ncl alaska cruise entertainment

10-Day Alaska Cruise Review: Norwegian Sun Experience

Choosing the right Alaska cruise can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this in-depth Alaska cruise review. Our main goal? To guide you through a 10-day journey aboard the Norwegian Sun through the Inside Passage route, offering invaluable tips and insights. Moreover, our hints help you select a 7-day cruise itinerary if you have less time for a trip. We’ve got you covered, from must-see ports like Juneau and Skagway to the best shore excursions and experiences to onboard amenities and dining.

Why Read This Alaska Cruise Review – Our Experiences

Alaska is a destination that promises awe-inspiring landscapes, rich cultural experiences, and the adventure of a lifetime. But with a sea of cruise options, how do you pick the right one?

Choosing the perfect Alaska cruise can be overwhelming. From itineraries to amenities, the choices are endless.

That’s where our Alaska cruise review comes in. We spent 10 days aboard the Norwegian Sun, sailing through Alaska’s most captivating ports. This isn’t a sponsored post; we paid for this cruise ourselves and are sharing both the pros and cons to give you an unbiased view.

This review focuses on the itinerary, not the cruise line we chose. Thanks to this, you can select an Alaska cruise with any cruise line but with a similar itinerary because different lines have identical travel routes.

This detailed review will guide you through every facet of our journey, from our departure in Seattle to our final port. We cover it all—port of calls, shore excursions, onboard amenities, and even those hidden gems that elevate a cruise from good to great.

Why trust us? Because we’ve been there, done that. We’ve breathed Alaska’s crisp air, marveled at its towering glaciers, and immersed ourselves in local cultures. We’re not just tourists but passionate explorers who have visited Alaska multiple times, by both land and sea. We’ve poured hours into selecting the best Alaska itinerary and are already planning our next escapade.

While our review is based on a 10-day cruise, the insights we share can also help you choose a 7-day itinerary. We’ll tell you which ports are must-visits and what experiences you shouldn’t miss, ensuring you make the most of your time in Alaska.

In summary, this review is your compass if you want to navigate the complexities of planning an Alaska cruise. We’re committed to sharing our hard-earned knowledge to help you embark on the adventure you’ve been dreaming of.

Norwegian Sun Overview

When it comes to cruising Alaska, Norwegian Cruise Line ( NCL ) stands out for its variety of itineraries and ships designed to maximize your scenic experience. While NCL offers several ships for Alaska cruises, including the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy, our journey was aboard the Norwegian Sun.

The Norwegian Sun offers a more intimate cruising experience with fewer passengers. The ship features a range of dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining and many onboard activities to keep you entertained as you sail through Alaska’s stunning landscapes.

For those interested in a deeper dive into the specifics of the ship, we have a detailed article: Review: Is the Norwegian Sun a Good Ship to Cruise Alaska ? We described the staterooms, their equipment, ship amenities, onboard entertainment, restaurants, and cruise ship accessibility for persons with disabilities. This review will give you a comprehensive understanding of what to expect on this vessel, helping you decide if it fits your Alaskan adventure.

Embarkation in Seattle – First Impressions & Tips

Our 10-day Alaska cruise adventure began at Seattle’s Pier 66, a prime downtown location with easy access and panoramic views of Seattle’s iconic skyline.

Doors to the terminal opened at noon, well ahead of our 5 PM departure time. This early start allowed for a relaxed and unhurried check-in process. Upon entering the terminal, we found ourselves in a spacious, well-lit hall equipped with rows of check-in counters. Staff were on hand to assist, contributing to an atmosphere of organized efficiency.

Security screening at the cruise terminal closely mirrors airport procedures, so it’s good to note that liquids, including water bottles in your hand luggage, are not permitted. It’s a quick but thorough process, setting the tone for the organized efficiency that follows.

For the check-in counters, it’s essential to have your ID or passport and credit card readily available. These are required to issue your boarding passes and room keys, a process that was impressively streamlined and took no more than 15 minutes. It’s also worth noting that a passport may be necessary for an Alaska cruise depending on your citizenship and itinerary, so it’s advisable to check this in advance.

Once the formalities were out of the way, we were free to board the Norwegian Sun and start exploring the ship’s diverse amenities.

If you’re flying into Seattle, check out our comprehensive article about the Seattle Cruise Port , which covers everything from transportation options to hotel recommendations.

Norwegian Alaska Cruise Review: Day-by-Day Highlights

This section of our Alaska cruise review provides a detailed day-by-day itinerary breakdown. We’ll guide you through each day’s highlights, port of call activities, and activities aboard the Norwegian Sun, from scenic cruising along glaciers to immersive cultural experiences. We tell you the pros and cons of each of our cruising days.

Day 1: Seattle Departure

• Departure Time: 5 PM

Insights: As the Norwegian Sun sets sail from downtown Seattle’s Pier 66, you’re greeted with sweeping views of the city’s iconic skyline. One of the immediate perks of cruising with Norwegian is its Freestyle Cruising. After boarding, we indulged in various delicious meals, setting a delightful tone for the journey ahead.

Day 2 Alaska Cruise Review: Day at Sea Insights

Insights: A day at sea on the Norwegian Sun was great. Moreover, we had perfect sunny weather. The ship offers many activities to suit all interests. For those seeking relaxation, the Mandara Spa provides a range of treatments, from massages to facials. Fitness enthusiasts can use the well-equipped gym or join one of the many exercise classes.

For entertainment, the Stardust Theater hosts live shows, and there are numerous bars and lounges where you can enjoy a cocktail while listening to live music. It’s a day to explore the ship’s offerings and find your favorite spots for the days ahead.

Day 3 Alaska Cruise Review: Juneau Exploration

• Arrival Time: 3:45 PM (45 minutes delayed due to a minor technical fault, quickly resolved)
• Departure Time: 10 PM

Insights: Our day in Juneau started later than planned. A minor technical glitch held us up, but luckily, it was fixed swiftly. This delay cut our exploration time short. As a result, we had to forgo an extended Mendenhall Glacier trek. Instead, we managed a quick visit.

Despite the time crunch, we seized the opportunity for a Juneau whale-watching tour . It was awe-inspiring. After that, we explored downtown Juneau .

We enjoyed local food and had a chance to admire the famous whale fountain . The area brims with culture and history. Finally, we took the Goldbelt Tram up Mount Roberts . The views were a feast for the eyes.

In summary, we made the most of our limited time. We balanced natural wonders with cultural gems while navigating a tight schedule.

For a deeper dive into Juneau’s attractions, don’t miss our articles: One Day In Juneau: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers Guide To Taking The Best Shore Excursions In Juneau Fascinating Figures And Facts About Juneau, Alaska’s Capital

Day 4 Alaska Cruise Review: Skagway Adventures

• Arrival Time: 7:00 AM
• Departure Time: 7:00 PM

Insights: If there’s one experience you absolutely can’t miss in Skagway, it’s the White Pass Scenic Train Ride . Our day kicked off with this unforgettable journey, and let us tell you, it’s a must-do.

This historic railway, built during the Klondike Gold Rush, isn’t just a train ride; it’s a voyage through time and nature. As you ascend the steep grades, you’ll be treated to awe-inspiring views you’ll talk about long after you disembark.

After this once-in-a-lifetime experience, we headed to the downtown Skagway , part of the Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park. This isn’t your average park; it’s a living time capsule. You’ll see restored buildings and authentic artifacts and even get the chance to pan for gold. It’s a step back into the late 1800s, offering an immersive historical experience.

We also explored downtown Skagway, a delightful blend of the old and the new. And for the adrenaline junkies, don’t miss the helicopter tours with glacier landings. As the day wrapped up, we relaxed at a local brewery, the perfect end to a day brimming with adventure and history.

In summary, Skagway is a treasure trove of experiences, from its rich history to its modern-day charm. Trust us, you’ll want to experience it all.

For an in-depth look at Skagway’s must-see spots, be sure to check out our articles: One Day In Skagway: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers Guide To Taking The Best Shore Excursions In Skagway Exploring The Skagway Historic District: A Downtown Guide Discovering Skagway Facts

Day 5 Alaska Cruise Review: Hubbard Glaciers Beauty

• Cruising Time: 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Insights: Hubbard Glacier is a jaw-dropping 76 miles long and rises about 350 feet above sea level. It’s the longest tidewater glacier in North America. As we approached, the ship maintained a safe distance to avoid icebergs, ensuring a secure yet awe-inspiring experience.

We took in the glacier’s grandeur from the ship’s deck. Trust us, the closer you get, the colder it feels. So, don’t forget to bundle up appropriately. A hat, gloves, and a windstopper jacket are essential. For more tips on what to pack, check out our detailed Alaska cruise packing list and tips.

Binoculars are another must-have. They’ll bring you up close to the calving events, where massive ice chunks break off and splash into the ocean. But it’s not all about the ice. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife. Seals often lounge on floating ice. It’s a spectacle you won’t want to miss.

Hubbard Glacier is also unique in that it’s advancing, not retreating, making it a key point for scientific studies on climate change.

Day 6 Alaska Cruise Review: Sitka Discoveries

• Arrival Time: 8:00 AM (tender operation)
• Departure Time: 5:00 PM (tender operation)

Insights: Sitka is a gem that combines natural beauty with rich history, and our day here was nothing short of extraordinary. First up was a sea kayaking tour led by Charlie , a seasoned kayaker and professional rescuer. His expertise made us feel safe and enriched our experience with fascinating tales about Sitka’s past.

As we paddled through the serene waters, we were greeted by local residents—sea lions and bald eagles. It was a surreal experience, paddling while these majestic creatures went about their day.

Kayaking in Sitka offered a stark contrast to our Valdez kayaking trip , where we had paddled amid icebergs. In Sitka, the milder climate enveloped us in lush greenery, while the fog added an air of mystery.

Next, we took a Historic Sitka Nature Walk, where we marveled at ancient totem poles in Sitka and learned about Sitka’s Russian heritage. The town is home to historic Russian buildings like St. Michael’s Cathedral, built in 1848, which is a testament to the Russian influence that dates back to the late 18th century.

But Sitka isn’t just about history; it’s a food lover’s paradise. Downtown is teeming with local food trucks offering mouth-watering crabs, salmon, and more. And for those looking to shop, the main street is a haven. Many stores, including fur shops, offer locally sourced products.

Tenders operation

One logistical note: The Norwegian Sun was anchored offshore, so we used ship tenders to get to and from land. While this added some time to our day, it also lent an adventurous spirit to our travels.

In summary, Sitka is a treasure trove of experiences, from its historical landmarks to culinary delights and shopping options. Despite the extra time needed for tendering, the day was rich in Alaskan culture and natural beauty.

For a comprehensive guide to Sitka’s attractions, don’t miss our articles: One Day In Sitka: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers Guide To Taking The Best Shore Excursions In Sitka Exploring Sitka National Historical Park: All You Need To Know Discovering Facts About Sitka, Alaska Visiting Downtown Sitka, Alaska: Attractions, Dining, Hotels

Day 7 Alaska Cruise Review: Icy Strait Point Activities

• Departure Time: 4:00 PM

Insights: Icy Strait Point , located near the village of Hoonah, is a haven for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Our day began with a local whale-watching tour that set sail from Hoonah Harbor . The experience was magical, but what’s even more astonishing is that you can also spot these majestic creatures from the shores of Shaman Point Beach.

For those looking to elevate their experience, the Mountaintop Forest Tram is a must. This tramway takes you to the peak of Hoonah Mountain, offering sweeping views of Port Frederick, Spasski River, and the lush Alaskan wilderness.

Adventure doesn’t stop there. The port is also home to the world’s largest ZipRider, starting from the mountain peak and descending 1,300 feet. If water activities are more your speed, kayaking tours are available at Mud Bay, a serene spot perfect for paddling.

But the convenience of Icy Strait Point also impressed us. A free gondola ride connects the Adventure Landing dock to the Historic Cannery, making exploring the port’s shopping and dining options easy.

In summary, Icy Strait Point is a multifaceted destination. From its natural wonders like Port Frederick and Mud Bay to adrenaline-pumping activities and convenient amenities, this port offers a well-rounded Alaskan experience.

For an extensive look at what Icy Strait Point has to offer, be sure to read our article: “ Icy Strait Point Itinerary .” If you’re contemplating which shore excursions to choose, our guide “The Best Shore Excursions in Icy Strait Point” has tailored recommendations ideal for nature enthusiasts, adventure seekers, families, and seniors.

Day 8 Alaska Cruise Review: Ketchikan Must-Dos

• Arrival Time: 8:00 AM (Ward Cove, free shuttle service)
• Departure Time: 8:00 PM

Insights: Ketchikan is a vibrant Alaskan port with activities catering to all interests. Our day started with a Rainforest Wildlife Sanctuary tour, where we witnessed black bears skillfully catching salmon in the creek—a truly Alaskan spectacle.

After this nature-filled morning, we explored downtown Ketchikan . The area is a historical goldmine, featuring landmarks like Creek Street and buildings dating back to the early 1900s. We also visited Totem Bight State Park, a cultural hub showcasing indigenous art and history.

We attended the Alaska Lumberjack Show & Axe Throw Challenge in the afternoon. For those unfamiliar, this show is a high-energy competition featuring lumberjacks showcasing their skills in events like log rolling and axe throwing—a fun and educational experience.

But the cherry on top while visiting Ketchikan is the Misty Fjords Boat Tour. This excursion leads you through awe-inspiring landscapes.

However, it’s worth noting that our ship docked at Ward Cove, Alaska’s newest cruise port, located 7 miles from downtown Ketchikan. While a free shuttle service was provided, the distance added a layer of inconvenience to our day.

In summary, Ketchikan is a multifaceted destination that offers a mix of nature, history, and adventure. Despite the slight hiccup with the docking location, the port serves as a condensed version of Alaska’s beauty and culture.

For a detailed exploration of Ketchikan’s highlights, don’t miss our articles: One Day In Ketchikan: Itinerary For Cruise Passengers Guide To Taking The Best Shore Excursions in Ketchikan Statistics And Facts About Ketchikan Which Is Worth To Know Review: Alaska Rainforest Sanctuary In Ketchikan: Is It Worth It? The Ultimate Guide To Bear Watching In Ketchikan, Alaska

Day 9 Alaska Cruise Review: Day at Sea

Insights: A day at sea may sound like a break in the action, but on the Norwegian Sun, it’s an opportunity for a different kind of adventure. We took full advantage of the ship’s amenities, from the spa and fitness center to the various dining options and live entertainment.

Surprisingly, the weather was on our side, even though it was the beginning of September—a month that can be hit or miss in Alaska. The skies were clear, and the sun was out, making it a perfect day to lounge by the pool or take in the ocean views.

Curious about when to book your own Alaska cruise for optimal weather? Don’t miss our in-depth article on the best time for an Alaska cruise , where we break down the pros and cons of each season and month.

Day 10 Alaska Cruise Review: Victoria Highlights

• Arrival Time: 8:00 AM

Insights: Victoria, the capital city of British Columbia, offers a delightful blend of natural beauty and historical charm. Our day here was nothing short of exhilarating, starting with an orca-watching tour on a zodiac boat. The thrill of seeing these magnificent creatures up close in their natural habitat is an experience we’ll never forget.

But Victoria is more than just its marine life. The city itself is steeped in history, with landmarks like the British Columbia Parliament Buildings and the Royal BC Museum offering glimpses into its past. Founded in 1843 as a Hudson’s Bay Company trading post, Victoria has evolved into a vibrant city that retains its colonial charm.

Other highlights include Butchart Gardens, a sprawling floral display that’s a feast for the eyes, and the historic Inner Harbour, perfect for a leisurely stroll or a quick bite at one of its many waterfront restaurants.

In summary, Victoria serves as a fitting finale to an Alaskan cruise, offering a mix of natural wonders and historical landmarks. Whether you’re an adventure seeker or a history buff, this port has something to captivate you.

Day 11: Seattle Disembarkation

• Arrival Time: 6:00 AM

Insights: As the saying goes, all good things must come to an end, and our Alaska cruise was no exception. We docked in Seattle bright and early, greeted by the efficiency we’ve come to appreciate from Norwegian Cruise Lines.

One of the standout features was the freestyle disembarkation, allowing us to exit the ship at our leisure. But what truly simplified our transition was Seattle’s Port Valet Service. This service lets you check in and send your luggage directly from the ship to your flight, making the process as seamless as possible.

The city offers a wealth of activities for those planning to explore Seattle further. Whether it’s the iconic Space Needle or the bustling Pike Place Market, you’re sure to find something that piques your interest. And if you’re heading straight to the airport, the cruise terminal’s convenient location makes for a smooth journey.

Onboard Amenities & Dining

A cruise isn’t just about the destination but also the journey. And on the Norwegian Sun, that journey is packed with amenities and dining options that cater to every taste and preference.

• Spa & Fitness Center: Whether you’re looking to unwind with a massage or break a sweat in the gym, the onboard spa and fitness center have you covered.
• Entertainment: From live shows to movie nights, there’s never a dull moment on the Norwegian Sun.
• Pool & Outdoor Areas: With a heated pool and multiple hot tubs, you can enjoy the great outdoors even in Alaska’s cooler climate.
• Freestyle Dining: One of the standout features of Norwegian Cruise Line is its freestyle dining. No set times, no assigned seating—just delicious meals whenever you’re hungry.
• Specialty Restaurants: Craving something specific? The ship’s specialty restaurants offer a range of cuisines, from Italian to Asian.
• Buffet & Casual Options: For those looking for a quick bite, the extensive buffet and casual eateries provide a variety of options.

Why An Alaska Cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line?

Choosing Norwegian Cruise Line for our Alaska adventure was a decision we don’t regret, and here’s why:

• Ship Size: The Norwegian Sun offers a more intimate cruising experience. It’s not the largest ship, which means fewer crowds and a more personalized service.
• Affordable Pricing: One of the standout features was the affordability of the cruise. Curious about the cost? Check out our detailed article on Alaska cruise costs , where we break down all our expenses and reveal any hidden fees.
• Freestyle Cruising: Norwegian’s signature Freestyle Cruising allows for a flexible and relaxed vacation, letting you dine and enjoy activities at your own pace.

