“Once you’ve experienced The Haven, there is NO going back.” Those were the words of a friend I was chatting to in the District Brewhouse onboard Norwegian Joy. I was, of course, aware of the NCL Haven but always assumed it was nothing more than a name for yet another cruise line’s private suite area of the ship.
Later on that evening, I was to discover it was something much more than that!
Don’t get me wrong I had heard it was nice, but I didn’t quite expect the “OMG” reaction I had when I first stepped into the Haven Courtyard later that evening, as a result of an invite to the Captain’s Cocktail Party.
To say that The Haven is “drop dead gorgeous” is an understatement. I’ve experienced a lot of “wow” factor areas on cruise ships, but this one really made me step back and take it all in.
But there is much more to The Haven than just a pretty face. Luxury and exclusivity is the name of the game here.
With the priority embarkation that comes with The Haven, your vacation starts the moment you step on board, long before the ship even leaves port.
Imagine sipping a fine vintage wine as your personal butler (I kid you not) ensures everything is just right in your stateroom. Meanwhile, The Haven concierge desk is organizing your Thermal Suite passes.
You see, this is not just any cruise experience, it’s your key to receiving the best that Norwegian Cruise Line has to offer in its “ship within a ship” suite enclave.
And while the rest of the ship buzzes with activities and entertainment, you can choose the pace of your day. You can bask in the serenity of your private enclave or dive into the vibrant ship life whenever you please.
So let’s take a little peek inside The Haven and see what it has to offer. But be careful! Later that same evening, as we were leaving the Captain’s cocktail party, Morag whispered to me, “You better start saving!”.
THE Haven – What To Expect
The NCL Haven Suite Experience on Norwegian Cruise Line
Now that I’ve given you a little taste of what The Haven is, let’s get into the details of what a stay in a Haven stateroom includes. But first of all here is a little sneek peek inside The Haven on Norwegian Joy.
Suite Amenities Perks and Benefits
Let’s talk perks. You get way more than just a room – you get a whole experience.
Think spacious accommodations with ocean views, some even come with a hot tub on your balcony.
On top of that, you’ll have a 24-hour butler and a concierge eager to assist with any of your requests.
Personal Touch
Need to unwind? You’ve got priority access to the Mandara Spa and if you book a Haven Spa Cabin you even get complimentary access to the thermal spa suite . It’s like your personal relaxation headquarters.
Moreover, fancy a specific type of pillow or a certain brand of liquor waiting for you? They’ve got you covered with a custom selection just to tailor everything to your taste.
Connectivity at Sea
Worried about staying in touch while at sea? Don’t be. Internet access is included and on certain ships, you are even provided with a mobile phone that you can use while you are on board.
But hey, if you’re in The Haven, maybe it’s time to disconnect and enjoy the serenity. But then again, for me, it would be the perfect working environment. Another wine with that blog post Sir? Yes please!
The Haven Venues
The Haven is just not a collection of suites. The Haven also provides some private and exclusive areas for Haven guests on the ship.
The Haven Lounge
At the heart of The Haven is the Lounge, a space designed for serenity.
Think plush sofas, gorgeous artwork and a private bar with an atmosphere that is both exclusive and welcoming.
With NCL Haven lounge access, you can easily find a quiet corner to unwind or mingle with fellow cruisers in this cozy hideaway, away from the lively energy of the rest of the ship.
The Haven Restaurant
Private dining options take center stage at The Haven Restaurant. Here, the menu offers a range of gourmet dishes exclusive to Haven guests. And if that’s not enough, you can order anything from any of the other restaurants or main dining on board and complimentary room service is always available.
The only downside I have heard about is that the menu for dinner in The Haven Restaurant does not change, but that is apparently compensated by the menu being much more extensive than you might find in the main dining room for example.
The Haven Courtyard
The Courtyard area is what really made me sit up and take notice of The Haven. Think of an upscale resort pool at the top of the ship, except it’s reserved just for you and a select few.
You’ll have a courtyard access that leads to an exclusive space boasting a pool, a sliding roof to cope with all weather and the added luxury of a hot tub that you won’t need to fight your way into.
The Horizon Lounge
This is best described as an exclusive Observation Lounge for Haven guests, with stunning floor to ceiling windows providing incredible view out to sea.
The Haven Sundeck
Lastly, journey up to the Sundeck for panoramic views that are the best on the ship, with luxury sun loungers, day beds, and patio-style seating.
