private outdoor lounge and pool areas, and a private restaurant — all exclusively for the use of the deep-pocketed biggies who pay up for one of its suites.

Related: The 8 best cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

We've seen these private The Haven suite areas on Norwegian ships before but never on this scale. If it's living large on a Norwegian ship that's your goal, you're not going to find anything better than this.

Outside of The Haven, other areas on these ships have a more elegant feel of the sort you find in the fleets of Norwegian's higher-end sister brands, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises — albeit on a bigger scale.

The entryway to each of these ships, for instance, deposits you at the three-story-high Penrose Atrium, which may be the most beautiful atrium of any big ship at sea. It has a curvy, sculptural feel as if the entire space were an art piece.

It's a look that carries over to a bevy of high-end eateries, including Nama, a new-for-Norwegian sushi restaurant with a design that is as sophisticated as the sushi it serves. Also striking is the look of a version of Le Bistro, Norwegian's signature French eatery, that can be found on both of these vessels. Both of the spaces are built around three massive crystal chandeliers costing nearly $100,000 that hang down to the floor — a showstopper of a design element. Gold-leaf wallpaper lines its booth seating.

Notably, the public areas that include these restaurants feel more spacious than many of the other ships in the Norwegian fleet. Indeed, they are. Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva were built with a higher ratio of space to passengers than earlier Norwegian vessels, which itself is an upscale touch. The ships also have a higher crew-to-passenger ratio than many Norwegian ships, leading to better service.

In short, these are the Norwegian ships to book when you want to take things up a notch.

Norwegian Sky: Best for budget travelers

Norwegian Sky is the Norwegian ship to pick when you're looking for a low-cost, easy-to-do getaway — at least in the summer months.

Based in Miami for part of the year, the 24-year-old vessel operates a mix of short three- to five-night voyages to the Bahamas out of the cruise hub as well as longer trips to the Caribbean from spring to fall that have one thing in common: They're unusually affordable on a per-night basis.

In many cases, Norwegian Sky sailings out of Miami will start under $100 a day per person, though it depends on the week and pricing for sailings can vary significantly. We sometimes see the ship's shorter sailings starting as low as $249 per person for the entire cruise.

Indeed, the ship often is at the top of the list when you sort cruises by lowest price on Norwegian's website.

For would-be Norwegian cruisers, Norwegian Sky's shorter sailings out of Miami serve as a sort of "test the line" opportunity. Their short time frame and low pricing mean you're not out a lot in time or money if you don't love it as much as you hoped. These shorter sailings cater heavily to first-time cruisers and Florida locals who can book on short notice and drive into the port for a quick escape.

One of two ships in the line's Sun class that date to the turn of the millennium, Norwegian Sky is far from the snazziest ship in the Norwegian fleet. This is both because of its age but also its size. At 77,104 tons and carrying 1,944 passengers, it's just half the size of Norwegian's biggest ships and has far fewer venues, from bars and restaurants to entertainment spaces. There is no giant water park on its top deck or a go-kart track to keep the kids busy all day, so it's not the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for families.

Related: The 8 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

That said, Norwegian Sky has its allures, one of which is that it has a much more intimate feel than the line's bigger vessels. It's a great choice for adults on a budget who are satisfied with the basics.

Norwegian Epic: Best for solo travelers

When it comes to the best Norwegian cruise ship for solo travelers, one ship stands out above all the others: Norwegian Epic.

Unveiled in 2010, Norwegian Epic caters to solo travelers like no other large cruise ship at sea — from any line, not just Norwegian — with an unusually large private zone for solo travelers that has its own two-story lounge for solo mixers as well as special solo cabins.

Tucked away in the middle of the ship, this "studio" zone is essentially a private escape for solos, with more solo cabins — 128 — than you'll find on any other ship at sea.

The cabins measure just 100 square feet but are superbly designed to maximize storage space. They're also clustered around the exclusive Studio Lounge, which has its own private bar and a television area where solo travelers can mingle at daily hosted happy hour gatherings.