Cruising Alaska with Norwegian offers a balanced blend of comfort, affordability, and flexibility.

Moments That Set This Trip Apart

Every journey has its unforgettable moments, and our Alaska cruise was no exception. Here are some highlights that made this trip extraordinary:

• Whale Watching in Juneau: Witnessing these majestic creatures in their natural habitat was awe-inspiring.
• White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad in Skagway: The historical significance and breathtaking views from this Skagway excursion were unparalleled.
• Kayaking in Sitka: Our guide, Charlie, not only led us through serene waters but also enriched the experience with local history and folklore.
• Icy Strait Point: for a more intimate experience with nature. The whale-watching in Hoohan was nothing short of spectacular, setting this port apart as a must-visit destination on any Alaska cruise.

These are just a few of the moments that set our Alaska cruise apart, making it an adventure we’ll cherish forever.

Overall Review Of Our Norwegian Alaska Cruise – Pros and Cons

Our 10-day Alaska cruise aboard the Norwegian Sun was a memorable experience with a few hiccups. Whether you’re considering a 7-day cruise or a 10-day itinerary , our detailed Alaska cruise review aims to provide you with the insights you need to make an informed decision.

Cruise Pros

• Freestyle Dining: The flexibility to dine when and where you want was a major plus for us. And the food was delicious!
• Itinerary: The 10-day cruise covered a variety of ports, offering a comprehensive Alaska experience.
• Onboard Amenities: The Norwegian Sun had something for everyone, from the spa to entertainment options.

Cruise Cons

• Late Arrival in Juneau: The delayed arrival shortened our time in Alaska’s capital, limiting our excursion options.
• Ward Cove Docking in Ketchikan: The port is 7 miles away from downtown, making it slightly inconvenient despite the free shuttle service.
• Tendering in Sitka: The use of ship tenders to get ashore took extra time, although it added a sense of adventure.

Picking the Perfect 7-Day Alaska Cruise Itinerary

If you have just a week to spare for your Alaska cruise, fret not; you can still experience the essence of the Last Frontier. For a 7-day journey, we’d recommend an itinerary that includes:

• Juneau: For its incredible whale-watching opportunities and Goldbelt Tram.
• Skagway: A must-visit for its historical White Pass & Yukon Route Railroad.
• Ketchikan or Sitka: Both offer unique cultural experiences and wildlife spotting.
• Icy Strait Point: Don’t overlook this port of call for a less crowded yet equally stunning experience. Known for its amazing whale-watching opportunities, it’s a gem that’s worth adding to your itinerary.
• Glacier Bay: Opt for this National Park over Hubbard Glacier for a more immersive natural experience.

Check our detailed article for a deeper dive into each port of call in the Alaska Inside Passage . And if you’re still unsure which itinerary suits you best, our guide “ Which Alaska Cruise Itinerary is Best For You? ” explores more options, including the Gulf of Alaska route.

Booking, Packing, & Navigating: Your Quick Guide

Embarking on an Alaska cruise requires a bit of preparation. Here’s a quick rundown to help you get started:

• Booking: Choose your itinerary carefully, considering factors like ports of call and onboard amenities. Early booking often secures better deals.
• Packing: Alaska’s weather can be unpredictable. Layering is key, and don’t forget essentials like waterproofs, binoculars for wildlife spotting, and a good camera. Make sure to download our free PDF Alaska cruise packing checklist .
• Navigating: Once onboard, familiarize yourself with the ship’s layout and daily schedules. Most cruise lines offer a mobile app to help you keep track of activities and dining options.

Norwegian Sun Alaska Cruise Review – Final Thoughts

Embarking on a 10-day Alaska Inside Passage cruise aboard the Norwegian Sun was an adventure we’ll never forget. From the awe-inspiring landscapes of Juneau and Skagway to the cultural richness of Sitka and Ketchikan, each port of call offered something unique. Icy Strait Point was a standout, offering a less crowded experience and incredible whale-watching opportunities.

While there were a few hiccups, like delayed arrivals and a bit distant docking locations, the pros far outweighed the cons.

One of the highlights of our trip was the Norwegian Sun itself. We were particularly impressed with the ship’s amenities, comfort, and cleanliness. The staff were friendly and always willing to help, making our journey even more enjoyable. All in all, we found it to be excellent value for money, adding to the overall comfort of our vacation.

If you’re considering an Alaska cruise, we wholeheartedly recommend Norwegian Cruise Line for its mid-sized ships and affordable pricing. And if you’re short on time, our guide to picking the perfect 7-day itinerary will help you make the most of your trip.

We hope our comprehensive Alaska cruise review has been helpful in planning your own journey. For more in-depth information, don’t forget to check out our detailed articles on each port of call, packing tips, and more.

Safe travels, and may your Alaska cruise be as unforgettable as ours!

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Agnes Stabinska is the creative force and co-founder behind the Alaska Itinerary blog. With a degree in Tourism Management and postgraduate studies in Journalism, Agnes combines academic expertise with real-world experience. Alongside her partner, Chris, she's your go-to guide for an authentic Alaskan adventure.

Agnes doesn't just write about Alaska; she lives it. From capturing the state's breathtaking landscapes through her lens to hiking its rugged trails or observing bears and whales in their natural habitat, her firsthand experiences are your compass to all things Alaska.

With Agnes and Chris, you're not just reading another travel blog; you're tapping into a treasure trove of insider tips, curated itineraries, and invaluable insights to make your Alaskan journey truly unforgettable.

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Norwegian Jewel Alaska Cruise Review (Vancouver to Alaska) | An Honest Review

By Author Emily Junda

Posted on Last updated: December 28, 2023

Categories Alaska

Considering booking a Norwegian Cruise from Vancouver, BC, to Seward, AK? You’re in luck because Jake and I recently wrapped up our incredible journey on the Norwegian Jewel, cruising from Vancouver to Alaska. 

We’re excited to provide you with a candid review of our experience, offering insights and tips to make your decision and voyage even more enjoyable. So, settle in as we share the details of our Norwegian Jewel Alaska Cruise Review from Vancouver to Alaska.

But first, I want to mention that there are many different cruise lines and enticing port stops on an Alaskan Cruise. Our journey kicked off in the vibrant city of Vancouver, British Columbia, weaving through the picturesque landscapes of Alaska’s port towns, Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. And wrapped up with two scenic sailing days in Glacier Bay National Park and a captivating encounter with Hubbard Glacier.

Whether your Alaskan Cruise mirrors these ports or you’re merely exploring to see if this cruise suits your preferences, our sincere review is here to be your compass. Let our insights steer you toward discovering the perfect Alaskan Cruise tailored just for you.

We paid for this vacation all ourselves, Norwegian Cruise Line DID NOT sponsor this post. All opinions are my own. 

How To Get To The Vancouver Cruise Port & Check-In 

The Vancouver Cruise Port is located right in downtown Vancouver and is easy to get to by foot or public transportation. Once you make it to the port, continue walking toward the end of the pier. Here you should see signs guiding you toward the check-in point. 

We stayed at Hotel Le Soleil by Executive Hotels which was a short 10-minute walk to the ship dock. Plus its location was within walking distance to many great restaurants. If you are looking for a hotel to stay the night before the cruise, we highly suggest this hotel!

The check-in location for the Norwegian Cruise line is located downstairs in the Vancouver Cruise Ship Dock . 

First, you can check any luggage you don’t want to drag around the ship before your rooms are ready. (Typically rooms aren’t ready until 3 pm). Norwegian Cruise Line staff will place a tag on your bag with the correct room number to deliver to later. 

Then, proceed to the check-in station. Have your passport ready! Staff will direct you through the remaining steps, from the security checkpoint and collecting your room key, etc. 

All-Inclusive (+ Details On The Drink Package)

The best part about cruising is the all-inclusive package that is included. This means you can eat your little heart out which usually equates to putting on a few pounds on your vacation. 

Unlimited Open Bar Drink Package

If you enjoy some boozy drinks on your vacation, you might consider adding the drink package to your Norwegian Jewel Alaska Cruise. 

With the current Cruise Deals offered with Norwegian’s Free At Sea, the unlimited drink package is already included. 

Here is a list of what is included in the Unlimited Open Bar Package: 

• Select, premium cocktails & spirits (under $15 USD)
• Variety of beer and wine by the glass (under $15 USD)
• 20% off all bottles of champagne and wine (above $15 USD)
• Unlimited soft drinks and juices

You are still responsible for a 20% gratuity (which is usually added to the bill automatically before checkout). 

If you are not going through the Free At Sea promotion, then the unlimited drink package costs $109 per day + Gratuity.

Typical Drink Prices Aboard Norwegian Jewel Cruise Ship:

• Beer: $6-$9 ($6 for domestic cans – $9 for draft)
• Wine: Starting around $9
• Cocktails: Starting around $10
• Soda: $3.50

Is The Drink Package On The Norwegian Jewel Worth It?

Personally, I only think the drink package is worth it if it’s included with the Free At Sea Package. Otherwise, you probably won’t get your money’s worth. 

So doing some light math, let’s say you start drinking in the early afternoon and have one drink per hour. Start with a few cocktails ($10 + $15 + $12 + $13). Then you go to dinner and switch to wine, let’s say you have 2 glasses ($9 + $15). Finally, you go to a show and have 2 more cocktails ($10 + $14). 

That’s 8 drinks total throughout the evening and the total is only $98 . 

So you actually didn’t even break even and this wasn’t totaling in the cheaper drink options on the menu. 

Plus if you are a beer drinker, then you would spend even less, because beer is typically $6-$9. 

So no, the drink package is NOT worth it on a Norwegian Cruise, unless it comes included with the Free At Sea Package. 

Learn more about our review of the drink package , aboard the Norwegian Cruise.

Hopefully, you can estimate the total # of drinks you plan to have on the cruise to see if it fits into your budget.

It’s important to note, you can’t pick and choose what days you want the unlimited open bar package. It’s ‘all-or-nothing’ for the duration of your cruise. (So for a 7-day cruise, that’s $109 x 7 days = $763 total)

Premium Plus Drink Package

There is also the option to upgrade to the Premium Plus Drink Package which includes many higher-end liquors and wines for an additional $29 per day . 

This can be a great option if you like top-shelf liquors and wines rather than the medium-tier options they offer. (Personally, I thought the complementary liquor options offered were satisfactory: Skyy, 1800 Reposado, Jameson, etc).

You also get unlimited still & sparkling bottled water, plus all Starbucks ® coffee & specialty drinks included in the premium drink package. Which could be beneficial if you plan to get specialty coffees and bottled water daily aboard.

Learn more about the Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages . 

Restaurants On The Norwegian Jewel

One benefit of a Norwegian cruise line is the wide variety of options for different restaurants and cuisines offered. 

• O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill ( Pub Fare ) – Middle, Deck 8
• Azura ( Fancy/Casual Dining Room ) – Middle, Deck 6
• Chin Chin ( Asian ) – Middle, Deck 7
• Garden Café ( Cafeteria – All Cuisines ) – Back Right, Deck 12
• The Great Outdoors ( Outdoor Buffet ) – Back, Deck 12
• Topsiders Bar & Grill ( Main Pool Bar & Grill ) – Middle, Deck 12
• Tsar’s Palace ( Fancy/Casual Dining Room ) – Back, Deck 6

Specialty Dining

Specialty dining is an additional cost for cruise attendees. You can check add-on prices on the Norwegian Cruise Line website . 

• Moderno Churrascaria ( Brazilian Steakhouse ) – Middle, Deck 13
• Sushi ( Japanese ) – Middle, Deck 7
• La Cucina ( Italian ) – Back, Deck 12
• Cagney’s Steakhouse ( Steakhouse ) – Middle, Deck 13
• Le Bistro ( French ) – Middle, Deck 6
• Teppanyaki ( Japanese ) – Middle, Deck 7

Our Review Of The Complementary Food on the Norwegian Jewel

Personally, we weren’t really that impressed with the Norwegian Cruise Line food. While there definitely was a nice variety of options, it just seemed like everything was mass-produced and lacked flavor. 

The main dining rooms ( Azura & Tsar’s Palace ) offered a nice casual-luxury feel. You could either dress nicer or keep it casual, which we appreciated. We had some of our favorite dinner meals here. They offered many different cuisines such as pasta, steak, sandwiches, etc.

The main cafeteria ( Garden Café ) was always SOOOO busy that it was very difficult to find an open table. And we were a party of 2, so I can only imagine if you needed a larger table how much more difficult it may be. The cafe does offer the widest variety of different cuisines, but the place kind of stressed me out. 

The Outdoor Cafe was just an extension of the Garden Cafe but outdoors on the rear of the ship. And because we were on an Alaskan Cruise, it was often chilly outdoors and the buffet was much smaller than the indoor cafe. 

Topsiders Bar & Grill pretty much just had pool grub, like burgers and hot dogs. On a warm summer day, this might hit the spot, but we weren’t really impressed with the quality of food offered here. 

O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill was probably our favorite complementary restaurant overall. Their Reuben was really tasty, but their appetizers left much to be desired. We just enjoyed the vibe of this restaurant as it was casual and had nice booths with windows to enjoy the scenery. And there are also TVs which we enjoyed a few football games. This is the only restaurant open 24/7.

And lastly, we gave Chin Chin a couple of tries for dinner. While it was Asian style, it was generally just okay. We felt flavors were lacking, and it just felt like they had dry meat mixed in with some already pre-mixed sauces to help fast production of food. Overall, we thought the meals were good, but I wouldn’t go as far as to say it was 5 stars.

Our Review Of The Specialty Dining On The Norwegian Jewel

We only got to try out 1 of the specialty dining restaurants ( Cagney’s Steakhouse ). This was included in the Norwegian Jewel Cruise Ship Free At Sea promotion.

The menu was large, and we each got to choose an appetizer, soup/salad, main, and dessert. Jake got the filet mignon and I got the prime rib. We were impressed with Jake’s meal, but my prime rib was cold when it arrived and overall pretty chewy. 

The service was VERY SLOW, but we were in no rush, so we were just patient. 

I can’t really suggest paying the extra cost for specialty dining. I just think it is way overpriced, service was slow and too similar to the food already offered complimentary. 

Currency On The Norwegian Jewel 

Cruise attendees don’t pay cash for anything onboard. In the boarding process, you will receive your room key, which also doubles as your credit card. You will be asked to attach a credit card or debit card before boarding the ship. 

When the cruise commences, the Norwegian Cruise Line will charge the final bill to the card or debit card you have on file.

There is the guest services desk in the main atrium (deck 7- middle of the ship) where you can discuss any billing issues on board.

Best Time To Go On An Alaskan Cruise With Norweign Jewel

Alaskan Cruises are typically only offered from May through September . If you want the best weather July and August will provide warmer temperatures and typically sunnier weather. But overall, the weather in Alaska can be rather wet and cloudy many days out of the year.

Fun Fact: Ketchikan, Alaska is one of the rainiest cities in America. They get about 140 – 160 inches per year and it rains about 300 days out of the year.

So while summer offers your best chance for better weather, you should still expect some rainfall and cloudy conditions. 

Cruise Port Days (+ How To Get To Town)

On our Norwegian Jewel Cruise from Vancouver to Alaska, we stopped at Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway.

We were pleased to find lots of great restaurants and breweries (our personal favorite) in each town. We were hoping that local seafood would be really affordable, but were a little disappointed to find out it was still very expensive.

And there are plenty of shops with souvenirs and a nauseating amount of jewelry stores at each stop. But if shopping is your thing, you will find plenty of stores to check out.

Personally, we were much more interested in exploring the natural beauty of each location.

Below I will include some of the best excursions offered at each port town. Cruise lines do prefer if you book through them so they can make sure you can safely and punctually get to your excursion and back to the ship.

But it is not required to specifically book through them. (I will say, the prices do tend to be slightly higher if you book through the cruise line, than if you book through a third party). 

But with third parties like Viator or Get Your Guide , they can likely find cruise-specific tours and often have all the necessary details for getting you to and from your cruise port dock. 

Ketchikan Port Day

Best Excursions: Misty Fjords & Wilderness Explorer , Lighthouse, Totems & Eagles Excursion , Bering Sea Crab Fisherman’s Tour , Neets Bear Encounter By Land & Sea , Back Country Jeep® & Canoe Safari

Free Activities: Hike Deer Mountain Trail, explore Creek Street, Totem Heritage Center

Juneau Port Day

Best Excursions: Mendenhall Glacier Explorer (Cheapest Option), Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek , Dog Sledding Summer Camp , Mendenhall Glacier By Helicopter & Guided Walk , Mendenhall Glacier & Juneau Tram

Free Activities: Walk around downtown or Bus from Downtown Transit Center to Mendenhall Loop Rd & Dredge Lake Rd ($2 one way) – walk 1.5 miles to Mendenhall Glacier Visitor Center (cheapest way to see Mendenhall Glacier).

Skagway Port Day

Best Excursions: White Pass Scenic Railway

Free Activities: Explore downtown

How To Get From The Cruise Ship To Town or Booked Excursions 

Free shuttles.

When we were aboard the Norwegian Jewel, we never docked right inside the town itself, rather we always needed to shuttle to and from town. It did feel like our Norwegian Cruise Ship had the least priority for docking locations (other cruise lines got to dock right in town). 

While this was inconvenient, they did provide easy and efficient shuttles that brought us to and from the ship. 

The biggest negative was it forced you to grab food in town. (I’ve been on cruise lines where we docked right in town, so it made it easy to jump back on the boat to grab lunch and then head back out into town). 

Or if you booked an excursion, they will have a separate shuttle to take you directly on your tour. There will usually be important information printed on your ticket about where to meet up. 

