Norwegian Cruise Line, commonly referred to as NCL, has made quite a splash in the cruise industry with a vibrant history dating back to 1966.
Imagine waking up each morning of your vacation to a new horizon and the excitement of exploring diverse destinations without the hassle of packing and unpacking at each stop. That’s the beauty of cruising with NCL.
With a fleet sailing to over 450 destinations across the globe, they’ve mastered the art of offering you an escape filled with variety and the pleasure of exploring the world at your own pace.
Freestyle Cruise With NCL
One of the revolutionary concepts you’ll encounter on Norwegian Cruise Line is Freestyle Cruising.
This innovation redefined the traditional cruise experience by doing away with set dining times and formal dress codes, giving you the freedom to dine when you’re hungry and wear what’s comfortable.
Think of it as your chance to design your day, whether that means indulging in culinary delights, trying your luck at the casino, or unwinding with a good book as you soak up the sun by the pool.
Remember, this is your vacation, and NCL encourages that sense of personal freedom.
NCL’s fleet offers a range of experiences, from large ships teeming with activities and entertainment to more intimate vessels that offer a cozier atmosphere without skimping on luxury and service.
Whether you’re attracted to the buzz of onboard activities or you’re looking for a quiet corner to watch the world go by, you’ll find a spot that feels just right.
Exploring the Norwegian Cruise Line Fleet
Norwegian Cruise Line boasts an impressive fleet of 19 cruise ships. Whether you’re seeking luxury or adventure, NCL has something to entice every traveler.
NCL Ship Classes
Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet is organized into several distinct classes, with the various Norwegian cruise ship sizes offering unique features and amenities.
- Sun Class: Including the Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky, these ships are notable for their more intimate size and classic cruising experience.
- Dawn Class: This class offers a balance of large-ship amenities with a mid-size feel, with vessels such as the Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn.
- Jewel Class: Ships like the Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Pearl, and Norwegian Gem provide an elevated experience with a variety of dining and entertainment options.
- Breakaway Class: The innovative Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway deliver plenty of action and activities for everyone including the exclusive Vibe Beach Club.
- Breakaway Plus Class: This class includes some of the newest and largest ships, like the Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Encore, and Norwegian Escape, showcasing the pinnacle of luxury and innovation including the first ever go-kart tracks at sea.
- Prima Class: The newest stars of the fleet include the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva, offering a fresh take on luxury cruising.
Flagship Experiences Exclusive to NCL Cruise Ships
Each Norwegian Cruise Line ship is designed with unique attractions and amenities.
- The Haven: Found on many ships including the Breakaway Plus class vessels, The Haven offers an exclusive, top-of-the-line luxury enclave with the most well-appointed suites and private services.
- Vibe Beach Club: This exclusive oasis can be found on Breakaway, Breakaway Plus and Prima-class ships and offers a premium sun deck experience.
- Norwegian Thermal Suite: a feature on all but four of the smaller NCL ships, the Thermal Suite is a luxurious escape and the perfect indulgence to de-stress on a cruise.
- Innovation and Luxury: Launched with fanfare, the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore lead the Breakaway Plus class with cutting-edge attractions like the largest race track at sea and expansive waterfront promenades.
Historic Vessels in NCL’s Fleet
Norwegian Cruise Line’s rich history is reflected in the evolution of its fleet.
- The Pride of America stands out as a unique vessel in the fleet, dedicated to sailing around the Hawaiian Islands. Unlike most other ships in the fleet, it is registered in the United States and staffed by an American crew.
- The earliest days saw NCL acquire the historic cruise liner S.S. France renaming it as the S.S. Norway which at the time was one of the last remaining true passenger liners at sea.
- Over time, ships such as the Norwegian Dream and the Norwegian Wind have contributed to the line’s reputation for innovation and service. Though older, these ships helped pave the way for the grand luxury and vast amenities found on the newest ships.
Onboard Experience
When you step aboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, you’re entering a world where relaxation and excitement blend seamlessly.