Only solos staying in the solo cabins (via keycards) can access the Studio Lounge, meaning that you and your new solo friends will have the place to yourselves.

Related: The best cruise lines for solo travelers

Norwegian Epic was the first Norwegian ship with an exclusive solos zone, and it was such a hit the line later added them to eight more vessels. But none of the latter zones are as big as the one on Norwegian Epic.

The bigger Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Bliss all have an 82-cabin solo complex, while two older ships — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — have solo areas with 59 cabins. The line's two newest vessels, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian VIva, have 72-cabin solo complexes spread over two decks.

Norwegian also offers four solo cabins on its Hawaii-based Pride of America.

Having sailed in one of Norwegian Epic's cabins for one, I can confidently declare them among the coolest solo digs at sea. I particularly love the "Jetsons" futuristic-style design and the multicolored mood lighting.

One big caveat: They're all inside cabins without an ocean view, although most have a window that looks out onto a corridor.

Related: Why a windowless inside cabin isn't so bad

A bigger caveat, perhaps, is that these solo cabins have become so popular they often sell out far in advance and at prices that aren't much better than booking a cabin for two.

Norwegian Sun: Best for retirees

For older travelers looking for a Norwegian ship that isn't filled to the gills with children, Norwegian Sun is the perfect option.

Dating to 2001, Norwegian Sun is one of Norwegian's oldest and smallest vessels, and it lacks many of the family-focused onboard attractions that are typical for the line's newer and bigger vessels. You won't find big waterparks, go-kart racing tracks or laser tag zones on this ship.

Norwegian Sun's top deck mostly comprises sunning areas, with a single pool and whirlpools, as is typical for ships built more than two decades ago.

As a result, it draws far fewer families than most of the vessels mentioned above and caters more to an older crowd of mostly couples.

Norwegian Sun also is the ship that Norwegian deploys on some of its longest and most destination-focused itineraries, the type that particularly appeals to retirees looking to see more of the world.

Related: The 7 best cruises for seniors who love to travel

Over the next two years, for instance, Norwegian Sun is sailing lots of long voyages out of such less-common home ports as Benoa, Indonesia; Melbourne, Australia; Auckland, New Zealand; Buenos Aires, Argentina; and Papeete, Tahiti.

The sailings out of Papeete will offer the chance to visit such iconic French Polynesian islands as Bora Bora, Raiatea and Moorea. ia and Thailand in-depth, with departures ranging from 13 to 18 nights — the sort of cruise that appeals more to older couples than families.

The sailings in and out of Buenos Aires and Melbourne, all on the longer side, will offer in-depth explorations of the southern half of South America (Argentina, Uruguay and Chile) and New Zealand, respectively.

Norwegian Sun is also one of the smallest and least kid-focused of the five ships the line deploys to Alaska in summer, making it a good choice for retirees wanting to visit that destination. Families with kids naturally gravitate to the two giant, activity-packed vessels Norwegian sends to Alaska each summer — Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian ship

At 78,309 tons, Norwegian Sun is less than half the size of the biggest Norwegian ships, and it holds just 1,878 passengers at double occupancy. (Compare that to more than 4,000 for Norwegian's biggest vessels.) Expect a far more intimate experience than what you'll find on most of the ships mentioned above.

Note that due to the ship's small size, some of Norwegian's signature features, including a private The Haven suite complex and solo cabins, aren't found on the ship. Still, you'll find more than half a dozen eateries, including several main dining rooms, a casual buffet, a diner-style pub, a steak house, an Italian trattoria and a French bistro as well as a showroom with nightly shows, a casino, a multipurpose basketball/volleyball court, golf driving nets and a jogging track.

Bottom line

Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet consists of 19 ships that come in a wide range of sizes and feature differing mixes of venues and activities. Some are jampacked with fun zones that make them perfect for families, while others are geared toward couples and retirees. Some ships have attributes that make them stand out for luxury, solo or budget travelers.