( Tickets are delivered to your room upon boarding ). If you did not receive your tickets and you booked through the cruise line, you can visit their excursion desk for more information. 

Days At Sea (Glacier Bay National Park & Hubbard Glacier)

Some of my favorite days on the Norwegian Jewel Cruise Line were the scenic days at sea. We were able to explore Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier via the cruise ship. 

For Glacier Bay National Park, the ship onboarded National Park Rangers to give narration about the area. They would point out any wildlife and information about how the area has changed over the years. 

These were the days when you could tell everyone was onboard the ship because everywhere was busy. And because the temperatures were chilly, many people preferred to be indoors against the windows to take in the beautiful views (but there weren’t nearly enough seats for the number of people). So many people were forced outside in the cold. (If you’re properly dressed, then the time outside can be enjoyable too).

For the people outside taking in the scenic views, it got very crowded on the pool deck and deck above along the railings. This was one of the major flaws of the Norwegian Cruise Line design because there was not really enough space for everyone to enjoy the views along the railings “peacefully”. 

Therefore, you needed to switch back and forth between guests so you could all get a nice view without being behind other people’s heads. Obviously, this was a tad annoying and a flaw of the boat design for an Alaskan Cruise, but everyone made it work! 

For the days at sea on a Norwegian Jewel Alaska Cruise, it is a HUGE benefit to have a balcony room. This can provide you with some personal space away from other tourists. But sadly, you won’t be offered 360 views, so you could get FOMO for not being able to see the other side of the passage. 

Pools & Hot Tubs On Norwegian Jewel Alaska Cruise

The Norwegian Jewel Cruise Ship has two different pools. One is family-friendly, and the other is 18+. Both pools are heated making them a comfortable temperature even in cold weather.

There are also 4 separate hot tubs on the main pool deck. Again 2 are family-friendly, and two are located in the adult-only area (ages 18+). 

There are also 2 additional hot tubs in the Thermal Suites (which are an additional charge and separated by male/female exclusive rooms). 

You will also see two other hot tubs 2 decks above from the main pool deck, but you must be part of the Haven Club. 

For an Alaskan Cruise, the pools were barely touched, but the hot tubs are highly sought after. In the late evening, it was hard to snag a spot because they were often very full with other tourists. If you want to avoid the crowds, go at unique times, such as morning or lunch/early afternoon. 

Staterooms On The Norwegian Jewel

There are 6 different stateroom options: 

• Inside (cheapest, lowest tier room, small, no windows)
• Oceanview (small window out to sea inside a small room)
• Balcony (glass doors open to a small balcony)
• Club Balcony Suite (slightly larger rooms than just a balcony room, luxury bath and shower)
• Suite (spacious luxury rooms, with larger balcony)
• The Haven (top tier most luxurious of the stateroom options, located at the top of the ship, and features 24-hour butler service, concierge service, and private sundeck)

Our Inside Stateroom On The Norwegian Jewel

Jake and I opted for a budget room, so we got an inside stateroom. Honestly, the room was small, but it was clean and had enough space for the two of us. But, if we had to choose again, we probably would have paid the extra cost to get a balcony room. 

On an Alaskan Cruise where the majority of the cruise is about sightseeing, it can be nice to have a space all to yourself. Many of the top decks were packed with people and not everyone got a railing, so you had to interchange places so everyone could get some unobstructed photos and videos.

Usually on a Caribbean Cruise, you will be sitting out on the sun loungers and barely in your room. So I think an inside room is honestly fine. But for an Alaskan Cruise, a balcony can be a worthy upgrade.

Entertainment On The Norwegian Jewel Alaska Cruise

There is never a dull moment on the Norwegian Cruise Line. If you are someone who has to stay busy all day long, there is always something going on. In the morning there is usually trivia or bingo, afternoon some fun family games, and in the evening some very talented shows.

Actually, it’s perhaps a weird complaint, but we sometimes felt like there were too many events going on. We struggled to find a quiet and comfortable place to sit and play cards while watching the scenery go by.

The evening entertainment of our Norwegian Cruise Ship was AMAZING and certainly a highlight of our trip! There were talented singers, gymnasts/acrobats, comedians, and more in the Stardust Theater. 

Wifi/Cell Service On Board The Norwegian Jewel Alaska Cruise

Wifi is a JOKE on the Norwegian Jewel. In our Free At Sea cruise package, we were offered 100 minutes of complimentary wifi. You waste many minutes just trying to get connected. 

You also need to be connected to log out to save your minutes. I ran into connection issues many times, especially when trying to log out of my wifi package. Therefore, many minutes were lost not even using the internet, just simply trying to log out. 

My husband opted for the unlimited wifi package in hopes the wifi connection would somehow improve. But it really didn’t work any better and was just a throwaway of money. Even with the upgrade, they severely throttle internet bandwidth. I believe it was capped a 2mbps, and functionally it was sometimes barely enough to even load emails.

Also, the wifi didn’t work in our inside stateroom at all. It only worked when we were on the upper levels of the ship. 

Internet Cafe On Norwegian Jewel

Another thought was the Internet Cafe would maybe have the strongest connection on board. WRONG! The Internet Cafe just provides community use of computers. 

If you don’t have a cell phone or laptop to connect to the wifi, then this can be a great option to get connected.

Cell Service at Cruise Ports in Alaska

For U.S. Citizens on an Alaska Cruise, you may benefit from using your cellular data at port. Many of the cell towers will work for main cell phone carriers without any additional charges. 

But when you are out at sea, the cell towers act differently, and you will be charged for using your phone. So make sure you only use your phone when docked at ports, otherwise you might have a hefty phone bill for roaming out at sea.

Norwegian Cruise App

The Norwegian Cruise App allows you to pre-book dining reservations, book shore excursions, see the schedule of entertainment on board, or to chat or call members on board. But with the wifi being poor, it was hard to use the app successfully aboard, so I found the app was basically useless. 

Hopefully, they improve this feature to work better with the community wifi in the future!

They provide a daily publication in your room, that outlines the days activities, local information, weather, and more.

Sports On Board The Norwegian Jewel

There are actually a handful of different sports to try out on the Norwegian Jewel. There is a large court located on Deck 13 where guests can play basketball, soccer, volleyball, etc. Or on deck 12 there is a large shuffleboard game, large-size bowling, and a golf net.

Pulse Fitness Center

The fitness center is free of charge and actually has a nice variety of different machines and weights. Plus each piece of cardio equipment faces out to the beautiful views. 

We found the fitness center to be quite busy, especially in the mornings. If you want to avoid the crowds, mid-afternoon seemed to be the best time. 

You can also participate in daily aerobics/fitness classes. Classes typically cost $20 per class. 

Additionally, there is also a jogging/walking track on Deck 13 that is open 24/7. However, it was often slippery because of rain, and part of shared space on the upper deck. So functionally it didn’t seem like an ideal place to run/jog in peace.

Mandara Spa 

There is a luxury spa located on the Norwegian Jewel. The spa offers a wide variety of different treatments for an additional charge. If you enjoy pampering yourself on vacation, this could be exactly what you need.

Thermal Suite

You can also opt to pay for the thermal suite. Here you will find the Thalasso Therapy Pool and gendered thermal suite rooms. The thermal suites each have a sauna, steam room, and hot tub.

Our Honest Review Of Norwegian Jewel Alaska Cruise From Vancouver To Alaska

We were overall happy with our experience on the Norwegian Jewel Alaskan Cruise. And actually, a cruise ship is probably the best way to get to many of Alaska’s remote coastal destinations. Personally, we were most interested in seeing and experiencing Alaska’s natural beauty.

This cruise does however leave some things to be desired.

When you think of a cruise ship, you’re probably thinking of a tropical sunny destination. And well, this ship is certainly designed for a cruise of that nature. 

The Norwegian Jewel also sails to the Caribbean, Bermuda, Panama Canal, Asia, Bahamas, and the Pacific Coastal.

There are deck chairs that surround the boat lined up for you to soak up the sun and less of an emphasis on unobstructed views. And views are typically the main reason people go on an Alaskan Cruise in my opinion. 

Therefore, overall, the views certainly impressed us, but the boat is not exactly designed for sightseeing in chilly temperatures. It was rare for many people to be “sunbathing” on the pool deck. And with this area being largely unused meant that passengers were disproportionately concentrated in other areas.

The seats indoors with great views were always in extremely high demand. So we felt that the Norwegian Jewel didn’t quite provide for that enough.

Additionally, the main pool deck area has tall glass windows stretching nearly 10 feet tall, which isn’t ideal for snapping that legendary Alaska photo. 

So many people sought after the railings with no windows which was not nearly large enough for the amount of people. Ultimately making it hard to truly take in the beauty because people were kind of jockeying for a ‘front row’ view of the scenery.

These were some of the flaws we noticed in the Norwegian Jewel. BUT…

Overall, I think an Alaskan Cruise is 100% worth it. If you enjoy beautiful nature, then there is an abundance of scenery that will simply make your jaw drop. And the onboard entertainment was the second biggest highlight of the trip.

I think a Norwegian Jewel Cruise was right for our budget. I think it struck a nice balance between budget, yet still seeming “comfort-luxury”.

We cruised with the Free At Sea Promotional Package , allowing us to get the cruise for 50% off, including the drink package, 1 specialty dining experience, 100 minutes of free wifi, and a $50 voucher for an excursion. So for the lower prices, the cruise was so worth it to us!

If budget was less of an issue, we maybe would have chosen a different cruise line that is known for better food, and maybe has more of an emphasis on decks for the ultimate viewing experience. 

We hope this honest review for a Vancouver to Alaska Norwegian Jewel Cruise was helpful and makes your decision if this cruise is right for you! 

Ready for the cruise?

Find our in-depth packing list for an Alaskan Cruise .

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7 Night Alaska Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line pioneered freestyle cruising with a variety of specialty dining restaurants, entertainment and onboard activities, including go-kart racing!

The scenic beauty of an Alaska cruise will brighten your spirit—from breaching whales to snow-capped peaks.

Known as The Emerald City, Seattle is a beautiful, luscious city with incredible views of the Cascade Mountains and Elliott Bay. The city is full of activities for both water lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

• Norwegian Encore - Passenger Capacity: 3,998 (double occupancy) Year Built: 2019 Last Refurbished: N/A

Take advantage of limited-time offers and special deals

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Norwegian Encore

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Ports of call.

Seattle, Washington , Juneau, Alaska , Skagway, Alaska , Glacier Bay, Alaska , Ketchikan, Alaska , Victoria, British Columbia

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Up to $500 FREE Onboard Credit* - TCW Exclusive

Norwegian Cruise Line: up to $50 Onboard Credit*

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7 Night Alaska Cruise sailing on the Norwegian Encore

Departure dates: jun 2024 - sep 2025, stateroom prices for jun. 16, 2024.

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Sailing Map

*** All itineraries are subject to change without notice. Please confirm your itinerary on the Review page before purchasing your cruise.

Cruise fare rates & offers are subject to select dates & categories, cruise only, per person, based on double occupancy, in US Dollars, & include NCCF. Government Taxes, Port Expenses & Fees are additional. All rates & offers are capacity controlled, are subject to availability & confirmation, & may change without notice. Additional restrictions may apply. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed -- please confirm details at time of booking. Stateroom photos are for sample purposes only -- actual design and layout may vary.

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Review of our Norwegian Encore Alaska 7-Day Cruise

This post may contain affiliate links, view our disclosure policy .

Are you looking for a real-life review, testimony, and photos of a Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise?

We recently had the amazing opportunity to take a 7-day Alaska cruise aboard the Norwegian Encore.

In this article, we share all of our thoughts (the good & the bad) on our Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise as well as give our honest opinion on the Encore ship and its Alaska itinerary.

We’ll also share the Norwegian cruise tips that we wish we knew ahead of time, as well as share our day-to-day experiences on shore excursions and aboard the ship.

With over 15 personal photos included, this is the ultimate Norwegian Encore Alaksa review you’ve been looking for!

Table of Contents

Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise

We chose Norwegian Cruise Lines for our much anticipated Alaska Cruise due to its 7-day, 8-night itinerary that included a day in Glacier Bay National Park (a place that not all Alaska cruise itineraries include) .

We chose to sail on the Norwegian Encore as we were referred by friends who had a great experience, and the fact that the sail dates aligned with our summer vacation week.

Further, we were largely impressed by the enormous amount of family-friendly activities found on the ship that we knew our kids (ages 11, 14, & 16) would love.

Our only other experience cruising together as a family was on a 7-day Western Caribbean cruise aboard the Disney Fantasy that we write about here .

Disney Cruise Line exceeded our expectations in terms of its elegant design, high-end services, and enchanting entertainment and set the bar high for our future cruises.

Keep reading to learn our thoughts on Norwegian Encore Alaska and if we loved it just as much.

Alaska cruises are expensive and involve a lot of scenery and sightseeing versus attractions, character, and thrills.

Though we saw children of all ages on our cruise, I recommend that kids be at least 10 years old for an Alaska cruise- or mature enough to fully appreciate the experience.

Norwegian Encore Alaska Itinerary

For comparison purposes, we took a 7-day cruise on Norwegian Encore that featured 5 ports of call.

Our sail dates were June 11th – 18th and we have an entire article on what to pack and what to wear on an Alaska cruise , as well as the 45 Alaska cruise tips that you need to know before sailing.

Do note that the Norwegian Encore also hosts a 13-day “cruisetour” (land and cruise combo) that includes 6 land tours, and 5 ports of call if that is of interest to you.

Our Norwegian Encore Alaska Itinerary & Map

• Sunday: Embarkation from Seattle , Washington
• Monday: At sea
• Tuesday: Juneau , Alaska
• Wednesday: Skagway , Alaska
• Thursday: Glacier Bay (cruising)
• Friday: Ketchikan (Ward Cove) , Alaska
• Saturday: Victoria , British Columbia
• Sunday: Disembarkation in Seattle, Washington

Other cruise lines, including Norwegian, offer itineraries with varying ports of call.

Different ports of call on a cruise to Alaska include Sitka, Icy Point Strait, Dawes Glacier, Valdez, Seward, Whittier, and more.

*Stick around until the very end of this article for a look at what we did, where we ate, and what excursions we took on each day of our Norwegian Encore Alaksa cruise.

Norwegian Encore Cruise Ship

The Norwegian Encore first launched in 2019 and is part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Plus category of ships.

There are 20 passenger decks with 2,043 staterooms for up to 4,903 passengers (served by 1,731 crew).

As a side note, the ship was near capacity during our 7-day Alaska cruise at a whopping 4,850 passengers!

While much information can be found on the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) website regarding the Norwegian Encore ship, we find the NCL website somewhat difficult to navigate.

For that reason, we are including a brief overview of our thoughts on the Norwegian Encore cruise ship in terms of the rooms, deck plans, restaurants, and entertainment.

Norwegian Encore Rooms

Norwegian Encore rooms, also referred to as ‘cabins’, are available in various sizes and price points.

Generally speaking, the larger, more luxurious the room, the higher the price.

Standard options include interior, oceanview, and balcony cabins, and upgraded options include The Haven spa suites, penthouse suites, and 2-bedroom family villas.

Hidden at the top of the ship, The Haven suites also feature 24-hour butler service and a private sundeck.

Most Norwegian Encore Rooms, excluding The Haven family villas that sleep 6, only accommodate 3 – 4 guests.

Because we were sailing with our family of 5, we opted for 2 adjoining Balcony staterooms. (There are a limited number of adjoining staterooms on the Norwegian Encore that make a perfect option for larger families and groups.)

They are connected by a doorway within the rooms, as shown in the photo below.

Norwegian Encore balcony room review:

• We stayed in rooms 10220 and 10222 (Deck 10, mid-ship).
• Modern, spacious, clean, and adequate storage.
• Super comfortable beds and luxurious bedding (We all loved the beds and slept wonderfully – in addition, we did not feel the ship’s motion.)
• A large bathroom that includes toiletries; powerful toilets.
• The balcony was larger than expected and includes 2 chairs and a table.
• Could opt in or out of daily room cleaning via a wall switch.
• Overall impression: Exceeded our expectations, would recommend to others.

Norwegian Encore Deck Plans

As you may know, the Norwegian Encore is a HUGE ship.

In order to not feel overwhelmed by the size of the Norwegian Encore, I highly recommend that you study the ship’s deck plans prior to departing on your Alaska cruise.

Familiarize yourself with where your stateroom is in relation to the complimentary dining, main atrium, Observation Lounge, and pool deck.

Then get comfortable with where the bars, restaurants, theater, spa, and casino are in terms of being in the front (fwd), or back (aft) of the ship.

Cruisedeckplans.com allows you to make and print a custom map (pdf) of up to 5 decks on the Norwegian Encore. (Personally, we printed off 2 separate sheets, one with Decks 15, 16, 17, 18, and 19 on it, and the other with Decks 6, 7, 8, and 10, where our stateroom was.)

We found this incredibly helpful and used our custom deck plans as a ‘map’ that we carried with us at all times on the ship to help us get around. (Use these sheet protectors to keep your deck plans intact.)

When you first embark on the ship, you enter Deck 7 of the Norwegian Encore. (Immediately proceed to Deck 6 to make dining and showtime reservations – more on that coming up in ‘Tips’)

The decks we visited the most were Deck 6 (main atrium, guest services, and Starbucks), Deck 7 for the Encore Theater and The Local Bar & Grill (our favorite complimentary dining venue), and Deck 16 (main pool deck and the Garden Cafe buffet).

Norwegian Encore Restaurants

The Norwegian Encore has plenty of complimentary dining options including the Garden Cafe main buffet, a 24-hour eatery of classic pub fare at the Local Bar & Grill, and sit-down meals at Taste, Savor, and the Manhattan Room.

Taste, Savor, and the Manhatten Room all feature the same daily, rotating menu. (These are all “Freestyle dining”, meaning no reservations are needed.)