Here, you have the sun on your face and the breeze in your hair in an area that’s quiet enough to hear the waves lap against the ship’s hull.
On Prima-class ships, you will also have an outdoor infinity pool that looks out over the aft of the ship. Imagine the view with a nice cocktail in hand as the sun begins to set.
The Haven Suite Accommodations – The Different Suites Available
When you book a suite in The Haven by Norwegian, you’re not just getting a room; you’re upgrading to top-tier luxury at sea. The suites here go beyond spacious, each offering its own distinctive style, comfort, and grandeur.
From king-sized beds to large balconies with stunning views, prepare to indulge in an opulent experience designed to pamper you from sunrise to sunset.
The 3-Bedroom Garden Villa
Sleeps: Up to 8
Square Footage : up to 6,694 sq ft
Unique features:
- Floor to ceiling windows with wrap-around views of the ocean
- An outdoor terrace with your own private dining area and your own personal hot tub
- Three and a half bathrooms
- Luxurious lounge with a Baby Grand Piano
Owner’s Suite with Large Balcony (Deluxe or Standard)
Sleeps: Up to 4 Standard and 6 in the Deluxe
Special touches:
- One or two bedrooms depending on the ship
- Floor-to-ceiling windows enhancing the expansive ocean views
- Spacious living room, perfect for relaxation
- Separate living and dining room
- Large Private balcony
- Large bathroom with luxury fixtures
2-Bedroom Family Villa with Balcony
Sleeps Up to six
Experience:
- Kids have their own private room with TV entertainment system plus their own private bathroom
- Well-appointed master bedroom with king-size bed
- Luxurious bathroom with a luxury bath tub and shower
- Large balcony with stunning views
Courtyard Penthouse with Balcony
Sleeps: Up to 3
Deluxe Features:
- Ideal as a romantic cruise for 2 – some rooms even feature circular king-sized beds
- Spacious living area with tasteful décor, leading to your private balcony
Aft-Facing and forward-facing penthouses
Sleeps: Up to 4
Deluxe Features:
- Larger than the courtyard penthouses and include a separate living room
- Extra spacious balcony
Deluxe Suite with Balcony
Sleeps: Up to 4
Unique suite Features:
- King size bed and double sofa bed
- In suite hot tub and an oversized waterfall shower with body jets
How Much Does it Cost To Stay in The Haven
Now this is why I mentioned earlier that my wife Morag told me to start saving. It is safe to say that a stay in The Haven is expensive.
The highest “standard” category on board NCL cruise ships is usually the Club Balcony Suite or Suite Category. If you take the price of a Club Balcony Suite, then you will be anything from around 2-3 times per person more for access to The Haven.
For example, for a 7 day Caribbean sailing in 2025 on Norwegian Prima I can see Club Balcony Suites starting from $2149 per person (before gratuities, taxes and fees). The starting price for The Haven for that same cruise is $4049, so it’s almost double per person.
It’s up to you whether it is worth the extra cost, but I am definitely tempted!
What NCL Ships Have The Haven?
The Haven is available on the following ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet: Prima-class, Breakaway, and Breakaway plus-class ships, Jewel class ships, and Norwegian Epic.
Here is the full list
- Norwegian Aqua (launching 2025)
- Norwegian Encore
- Norwegian Bliss
- Norwegian Joy
- Norwegian Escape
- Norwegian Epic
- Norwegian Getaway
- Norwegian Breakaway
- Norwegian Viva
- Norwegian Prima
- Norwegian Jade
- Norwegian Gem
- Norwegian Pearl
- Norwegian Jewel
The Haven – You Know You Want To
If I was to sum up Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven I would say it is like having a backstage pass to the most exclusive and luxurious parts of a ship. Parts of the ship that most cruisers will never see.
But it’s not just about luxury accommodations; it’s the little extras that count.
Do you have an early shore excursion but want to avoid the long lines? As a Haven guest, you get priority boarding and disembarkation, giving you more time to explore or relax.
Whether it’s a personal escort to the show you can’t wait to see or the peace of mind that comes with knowing every whim can be catered to at a moment’s notice.
As you mull over whether the Haven is right for you, weigh the perks against the premium.
For those yearning for an intimate, tranquil, and pampered cruising experience, The Haven might just be your slice of vacation heaven.
Looking for some more luxurious ways to spend your time on a cruise? Read our Norwegian Thermal Suite review.