If you're considering a Norwegian cruise, it pays to study not just the itineraries that are available from the line but the specific ships that are operating the itineraries. You want to make sure you end up on the best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for you.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Cruise Line Bliss cruising in Alaska.

NCL Inside Passage with Glacier Bay

A route showcasing Alaska's icy blue glaciers, diverse wildlife, and a rich history.

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Norwegian Cruises Inside Passage Glacier Bay from Seattle

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The Inside Passage with Glacier Bay itinerary maximizes time on shore by including just one full day at sea and another spent within the borders of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. The route visits four ports of call over its seven days, showcasing so much of what makes the region special: Fjords and mountains, gold rush history and native cultures, plentiful outdoor adventures and awe-inspiring scenery. Norwegian Cruise Lines runs this roundtrip cruise.

Daily Itinerary & Sailing Dates

Below is a general itinerary for this cruise. Note that there are variations in the exact cruise itinerary between sailing dates. Ports of call, route, and details will vary. Be sure to request a cruise quote using the links below or with our cruise finder to see the most up to date information for the particular voyage you are interested in.

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The cruise embarks from Pier 66 in downtown Seattle, a busy waterside metropolis known as the Emerald City.

Leaving the Pacific Northwest for the Alaskan Southeast, the route begins with a full day cruising north through the Pacific Ocean.

The route enters the calm waters of Alaska's Inside Passage en route to the journey's first port of call. Juneau, Alaska's state capital, is a fitting first port. Here, passengers can view glaciers from the air, wildlife from kayaks, and even whales from a smaller day cruise.

With a long day at port in Skagway, passengers have ample time to explore the town's gold rush beginnings and its many modern-day activities. Learn about the antics of Soapy Smith, Alaska's most infamous criminal, at the Days of '98 Show. Meet dog sled teams. Take to the tall trees on a zipline adventure.

Even the largest cruise ships are dwarfed by the high peaks surrounding Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. Nearby Mt. Fairweather rises an astonishing 15,325 feet above sea level. The cruise spends a full day at sea exploring this remote and pristine park.

The route returns once again to land for a morning port call in Ketchikan. The small coastal community is perched on the corner of Revillagigedo Island, a rambling and densely forested piece of land shared by Misty Fjords National Monument. Passengers can visit this nearby natural wonder via jetboat or floatplane.

Although surrounded by the dense temperate rainforests and wildlife-rich waters that define southeast Alaska, Victoria is an entirely different destination. The cruise docks for an evening in this refined Canadian city where garden tours, horse-drawn carriage rides, and high tea service rank among the most popular shore excursions.

The voyage comes to its end back in Seattle. Port services make airport transfers particularly easy in this cruise-friendly city.

  • Norwegian Cruise Line

"Family Inside" vs. "Inside"

By cruisincarly , October 7, 2011 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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cruisincarly

Hi! We just booked a cruise on the NCL Spirit in January and we have a "Family Inside" (we're 2 adults and a 3 year-old). I'm just curious as to what the difference between a "Family Inside" and a regular inside is. Is it just location?

I'm sure I'll have more questions as time goes by....we've been on cruises before (as you can see from my sig), but never with NCL. Definitely looking forward to it.

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Shellbelle28

Shellbelle28

Here is a link to a description of the various inside staterooms. You'll need to reference the category you booked to see how it compares.

http://www2.ncl.com/cruise-ship/spirit/staterooms/2/inside#tab_detail

Sauer-kraut

Sauer-kraut

Uhhh....one has a family in it?? :D

Here is a link to a description of the various inside staterooms. You'll need to reference the category you booked to see how it compares.   http://www2.ncl.com/cruise-ship/spirit/staterooms/2/inside#tab_detail
Thanks. Not sure why I couldn't find that page. I must be going blind.

They don't make it easy.

This topic is now archived and is closed to further replies.