Specialty dining  (that is priced per person and often times included in cruise promotions) includes seafood at Ocean Blue, Italian at Onda by Scarpetta, Asian at Food Republic, Japanese at Teppanyaki, Mexican at Los Lobos, French at Le Bistro, BBQ at Q Texas Smokehouse, and Cagney’s Steakhouse, as well as Dolce Gelato and Coco’s for sweets. (Reservations required.)

There are also numerous  bars and lounges , including The District Brewhouse, Cellars Wine Bar, Sugarcane Mojito Bar, and Maltings Whiskey Bar, among others! 

The Observation Lounge on Deck 15 has several drink and snack stations making it a wonderful place to relax during the day.

It is also a good alternative for those looking for a light breakfast or lunch. Food items include danishes, mini quiche, fruit, bread, cheese, fruit, and desserts.

You have to get to the Lounge very early in the morning to find a good seat, however. It is a very popular lounge, and people tend to ‘save seats’ as well as ‘camp out’ there for an entire day. Head to the back and you’ll almost always find a table near the bar.

Specialty Dining Reservations

Depending on which type of stateroom you’re staying in, you can make specialty dining and entertainment reservations 90 – 130 days in advance.

Be sure to check this page as to when you can make reservations, and book your selections ASAP. Only a certain percentage of reservations open ahead of time, and popular restaurants and dining times book up fast,

If you fail to get the restaurant or reservation time of your choice, head to Deck 6 (in Teppanyaki) immediately upon boarding the ship as this is when the remaining reservations are released.

Thoughts on the Norwegian Encore restaurants:

• The Garden Cafe buffet is very busy during breakfast. We prefer a more relaxed atmosphere and ate breakfast at The Manhatten Room on most days.
• The Local Bar & Grill has a fun atmosphere that overlooks the main atrium. We had consistently good food, service, and drinks there. Our favorites were the chicken wings, loaded nachos, and burgers.
• The Manhatten Room is very busy during evening dinner hours. We mostly ate dinner at Taste or Savor for dinner- although all 3 have the same menu, so it’s just a matter of where you can get a table.
• Our cruise promotion included 2 specialty dining meals per person. We ate at Cagney’s Steakhouse and Q Texas Smokehouse.
• We LOVED and highly recommend Cagney’s Steakhouse (had filet mignon – Yum!), however, would not go to Q Texas Smokehouse again. The food at Q was good, but the service was mediocre and the ambiance was casual and dark – needed our phone flashlight to read the menu.
• Overall impression: Exceeded our expectations; the food on the ship was tasty and delicious.

Norwegian Encore Dining Tips

• When going to the Garden Cafe , have 1 person from your party search for and reserve a table while the others get their food. It is always busy and can be hard to find a table there. Your best option is to find a table in the back of the cafe.
• Complimentary soft-service ice cream machines are in the Garden Cafe. They are very popular! There is also hand-scooped ice cream in the Garden Cafe at a station.
• If we had to choose again, we would go to Ocean Blue instead of Q Texas Smokehouse.
• If the 2 specialty dining restaurants were not included in our cruise promotion, I personally would only pay out-of-pocket to visit 1 specialty dining restaurant (Cagney’s) . We found that there was plenty of variety in the main, complimentary dining.
• If you don’t mind eating early, get to the main dining rooms for dinner 5 minutes before their evening opening time. This will ensure immediate seating and quick service.
• The District Brewhouse beers, Sugarcane’s mojitos, and Maltings specialty cocktails and whiskies are awesome. Ask the bartenders for a ‘snack mix’ as all of the bars have small containers of nuts/corn nuts if you ask for them.
• At random times during the cruise, there is an additional tax on alcohol (something due to international waters/regulations) that you may or may not be warned about.
• I felt that the restaurant attire was much more casual than I anticipated.

Norwegian Encore Entertainment

The Encore offers dozens of onboard  activities , including a go-kart track (singles and doubles), laser tag, VR arcade, outdoor pools, hot tubs, and water slides, as well as a fitness center, jogging track, casino, and spa.

( NOTE: Go-karts, laser tag, the Galaxy Pavilion VR arcade, casino, and spa all cost an additional fee. Go-karts, laser tag, and the spa require reservations.)

There are also stand-up comedians, karaoke, and magic shows, as well as live music, trivia, and fun presentations in The Atrium.

The musical performance Choir of Man was the headliner show while we were on our cruise. It plays 4 different times during the 7-day itinerary and requires reservations.

All of the information regarding the next day’s activities and showtimes can be found in the daily newsletter called Freestyle Daily.

A paper copy of Freestyle Daily is placed outside of your stateroom each afternoon, and can also be found on the NCL app , or at Guest Services.

Thoughts on Norwegian Encore Entertainment

• Reservations are required for Choir of Man and can be booked ahead of time online per this chart , and then again when on the ship.
• Choir of Man was absolutely amazing, however, we wished there had been an additional main-stage production. We ended up going to Choir or Man twice both because we loved it, and because there were no other options for nighttime shows.
• Go-karting ($15 per person) at Encore Speedway, and laser tag ($9.95 per person) also require reservations, which we feel is a bummer and makes it hard to be spontaneous. Reservations filled up fast on sea days, and we ended up only being go at random ‘off times’ and were not able to go as often as we had planned.
• Encore Speedway closes unexpectedly due to weather. If you have a reservation during a weather delay, you are reimbursed but have to rebook on your own. In our case, there were no reservations left, which meant we were not able to rebook.
• There are always fun activities going on in The Atrium . Grab a seat in between performances as the seating area is limited. The Atrium Bar has quick, friendly service.
• We don’t have any tips on the casino or spa as we did not go there.
• Overall impression: Met our expectations, however, wished there were more shows as well as onboard movies shown on the big screen.

In order to avoid having to micro-manage the onboard activity fees during our sailing, we purchased each of our 3 children a set amount of onboard credit.

The onboard credit was applied to their keycards for them to use at their leisure.

This allowed them to plan ahead of time which activities they wanted to spend their onboard credit on and prevented overspending.

Norwegian Cruise Tips

Be sure to download and familiarize yourself with the Norwegian Cruise Line app. You can manage your entire trip from the app, and it does not require WiFii when being used on the ship.

NCL is not very forthcoming on when and how to make dining and show reservations, so mark your calendars accordingly . Once onboard, make reservations at the Guest Services on deck 6, or at the electronic touchscreen kiosks located at each elevator bay.

Also, on the Norwegian Encore, note that the fish on the hallway carpet always swim forward pointing to the front of the ship.

Knowing this will help you maneuver around the ship better.

Last, watch for NCL cruise promotions! We were able to get a “Free at Sea” promotion that includes unlimited open bar, 2 free specialty dining restaurants per person, free WiFii, and $100 off per shore excursion per stateroom. (For the first 2 people on the reservation.)

Tips for Online Check-in and Embarkation

• You choose your port arrival time at the time of online check-in which begins 21 days before your cruise.
• The sooner you do online check-in, the earlier you’ll be able to secure a port arrival time. (I did online check-in at 8 AM, 21 days prior to our cruise, and was able to secure the earliest port arrival time of 9:30 AM.)
• Your NCL luggage tags are mailed to you ahead of time. Place them on your suitcases (after your flight) before boarding the ship.
• Luggage delivery to staterooms is around 3 PM on the day of embarkation. Have a day bag packed of items you’ll need on the ship before your luggage arrives (i.e. passport, medications, swimsuit, sunglasses, etc.)
• Your muster station number will be on your keycard. The initial muster drill is quick and can be done in small groups, at your leisure.

Our 7-day Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise

The day before our cruise our flight from Minneapolis, MN arrived at 8 AM in Seattle, Washington.

Our early flight allowed us to have an entire day to explore Seattle, which we highly recommend leaving or finding time to do.

Upon arrival, we were able to store our luggage at our hotel, Seattle Marriott Downtown , and walk around the city from there.

We’ve written an entire article on how to spend 1-day in Seattle that will show you what you can realistically do and see in Seattle before your cruise.

Though a bit pricey, I highly recommend staying at Seattle Marriott Downtown before your Norwegian cruise!

Terminal 66 is literally right across the street (you can see the Encore directly outside the hotel windows!) and you simply walk there the morning of your cruise.

The hotel will also store your luggage for you before and after your cruise based on your flight times and if you’ll be walking around Seattle.

Day 1: Seattle, Washington

There is more than 1 cruise terminal in Seattle, so it is important to know that the Norwegian Encore ports at Bell Street Cruise Terminal at Pier 66.

At your port arrival time, enter the cruise terminal, go through security, check-in, and you’ll be given a boarding group number.

Passengers are then held in a waiting area (coffee/tea/juice are provided) until the captain signals that boarding may begin. (Exact boarding time varies by the day and is at the captain’s discretion.)

Boarding for boarding group #1 typically begins anytime after 11 AM (ours was at 11:30 AM).

Have a plan for when you initially get on the ship. I suggest first going to Deck 6 to make all dining reservations (at Teppanyaki), then all showtime reservations (at The Social Comedy Club).

Then head to your muster station for a brief safety overview.

Afterward, I recommend going to The Local for lunch. It is very laid back and overlooks the activities in the main atrium.

• 9:15 AM: Got in line (which was already 30 people deep) for our 9:30 port arrival time.
• 11:30 AM: Boarded the ship
• 11:40 AM: Made dining and show reservations, did muster station drill, made go-kart and laser tag reservations at a touchscreen kiosk
• 12:15 PM: Lunch at The Local Bar & Grill
• Toured the ship and took photos
• 5:00 PM: Departure. Went to the Sail Away pool deck party.
• 6:30 PM: Dinner at Taste
• 7:30 PM: Comedian in the Encore Theater

Day 2: Day at Sea

Any pre-booked shore excursion tickets are placed in your room on this day.

As on every day of the cruise, we spent our downtime relaxing, playing cards and cribbage in The Atrium, attending presentations & shows, eating, drinking, and enjoying the ship.

• 8:00 AM: Breakfast at The Manhatten Room
• 11:30 AM: Lunch at The Local
• 6:30 PM: Dinner at Cagney’s Steakhouse
• 7:30 PM: Choir of Man performance in Encore Theater
• 9:00 PM: Adult-only comedy shows at Social Comedy Club

Day 3: Juneau, Alaska

• 11:30 AM: Lunch at Garden Cafe
• 3:30-9:00 PM: Mendenhall Glacier and Whale Quest shore excursion
• 9:30 PM: Late-night snacks at The Local before going to bed

Recommendations if touring downtown include Red Dog Saloon and Tracy’s King Crab Shack.

Day 4: Skagway, Alaska

We needed our passports on this day’s excursion as our tour entered Canada.

• Morning hot tubbing
• 11:30 AM: Light lunch in the Observation Lounge
• 12:30-5:30 PM: White Pass Railway and Suspension Bridge shore excursion
• 6:45 PM: Reservations at Q Texas Smokehouse (specialty dining)
• 8:00 PM: Encore Speedway go-kart reservations
• 8:30 PM: Laser tag reservations
• 9:30 PM: The Beatles Invasion performance in Encore Theater

Recommendations if touring downtown include Red Onion Saloon, Klondike Doughboy, Skagway Brewing Co., and Alaska Christmas Store.

Day 5: Glacier Bay (Cruising)

This was, by far, the most scenic day of our Alaska Cruise as Glacier Bay National Park is absolutely stunning.

National Park rangers come aboard the ship and narrate about the glaciers and wildlife you see, as well as share stories about the park’s history.

The narration can be watched live in the Observation Lounge and is simultaneously broadcasted on your stateroom TV and on a large screen in The Atrium.

In addition, the captain opens up the bow of the ship on Deck 8 for this day only, and passengers can enjoy coffee, tea, and hot chocolate while viewing Glacier Bay outdoors.

• 8:00 AM: Went out to the bow of the ship to view Glacier Bay
• 9:30 AM: Breakfast at The Manhatten Room by the windows overlooking Glacier Bay
• Listened to the park ranger talks throughout the day
• Watched the views, glaciers, and wildlife sightings from our balcony stateroom
• 12:30 PM: Light snacks in the Observation Lounge
• 7:30 PM: Comedy Show in Encore Theater

Day 6: Ketchikan, Alaska

• 7:00 AM: Breakfast at Garden Cafe
• 8:15 AM-12:00 PM: Backcountry Jeep and Canoe Safari shore excursion
• 12:30 PM: Lunch at The Local
• 5:00 PM: Encore Speedway reservations (canceled due to rain)
• 5:15 PM: Dinner at Taste

Day 7: Victoria, British Columbia

Disembarkation instructions are placed in your room on this day.

• 12:00 PM: Lunch at Garden Cafe (ate on the pool deck as it was a beautifully sunny day)
• Afternoon: Sat outside around the pool all day enjoying sunshine and live music; kids went on waterslides
• 4:00 PM: Magic show in Encore Theater
• 5:00 PM: Dinner at Savor
• 8:00 PM: The ship arrived at the port in Victoria. We did not get off the ship as the timing was too late for us and we did not want to do an evening shore excursion.

Day 8: Seattle, Washington

• 9:00 AM: Disembarked the ship
• 1:30 PM: Flight home

Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise Conclusion

With an Alaska cruise having been on our bucket list for quite some time, I feel such happiness having gotten to take our family on this epic Alaskan adventure.

Overall, our experience on our Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise exceeded my expectations in our ship choice, itinerary (that included Glacier Bay), shore excursions, stateroom comfortability, and food quality – as well as Alaska in general.

We would have liked to have experienced more shows on the ship, as well as wish the family-friendly activities (go-karts & laser tag) did not cost extra money and did not require reservations.

I would highly recommend the Norwegian Encore for an Alaska sailing as well as Alaska overall in terms of a once-in-a-lifetime family vacation experience.

Happy travels!

*Before leaving, be sure to check our  Travel Resources Page  to find our exclusive travel discounts and to book hotels, rental cars, and guided tours.*

Jen Brommer is a family travel expert. She has been featured as an authority on several notable travel websites and is a member of the Family Travel Association (FTA), Midwest Travel Network, and TravMedia global media network.

A prominent content creator and influencer on Instagram, Jen has over 150K unique monthly blog readers from countries all over the world. She has spent the last 16 years planning fun, and hassle-free family vacations for her family of 5.

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Home » Cruise » Norwegian Cruise Line » Norwegian Encore » We Just Returned from a Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise

We Just Returned from a Norwegian Encore Alaska Cruise

We just returned from a Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise and share it all with you in our Norwegian Encore cruise ship scorecard review.

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Norwegian Encore is NCL’s largest cruise ship at sea. At 169K gross tons, this mega-ship boasts several restaurants, signature attractions, and plenty of onboard activities and entertainment. But is it possible to see, do, and eat everything onboard the ship while still experiencing all Alaska has to offer? Well, we just returned from a 7-night roundtrip sailing from Seattle and share all the details with you in our Norwegian Encore cruise ship scorecard review.

WATCH NOW OUR COMPLETE SHIP TOUR AND REVIEW OF NORWEGIAN ENCORE!

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Norwegian Encore Cruise Ship Scorecard Review

Outdoor decks .

For us, one of the most important aspects of any cruise ship is the availability, layout, and overall vibe of the outdoor decks. Luckily, the Norwegian Encore cruise ship boasts several outdoor spaces. So, whether it is glacier viewing in Alaska or soaking up the sun in the Caribbean, cruisers who sail on this ship can find some open-air space to fit their mood.  

The main pool deck is found on deck 16, midship. Norwegian Encore features two pools. The main pool is family-friendly and conveniently located near the small Aqua Park on the port side. This space is perfect for those with younger children.  

Adults have their own pool too, just a bit more forward on the same deck. In between and surrounding these pools, there are various seating options. Up one deck, there are additional loungers encircling this sundeck. Deck 17 is also home to 4 whirlpools. These were very popular in the early afternoons and during glacier viewing in Alaska.  

PRO TIP : Still pack a bathing suit for an Alaska cruise .  

Norwegian Encore’s two waterslides were open, along with the hot tubs, pools, and the thermal suite. With mostly mild days and virtually no rain, plenty of cruisers took advantage of these outdoor amenities during the week. While the pools and waterslides are heated to about 70’, I still wasn’t brave enough to dip my feet in the water!  

Even for an Alaska cruise, the exclusive Vibe Beach Club on decks 19 and 20 forward is a hidden gem. This reserved area has premium loungers, two hot tubs, a private bar, and light snacks during the day. Cruisers can opt for a week-long pass or splurge on one of the cabanas.

Along with offering fantastic views from the top of the ship, this space was ideal for glacier viewing. Everyone we talked to with passes agreed it was well worth it, even for this cold-water cruise.  Think less crowds, uninterrupted views, and hot tubs all to yourself. 

While we enjoyed the lido deck and Vibe, one of our favorite locales on the ship is the Waterfront. Encompassing most of deck 8, this 1/3-of-a-mile-long outdoor promenade features several bars and seating nooks. Further, cruisers can opt for al fresco dining at specialty restaurants such as Cagney’s Steakhouse or Onda by Scarpetta if the weather allows.

Or, you can simply just relax, read a book, or be on the lookout for whales and wildlife. Don’t worry about the temperatures in Alaska, as many of the seating areas are kept warm with heaters in the ceiling.  

Signature Attractions 

Norwegian Encore is known for its signature attractions . 

PRO TIP : Make sure to book these attractions on embarkation day. You can use touchscreens throughout the ship, or head to the Social to reserve with a crew member. Just be sure to check the height and weight requirements before reserving.  

Perhaps the most iconic attraction on the Norwegian Encore cruise ship is the Speedway. 

For an up-charge, this 1,100-foot-long, two-story racetrack pits cruisers against one another in an 8-lap race for bragging rights. Bystanders can get in on the fun too by providing drivers boosts throughout the race. The racetrack has select hours for solo drivers and families with double carts accommodating adults and little kids.  

During our Alaska cruise, the go-karts were open various times depending on the port of call. We got in an afternoon race on day 5, leaving Glacier Bay. With the fjord views behind us, Heidi and I donned our helmets in a race to the finish line. Let’s just say Heidi tried to blame her loss on the unskilled tween driver in front of her. 