You’ll find a variety of amenities and activities designed to cater to your every desire, from the indulgence of a spa treatment to the thrill of a Broadway-style show.
Dining and Cuisine
Norwegian Cruise Line prides itself on a wide selection of dining options. Whether you’re in the mood for a four-course meal or a quick snack, there’s something to satisfy your appetite.
At La Cucina, you can savor the flavors of Italy, with a string of courses that could include seafood linguine or a rich tiramisu. Eateries across the ships offer a variety of global cuisines:
- Main Dining Rooms: Complimentary, with menus that change daily.
- Specialty Restaurants: Such as steakhouses, French bistros, and Japanese teppanyaki (cover charges or a la carte pricing applies).
- Casual Eateries: Including buffets, cafes, and grills.
Entertainment and Leisure
Your time aboard is anything but ordinary with Norwegian’s spectrum of entertainment and leisure activities.
Catch a Broadway show, with professional performances that could include “Jersey Boys” or “Rock of Ages,” or test your luck in the award-winning casinos with games from poker to slots.
If you prefer a touch of adrenaline, feel the rush of the wind in your hair on go-kart tracks available on select ships.
Nightclubs and bars offer a place to socialize and enjoy a cocktail. Here’s what you might find:
- Bars and Lounges: Specialty venues such as a mojito bar or whiskey lounge.
- Entertainment: Broadway shows, comedy clubs, live music.
- Nightlife: Dance clubs, and relaxed lounges for a more laid-back evening.
Accommodation Highlights
The accommodations on board Norwegian Cruise Line ships range from cozy interior cabins to opulent suites with balconies. You have your choice of retreat to suit your style and budget:
- Balcony Rooms: Offer your own private outdoor space.
- Suites: Provide extra space and may come with additional benefits like priority boarding.
After a full day of activities, the comfort of your accommodation provides a serene sanctuary. You’ll find plush bedding and thoughtful amenities, ensuring you wake up refreshed and ready for another day at sea.
Destinations and Itineraries
When choosing your cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line, you have a wide selection of destinations and itineraries that can take you from the frosty glaciers of Alaska to the sunny beaches of the Bahamas.
Whether you’re embarking from a bustling city center or a tropical paradise, you have the freedom to select the perfect trip that matches your dream vacation.
Popular Regions
Norwegian Cruise Line offers an expansive variety of destinations to fit your travel desires:
- Caribbean: Sail on ships like the Norwegian Bliss or Norwegian Joy to tropical islands, including excursions to their private island, Great Stirrup Cay.
- Europe: Explore historic landscapes from the fjords of Norway to the ancient ruins of Greece.
- Hawaii: Board the Pride of America in Honolulu for an island-hopping journey.
- Alaska: Witness the untouched beauty of the Alaskan wilderness.
- Asia: Discover diverse cultures and breathtaking sights from Japan to Thailand.
- Australia & New Zealand: Experience the down-under charm with picturesque coastlines.
- Bermuda: Relax on pink sand beaches and delve into underwater adventures.
Exclusive Ports of Call
Norwegian Cruise Line offers unique experiences with exclusive ports of call:
- Harvest Caye: Belize’s eco-friendly destination, perfect for a snorkeling adventure.
- Great Stirrup Cay: Norwegian’s private Bahamian island, offering idyllic seascapes.
Homeports and Embarkation
Your journey can start from various homeports, making it easy for you to find a convenient sailing:
- Miami: Often the choice for Caribbean voyages and the pioneering home of freestyle cruising.
- Honolulu: Exclusive starting point for the Pride of America’s Hawaiian sailings.
- Los Angeles: A gateway for cruises to the Riviera and beyond.
These strategic embarkation points provide you with the flexibility to choose a cruise that aligns with your travel plans and preferences.
Although we have not sailed with Norwegian as much as we should have, we have started to put that right over the next couple of years starting with our Westbound Transatlantic Crossing on Norwegian Joy in February 2024.