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The Best Time to Cruise Alaska for Wildlife, Northern Lights, and Fewer Crowds

By Susan B. Barnes

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The best time to cruise Alaska isn't obvious—until you're quietly sailing along its calm waters under a cloudless, late-spring sky. It was on one such day that someone on board spotted a whale breaching. And then again. And again. Within minutes it seemed everyone on board had gathered at the railings on deck to watch. The captain of the ship nimbly repositioned us, giving both the port and starboard sides prime viewing, at a safe and respectful distance from the animals. With binoculars, cameras, and phones at the ready, the passengers and crew aboard  UnCruise Adventures'  86-guest  S.S. Legacy  settled in for what turned out to be an hour-long private show by a juvenile humpback who had migrated from Hawaii to spend the summer in the nutrient-rich Alaskan waters.

This is but one of the incredible experiences that may be had when visiting Alaska in the “secret season”—springtime. Not only are the flowers and plant life awakening from their wintertime slumber, so is its wildlife. Though the state’s more temperate summer season has long attracted its largest numbers of visitors, an increasing number of in-the-know travelers are looking to spring as the best time to cruise to Alaska , when they can count on fewer crowds—and increased savings—without sacrificing their chance to take advantage of the state’s landscape and  wildlife sightings .

On that same late-April voyage with UnCruise, the  Northern Lights  danced through the sky on night one, and through the week we spotted grizzly bear mamas and their cubs skirting the coastline; bald eagles soaring overhead; humpback whales and orcas breaking the water’s surface to breathe; puffins, seals, and sea lions bobbing in the water and laying out on rocks—even a wolf on the shoreline, feasting on a fresh kill. (Our captain said he had seen a wolf in Alaska only twice in his 30-year career.)

We sailed roundtrip from Juneau, and while I’ve visited the capital city during the busy summer months, I found the restaurants, bars, and shops much less crowded, reliably filled with locals for the most part. On the water, we rarely passed any other ships or boats, aside from fishermen out for their catches.

According to  Travel Alaska , cruising is the most popular way to explore the state, and Cruise Lines International Association Alaska predicts that 1.64 million cruise line passengers will sail to and within Alaska in 2024.

But when is really the best time to sail Alaska? We’ve broken the seasons down for you, including the highlights of each, as well as the best cruise lines and cruise ships to consider so you can make your bucket list dreams come true.

Celebrity Alaska Cruise

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge sets sail for the first time in Alaska this year.

April and May

If your schedule allows, not only does sailing Alaska in April and May afford the possibilities of glimpsing the Northern Lights and seeing wildlife emerge from their winter hibernation, it’s a more affordable and less crowded time to cruise, too. April and May are also the driest months in Alaska, so the chances of rain are slim.

Norwegian Cruise Line kicks off the 2024 Alaska cruise season when Norwegian Bliss sets sail on a weeklong, roundtrip itinerary from Seattle; she will be the only ship sailing in Alaska the first two weeks of spring. Balcony cabins are still available on the season’s inaugural sailing at a discounted fare of $1,029 per person .

Smaller ships like those that comprise UnCruise Adventures ’ and Alaska Dream Cruises ’ fleets can maneuver closer to the coastline for better views of bears rambling along the beaches and on-land excursions without another soul around. Uncruise’s 12-night “Inside Passage” itinerary departs April 15 with rates starting at $6,300 per person , and Alaska Dream Cruises’ seven-night “Last Frontier Adventure” has starting rates from $3,995 per person .

June to August

Warmer temperatures, an average of 17 hours of daylight, and schools’ summer vacations all make Alaska a popular destination for cruising in June, July, and August. Expect crowded ports and more ships out on the water, but that’s not to say it’s not a good time to set sail: bears are still active, as are whales and native bird life.

Holland America Line, which has sailed in Alaska for 75 years, offers 50 itineraries throughout June, July, and August, including the new 28-day Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice itinerary that departs June 9 from Seattle; verandah staterooms start at $7,259 per person . Family favorite Disney Cruise Line offers 13 itineraries over the summer, including a seven-night itinerary from $3,467 per person .