Cruisers who plan to race often can purchase the Ultimate Speedway Package, giving them regular access to the track every day of the cruise.  

Additionally, aft on deck 18 is the laser tag course. This intricate laser tag arena is certainly a step above the inflatable laser tag experiences found on some other cruise lines, albeit an up-charge. 

One afternoon, we geared up for this family-friendly activity. We entered commando mode and headed out for our 10-minute game. This lost city of Atlantis themed course offers plenty of nooks and crannies to hide and target the competition. But, you can’t stay stationary too long as you will become a sitting duck for the other team.  

For those unwilling to brave the elements, the Galaxy Pavilion on deck 17 aft is home to some of the most high-tech experiences at sea. We found some time on the morning of Day 7 to test out all of the games. Cruisers can buy tickets for individual attractions along with hour, day, or week-long passes. For us, the hour-long pass was just enough. 

I tested my soccer skills, but be warned that goalie, she is really good. Perhaps my favorite game to play, and Heidi’s favorite to watch me play, is Descendant. This virtual reality shooting game will keep you on your toes. The 7D cinema is a lot of fun too from hunting zombies, werewolves, or crazy clowns. Other simulators include a Jurassic escape, a tightrope walk, and car racing.  

For an additional charge, the Captain’s Quest is a virtual reality escape room that offers up to 10 cruisers the chance to escape from a sunken ship. Again, this is very popular, so make sure to reserve it early in the cruise so you don’t miss out like we did! 

Onboard Activities 

When it comes to other onboard activities, Norwegian Encore offered a daily list of events that you would expect on a mega-ship. The cruise director, Tiara, and her staff hosted regular sessions of trivia, games, and more throughout the day.  

Even with a rather busy itinerary, we found time to attend a few activities–we pressed our luck at Deal or No Deal and tested our knowledge with Alaska trivia.  

Of course, there were other themed sessions and events throughout the week too focused on wellness, shopping, and cooking demonstrations.

In the Observation Lounge, cruisers could also enjoy audio lectures on topics like the History of Alaska. Needless to say, we always found something to occupy our time between ports of call. Although, we would have liked a little more Alaska programming, perhaps an onboard naturalist or local guest speakers. 

While the Freestyle Daily is packed with activities, you could opt to do nothing at all—after all, it is your vacation. If you just want to enjoy the views, the Observation Lounge and the Waterfront are great places to do so.  

You might also want to consider purchasing a pass to the Mandara Spa’s thermal suite. Week-long passes are available, as well as day passes on port days pending availability. The thermal suite is limited to just 200 passes for the week, so it will never feel too crowded. 

This thermal suite on Norwegian Encore is one of the biggest in the industry, featuring a hydro-pool, heated stone loungers, and several other experiences like a sauna and a salt room. It also has amazing aft views from the 270 degree wall of windows blanketing the back of this Deck 17 space. Despite all the other onboard and ashore activities, we made sure to reserve some time for a little relaxation here. 

PRO TIP : If you have onboard credit , remember that you can use it at the Spa to pay for these services. We also recommend taking a spa tour on the first day to learn more about the services offered and any promotions.    

On a side note– while cruisers can use the NCL app to find all the onboard activities available, we are happy that NCL still makes a print copy of its Freestyle Daily as many other cruise lines are doing away with these paper versions.  

SCORE EXCLUSIVE RATES ON NCL ENCORE SAILINGS BY BOOKING NOW!

Complimentary Dining 

When it comes to casual dining options , the Norwegian Encore cruise ship offers a few choices. Our favorite is the Local Bar and Grill.  

Located on Deck 7, this 24-hour pub serves a changing menu depending on the time of day. This large venue features a bar, along with a mix of high tops and restaurant-style seats. Even though it is popular, we only had to wait a few minutes for a table.   

The pub-style menu features my favorite go-to snacks, like chicken wings and pretzel bites. However, the menu also features burgers, sandwiches, and nightly dinner specials, as well as a full breakfast menu.  

The central location also makes it a prime viewing spot for some of the onboard activities and events occurring in the Atrium. 

On Deck 16, there is also the Garden Café, Norwegian Encore’s buffet. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, the buffet includes your standard selections. There were staples like pancakes, waffles, continental items, and several omelet stations at breakfast. For lunch, there were sandwiches, various international options, and a custom salad bar. At night, the Garden Café featured themed dinners like “Steak and Shrimp,” the “Grill Extravaganza,” and an Asian-themed night to name a few.  

Cruisers could also score snacks in the morning and the afternoon in the Observation Lounge. These grab-and-go options included items like croissants, danishes, small sandwiches, tapas, and more. There were also 24-hour beverage stations with water, coffee, tea, and select flavored water and juices.  

Besides these casual options, Norwegian Encore features three main dining rooms, Savor and Taste on Deck 6 and the Manhattan Room on Deck 7. These restaurants feature rotating dinner menus that change nightly. 

Surprisingly, Savor and Taste were open most days for lunch on this Alaska itinerary as well. Rotating between 3 different menus, the Chicken Parmigiana Heidi had on Day 3 rivaled any cruise line’s similar offering for dinner. Likewise, I was more than impressed with the Cuban Rotisserie Chicken and the peanut butter cup cheesecake. These restaurants were also open for breakfast; though, we never got around to testing out a sit-down breakfast.  

Given our schedule and specialty dining package, we only ate dinner in the main dining room once as well. Still, our meal was great, and better than we remember the MDR food being on NCL. My bang-bang chicken and shrimp had plenty of kick, and the chocolate lava cake made for the perfect ending to a long day of sightseeing. 

PRO TIP: If you are new to cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line, NCL is known for its Freestyle Approach to dining. Giving cruisers ultimate flexibility, they can dine where they want, when they want, and with whom they want–with no set dinner times or table assignments. Now, if you are over planners like us, you can still make dinner reservations ahead of time for the main dining room.   

Specialty Dining 

Besides the complimentary dining options, Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of specialty restaurants across its fleet. These restaurants offer elevated menus and superb service. Again, we highly recommend making reservations pre-cruise for these venues as popular restaurants and dining times fill up quickly.  

Many cruisers will receive a 2-meal specialty dining package on a week-long cruise as part of the line’s Free at Sea promotion . Cruisers can then opt to purchase additional night packages if they choose. Cruisers who have loyalty status with NCL may also receive additional meal credits.  

On our Norwegian Encore cruise, we had a 7-night dining package, so we were able to sample most of the specialty restaurants. 

One of our favorites is Food Republic. This tapas restaurant is best experienced with friends. The bigger the table, the better, as cruisers are entitled to 4 selections each when redeeming a specialty dining credit.  

With menu items blending several culinary styles and flavors, you can’t go wrong with calamari, sushi, the Korean chicken, or fried rice. 

PRO TIP : Food Republic is open for lunch on select days for even more choice. Given its location on the Waterfront and uninhibited views, it is perfect for enjoying the scenery along with a fantastic meal on a sea day. 

Other NCL favorites are also found on the Norwegian Encore cruise ship.  

The classic steakhouse, Cagney’s, is located on the Deck 8 Waterfront as well. Offering both al fresco dining and wake views, it is a great place to dine for the line’s “Dress Up or Not” night or to celebrate a special occasion. The menu features classics like shrimp cocktail, several cuts of premium beef, and the appropriately named “OMG Caramel-Butterscotch Cheesecake.” 

Across the way, on the starboard side, is Los Lobos. This upscale Mexican restaurant offers a wide selection of classic starters and entrees, including the tableside-prepared fresh guacamole. There is also the cheesy, queso fundido, along with handhelds like quesadillas and burritos. Of course, you can’t help but order a margarita (or 2) while enjoying these selections.  

On Deck 17, there is the French-inspired Le Bistro. This specialty restaurant offers floor-to-ceiling views. The venue had me at fresh, warm baguettes, but it also features other decadent French food, like escargot and coq au vin.  

One of the newer entries to the NCL fleet is Onda by Scarpetta. This high-end Italian restaurant serves handmade pasta that is prepared daily. I opted for the “Scialatielli”, which is a delicate pasta served with seafood in white wine sauce. It was amazing. Heidi’s “Mezzelune” was equally delicious, which was ravioli served in a rich butter truffle sauce. While there, you should try the pizza too, but can’t go wrong with selections like the “Burrata” or “Fritto Misto” either.  

For cruisers looking for something more casual, Q Texas Smokehouse on Deck 6 offers authentic Texas-style BBQ. The venue features live music during dinner and classic menu items like chili, deviled eggs, rotisserie chicken, smoked turkey, and brisket, coupled with sides like mac & cheese and potato salad. Q is also home to one of our favorite cocktails, the “Smoked Peach Margarita” on tap. Not to mention, you need to save room for the “Mason Jar Banana Pudding”.  

Finally, there is Teppanyaki. This is one of the most popular dining venues on the ship. Coupling an entertaining show and a delicious meal, this specialty restaurant is also family-friendly. Like our other visits, Teppanyaki on Norwegian Encore did not disappoint regarding the food, service, and culinary mastery. It was the perfect final meal of our cruise, serving up expertly seared steak, seafood, and flavorful rice.   

While we didn’t dine here, there’s also Ocean Blue, the seafood-centric specialty restaurant on Norwegian Encore. 

Bars and Lounges 

When it comes to bars and lounges on Norwegian Encore, the Observation Lounge, boasting two-story floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the bow, is a game-changer for Alaska cruises. While it is a large space, the strategic design creates more intimate seating areas, making the venue feel warm and welcoming. That’s probably why it was always quite busy during our sailing. 

The full bar serves the standard menu, and it is one of the venues open the earliest for those morning mimosas or Bloody Marys. Throughout the day, the Observation Lounge is perfect for scenic cruising, reading a book, or checking your email. In the evenings, guests can enjoy live music, and perhaps some espresso martinis. 

Down on Deck 8, the Waterfront is lined with uniquely themed bars. Perhaps my favorite is the District Brewhouse. This casual, urban beer hall is home to one of the most extensive beer lists found on any cruise ship. Our cruise featured several Alaskan brews on tap, boasting over 20 beers on tap and up to 50 ales, lagers, and stouts in total. In the evenings, Ryan offered a variety of pub-style tunes alternating between guitar and piano, making for some lively nights in this venue.  

Heidi’s favorite bar on Norwegian Encore is the Sugarcane Mojito Bar. Located mid-ship on Deck 8, this venue features lively Latin music and plenty of dancing. While we don’t hit the dance floor, we do pull up a chair for our favorite drinks, the Raspberry-Guava and Jalapeno-Cucumber Mojitos. Both are great choices for a post-dinner drink.   

If you are dining at one of the specialty restaurants aft on Deck 8, you won’t want to pass up the A-List Bar. This hidden gem is an upscale lounge with dark wood tones, oversized chairs, and a large U-shaped bar.  

Equally impressive is the Maltings Whiskey Bar. It is located on the starboard side of Deck 8, adjacent to the Humidor Cigar Lounge. Maltings features several upscale spirits and specialty cocktails, including some on tap.

Right across the way from Maltings is the Cellars Wine Bar. This venue is home to over 130 wines, with over 70 wines by the glass to choose from.  

Of course, there are several other bars around the Norwegian Encore cruise ship as well, including the centrally located Atrium Bar, the Mixx Bar located near the main dining rooms, the Skyline Bar in the casino which is the perfect place to catch a game on the panoramic screens, and two outdoor pool bars serving up NCL favorites like the mango meltdown. 

When booking with the popular Free at Sea promotion, cruisers will receive the Norwegian Cruise Line Premium Beverage Package. This package includes all alcoholic drinks up to $15. Honestly, this allotment will cover most signature cocktails at the bars and various spirits, wines, beers, and other mixed drinks.  

PRO TIP: You can pay to upgrade your drink package to the Premium Plus beverage package. One of the biggest perks of this package is Starbucks. NCL is the only cruise line that includes drinks from this coffee chain in its drink packages. As coffee lovers, this is huge for us. Not to mention, Starbucks not only features seasonal favorites but also my nitro cold brew coffee! 

Nightlife and Entertainment 

When it comes to nightlife, Norwegian Encore offers a variety of entertainment options. As mentioned previously, there’s live music in the District Brewhouse, the Observation Lounge, the Sugarcane Mojito Bar, the Atrium, and Q Texas Smokehouse.  

However, music lovers need to head to the Cavern Club as well. This venue, inspired by the Liverpool landmark, is home to a Beatles cover band several nights and the ship’s resident rock band on the other evenings. This cozy place can get very busy, so make sure to get there early for optimal seating.   

Another popular entertainment venue is The Social found on Deck 6. Partnering with Levity Comedy, this venue features two comedians throughout the cruise. On most evenings, there are two shows with the later show being more adult-oriented. We made sure to attend one showing of each comedian. 

The nightlife doesn’t stop there though. Later in the evening, the Social turns into the cruise line’s nightclub. It is also home to parties like the Silent Disco and the popular Glow Party. These are cruise staples that you don’t want to miss.  

Of course, the cruise director staff  hosts events in the Atrium throughout the cruise as well, like the Newlywed, Not So Newlywed Game show or Battle of the Sexes. Movies and other special events also take place here.  

But, the real draw for entertainment on the Norwegian Encore cruise ship is the signature production show, Choir of Man. It is my personal favorite. From rock classics like Guns and Roses, to modern pop from Sia and Adelle, to a little Jimmy Buffett, the show is a nonstop, high-energy 75 minutes of fun. The Jungle, also known as the local pub, is the setting where these talented lads share their personal stories alongside song and dance. They even invite the audience to join in on a brew and toast to a memorable night.  

Choir of Man is NCL’s top-rated show and for a good reason. It features a fantastic cast and songs from various genres that appeal to a wide audience. This production show occurred on two nights of our cruise, and you don’t want to miss it. 

PRO TIP: Reservations are required for both Choir of Man in the main theater and the comedy shows in The Social. Cruisers can make reservations pre-cruise for Choir of Man on NCL.com or book as soon as they board the ship. However, the comedy shows can only be booked once onboard the ship and do fill up quickly. So, be sure to book on embarkation day. 

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a variety of cabin categories to fit all budgets—from the Studio cabins for solo travelers, to inside, oceanview, and balcony staterooms, all the way up to the most luxurious suite accommodations in the Haven.  

For our Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise, we stayed in a balcony cabin on Deck 12, room 12718.  

According to NCL’s website, this stateroom was approximately 214 square feet with a 38 square foot balcony. This forward-located stateroom is considered a BA category cabin. Being on deck 12, this cabin was conveniently located equidistant from the Waterfront on Deck 8 and the outdoor decks starting on Deck 16.  

Immediately upon entering the cabin, the bathroom was to the right with the closet tucked around the corner. The desk was on the left side with the sofa across from it. Continuing further into the room, there was the bed and the balcony. The balcony consisted of two chairs and a small table. 

The bathroom felt a bit roomier by cruise ship standards. It featured a somewhat larger shower with a glass door and plenty of counter space and shelves for storage. 

The closet included a clothes bar with hangers along with a series of shelves. The desk was spacious and housed the mini-fridge and some small under-counter cabinets for other accessories. The sofa was plenty big for two adults and even had a drawer under it for some added storage space. 

The king-sized bed was located on the aft wall facing forward adjacent to the balcony, which is our preferred cabin orientation. This bed provided plenty of comfort after our long days and nights exploring all that Alaska and Norwegian Encore have to offer. 

We liked the modern conveniences like USB outlets near the bed for charging phones and the “make up room” and “do not disturb” buttons in the room. Overall, this cabin had a premium feel with adequate space for a week-long cruise. 

While our Norwegian Encore cruise ship balcony was smaller than some other balconies in the industry, we highly recommend a balcony cabin especially in Alaska. 

PRO TIP: The fish on the carpets will guide you home at night! If you look down at the carpets on the stateroom decks of Norwegian Encore, you will notice fish. These fish always point in the forward direction giving you a little reminder which way you need to go to get back to your cabin. 

BOOK NOW: Score Deals on NCL Encore Cruises!

Service 

Given Norwegian Encore was sailing with 3,800 guests, or about 90% capacity, we hardly felt the crowds. The only time the ship felt busy was in the buffet at peak times, and when returning to the ship after a short port of call.  

Bar service was never an issue, whether ordering at the bar or with servers making the rounds. At the busy Sugarcane Mojito Bar or the District Brewhouse, service was always friendly and prompt. 

Whether dining at a specialty restaurant or a complimentary dining venue, service was also friendly and they always inquired about food allergies. Further, at least one supervisor stopped by our table each night to ask how things were and if we needed anything. This small attention to detail is often lacking on larger ships. Our dinners did take upwards of 1.5 to 2 hours each night, but they never really felt drawn out. 

We had reservations for all the shows and never had problems getting seats about 15-20 minutes before show time. Likewise, we had reservations for the onboard attractions, and the process moved rather swiftly. As mentioned previously, we recommend securing reservations early, but you can go standby if need be.  

Like most cruise lines in 2023, NCL has moved to servicing staterooms just once per day. Still, our stateroom attendant made sure to introduce himself on Day 1 and asked about our preferences. He never hesitated when we had an additional request throughout the week either. Whenever we saw him, he always made sure to say hi and ask us about our day. 

Overall, the service on the Norwegian Encore cruise ship was better than we expected and more akin to a premium cruise line.   

PRO TIP: While cruise gratuities are an automatic per person, per day charge added to your onboard account, we always recommend bringing small bills to tip staff members who go above and beyond to provide you exceptional service during the cruise. This may include bartenders, your stateroom attendant, or your waitstaff in the dining venues. 

Did you find our Norwegian Encore cruise ship scorecard review helpful? Do you agree with our ratings of Norwegian Encore? Drop us an anchor below to share your experiences sailing on this NCL cruise ship.

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Thank you for your review. We booked a cruise on the Encore for December.

I would have appreciated the dollar amounts related to “upcharge” items.

