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One thing you need to know upfront about going on a Norwegian cruise is that there are a lot of extra charges — and sometimes quite high extra charges — on the line's ships, particularly for things like restaurants. Around 17% smaller than Norwegian's biggest vessels, Prima and Viva are the first tow of six sister ships that the line will roll out between now and 2027 that will significantly change the composition of its fleet. While not the biggest vessels in the Norwegian fleet, these ships will be notably packed with restaurants, bars, entertainment venues and decktop attractions. They also mark a more upscale turn for the line, with more space per passenger than earlier Norwegian ships and lots of suites. Another feature that sets Norwegian Cruise Line apart from other cruise lines is its onboard entertainment. The cruise line offers a variety of shows, ranging from Broadway-style productions to comedy acts and live music.
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Guppies is for the youngest sailors and offers a place for parents to interact with their children who are between the ages of 6 months and 3 years old, as well as those still in diapers. Something that I have noticed onboard some of Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ships, such as Norwegian Viva, is the crowded pool area. We have been able to sail to some great international destinations with Norwegian Cruise Line several times now, all due to their affordable prices. Sometimes these Free At Sea promotions can be a great deal and can offer some serious savings. Because of this, they should not be dismissed; however, I recommend that prospective Norwegian guests always read the fine print to fully understand the deal they are signing up for. Part of NCL's Free At Sea offerings is the Free At Sea promotion, which is frequently run by NCL and allows guests to pick and choose from a list of available promotions to further customize their vacation.
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They’re both part of Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus class, offer very similar itineraries in Alaska and the Caribbean, and were built one year apart (2018 and 2019, respectively). However, Bliss has a smaller racetrack and a smaller laser tag area, which are two of the biggest hits on Encore. Encore, though, lacks the very popular Spice H2O outdoor adult-only bar area. There are some things onboard the ship that are just overpriced, like the wifi. For an excursion that would cost $200 with a company if you book yourself, expect to pay $400 with Norwegian cruises. However, internet on NCL is more expensive than other large cruise ships which is really crud if you’re someone like us that works online or if you just really like streaming Netflix while on vacation.
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The Norwegian Getaway casino encircles the area on Deck 7, and smoke drifts to restaurants and clubs on the decks above and below. It also leads to some bottlenecking as passengers make their way through. Adding to the chaos is Norwegian's Freestyle dining concept which, while much adored on the line's smaller ships, can seem onerous on Norwegian Getaway, which has a total capacity of 3,963 passengers. However, while Norwegian Encore is big enough to offer something for everyone, it clearly caters more to some people than others.
For this reason, frequent cruisers may prefer the more lively private islands, such as Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day at CocoCay. Since Norwegian Cruise Line does a great job of having something onboard for nearly everyone in the family, it's a great choice for multigenerational family vacations and adventures. Splash Academy is for any cruise that falls between the ages of 3 and 12. Here, they'll be able to enjoy creative play, sports, themed parties, and more. Plus, unlike Guppies, parents won't have to hang around, as all activities are supervised by trained crew members. Those who love to cruise are often able to find exceptional cruise itineraries at affordable prices with Norwegian Cruise Line; however, it can be important to read the fine print to avoid any frustrations during a cruise.
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Review: Norwegian Cruise Line Prima - NerdWallet
Review: Norwegian Cruise Line Prima.
Posted: Mon, 12 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]
As someone who has cruised with Norwegian several times, I can share both the pros and the cons of doing an NCL cruise. Get the latest cruise deals and vacation specials sent straight to your inbox. Both lines excel in entertainment, though they take different approaches. Norwegian's Splash Academy keeps kids ages 5-12 happy with all the usual creative games and crafts, plus a Circus School.
Norwegian Cruise Line Cancels Over a Dozen Voyages in 2025 — What to Know - Travel + Leisure
Norwegian Cruise Line Cancels Over a Dozen Voyages in 2025 — What to Know.
Posted: Mon, 08 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
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In fact, for a long time, the regions were so much the focus that the line included "Caribbean" in its name. Some of Norwegian's most exciting itineraries are in Europe, where the line is a significant player. It offers a wide range of itineraries in the Mediterranean and across northern Europe.
There are drink packages included in the Free at Sea promotion, however you should be aware that there are extra costs of a gratuity on the value of the package. As well, not all drinks are included, so you may want to purchase a Starbuck’s package for coffee, which costs about $15 per day, and you have to get it for every passenger in your room. The casino onboard Norwegian cruises is large, has an enclosed smoking area (on certain ships) and even has a small buffet.
Norwegian Cruise Line, commonly referred to as NCL, is a popular cruise line that was founded in 1966 by Knut Kloster and Ted Arison, who also co-founded Carnival Cruise Line. Norwegian Cruise Line is headquartered in Miami, Florida, and is currently part of the Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., which also includes Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Norwegian is unfortunately known for having crowded pools and pool areas.
Sun worshippers might be disappointed in the compressed pool and complimentary sun deck spaces, with outdoor thrill rides and extra-fee sun decks spanning a huge chunk of the ship's top decks. Families with young children are stuck with the Norwegian Encore Splash Academy, a windowless space in the bowels of the ship; a small water play area, and restaurants and shows that are very much geared toward adults. NCL’s generally lower fares and cruising atmosphere geared towards a younger clientele (I think it is one of the best cruise ships for young people) make it a popular choice for young couples and families. Today, NCL boasts a fleet of modern mega-ships, some recently renovated, and provides a casual onboard experience with a focus on dining, entertainment, and innovative features. From no dining times to multiple times for shows throughout a cruise, Norwegian does a great job of allowing guests a lot of flexibility throughout the day to make the most out of their cruise vacation.
In early fall, Getaway usually repositions to the US for Caribbean and North Atlantic itineraries. I have experienced efficient and speedy embarkation and disembarkation processes during all of my NCL sailings. Once it is embarkation day, guests are looking to get onboard as soon as possible and to start enjoying their cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line does a good job of getting all their passengers onboard sooner, so that they can start enjoying their vacation.
There are also be activities like trivia, Deal or No Deal and art auctions hosted throughout the cruise. Norwegian has the bulk of its ships in North America but also sails to destinations around the world. Both lines offer a roster of games and contests tied to popular TV shows. Carnival has shipboard versions of "Deal or No Deal" and "Family Feud," while Norwegian runs "Wheel of Fortune" and "The Price is Right" games (complete with prizes).

If it's swanky digs you're after (and you have the money to spend), you'll find plenty of options on these ships. The Haven collection features the most luxurious staterooms located at the top of the ship. You’ll have access to a concierge and 24-hour butler, plus the private sundeck (complete with pool and hot tub) reserved just for Haven guests.
In particular in the evening time, there are always a variety shows and musical performances happening.
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