Not only is school back in session in September, which means fewer crowds at ports, but the chances of seeing the Northern Lights return, especially if combining your cruise with a land tour that takes you further north into Alaska. Fall is also mating season for wildlife, so expect to see some friskiness.

Celebrity Cruises’ Celebrity Edge sets sail for the first time in Alaska this year and has four six- and seven-night itineraries in September, starting at $599 per person . For a cruise-tour option, Princess ’ 12-day Denali Explorer itinerary blends five days on land with a weeklong cruise with mini-suite rates from $4,008 per person .

The Alaska cruise season winds down in October, with only a few ships setting sail. Just as in April and May, you’ll likely have the water to yourself, and even fewer people in the ports you call upon. Along with cooler weather, you’ll also find lower fares that will please your bank account.

Just as Norwegian Cruise Line kicks off the 2024 Alaska cruise season in April, it’s the last cruise line to set sail in the state, and the only one to sail in October. The seven- and nine-day itineraries sail roundtrip from Seattle, and a recent search found fares more than 80% off published fares, starting at $499 per person .

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CRUISES FOR SINGLES & SOLO CRUISING

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Best for Solo Travellers - Cruise Critic's 2023 Editors' Picks Awards

The best experiences last a lifetime - solo travel is one of them. The ability to explore, take chances, meet new people and do what you want when you want. To trade stories, and cocktails, with like-minded travellers from around the world. Or to sail with a group, on your own terms. Now when you cruise solo with Norwegian, you'll enjoy more freedom and choice than ever. We've doubled the number of Solo Staterooms across our fleet by adding Solo Balcony and Oceanview rooms, in addition to Inside rooms and Studios. The best part? The savings! Traditional double occupancy rates do not apply. So come aboard with friends or family - or take time to meet new people, then watch the sunset from your private balcony. After all, you're pretty good company.

Exclusively for one

Studio staterooms.

Studio Stateroom for Singles Cruises

Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. Our Studios are the perfect sized room for solo cruising and the Studio Lounge is a great way to meet other single cruisers.

The choice is yours

Additional staterooms.

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travellers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book - these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

* Studio Lounge and accessibility varies by ship.

Balcony Stateroom on Norwegian Gem for Singles Cruises

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  2. Overview of Norwegian Getaway Cruise Ship Interiors

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COMMENTS

  1. Norwegian Cruise Line cabin and suite guide: Everything you want to

    Here is a breakdown of the cabin types on Norwegian Encore, which is typical for the line's newer ships: Inside cabins: 453 (22%). Ocean-view cabins: 111 (5%). Balcony cabins: 1,090 (53%). Suites: 385 (19%). On older Norwegian ships (and, in general, all older cruise ships), there are fewer suites — sometimes far fewer.

  2. Cruise Oceanviews, Insides

    Learn about the Oceanview and Inside Staterooms offered by Norwegian Cruise Line, with up to 161 sq. ft. of space, two lower beds, TV, refrigerator and more. Find out which ships have Oceanviews and which have Inside Staterooms, and how to reserve them online.

  3. ACCOMMODATIONS

    Available throughout our fleet and across various categories you'll be sure to find the perfect accommodations to suit your cruise. Look for the connecting stateroom icon in the stateroom options step when booking your vacation. For booking groups of six or more staterooms, call 800-657-5773.

  4. Norwegian Escape Cruise Ship Staterooms

    These staterooms include a queen-size bed and the same amenities as other inside staterooms. Staterooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers and include access to the private Studio Lounge. Accommodates: 1. Total Approx. Size: 135-201 sq. ft. DECK (S) 11.