We love the amount of “Specialty” restaurants on NCL.

DB & The Princess

Welcome Aboard! We are Don and Heidi, the husband and wife travel team behind EatSleepCruise.com. We took our first cruise vacation together 13 years ago and have been hooked ever since. Follow along as we share our travel tips, cruise reviews, information on ports of call, and the latest cruise news to help you plan the ultimate cruise vacation. Are you ready to embark on your journey to “sea the world, one port at a time”?

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Cruising the NCL Encore Review: Sailing to Alaska

Are you thinking about cruising on the Norwegian Encore? We took a 7-day Alaska cruise on this mega-ship. Read our NCL Encore Review.

Is a mega cruise ship the way to go for Alaska? Well, it’s a “maybe not” from me. But here’s why we booked this one.

Alaska cruises? We’ve been dreaming about sailing to Alaska for years. We finally made the dream happen aboard the Norwegian Encore.

We sailed to Alaska from late July to early August. We had never been mid-summer cruisers, but a cruise expert told us it was the best time for Alaska. They were right—the weather was unexpectedly warm and mostly perfect, but that doesn’t mean it will always be the case.

With some CruiseNext vouchers burning a hole in our pocket and a good chunk of future cruise credit, we booked the Encore. It’s one of NCL’s newer ships, with stops like Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Glacier Bay—a dream itinerary for Alaska newbies.

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

But I’ll be honest—I didn’t scrutinize the itinerary details as much as I should have, which bit me later.

• Booking taught us a lot, like how unpredictable Alaska’s weather can be, and you really won’t know until you’re there.
• The cruise line and the ship’s size matter when cruising to Alaska.
• And yep, even after years of cruising, I still made a newbie mistake by not noticing some of our cruise days were shorter than expected.

Despite that, we had an unforgettable first cruise to Alaska.

In our review, we’ll discuss the ship’s features, staff, dining, and entertainment and share must-know tips, complete with photos of the cabin, ship, and food. If you’ve sailed on the Encore, we’d love to hear about your experience in the comments. Your insights help us and future cruisers alike.

Table of Contents

About Norwegian Encore

Here are a few quick facts about the NCL Encore:

• NCL Encore is the final Breakaway Plus class ship.
• Launched in November 2019, following its completion in October 2019.
• Accommodates up to 4,000 passengers, excluding crew.
• Sister ships include the Norwegian Joy , Bliss, and Escape.

7-Night Norwegian Encore Alaska Itinerary

Day 1 – Seattle, WA Day 2- Sea Day Day 3 – Juneau, AK Day 4 – Skagway, AK Day 5 – Cruising Glacier Bay Day 6 – Ketchikan, AK Day 7 – Victoria, Canada DAY 8 – Seattle, WA

Norwegian Encore sails Alaska from April to October. In the Winter, you can find the Norwegian Encore in the Caribbean before it returns to the Pacific Coast to sail North to Alaska.

Cruising on Norwegian Encore

Embarkation in seattle cruise port on encore.

Where does the Norwegian Encore cruise ship dock in Seattle? NCL Encore docks at Pier 66 of Seattle.

The embarkation process at Seattle Cruise Port was slow. We even waited until noon to check in, thinking we’d avoid the worst, but that was not the case. 

Embarking at Seattle Cruise Port was a bit of a drag. Despite our strategy to skip the early morning rush by checking in at noon, it hardly made a dent. Here’s the lowdown:

• The Wait: From dropping our bags with the porter to clutching our key cards, it was a 90-minute saga.
• Pro Tip: Have your ID and cabin number ready. You’ll hit a checkpoint immediately to confirm your cruise booking.
• Security Breeze: Once past ID checks, security was surprisingly swift, thanks to the port authority’s efficiency in keeping the line moving.
• Check-In by Deck: We were directed to a check-in area specific to our deck. Word of warning: unless you’re a Latitudes member or have scored a priority booking like The Haven, brace for a bit of a wait.
• Online Check-In?: We did our homework, completed online check-in 21 days out, selfies, etc. Yet, at the counter, it was another photo and health Q&A time again before we finally got our hands on those cruise key cards.

I couldn’t help but wish NCL would take a leaf out of Celebrity’s book—where online check-in means just that. They scan your barcode, do a quick verify, and then it’s smooth sailing (literally) onto the ship.

Don’t stress. Once you’re on the ship after you embark, you forget about the lines and can start enjoying your cruise vacation.

First Thing Onboard: Muster Drill

Our first move was to head to the muster station for check-in right after boarding the Norwegian Encore. It’s wise to complete this early upon embarkation.

Norwegian Cruise Line has reintroduced virtual muster drills, responding to passenger preferences. Initially, they had resumed in-person gatherings at muster stations, but this approach was short-lived.

Passengers receive the muster safety video via email multiple times before the cruise to ensure they watch it before departure. Additionally, the video is available on the NCL App after signing in and on the cabin’s TV on embarkation day.

Watching the video before muster station check-in is mandatory. Completing this step promptly is essential to avoid delaying the ship’s departure.

Make Reservations As Soon As You Can

✔️ Checked in to Muster.

After embarking, securing any reservations that were not pre-booked is important. Although dining reservations can be made 90 days prior via the NCL website or app, some plans require on-the-spot scheduling:

• Dining: Head to Deck 6 at the Teppanyaki restaurant for dinner bookings.
• Entertainment: The Social Club, also on Deck 6, is where you can reserve spots for shows and activities.

We had preemptively reserved our two specialty dining experiences, courtesy of our Free at Sea perks , 90 days before setting sail. “Choir of Men” entertainment was booked 21 days in advance. Close to the sail date, after upgrading to the NCL Premium Plus package—which added two more specialty dining opportunities—we found ourselves needing additional reservations.

Important Tip: Teppanyaki is exceptionally popular, so it’s wise to book as early as possible. Despite our efforts, we couldn’t secure a reservation at a suitable time.

Read more: Norwegian Cruise Drink Packages Explained

Norwegian Encore Cabin # 9218 Review

Cabin 9218 on the Norwegian Encore is located mid-ship on the port side and has a balcony. We usually land on decks 9 or 8 when we cruise. The balcony is a must-have, especially for Alaska. It’s ideal for enjoying the views, spotting wildlife, and relaxing with a book.

However, a word of advice: always check what’s beneath your cabin. Our oversight did not realize that the Sugarcane bar was directly below, leading to some days and evenings with a mix of cheers and laughter filtering up to us. At night, the sound of furniture being rearranged was our unexpected lullaby. Despite this, the serene morning in Glacier Bay , breakfast on the balcony amidst the stunning landscape, was unmatched.

Key points about cabin 9218:

• Power Up: Insert your key card (or any similar-sized card) into a slot by the door to activate the cabin’s electricity.
• Cabin Layout: The sofa next to the balcony door is a cozy spot for reading.
• Bed Comfort: The bed is quite firm; consider requesting an egg crate topper for added comfort.
• Electrical Outlets: The vanity has three US outlets and a couple of USB-A ports on the bedside lamps. But maybe bring a USB port charger to have your bases covered.
• Bathroom Features: Expect a glass-enclosed shower, provided shampoo/conditioner, body soap, and plenty of shelving for storage, though there are no drawers.
• Service: Turndown service is no longer offered, but responsive cabin service (thanks to our attendant, Rachel Madrid) ensured us that requests like extra towels were readily accommodated.
• Location: It is conveniently close to the AFT and FWD elevators and just a short walk from the ship’s main venues.

Tip: Don’t forget to follow the fish on the carpet if you’re going FWD on the cruise ship.

Read: Clever Cruise Cabin Tips and Tricks

Sail Away from Seattle

Setting sail from a bustling city is always a highlight of cruising for me, offering a perspective you can’t get on land. The experience of leaving Seattle was as unforgettable as our sail away from New York City , though in its own unique way. Watching the Seattle skyline, with the Space Needle, the Great Wheel, and the city’s skyscrapers fading into the distance, was a spectacular send-off into our voyage.

Where can you get the best view of the Seattle skyline while sailing away on Norwegian Encore?

For the best views leaving Seattle on Norwegian Encore, want to find a spot on the top deck or The Waterfront starboard side, slowly making your way to the AFT for a panoramic view.

Service on Norwegian Encore

In reviewing the Norwegian Encore, it’s impossible not to spotlight the outstanding service. The crew aboard the Encore is simply phenomenal, always eager to enhance your vacation and make it unforgettable.

My critiques of the Norwegian Encore don’t extend to its crew; they’re exemplary, striving tirelessly to deliver an exceptional experience, even in moments of apparent stress.

Despite the hustle—navigating through crowds, the endless energy of kids, and the occasional high-maintenance guest—the staff remains unflappably courteous and attentive.

A personal testament to their dedication: I once left my phone in a bathroom, only to find upon my panicked return that the attendant had secured it safely at lost and found. I was immensely grateful, thanked her with a tip , and filled out a Vacation Hero commendation, just as I did for my cabin attendant.

Tip: If a crew member assisted and went above and beyond in any way for you, and you think they deserve more, fill out a Vacation Hero Card at guest services. This helps them immensely behind the scenes to promote and receive other incentives.

Dining Aboard the Norwegian Encore

We upgraded to the Premium Plus Package, which included two extra specialty meals and the two that came with the original perks. Therefore, we spent limited time in the main dining rooms but will still share our experiences.

What restaurants are free on Norwegian Encore?

Taste, Savor, Manhatten Room, The Garden Buffet, and The Local are the restaurants included on the Norwegian Encore.

The Garden Buffet

Our buffet visits on the Norwegian Encore were few, often feeling like a plunge into chaos. We ventured in occasionally for pizza, snacks, and desserts.

One breakfast attempt left us regretting not opting for alternatives. We were forced to choose between waiting in line for an omelet or settling for powdered eggs. The dining room, The Local, or even room service (despite the extra cost) are far better options for a more satisfying start to the day.

The buffet’s fare at other times was decent, with nothing particularly memorable except for some delicious chocolate brittle on the first day.

• Remember to check the Freestyle Daily for themed lunches and dinners—they can add variety to your dining experience.

Regrettably, we missed the Indian food, usually a highlight at NCL buffets. On a positive note, the pizza on the Encore, complete with real cheese, redeemed our less impressive pizza experience on the Joy. However, the buffet’s late-night options were non-existent. Gone are the days of grabbing pizza or cookies after 10 p.m., a convenience we enjoyed on other ships.

Tip 1: When it’s packed, grab a seat first and take turns getting food to avoid standing meals. Tip 2: Craving cookies? They’re not out in the open, so ask near the ice cream/dessert station. They’re happily provided upon request.

Taste & Savor

Taste and Savor, two of Norwegian’s three main dining rooms, offer meals included in your cruise fare. We tried them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, finding solace from the crowded buffet.

Breakfast was a highlight in the dining room. An early arrival means a quieter setting, perfect for enjoying coffee and fresh eggs by the window. The menu is largely consistent and features a few rotating special breakfast items.

Lunch brought a pleasant change with three rotating menus. Dining here provided a welcome escape from the ship’s hustle and bustle.

Taste and/or Savor is open for LUNCH on days it is at sea. Consider eating here instead of the buffet. 

Dinner experiences at Taste and Savor varied. The service felt either lacking or hurried, not from a lack of effort but due to the overwhelming number of guests. Staff, including managers pitching in to assist, worked hard to deliver exemplary service, emphasizing our vacation should be relaxing, even insisting on refilling our sparkling water themselves.

Among the standout dishes was a Hawaiian Pork Belly, highly recommended by multiple servers—and they didn’t miss. The same night, cannoli for dessert came highly suggested and did not disappoint.

The servers were our reliable guides to the menu, accurately pointing us towards the best dishes.

We usually enjoy dining at The Manhattan, the third main room, on other NCL ships, but we didn’t visit it on this cruise.

The Local, included in your cruise fare, is practically open 24/7, offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and a pared-down late-night menu.

This time around, The Local really stepped up its game. I’m usually on the fence about it, but the Wrangler Burger and the carrot cake genuinely impressed me. Although I noticed the Rueben getting a lot of love from other diners, pastrami isn’t my thing.

However, service is the one area where The Local continues to fall short. It’s not a reflection of the staff’s effort but rather an indication of being understaffed during peak times, struggling to keep up with the restaurant’s popularity.

Food Republic

Given all the great things I had heard about it, I was still baffled as to why we waited so long to try Food Republic on NCL. The moment we sampled the offerings, it was clear: the food here is delicious and offers the best desserts we encountered on our cruise.

Food Republic’s specialty is sushi, which initially deterred us since my husband isn’t a fan of fish. However, the reality was a delightful surprise—an Asian Fusion menu packed with various meat options, all served in a tapas style that was ideal for sharing. The menu is a mix of dishes like sushi, ramen, and pork belly bao with unexpected Mexican twists like Tijana fries.

If you’re dining with the specialty dining package, each diner can select up to four dishes, including desserts. For us, that meant a feast of eight shared plates, ranging from small appetizers to full-blown entrees. We relished every dish we ordered, though I regret not capturing the Lamb Kalbi, another standout, in our photo memories.

Our top tip: come hungry, but order wisely. You’ll place your order through a tableside tablet, and dishes are served as soon as they’re ready.

Keep an eye on the newsletter for opening times. Food Republic was available for lunch (for an extra fee) on one of our final sea days.

Food Republic Menu on Norwegian Encore PDF

Le Bistro holds a special place in our hearts on Norwegian Cruise Line. As you might remember from my past reviews , we’ve always made a point to visit.

The cuisine at Le Bistro remains exceptional, though the menu has seen some adjustments. Notably, the veal chop has been removed, and opting for the Filet now incurs a $10 supplement charge if you’re using the specialty dining package.

I left my comfort zone this time and chose the Dover sole for my main dish. It was decent, but I envied my husband’s Filet de Boeuf, which was remarkably tender and flavorful.

However, Le Bistro’s ambiance on the Norwegian Encore is compromised by its peculiar placement. Tucked away on deck 17 AFT, nestled behind the American Diner, adjacent to the Galaxy Pavilion, and beneath the rumble of go-karts, it’s clear that in the ship’s design phase, the quest to accommodate as many specialty dining options as possible relegated Le Bistro to a less-than-ideal location.

Despite the impeccable food and service, the dining experience was marred by a constant vibration, an anomaly we hadn’t felt elsewhere on the ship during our week-long journey. Consequently, we opted to cancel our second reservation at Le Bistro for that week, choosing instead to explore what Los Lobos had to offer.

Le Bistro Menu on Norwegian Encore PDF

Out of curiosity, we gave Los Lobos a shot, admittedly with a bit of skepticism given the high bar set by Los Angeles’ Mexican cuisine. To our delight, Los Lobos was a hit.

Heeding our waitress’s recommendations paid off—she guided us flawlessly. The stars of the meal were the tableside guacamole and queso fundido for starters and the carne asada as our main dish.

The portions are generous with the specialty dining package, so it’s wise to order with your appetite in mind. We found ourselves overwhelmed by the abundance of food, managing only one dessert between us.

For those without the specialty dining package, opting for an à la carte experience at Los Lobos is still worthwhile. It’s the perfect venue for enjoying a few appetizers accompanied by a margarita

Los Lobos Menu on Norwegian Encore PDF

Onda by Scarpetta

Onda by Scarpetta on the Norwegian ship was a pleasant surprise, especially since we are quite particular about Italian cuisine. However, we were skeptical about whether it could truly deliver an authentic experience.

The pasta, however, was delicious.

We kicked things off with the pizza, which was all right but didn’t wow us. The real game-changer was the stromboli included in the bread basket—it was so good that it rendered ordering pizza unnecessary. A salad or burrata would make better choices alongside it.

The pasta dishes genuinely impressed us. I went for the Tagliatelle, teeming with lobster in a spicy tomato sauce, and it was nothing short of divine. Skeptically, my Italian husband tried the Pappardelle Bolognese, fully expecting disappointment. Instead, he polished off his plate, much to his own astonishment.

Though we didn’t capture it in photos, the tiramisu for dessert continued the trend of exceeding our expectations.

And here’s a special shoutout to the Palermo Old Fashion cocktail at Onda—a highlight.

Onda by Scarpetta Menu on Norwegian Encore PDF Onda by Scarpetta Dessert Menu on Norwegian Encore PDF

Other specialty restaurants and specialty eateries on Norwegian Encore we did not try on this trip:

• Q Smokehouse
• American Diner
• Cagney’s
• Coco’s
• The Bake Shop

Tip: If you arrive early at any restaurants onboard, don’t hesitate to request a window seat. The staff are more than willing to oblige if they can. Given the prolonged daylight on an Alaskan cruise, this prime spot lets you feast your eyes on breathtaking views and possibly spot some wildlife as you dine.

Starbucks on Norwegian Encore

Finding only one Starbucks on the Norwegian Encore, located on Deck 6 near the atrium, was a bit of a surprise, especially since the Joy boasts two. Despite the potential for long lines, the stellar staff improved the experience significantly.

Earl, a standout barista, was a whirlwind of efficiency, always managing to hustle through orders while ensuring quality. The speed of service and attention to detail sets Starbucks apart. Each coffee was crafted with care, not merely assembled, culminating in the delightful finishing touch of latte art.

Starbucks’s quality on the ship starkly contrasted with the everyday experience on land. While I seldom visit Starbucks at home, the coffee on the cruise was exceptional, earning a solid A+ in my book.

Additionally, the convenience of having the Premium Plus Package meant we could enjoy specialty coffees at the sit-down restaurants, too. Ending dinner with a dopio espresso.

Norwegian Encore Activities and Entertainment

On our cruise, we decided not to chase down every show, focusing instead on soaking in Alaska’s breathtaking scenery and indulging in the ship’s eats. With the Encore at full capacity, we avoided the more crowded events when possible.

Attending events at The Cavern or the Social Club was particularly tricky. The seating capacity in these venues couldn’t cope with the demand from the ship’s guests, making early arrival essential for securing a spot. So, I advise showing up well in advance for those planning to catch performances in these intimate venues.