  5. Norwegian Cruise Line Cabin overview

    Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) features cabins and staterooms for every type of traveler onboard, from the ultra luxury, to the perfect spaces for solo cruisers. Norwegian Cruise Line offers up to seven different types of staterooms, these categories include; The Haven, Club Balcony Suites, Spa Staterooms, Balcony Staterooms, Oceanview Staterooms, Inside Staterooms, and Studio Staterooms.

  6. The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line ships and itineraries

    Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America, an outlier among the line's ships, sails year-round in Hawaii. DANNY LEHMAN/GETTY IMAGES. ... That's more than 13 times the cost of the least expensive inside cabin (which was starting at $1,058 per person, based on double occupancy). Oceanview cabins on the same sailing started at $1,698 per person ...

  7. Norwegian Cruise Line staterooms and suites guide

    Norwegian Cruise Line cabin overview. Onboard every Norwegian ship, you will have four main categories of staterooms to choose from: inside, ocean view, balcony, and suite. You can expect to find the same basic amenities in all rooms, including an ensuite bathroom, vanity with mirror and chair, safe, mini-fridge, closet, television, and two ...

  8. Photos: See Inside Norwegian Cruise Line's New $1.1 Billion Cruise Ship

    Oct 25, 2022, 11:16 AM PDT. Brittany Chang/Business Insider. Norwegian Cruise Line's newest $1 billion Norwegian Prima ship is ready for revenue sailings in the US. The cruise ship is the first of ...

  9. Norwegian Sun Cabins & Staterooms on Cruise Critic

    Oceanview: There are 243 ocean-view staterooms ranging in size from 145 to 170 square feet and include either a porthole or picture window. Family ocean-view with picture-window accommodations are ...

  10. What is a Solo Inside Cabin? New Norwegian Cruise Line Category Info

    An inside cabin on Norwegian Cruise Line represents an oasis of comfort without the premium price tag. Typically devoid of windows, these cabins are designed to maximize space and offer guests a cozy retreat after a day of adventures. Notably, there is nothing different about the Solo Inside cabins compared to other inside cabins on the ship.

  11. The 9 Best Cruise Ship Inside Cabins...and 3 to Avoid

    Best Inside Cabin With a Virtual View: Royal Caribbean. Best Solo Inside Cabins: Norwegian Cruise Line. Best Accessible Inside Cabin: Celebrity Cruises. Best Standard Family Insides: Disney Cruise ...

  12. Inside Stateroom, Cabin Category IB, Norwegian Getaway

    Floor plan. Size: 135 sq. ft. Occupancy: Up to 3 guests. Amenities: Two lower beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed a pull-down bed bathroom with shower 26" flat-screen TV mini-bar full-size closet and a safe. Please Note: Smoking is not permitted in staterooms or on balconies.

  13. NCL Cruise: Norwegian Spirit Inside Stateroom Review

    NCL Cruise: Norwegian Spirit Mid-Ship Inside Stateroom 10565 Review. Our mid-ship inside room #10565 was approximately 149 sq ft located on deck 10 and suitable for up to 4 guests. While we weren't able to choose our preferred room category of a balcony on a higher floor, we were able to at least get a stateroom on a higher floor, located mid ...

  14. I stayed in the cheapest cabin on Norwegian's newest cruise ship. Here

    We just returned from a 4-night sailing onboard Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, Norwegian Viva. ... The bathroom our room was sizable and rather luxurious for a standard inside cabin onboard a larger cruise ship. Oftentimes, the bathrooms in standard cabins have limited storage space and tiny showers. This is not the case onboard ...

  15. 20+ Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know

    For instance, the drink package is normally $109 per person, per day. But it also has a 20% gratuity on top of that. So even with the free drinks offer, you're paying around $20 per day. A couple on a weeklong cruise would pay a total of about $300 in gratuities on the free drink offer. Keep this in mind.

  16. Inside Stateroom, Cabin Category IF, Norwegian Getaway

    Size: 135 sq. ft. Occupancy: 2 guests standard. Amenities: Two lower beds that can be converted to a queen-size bed bathroom with shower 26" flat-screen TV mini-bar full-size closet and a safe. Please Note: Smoking is not permitted in staterooms or on balconies.