Choir of Men

Cost: $0 | Reservations Recommended

The standout performance on the Norwegian Encore is undoubtedly the “Choir of Men.” We were unsure what to expect when heading in, but the show blew us away.

This British musical blends heartfelt emotion, humor, and incredible talent. The cast delivers energetic renditions of beloved songs spanning decades. The show starts with a prelude, engaging the audience and even offering beers on stage—a festive vibe maintained from start to finish.

It’s an absolute must-see. Reservations open up 21 days before sailing, but I’ve heard it’s quite feasible to get in on standby at the theater without a reservation.

The “Choir of Men” cast also performs “Dudes Sing the Divas” at the Cavern Club. Unfortunately, we couldn’t find seating when we attempted to attend last minute. Despite enjoying the initial moments, the lack of comfortable viewing space led us to leave early. Keep an eye on the Freestyle Dailies for this one—it’s worth trying to catch.

The Beatles Invasion

This might be a bit of an unpopular opinion, but we didn’t enjoy the performances as much as “The Beatles Story” we experienced on the Joy. Nonetheless, if you’re a Beatles fan, it’s worth listening.

The band plays in both the Cavern Club and the Theater, offering multiple opportunities to catch their rendition of Beatles classics.

Cost: $15 per ride for 10 minutes of racing | Reservations required

The Go-Karts on the Norwegian Encore are a must-try, ideally booked in advance. Stretching impressively across two levels from Deck 19 to Deck 20, they represent one of the ship’s pinnacle attractions.

My husband, a car and racing enthusiast, was eager to test them out. While the experience was enjoyable, frequent interruptions to enforce rules or assist drivers stuck in corners slightly marred the excitement, dampening the thrill of the race.

Personally, I feel the Go-Karts occupy an excessive amount of valuable ship real estate. Given the choice, I’d advocate for an additional pool to enhance the onboard leisure options.

The Pool Deck on Norwegian Encore

The Norwegian Encore has two pools outside of The Haven and Thermal Spa areas: one designated for kids and the other ostensibly for adults only. The latter rule appears to be more of a suggestion than a strict policy.

During our cruise, we opted not to use the pools, but we noticed many people basking in the unexpected sunny weather in Seattle on embarkation day. So, a tip for future cruisers: pack your swimsuit in your carry-on to be prepared for such opportunities. This Alaskan cruise saw several warm days, a rarity, with many guests seizing the chance to enjoy the weather.

• Hot Tubs: The ship features 9 hot tubs, often found to be full of children.
• Aqua Park: Located right next to the kids’ pool, catering to younger guests.
• Water Slides: Includes the Aqua Racer and Ocean Loops, though we didn’t try these out on our

The Casino on Deck 7

Deck 7 of the Norwegian Encore is dominated by the Casino, which, to our surprise, was often quieter than expected. The lack of the usual bustling crowd on other cruises was noticeable, with fewer passengers participating in the games.

One commendable feature is the Casino’s designated smoking section, effectively isolated from the rest, ensuring a more pleasant experience for non-smokers.

There were also several enticing activities we didn’t explore but are worth noting for their extra cost and popularity among guests:

• Laser Tag: Our attempt to book a slot fell through because it was completely reserved.
• Galaxy Pavilion
• Virtual Escape Room

The Spa Thermal Suite on Norwegian Encore

Cost: $299 to $350 pp for the week

Though we didn’t secure a pass for the Thermal Suite on the Norwegian Encore, we regret this decision in retrospect. This Thermal Suite stands out as one of the nicest ones we’ve seen on Norwegian ships, warranting a special mention in this review for its array of features.

The Thermal suite includes heated chaise lounges, a thermal pool, a hot tub, dry and wet saunas, a salt room, and a cold room. Its exclusivity is notable—only up to 100 passengers can purchase a thermal pass, making it a serene retreat from the ship’s hustle and bustle.

For those considering a similar cruise, it’s worth noting that a limited number of passes are available for purchase before embarkation, with the option to buy on embarkation day if any remain. Occasionally, daily passes are offered, though these, too, are limited in availability. Next time, securing a thermal pass will be a high priority on our list for an itinerary like this.

Observation Lounge: Crowds, Wildlife, and Lounge Lizards

The Norwegian Encore’s observation lounge was a magnet for crowds during our Alaska cruise, particularly when snacks were available. Five to six stations offering light fare emerged at specific intervals throughout the day, drawing quite an audience.

On a few occasions, securing seats around lunchtime proved possible, employing a strategy of waiting for the majority to head to the buffet. However, the moment food was served within the lounge, the noise level soared, and the area became densely populated, prompting our departure.

Despite the hustle, snagging a spot in the Observation Lounge was worth it for the panoramic views and wildlife spotting opportunities. On the first day at sea, we were thrilled to see whales, dolphins, and seals, with each sighting bringing a wave of excitement throughout the lounge.

The lounge’s bar deserves a mention for its exceptional drink concoctions, which add to the space’s appeal.

One downside, however, was the tendency for some passengers to treat the lounge as their personal living space, occupying seats from dawn till dusk.

Finding Scenery on the Waterfront

Deck 8’s Waterfront is a hidden gem for those seeking tranquility and unmatched views, especially during our Glacier Bay glide. Surprisingly, it remained uncrowded, offering unparalleled vistas without the hustle of the ship’s more frequented spots.

Experiencing the wilderness and wildlife directly from the Waterfront elevates the moment far beyond what the Observation Lounge can offer. Yes, it’s chillier out on the open deck, but the vivid, unobstructed views and the opportunity to capture the natural beauty without the hindrance of glass or watermarks are invaluable.

For cruisers looking to dodge the crowds with a touch of exclusivity, the Vibe Beach Club presents an attractive albeit paid alternative.

Other Observations of the Norwegian Encore

• Smooth Sailing: Our journey was remarkably smooth. I scarcely felt the ship’s movement except for our dinner at Le Bistro.
• Crowded Spaces: As expected for a mid-summer cruise, the Encore was at full capacity. The crew was fantastic, though visibly stretched thin by the demands of a full ship.
• Cabin Attendant Workload: Despite the absence of turn-down service, our cabin attendant often worked late into the evening, sometimes seen attending rooms 20 doors away. It raises the question: just how many cabins are they responsible for?
• Ship Layout: Although the Encore is a sister ship to the Joy, its layout struck us as slightly peculiar. Interestingly, the Joy was initially tailored for the Asian market before refurbishment. Despite this, our preference leans towards the Joy for its distinct charm within the fleet.
• Glacier Bay Experience: The ship’s bow opens on the morning Glacier Bay is reached, offering a prime viewing spot as we approach the first glacier around 9:15 a.m.

• Warm Beverages on Glacier Bay Day: The Waterfront was equipped with hot chocolate and coffee stations, including Irish coffee (available for an extra charge without a drink package), perfect for chilly observations of Glacier Bay.
• Diverse Dining Options: Despite the full capacity, Norwegian excellently offered multiple dining options beyond the buffet for breakfast and lunch during sea days, ensuring no shortage of choices.
• Seeking Serenity: For those traveling during peak season and searching for quieter spaces on the ship, it might be worth investing in access to the Thermal Spa or The Vibe for a more secluded experience.
• Efficient Disembarkation: With an early flight on disembarkation day, we opted for the self-assist walk-off option at 7 a.m., finding a line already forming at The Local on Deck 7. Thankfully, the process was swift once clearance was given.

Norwegian Encore Freestyle Dailies

Here are the Freestyle Dailies from our Norwegian Encore Alaska cruise. Remember that these newsletters are specific to our cruise week, and all the times, shows, activities, and details are subject to change.

We’re sharing these to give you a sneak peek into what your cruise might look like and help you strategize your reservations.

NCL Encore Freestyle Daily – Day 1 NCL Encore Freestyle Daily – Day 2 NCL Encore Freestyle Daily – Day 3 NCL Encore Freestyle Daily – Day 4 NCL Encore Freestyle Daily – Day 5 NCL Encore Freestyle Daily – Day 6 NCL Encore Freestyle Daily – Day 7

🚢 Book a Norwegian Encore Cruise

Sailing to Alaska on the Norwegian Encore

Embarking on the Norwegian Encore to Alaska was a journey filled with breathtaking moments. Yet, I need to share the highlights and the lows for those planning their own Alaska cruise vacation.

Mega-Ship: The Encore is vast and bustling, especially in summer. Those seeking a quieter, more intimate cruise might prefer a smaller vessel. Perhaps an NCL Gem Class ship or another cruise line.

Port Time: Reflecting on our experience, a ship offering longer port stays would have been ideal for a deeper exploration of Alaska.

Docking Distance: The Encore docked furthest from centers, notably in Ketchikan, where the distance from Ward Cove impacted our time ashore with only half a day there. While other cruise lines docked much closer and in the center of town.

Despite these points, our Alaska cruise introduced us to stunning landscapes and wildlife. The Encore, I believe, is perfect for families or groups but less so for our quiet Alaska cruise preference.

Our loyalty to Norw egian doesn’t blind us to areas for improvement. For future Alaskan adventures, as long as we are traveling alone as a couple, we will look for a smaller ship, offering a more personal experience. Ultimately, the best cruise for you aligns with your travel style and what you wish to get from your cruise vacation.

Does Norwegian Encore have an adults-only area?

Yes, the Vibe Beach Club and the Thermal Suite Spa stand out as adult-only havens on the Norwegian Encore. Special passes for these areas are available for purchase on the morning of embarkation day, with the option to sometimes buy them online beforehand.

Does Norwegian Encore have an adults-only pool?

The Norwegian Encore features a pool on the pool deck that is intended for adults only. However, enforcement of this rule is lax, and children often use the pool.

What drinks are free on Norwegian Encore?

On the Norwegian Encore, as with most NCL ships, guests enjoy a range of complimentary beverages. This includes filtered water, standard coffee and tea, select juices and milk during breakfast and lunch, and hot chocolate packets.

For those desiring a bit more luxury, premium cocktails, frozen drinks, bottled water (still or sparkling), soda, and specialty coffees are available for an additional cost.

BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• Norwegian Joy Cruise Ship Review
• Norwegian Epic Cruise Ship Review
• Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship Review
• Norwegian Getaway Cruise Ship Review

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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What a nice and complete review of the NCL Encore! Thanks.

Appreciate the comment.

We sail out on 10/8 on the Encore. Your review has been very helpful and I have a better idea of what to expect for our first cruise to Alaska!

Hi Christina – Appreciate your kind comment. Hope you have a great cruise@ Have a fabulous time. Since it is an October cruise, let’s hope the ship is not as super crowded for you as it was for us. Either way, Alaska is amazing and you will have a beautiful time.

15 Things to do at Sea on a Norwegian Bliss Alaska Cruise

When on a Norwegian Alaska cruise, you have a lot of time at sea and it often isn’t pool weather, so you want to pick a cruise ship that has plenty of non-sunbathing entertainment options. Most cruise ships these days cater to families with each one is trying to outdo the others, and the Norwegian Bliss is no exception.

The Norwegian Bliss, part of Norwegian’s fleet of cruise ships, has some features that are meant to wow families including go-karting, laser tag, and two sets of water slides. Since I have a teen who is an only child that doesn’t like to join into the fun of a teen club, we spent a lot of effort during our recent Alaskan cruise seeking out all the ways to entertain ourselves.

There isn’t always a lot of information about things to do on a Norwegian Alaska cruise online, so I thought I’d lay it out here to help you decide on which ship to pick for your Alaska cruise.

About the Norwegian Bliss

The Norwegian Bliss is a mega-ship in the Norwegian Cruise Lines family, which started sailing in April of 2018 and was refurbished in 2021. The ship can hold up to 4,000 guests on 20 decks with 30 bars and restaurants. While the Norwegian Bliss was built for Alaska cruising, it also services the west coast of Mexico in the winter months.

From May to September, she sails from Seattle on a seven-day cruise to Alaska and back. She returns to Seattle with stops in Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point near Glacier Bay, and Victoria, British Columbia.

On the Norwegian Bliss Alaskan cruise from Seattle, you have two full days and two half-days at sea. That is a lot of time to kill if the weather is rainy or windy (or just cold!) After all, it is the Pacific Northwest. It seems like there should be endless things to do while on board. And there are, but sometimes you have to look for them and keeping kids entertained may take some work.

If you are planning a Norwegian Alaska cruise on the Norwegian Bliss, you may also want to check out these articles:

• 12 Unexpected costs on the Norwegian Bliss
• The best Norwegian Bliss restaurants
• 13 Best Alaska cruise excursions for families

Things to do at Sea on a Norwegian Bliss Alaska Cruise

I have focused this article on the things to do on the Norwegian Bliss with kids while at sea. There are many more activities for adults from blind wine tastings to spa indulgences (I did include a bit about the spa for older teens 18+.)

Go-karting will cost you $15.00 per person and reservations book up quickly but racing around a track in the middle of an ocean is an experience you won’t often repeat. Make sure to make a reservation as soon as you board to get your preferred time frame. As you can imagine, all of these activities are especially popular during days at sea.

The racetrack is on decks 19 and 20 in the back of the boat. Just keep in mind that the race track is behind the smoke stack so you will get splattered with black soot during your drive if it is windy, so don’t wear anything nice. The track can also be closed during inclement weather and your scheduled session may be cancelled or rescheduled.

The Norwegian Bliss laser tag set up is larger and more intricate than you would expect to find on a cruise ship. You can sign up for 30-minute sessions, which must be reserved in advance. I would recommend scheduling these as soon as you board with guest services or through the online touch screens near the elevators because the sessions book up quickly, especially for days at sea. Just keep in mind that on the Alaska cruise your session may still end up canceled due to bad weather.

The cost is $9.95 per person. Tip: if you have a teen, the Entourage teen club offered one night activity with unlimited laser tag – for free! If you have a teen that doesn’t mind joining a teen club, this might be a good way to try Laser Tag for free. Check and see if they are still offering this and sign up early in the week.

You can find it on Deck 20 at the front of the boat.

Kids’ Clubs

The Kids’ and Teen Club both offer programming while at sea on Deck 5. The teen club is a drop in space where, once registered, teens can come and go at their leisure. It has video games and an air hockey table. There are also times where they offer set programs.  But parents aren’t allowed!

Video Arcade

If your family likes skeeball, VR, or other video games, there is a small video arcade near the kid’s clubs on Deck 5. There are a range of games from car racing to basketball hoops, to a virtual rollercoaster. All the games are a la carte by swiping your room key but if you think your kids might spend a lot of time in the arcade, especially on bad weather days at sea, you may want to look at purchasing a package. 

The package is $10 per person, per day, which will give you unlimited games on certain machines with a green swipe. Seems like a deal if you only purchased it for one day or one person. However, it must be purchased for the entire cruise and for everyone in the cabin . It can really add up fast either way!

Players win tickets that can be exchanged for the typical arcade prizes. Just beware that it gets loud in there!

The Library and Card Room is off the Atrium on Deck 6 and offers a quiet space to play ship-supplied Monopoly, chess, checkers, and Backgammon. There are also books that can be borrowed during the hours that the room is staffed.

Aqua Park Water Slides

There are two waterslides in the Aqua Park, which also includes a tipping dump bucket and water cannons on a splash pad. Ocean Loops has a clear section and it dips out over the side of the ship. You need to be at least 99 pounds to ride so it isn’t an option for small kids and tweens.

The Aqua Racer is a closed tube slide with single- or double-tubes. This is a dark tube slide with lights in the tube, but still maybe not great if your kids are scared of the dark. These definitely look very fun but I’ll warn you that it was never warm enough to take advantage of the pools or waterslides during our cruise in August. There were some brave souls but often they were closed anyway due to weather conditions.

If you are courageous enough to brave the elements when you get out of the water, there are two pools and four hot tubs on the main pool deck and you won’t have any trouble getting a deck chair on the Alaskan cruise! Now when the Norwegian Bliss moves south in the winter, I’m sure that is another story.

The televisions in the staterooms include free movie channels playing action, drama, comedy, and family movies around the clock. However, if you need to get out of the room and move around, they do occasionally play family movies in the Atrium on Deck 6. Check the Freestyle Daily newsletter left in your stateroom each night for details.

In the Public restaurant on Deck 7,  you will find a small two-lane bowling alley. It is not for the serious bowler and it does cost $6 per game. However, it can entertain the kids while you enjoy a beer or drink at the Public, which is an Irish pub-style restaurant that is open 24×7.

I almost hesitate to call the Norwegian Bliss’ offering mini golf but you will find five small putting greens at the very back of the boat, above and behind the race track. You have to really look for them as it isn’t marked and is easily overlooked. That is suitable though since it feels as if the design of this space was a bit of an oversight.

Giving the kids a scavenger hunt to find it may be half the fun. And hey, at least it is free!

Lectures in the Observation Lounge

The Observation Lounge on Deck 15 was our favorite space on the boat. It can get crowded at times, especially in the front by the bar, but if you look along the sides you should be able to find a couch, chair, or, if you are lucky, a lounger. They have a bar as well as coffee, tea, and water. There are also snacks put out throughout the day including a light breakfast and lunch, afternoon tea, and after-dinner desserts.

It is a nice space to watch the scenery so stake a claim on a space early if you want to sit there while sailing close to the glaciers. However, there are times on your days at sea when they also play recorded lectures about Alaska geography and wildlife. You will probably want to be in the Observation Lounge while sailing past icebergs in Glacier Bay so be sure to scope out seats early on that day. Otherwise, bundle up and watch up close from your balcony.

Family Games

The entertainers in the Atrium do their best to engage the audience with comedy, music, and game shows. It is the silly entertainment that you expect to find in an all-inclusive environment, like the “Family Insanity Game Show.”

But if you don’t mind letting loose and having fun with it, it could be a good time. Maybe there is a reason there is a bar right there. Check the schedule for activities that seem family-friendly as a few were a little PG-13.

Outside walks / Jogging Track

During our cruise, our teen was missing daily soccer practices so she wanted to keep up her physical routine so she wasn’t a hot mess when starting school. However, there is a big sign outside of the fitness center that you must be 16 years old to enter. So scratch that.

To get exercise she mostly ran up and down the stairs. However, there is a small jogging track around the pool. Just keep in mind that it closes to joggers at 9am and it is narrow. It can be refreshing though after spending so much time inside to take walks. Deck 7 is perfect for looping around the boat along the outside of the restaurants.

Sweet Treat

When all else fails, you can always bribe them with a sweet treat and there are plenty of options on the Norwegian Bliss. You can fork over some cash (or really just your ship card but it is still a la carte) for ridiculously-good looking milkshakes and sundaes at Coco’s, scoop up gelato, macarons, or cupcakes at Dolce Gelato, or grab one of the goodies at Starbucks.

Just don’t forget you can get free ice cream and soft serve in the Garden Cafe and often there are free treats in the Observation Lounge as well. There are enough hidden expenses on the Norwegian Bliss without racking up a bill on sweets.

There is plenty of evening entertainment aboard the Norwegian Bliss and some of it is family friendly. The main show is the Broadway musical The Jersey Boys , which tells the true story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.

Just keep in mind the show starting time and whether or not that conflicts with any dining reservations you might have or if it would go too late for an early morning port of call the next day.

Bonus: Visit the Spa

The spa on the Norwegian Bliss is limited to those 18 and up and unlike most spas, a spa treatment does not automatically include access to the thermal suite, which includes a salt room, snow cave, dry sauna, whirlpool, and heated tiled loungers. So you can get a massage but then you are not allowed to go sit in the sauna afterward.

To access the spa facilities, you need to purchase a week-long pass for $269 per person ($249 if you purchase online in advance.) Day passes are not available, otherwise I’m sure everyone would want to purchase it just for the day at sea. So you need to decide how much you want to splurge — although I will say I found those heated tiled loungers very relaxing!

When all else fails, consult the Freestyle Daily. I found the daily highlights a bit more adult-oriented than family friendly though. There were options like Latin line dance class, fruit and vegetable carving demo, towel animal folding demonstration (I think our room steward could attend that one), Cha Cha dance class, and the Crew Talent Show. Those weren’t a big hit with my teen. She also wasn’t particularly interested in the evening entertainment in the Bliss Theater.

Be sure to bring lots of books and offline games, or you could always cough up the money to pay for the WiFi package.

Learn more:

• Find out what to wear on an Alaskan cruise
• Download your Alaska cruise packing list
• Hear more about our experience on the Norwegian Bliss:

PIN THIS FOR LATER

Tamara Gruber is the Founder and Publisher of We3Travel. A former marketing executive and travel advisor, Tamara is an award-winning travel writer and recognized expert in family travel. Tamara is a member of SATW and the Adventure Travel Trade Association, and serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association. She is also the publisher of YourTimetoFly.com and the co-host of the Vacation Mavens travel podcast.

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Publish Date: April 2, 2023

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6 best Alaska cruises for families

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Adorable sled dog puppies, graceful whales, fascinating totem poles, crazy lumberjacks, majestic glaciers — Alaska has much to offer families of all ages. But if you’re looking for the best Alaska cruise for kids, which ship should you choose?

Families have great choices when sailing up north, including a ship full of Disney characters, one with laser tag and a go-kart race track and many with expansive play spaces for kids, waterslides and family-focused onboard activities. Look for bigger ships with plenty of amusements; smaller and older ships might not have as many kid-friendly attractions.

I’m not mentioning luxury cruise ships here because they are geared for adults, but families looking for a more upscale, smaller-ship cruise to Alaska should know that many high-end lines will put on some kid programming during summer-break cruises to Alaska with a higher-than-usual number of children on board.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

If you’re ready to cross Alaska off your bucket list, here are our recommendations for the best Alaska cruises for families.

7-night Alaska Adventure cruise on Quantum of the Seas

The 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas is not one of Royal Caribbean ’s largest-in-the-world Oasis Class ships that boast zip lines, ice skating rinks and AquaTheaters. But it still offers a great mix of activities, including a skydiving simulator, high-tech theater with robotic “dancing” screens, an escape room, indoor basketball court/bumper car pavilion and dedicated spaces for both kids and adults.

Kids can gobble up hot dogs and pizza at themed eateries, while adults can enjoy date night at Wonderland with its imaginative molecular gastronomy or Jamie’s Italian, created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Seven-night Alaska cruises sail round-trip from the easily accessible port of Seattle and visit Sitka, Skagway and Juneau, Alaska; as well as Victoria, British Columbia. One day is spent cruising through the scenic Endicott Arm to Dawes Glacier. Sailings depart between late April and September.

Related: Alaska cruise packing list: What to pack for a sailing up north

7-night Alaska cruise on Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line ‘s 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder (which can carry 2,713 guests when completely full) is the perfect size ship for a family cruise to Alaska. It’s smaller than many of the megaships catering to families in this part of the world, so guests can view glaciers and enjoy shore excursions without feeling too crowded.

The ship is full of Disney magic — photo ops with Mickey and friends and Disney princesses, restaurants themed to “The Little Mermaid” and “The Princess and the Frog” and a musical stage show of “Frozen.”

Cabins are thoughtfully designed for families, with plentiful bunkbeds and split bathrooms so two people can get ready for bed at once. Waiters assist with cutting up food for little cruisers or bringing pureed baby food, and the imaginative kids clubs keep little ones happily occupied when you’re not exploring in port.

Disney Wonder’s weeklong Alaska cruises sail round-trip from Vancouver, so all Americans, even kids, will need passports to fly in to the departure port. The ship visits Juneau, Ketchikan and either Skagway or Icy Strait Point, with glacier viewing at the Stikine Icecap. Seasonal sailings run May to September.

Related: Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

7-night Alaska cruise on Carnival Spirit

Carnival Cruise Line ’s Alaska cruises aboard the 2,124-guest Carnival Spirit might not be the cheapest sailings the line offers, but you get a lot for your money. Families will appreciate not having to pay extra for kid-friendly eats at the onboard pizzeria, Mexican outlet, Guy Fieri’s burger joint and all-day soft serve ice cream station. Comedy shows (both family-friendly and adults-only), an onboard water park, mini-golf and kid, tween and teen clubs are also included in the fare.

Cabins are no-frills but tend to be roomier than comparable cabins on competitors’ ships. Many rooms sleep four, but connecting cabins will get you more space and an extra bathroom while still keeping the family together.

Carnival Spirit spends summers in Alaska from late April to mid-September. It sails round-trip from Seattle and visits Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, BC, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

7-night Glacier Bay cruise on Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Cruise Line offers one of the longest cruise seasons in Alaska, and Norwegian Encore is based in the region from April through October each year. This might not help the typical family, but if your kids are young, you homeschool or have atypical breaks, a shoulder-season deal might be waiting for you.

The 3,998-passenger ship is NCL’s biggest, and families will be amazed at how much there is to do on board (though be prepared to pull out your credit card for the best activities). The ship features a laser tag arena, go-kart race track, virtual reality pavilion and water park.

Norwegian is also known for its entertainment, and after a day hiking on glaciers or chowing down at salmon bakes, you can take in the spectacular “Choir of Man,” sing along to the Beatles tribute show at The Cavern Club, or laugh yourself silly at The Social Comedy Club.

Like many of the best Alaska cruises for families, Norwegian Encore sails round-trip from Seattle, stopping in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. The standout day on this itinerary is scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , which only a limited number of ships can visit each year. Save more by taking advantage of Free at Sea perks , which often include a free beverage package, Wi-Fi, shore excursion credit, specialty dining and — perfect for families — free third and fourth guests in each cabin.

Related: Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

7-night Voyage of the Glaciers cruise on Royal Princess

Families with a little more vacation time might want to tack a visit to the Alaskan interior before or after their cruise, either independently or with a cruisetour. For this, you’ll need a one-way cruise that begins or ends in an Alaskan port.

A top candidate for this kind of family vacation is a seven-night cruise on Princess Cruises ‘ Royal Princess sailing between Vancouver and Whittier, Alaska. The ship stops in Ketchikan, Juneau and either Skagway or Sitka, with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and either College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier, depending on the itinerary.

It’s then up to you whether you spend you pre- or post-cruise time in the Kenai Fjord area, in Anchorage or traveling north to Denali National Park, Fairbanks or into the Arctic.

Royal Princess is known for its fan-favorite Alfredo’s pizza, Movies Under the Stars (when the Alaskan weather permits) and snacks and entertainment in the central Piazza. With its special North to Alaska activities, families can cuddle some adorable sled dogs on board the ship and meet Iditarod winners and other notable locals. Kids can become junior rangers with the help of the park rangers who come aboard the ship in Glacier Bay.

7-night Kids in Nature cruise on Wilderness Legacy

Suppose your family isn’t into the big-ship lifestyle and wants a small-ship, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s also geared toward families with kids and teens? In that case, the best family cruise to Alaska for you might be the “Kids in Nature” departures of UnCruise Adventures ’ 86-passenger Wilderness Legacy.

The ship sails round-trip from Juneau on “Glaciers & Wildlife” itineraries. These seven-night cruises include hiking and biking on Chichagof Island, daytime and evening kayak and skift tours in places like Patterson Bay and Robert and Crow Islands, exploring Glacier Bay’s less-visited “Outback” and visits to the LeConte and Baird Glaciers.

On three departure dates in June and July 2024, the Wilderness Legacy will staff up with “Kid Wranglers” who will lead the kid-focused activities. The minimum age to sail is 8 years old, but plenty of tweens and teens join the fun as well.

Bottom line

You no longer have to wait until you’re retired to explore Alaska. Take the kids on a weeklong exploration of the 49th State, and you’ll have plenty of cruise ships and itineraries to choose from. The best Alaska cruises for families combine action-packed itineraries with vessels designed for family fun, but we’re sure your family can find a way to have a great time up north no matter which cruise ship you choose.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

SPONSORED:  With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free. 

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

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

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Cruise ship season begins in Juneau

The Norwegian Bliss docked in Juneau Tuesday morning, marking the start of the 2024 cruise ship season. 

Jade Wang and Minhui Li set up their tripod to take a selfie in front of the “Welcome to Juneau” sign on the seawalk. They came from New York. Through a translation device, they said in Chinese that they think the snow on the mountains is beautiful. 

“Wǒ huì tuījiàn zǔguó de péngyǒu lái — I would recommend my friends from the Motherland to come here,” Li said.

Another couple, Jean and Rob Hands, said they came all the way from Scotland to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary in Alaska. 

“We always talked about coming to Alaska, so it was one of those last-minute decisions ‘Let’s see if we can go,’” Jean Hands said. “Probably if we’d come later, we might have seen more of the wildlife.”

Rob Hands said he sees similarities between the tourism in Juneau and back home in Scotland.

“We get loads and loads of visitors. The roads become full of campers and caravans, and you can’t get a place for bed and breakfast unless you book ahead,” he said. “And, you know, it is busy but does well for the economy. So that’s a great thing.”

More than 1.6 million passengers are expected to arrive in Juneau from now until late October, when the season ends. On Tuesday morning, a steady stream of tourists walked down the seawalk and into stores downtown.

The familiar smell of grilled chicken filled the air from Bernadette’s barbecue stand, near Marine Park. Robert De La Cruz said he’d prepared 200 chicken skewers for the opening day, and he hoped they’d all get eaten by the time the ship left. 

“Hopefully, we sell them — as long as it’s not windy and rainy, that’s my fear. When it’s windy and rainy, people don’t get out,” he said. “It’s fun, I’m getting excited this year.”

Brandy Riggs, with Juneau Tours and Whale Watch, stood at a booth along the seawalk. She said visitors had been buying tours to the Mendenhall Glacier and for whale-watching trips throughout the morning. 

“There’s no guarantee that you’re gonna see whales — but we’re definitely offering it still,” she said. “We’ve got some glacier trips going on, and here in the next couple of weeks, we’ll have some city tours going on as well.”

Down Franklin Street, Gary’s Fine Jewelry was also welcoming customers. Owner Gary Totwani keeps the store open year-round, and he said he’s happy to see the tourism season start.

“A lot of people are happy — locals and the people who work for the local stores, they’re happy also,” he said. “So far, so good. I’m excited to welcome the ship, and we’re ready.”

The next ship will arrive in a week.

Katie Anastas contributed reporting.

Clarise Larson, KTOO - Juneau

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Travel | first 6 jurors are chosen for trump’s hush money criminal trial; 12 more still needed, travel | alaska is ready for another record-breaking cruise season.

Alaska is home to more than 30,000 grizzlies, but the state’s cruise industry is experiencing anything but a bear market as momentum of last year’s record-breaking season is expected to continue in 2024.

The most-visited Alaskan port, Juneau set a new mark a year ago with 1.65 million passengers descending on the capital city during cruise season, which generally runs from April to late October. That figure from the Juneau Chamber of Commerce is a Denali-sized jump of 30 percent compared to pre-pandemic 2019.

Coinciding with Alaska’s 65th anniversary of statehood, the upcoming cruise season appears to be just as robust, with 19 cruise lines sending 43 ships to the Last Frontier. Kicking things off for the second straight year is the 4,008-passenger Norwegian Bliss, which docked in rustic Skagway last week. With four mainstream-category ships homeported in either Seattle or Vancouver, Norwegian Cruise Line  has nearly 100 more after that.

Two competing companies have staked out even larger claims in this modern-day, maritime Alaskan gold rush. Holland America Line is sending seven premium-class ships for 141 total cruises. And at the top of the totem pole is Princess Cruises , which is celebrating its 55th year in these waters with seven premium ships sharing 158 departures.

Not counting grand voyages with itineraries so rich they make a visit to Alaska seem more like a pit stop, this cruise season will see more than 800 trips of mostly seven to 10 days starting or ending on this side of the Pacific. Where they’re all going is a destination rich in unparalleled wilderness, wildlife and native culture. In other words, bucket list stuff.

“Alaska is one of those places that draws you in and sets the hook right away,” said Kristi Switzer, destination marketing manager for Travel Juneau. “Visitors come for the otherworldly experience of being in the presence of glaciers and fjords, seeing whales and bears and finding the balance of Alaska Native cultural heritage with the rustic sophistication found in the capital city.”

Although Switzer recommends visits lasting several days instead of several hours, the city’s destination evangelist hopes that a partial day in Juneau and each major Alaskan cruise port will have 1.5 million passengers wanting more.

“This magical corner of the world has so much to offer beyond being a checkmark on people’s bucket lists,” she said.

Alaska is a checkmark for about three-quarters of all passengers headed there, according to the Alaska Tourism Industry Association, and the same can be said for two ships this season.

Starting with a six-day sail out of Vancouver on May 11, the namesake of Celebrity Cruises ’ popular Edge class will make its Alaskan debut with weeklong roundtrips from Seattle through Sept. 13. The 2,918-passenger vessel features a unique “outside-in” architecture that provides more floor-to-ceiling glass on the exterior and expanded outdoor spaces to soak up the Alaskan coastlines.

Edge will be joined by a pair of fleet mates for the season, albeit Summit’s seven-day roundtrips are turnarounds out of Anchorage or Vancouver, and Solstice’s weeklong jaunts are solely based in the British Columbian seaport. Celebrity, a premier-category cruise line has 57 departures to Alaska scheduled this year.

The other new recruit is Silver Nova, the youngest Silversea Cruises  ship in the luxury fleet to ever service Alaska. Capped at 728 guests, Silver Nova was launched last year and has the goods to do justice to a dreamlike place that captures the imagination of wilderness lovers and history buffs.

“Silver Nova is the ideal ship for Alaska cruising,” said company spokesman Brad Ball. “Her innovative design, which incorporates an unprecedented 4,000 square meters of glass, immerses guests into the incredible scenery of Alaska from virtually all venues and suites, with far-reaching views at every turn.”

The ship’s reimagined pool deck, which overlooks the water on her starboard side, and all-new outdoor venues — the Dusk Bar and the Marquee — allows unique openness to view spectacular Alaskan glaciers and wildlife. Those who want to experience an older and smaller Evolution-class Silversea vessel can book the Silver Muse, which also will sail mostly seven- to 14-day trips between Anchorage and Vancouver.

Because nearly every Alaskan cruise includes the staples — Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, Inside Passage and Denali with a land add-on — some cruise lines like to shake things up with unique itineraries.

Holland America has a roundtrip that makes it easy to visit the 49th and 50th states without a long flight. A new “Glaciers & Volcanos: Alaska to Hawaii” cruise, part of the premium line’s Legendary Voyages collection of journeys from 25 to 59 days, departs on Aug. 31 from Seattle or Sept. 1 from Vancouver aboard the 1,916-passenger Westerdam. The nearly four-weeklong itinerary includes seldomly visited Kodiak and Dutch Harbor before heading down to the tropics to make four calls to three Hawaiian islands.

Seabourn  strives to offer a more tasteful Alaskan cruise and not only because it’s an ultra-luxury cruise line. “Caviar on the Ice” is a savory and swanky soiree on every Alaskan voyage, and when the 450-passenger Odyssey is in Sitka, a town originally built by Russian traders in the early 1800s, Seabourn guests can enjoy a culinary adventure that includes a scenic drive to a taproom for a sampling of local brews and a few eateries to try Siberian-rooted pelmeni dumplings and a hot dog made with caribou that the locals call “reindeer dawgs.” Sorry, vegetarians and friends of Santa, but Blitzen on a bun is da bomb.

Disney Cruise Line  is sending its 2,700-passenger Disney Wonder out of Vancouver for 15 week-long roundtrips, one five-day spin leaving on July 24 and an extended nine-day voyage on July 15.

Other cruise lines showing passengers a whale of a time in Alaska include Crystal, Cunard, Hurtigruten, Lindblad/National Geographic, Oceania, Ponant, Regent Seven Seas and Viking.

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