  17. Why You Should Book an Inside Cabin

    Benefits of an Inside Cabin. Inside staterooms provide everything that their more expensive counterparts do including beds, bathrooms and storage, along with access to 24-hour room service. But there are some extra benefits to cruising in an inside cabin: • no windows means you can enjoy sleeping in the dark without the glare of sunshine ...

  18. How do you fit 4 people in an inside/window room on NCL epic?

    If you don't spend a lot of time in the room and the itinerary is port intensive - use it to change, store clothing, shower & change, & do make-ups, etc. - make good use of all the public space on the ship during the day, mornings & evenings. It is cramped but you are still on a cruise, make the best good use of it and enjoy !

  19. The New Attraction on Cruises: A Thermal Suite inside the Spa

    Norwegian Cruise Line introduces a thermal spa suite, expanded three-bedroom suites, a larger Vibe Beach Club, and new balcony rooms on Norwegian Joy. By MAARIV ONLINE MARCH 7, 2024 13:30 Updated ...

  20. The best Norwegian Cruise Line ship for every type of traveler

    Related: Why a windowless inside cabin isn't so bad. ... Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet consists of 19 ships that come in a wide range of sizes and feature differing mixes of venues and activities ...

  21. Norwegian Cruises Inside Passage Glacier Bay from Seattle

    The Inside Passage with Glacier Bay itinerary maximizes time on shore by including just one full day at sea and another spent within the borders of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve. The route visits four ports of call over its seven days, showcasing so much of what makes the region special: Fjords and mountains, gold rush history and ...

  22. "Family Inside" vs. "Inside"

    151. March 9, 2005. #1. Posted October 7, 2011. Hi! We just booked a cruise on the NCL Spirit in January and we have a "Family Inside" (we're 2 adults and a 3 year-old). I'm just curious as to what the difference between a "Family Inside" and a regular inside is.

  23. Norwegian Epic Cruise Ship Staterooms

    Inside. Norwegian Epic Inside Staterooms are a great and affordable accommodation for up to two guests. They feature a separate bathroom with shower and two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed. Accommodates: 2. Total Approx. Size: 128-190 sq. ft.

  24. The Best Time to Cruise Alaska 2024: A Month-by-Month Guide

    Uncruise's 12-night "Inside Passage" itinerary departs April 15 with rates starting at $6,300 per person, ... Just as Norwegian Cruise Line kicks off the 2024 Alaska cruise season in April ...

  25. Cruise week report: A 200-square-foot room on Celebrity Ascent, 6

    When it comes to sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line, Cruise.Blog writer Hayley is well-experienced. ... I spent 7 nights in a 200-square-foot room on Celebrity's newest cruise ship. Take a look inside my cabin. Image. Celebrity Cruise Lines launched their newest, and one of their fleet's largest, cruise ship Celebrity Ascent in November ...

  26. Norwegian Cruise Line: Upside Remains Huge And Dilution Risks

    In my previous article (released before Q3 2023 reported in November 1) about Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NYSE:NCLH), I explained how Norwegian was still undervalued despite a 20% ...

  27. Why You Should Cruise the Inside Passage

    Shaped by massive glaciers, the Alaskan inside passage is a waterway nestled within islands along the Pacific Coast. Because of its location and the serene nature of this cruise it is an ideal vacation for guests who want to sail through still waters. Find more tips for those sensitive to motion here. 2. Scenery.

  28. Norwegian Cruise forecasts upbeat Q1 profit on record demand

    Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings forecast a first-quarter profit above Wall Street estimates on Tuesday, as it controls costs and benefits from higher ticket prices and steady demand for cruises ...

  29. CRUISES FOR SINGLES & SOLO CRUISING

    Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. Our Studios are the perfect sized room for solo cruising and the Studio Lounge is a great way to meet other single cruisers. ... Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travelers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive ...