Why Choose Norwegian Cruise Line?
Norwegian Cruise Line is the premier choice for travelers seeking total freedom and flexibility at sea. Perfect for those who dislike strict schedules, NCL's Freestyle Cruising philosophy lets guests design their own vacation, dining whenever and wherever they choose. From solo travelers to multi-generational families, NCL delivers a unique blend of high-energy thrills, Broadway-caliber entertainment, and industry-leading value.
Key Reasons to Choose Norwegian Cruise Line:
- Freestyle Flexibility & Dining: Say goodbye to set dinner times. Enjoy the freedom to eat anywhere, anytime, at many complimentary venues or award-winning specialty restaurants like Cagney's Steakhouse, the elegant French Le Bistro, and the Italian standout Onda by Scarpetta.
- Best Value with "Free at Sea": Back by popular demand, NCL's signature Free at Sea package bundles the best perks into your fare. Guests enjoy an Unlimited Open Bar (premium spirits included), Specialty Dining meals, Wi-Fi minutes, and Shore Excursion credits. It remains the most robust inclusive package in the contemporary market.
- Accommodations for Every Traveler: NCL is the industry leader in solo travel, featuring award-winning Studio Cabins with exclusive access to a private Studio Lounge. For those seeking luxury, The Haven by Norwegian offers a "ship-within-a-ship" experience featuring 24-hour butler service, a private sundeck, and exclusive dining options.
- Thrilling Entertainment & Activities: Experience the only racetracks at sea, the multi-story Ocean Loops waterslide, and the open-air Waterfront promenade. Evenings come alive with Broadway hits like Beetlejuice and The Choir of Man, or live music at Syd Norman's Pour House.
- Exclusive Tropical Retreats: Sail to over 450 destinations, including private island escapes like Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas, featuring the exclusive Silver Cove lagoon, and the nature-focused Harvest Caye in Belize.
Norwegian Cruise Line ships are vibrant, open-air playgrounds designed to maximize your connection to the ocean while delivering the freedom of a land-based resort. Each ship is a destination on its own, offering flexible "Freestyle" experiences rather than strict schedules. Guests can enjoy unique features like the only racetracks at sea, multi-level dry slides, oceanfront promenades, and exclusive studios for solo travelers.
Norwegian operates a fleet of 20 modern ships, including the revolutionary Prima Class and the all-new Norwegian Aqua, sailing to over 450 destinations worldwide. Picture yourself racing around the Norwegian Joy Speedway, taking a free-fall plunge on The Drop, or sipping cocktails on The Waterfront. Each moment onboard is designed for high-energy fun and effortless relaxation.
- High-Speed Thrills: On the Breakaway Plus and Prima Class ships, feel the rush of the Speedway, the only go-kart racetracks at sea. Brave Ocean Loops, a translucent waterslide that extends over the side of the ship, or experience the Aqua Slidecoaster (on Norwegian Aqua), the world's first hybrid rollercoaster-waterslide.
- Oceanfront & Virtual Innovation: Step into thrilling virtual adventures at the Galaxy Pavilion, where VR racing and escape rooms await, or wander The Waterfront, a lively oceanfront promenade filled with open-air dining and bars, perfect for enjoying the breeze as you dine.
- Award-Winning Entertainment: NCL brings the best of Broadway and the West End to the ocean. Catch full-scale productions of Tony Award-winning hits like Beetlejuice and Jersey Boys, or enjoy the high-energy pub atmosphere of The Choir of Man and the rock-and-roll immersion of Syd Norman's Pour House.
- Innovative Accommodations: Accommodations are designed for every type of traveler. NCL is famous for its award-winning Studio staterooms, specifically designed and priced for solo travelers with no single supplement. For families, spacious Family Balconies are located near kids' areas, while The Haven offers a luxurious, keycard-access-only enclave with 24-hour butler service.
- Wellness & Adult Escapes: Unwind in the Mandara Spa, featuring a world-class Thermal Suite with salt rooms, charcoal saunas, and snow rooms. For an adults-only escape, retreat to Vibe Beach Club or Spice H2O, exclusive sun decks featuring private bars, hot tubs, and stunning ocean views.
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Norwegian Cruise Line offers a global portfolio of over 450 destinations, inviting guests to explore the world with "Freestyle" flexibility. From the majestic glaciers of Alaska and the ancient history of the Mediterranean to the tropical paradise of the Caribbean and Hawaii, NCL connects you to the world's most sought-after regions. Exclusive experiences await at NCL's private destinations: Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas and the resort-style Harvest Caye in Belize.
Top Norwegian Cruise Line Destinations
- Bahamas: Cruise to sun-drenched islands like St. Thomas, Tortola, and Cozumel. Highlights include NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay, featuring the exclusive Silver Cove lagoon, and Harvest Caye in Belize, known for its premier wildlife and adventure tours.
- Alaska: Experience the "youngest fleet" in Alaska. Sail round-trip from Seattle or one-way from Vancouver to witness the stunning Glacier Bay National Park and Hubbard Glacier, with shore excursions like dog sledding in Skagway and whale watching in Juneau.
- Hawaii: NCL offers the industry's only year-round, 7-day inter-island cruises on Pride of America. Departing from Honolulu, this unique itinerary features nearly 100 hours in port, including overnight stays in Maui and Kauai, so you can explore the islands by day and night.
- Europe: Step into the past as you journey across the Mediterranean, Greek Isles, and Northern Europe. Visit iconic cities like Rome, Barcelona, and Santorini, or explore the dramatic fjords of Norway and the Baltic capitals on a 9-day voyage.
- Asia & South Pacific: Explore ancient traditions and bustling city life as you discover the wonders of Japan, Thailand, and Australia. Sailings feature overnight stays in ports like Tokyo and Sydney, allowing for deeper exploration of local culture and nightlife.
- Bermuda & Canada/New England: Enjoy convenient departures from New York and Boston. NCL is a leader in Bermuda cruises, often featuring three full days docked at the Royal Naval Dockyard, or witness the stunning fall foliage along the coast of Maine and Nova Scotia.
Explore all of Norwegian Cruise Line's destinations!
What Are the Dining Options on Norwegian Cruise Line?
Norwegian Cruise Line revolutionized the industry with Freestyle Dining, giving guests the freedom to eat when they want, where they want, with no fixed dining times or assigned seating. From elegant three-course meals in the main dining rooms to the new Indulge Food Hall, guests can explore a culinary world of complimentary options or upgrade their experience with the award-winning Specialty Dining venues included in the Free at Sea package.
Complimentary Dining
- Main Dining Rooms: NCL ships feature up to three distinct Main Dining Rooms (such as The Manhattan Room, Taste, and Savor, or Hudson's on Prima Class), each offering a daily rotating menu of fine dining classics. Whether you're looking for a quiet dinner for two or a lively meal with friends, the experience is always flexible and elegant.
- Garden Cafe: Step into this bright indoor buffet, where floor-to-ceiling windows fill the space with natural light and an extensive selection of cruise dining options awaits. Breakfast features made-to-order omelets, golden waffles, and other morning favorites prepared at lively action stations. Lunch and dinner offer even more variety, with carved meats, fresh pasta, Asian dishes, grilled selections, and decadent desserts. The buffet also features themed nights, including Mexican-inspired menus, seafood spreads, and barbecue-style offerings.
- O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar & Grill: A guest favorite on many ships, this 24-hour venue captures the relaxed vibe of a traditional Irish pub. It serves complimentary comfort classics like Shepherd's Pie, Fish n' Chips, and wings, often featuring bowling lanes (on select ships) and pool tables for added fun.
- The Local Bar & Grill: Found on NCL's newest ships, The Local offers a modern, airy twist on the 24-hour pub concept. It is the ultimate social hub for grabbing a late-night Reuben sandwich, watching the big game on overhead screens, or enjoying a casual breakfast with a view of the atrium.
- Indulge Food Hall: Exclusive to the Prima Class and Norwegian Aqua, this revolutionary upscale food market features 11 distinct eateries. Guests can hop between venues like Tamara (Indian), The Latin Quarter (Mexican), and Q Texas Smokehouse (BBQ), most of which are complimentary and perfect for tasting different flavors.
Specialty Dining
- Cagney's Steakhouse: NCL's signature American steakhouse serves premium cuts of Certified Angus Beef, from tender filets to bone-in ribeyes. Don't miss the famous Parmesan Truffle Fries and the decadent Oreo Cheesecake for dessert.
- Le Bistro: A romantic slice of Paris at sea, Le Bistro serves sophisticated French cuisine in an intimate setting. Menu highlights include escargots, coq au vin, and a chocolate fondue for two, making it the top choice for a date night.
- Onda by Scarpetta: Available on newer ships, this modern Italian venue brings the critically acclaimed land-based Scarpetta experience to sea. Enjoy house-made pastas, fresh seafood, and their famous tomato-and-basil spaghetti in a chic, high-design atmosphere.
- Teppanyaki & Hasuki: Experience a dinner-and-show as expert chefs slice, dice, and grill steak and seafood right before your eyes on a steel hibachi grill. On Prima Class ships, this concept is elevated as the upscale Hasuki.
- Food Republic: A fusion lover's dream, this venue (ordering via iPad) offers a global tapas menu ranging from Peruvian ceviche and Japanese sushi to spicy Korean fried chicken, perfect for sharing.
Casual Bites and Quick Eats
Beyond the main restaurants, satisfy your cravings at these casual spots:
- Starbucks: NCL was the first cruise line to offer a full Starbucks experience on all ships. Grab your favorite latte, Frappuccino, or pastry just like you would at home (a la carte pricing applies).
- The Great Outdoors: A casual, complimentary outdoor, buffet-style restaurant and bar that serves breakfast, lunch, and snacks. It offers casual dining, grilled favorites, and drinks, providing a pleasant, open-air dining experience with ocean views.
- Coco's: A destination for chocolate lovers, this specialty dessert venue is known for its over-the-top presentations and rich, hand-crafted treats. Its signature Mad Milkshakes are piled high with whipped cream, sauces, and candy toppings, creating a true visual showpiece. Guests can also enjoy decadent ice cream sundaes layered with premium chocolates, or warm crepes finished with chocolate sauce and classic a la carte add-ons.
- The Bake Shop: An elegant European-style patisserie featuring delicate French macarons, gourmet cupcakes, and artisan chocolate bonbons crafted in small batches. This a la carte venue highlights classic techniques, premium ingredients, and beautifully finished pastries that elevate the onboard dessert experience.
From the 24/7 comfort of The Local to the premium cuts at Cagney's, Norwegian ensures every palate is pleased, with the best value provided by the Free at Sea specialty dining upgrade.
What Thrills and Entertainment Are Free and Included on Norwegian Cruise Line?
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a high-energy mix of industry-first attractions and award-winning theater, designed to let you play your way. While many resort-style amenities like waterparks and Broadway shows are included in your cruise fare, NCL is famous for its exclusive "premium thrills", cutting-edge attractions like go-kart tracks and VR worlds available for an additional fee.
High-Octane Thrills (Premium & Included)
NCL's latest ships set the stage for unforgettable adventures at sea, featuring exclusive attractions you will not find anywhere else.
- NCL Speedway: Zoom around the world's only racetracks at sea on a multi-level go-kart track. This premium experience (available on Breakaway Plus and Prima Class ships) lets you race friends at speeds up to 30 mph with ocean views.
- Galaxy Pavilion: Step into a cutting-edge virtual reality world. This premium indoor complex features immersive VR racing simulators, escape rooms, and flying theater experiences.
- Ocean Loops: Brace yourself for thiscomplimentary double-loop waterslide that extends over the side of the ship, featuring a translucent tube for heart-pounding views of the ocean below.
- The Drop & The Rush: Experience the first dry slides at sea on Norwegian Prima. The Drop is the world's first free-fall dry slide, while The Rush lets you race a friend down spiraling tubes; both are complimentary.
Award-Winning Entertainment (Included)
NCL is renowned for bringing full-scale Broadway and West End productions to the high seas, with nearly all theater shows included in your cruise fare.
- Broadway Productions: Watch 90-minute musicals with original cast sets and costumes, including Tony Award winners like Beetlejuice (on Norwegian Viva), Jersey Boys, and Summer: The Donna Summer Musical.
- The Choir of Man: Step into a working English pub on stage for this high-energy, guest-favorite show featuring foot-stomping hits, live percussion, and even free beer handed out to the audience.
- Burn the Floor: Be dazzled by this ballroom and Latin dance sensation, featuring world-class dancers performing breathless choreography to a live band.
Complimentary Family Fun & Pools
From toddlers to teens, NCL ensures every age group has its own space to play, mostly included in your fare.
- Aqua Parks: Cool off in the main pool or let kids loose in the Kids' Aqua Park, featuring splash pads, tipping buckets, and kid-friendly slides.
- Splash Academy: This complimentary, supervised youth program engages kids (ages 3-12) with creative play, sports, and themed parties, allowing parents time to relax.
- Entourage Teen Club: A dedicated "no adults allowed" hangout for teens (13-17) to play video games, listen to music, and make new friends in a safe, supervised environment.
Nightlife & Live Music
When the sun sets, "Freestyle" fun continues with vibrant parties and unique bars.
- Syd Norman's Pour House: Join the crowd at this rock-n-roll themed bar featuring a live band playing your favorite hits from the 60s, 70s, and 80s in an interactive, high-energy setting.
- The Cavern Club: Inspired by the Liverpool club where The Beatles performed, this venue hosts a Beatles cover band for nightly sing-alongs.
- Glow Party: distinct to NCL, this neon-fueled dance party transforms the pool deck or club into a glowing spectacle with live DJs and dancers.
Explore all Norwegian Cruise Line activities and book your adventure today!
What are the Best Norwegian Cruise Line Staterooms?
Norwegian Cruise Line offers a wide array of accommodations designed to fit every vacation style, from industry-leading studios for solo travelers to the ultra-exclusive luxury of The Haven.
1. Interior Staterooms: The Budget-Friendly Choice
Interior staterooms are the best value for guests who plan to spend their days enjoying the ship's activities and ports of call. These cozy rooms offer all modern amenities without a window.
- Family Interior: Located near the kids' areas (Splash Academy), these rooms are designed specifically for families on a budget, often featuring pull-down beds to accommodate up to four guests.
2. Oceanview Staterooms: Natural Light & Scenery
Featuring a large picture window or porthole, these staterooms provide natural light and views of the ever-changing sea and destinations.
- Large Picture Window: Unlike traditional portholes, most NCL Oceanview rooms feature a large, rectangular window for a better view.
- Family Oceanview: These spacious rooms can sleep up to five guests, making them a perfect middle-ground for families who want a view without the cost of a balcony.
3. Balcony & Club Balcony Suites: Your Own Open-Air Retreat
Balcony staterooms are the most popular choice, offering a private outdoor veranda to enjoy the sea breeze. NCL distinguishes between standard balconies and the upgraded Club category.
- Balcony Staterooms: The standard for cruising, featuring a private sitting area outdoors and floor-to-ceiling glass doors.
- Club Balcony Suites: Formerly known as "Mini-Suites," these offer more space than a standard balcony and feature larger, spa-like bathrooms with double sinks and rainfall showers. Guests here also get pre-bookable dining privileges.
4. The Haven: Luxury, Privacy, and Butler Service
The Haven by Norwegian is the ultimate "ship-within-a-ship" experience. Hidden away at the top of the ship, this keycard-access-only complex offers the industry's most luxurious amenities.
- Exclusive Areas: Guests in The Haven have private access to The Haven Courtyard (with a private pool and sundeck), The Haven Restaurant (fine dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner), and The Haven Lounge.
- Personalized Service: Every suite includes 24-hour certified butler service to unpack your luggage or pour your champagne, plus a dedicated concierge to handle all reservations.
- Top Suites: Experience the pinnacle of luxury in the massive 3-bedroom Garden Villa, with a private garden, a hot tub, and a grand piano, or the Premier Owner's Suite, featuring expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, separate living areas, and multiple balconies.
5. Specialty Accommodations for Solos, Wellness, and Families
- Studio Staterooms: NCL is the pioneer of solo cruising. These trendy, keycard-access rooms are designed and priced for solo travelers (no single supplement). They include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge, a private social space with complimentary coffee, snacks, and a bar.
- Spa Suites & Balconies: Ideal for relaxation, these rooms feature tranquil decor and include complimentary access to the Mandara Spa Thermal Suite (hydrotherapy pools, steam rooms, and heated loungers).
- 2-Bedroom Family Suites: Perfect for larger groups, these non-Haven suites (available on many ships) offer a master bedroom and a separate children's bedroom/bathroom, providing privacy and space for the whole family.
Find your perfect room and book your Norwegian Cruise Line vacation!
Norwegian Cruise Line Kids & Teens: What are Splash Academy and Entourage?
Norwegian Cruise Line offers award-winning, complimentary youth programs designed to give kids the freedom to play their way while parents relax. From the sensory play of the Guppies program to the high-energy activities of Splash Academy and the cool, adult-free zones of Entourage, NCL separates children into age-specific groups for supervised fun, sports, and creative learning.
Splash Academy For Kids (Ages 3-12)
Splash Academy features "Flexible Programming," allowing kids to explore interest-based stations that fit their style.
- Guppies Programs (6 months-3 years): An interactive "Open Play" space for parents and their babies/toddlers. Hosted by an Early Years Coordinator, families can enjoy sensory toys, music, and games together. (Note: This is not a drop-off program.)
- Younger Ones' Choice (Ages 3-5): A dedicated station for the littlest cruisers featuring storytelling, developmental games, and "Tiger" face painting. Staff guide children through arts and crafts and beginner "Circus School" skills such as scarf juggling. Children must be toilet-trained to participate.
- Dynamic & Gaming Stations (Ages 5-12): Older kids can choose their own adventure. The Dynamic station focuses on high-energy team challenges and sports, while the Gaming and Creative stations offer video game tournaments, scavenger hunts, and NCL's signature Circus School, culminating in a performance showcase.
Entourage: The Teen Hangout (Ages 13-17)
NCL's dedicated teen program is all about "Freestyle" independence. Teens have their own exclusive clubhouse, a parent-free zone designed as a chic lounge by day and a high-energy nightclub by night. Activities range from improv classes and music jam sessions to movie nights and themed dance parties (like "Glow"), but teens are free to come and go as they please.
What are the Youth Programs' Key Features?
- Complimentary: Access to Splash Academy and Entourage is generally included in your cruise fare during standard operating hours on sea days and port days.
- Qualified Staff: All Youth Counselors are carefully vetted and trained in first aid and CPR, with specialized experience in childcare and recreation.
- Flexibility: Teenagers (ages 13-17) have the freedom to enter and exit the Entourage lounge and activities on their own, fostering a sense of independence.
- Late Night Fun Zone: For an additional hourly fee, the Late Night Fun Zone operates from 11:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. for children ages 3-12. This drop-off service allows parents to enjoy the ship's nightlife while kids play in a safe, supervised group setting.
- Port Play: On days when the ship is docked, parents can drop off their children (ages 3-12) at Splash Academy for supervised play while they go ashore. (Note: A small fee may apply for supervision during meal times.)
Norwegian Cruise Line invites families to vacation on their own terms. Kids can master circus tricks and make new friends at Splash Academy, while teens chill in the Entourage lounge. Parents can enjoy a romantic dinner or a shore excursion, knowing their children are having the time of their lives.
How Accessible is Norwegian Cruise Line for Guests with Disabilities?
Norwegian Cruise Line is committed to providing a safe and accessible "Freestyle" vacation for all guests. Through its dedicated Access Desk, NCL offers a wide range of features to accommodate guests with mobility, hearing, visual, and cognitive disabilities.
Requesting Accommodations
- Guest Special Request Form: The primary method for requesting accommodations is by completing the Guest Special Request Information Form (available online).
- Timing: It is highly recommended to submit the form at the time of booking. NCL requests at least 45 days' advance notice for most special needs to ensure service availability.
- Sign Language Interpreters: Requests for ASL interpreting services require at least 90 days' advance notice and are generally only available on cruises departing from and returning to U.S. ports.
Available Services and Features
Norwegian Cruise Line offers specific features to ensure a smooth sailing experience:
- Mobility Disabilities
Accessible Staterooms: These dedicated rooms feature wider doorways (32-34 inches), roll-in showers with fold-down benches, high-rise toilets, grab bars, and a turning radius suitable for wheelchairs.
Mobility Equipment: Guests may bring their own equipment or rent from NCL's exclusive partner, Scootaround. Scootaround is the only vendor permitted to deliver mobility scooters and medical equipment directly to your stateroom.
Embarkation Assistance: Complimentary wheelchair assistance is available from the cruise terminal check-in counter to the ship. (Note: Assistance is generally not provided from the curb to the terminal.)
Tendering Ports: For safety reasons, power wheelchairs and scooters generally cannot be transported on tender boats (small boats used to ferry guests ashore) unless the tender has roll-on capability. Guests unable to step onto the tender may need to stay onboard at these specific ports.
- Hearing Disabilities
Assistive Devices: Guests can request a visual-tactile alert kit for their stateroom, which includes vibrating alarms/lights for door knocks, smoke detectors, and phone ringing.
Communication: TTY (Teletypewriter) devices are available for use in staterooms, and assistive listening systems are available in the main theaters. Closed captioning is available on stateroom TVs.
- Visual Disabilities
Navigation: Braille signage is located in elevators and at stateroom doors.
Service Animals: Trained service dogs are welcome onboard. NCL will provide a "relief box" with specialized material (wood chips/sand) upon request. Guests must notify the Access Desk at least two weeks before sailing and provide all necessary vaccination/health permits for ports of call.
- Cognitive & Developmental Disabilities
Access Officers: Every ship has a designated Access Officer to serve as the primary point of contact for guests with cognitive or developmental disabilities, ensuring needs are met throughout the voyage.
Youth Program Support: The Splash Academy features "Flexible Programming," allowing children to choose activities based on interest rather than strict age groups, which can be beneficial for children with neurodiverse needs. Parents are encouraged to speak with the Youth Program Manager upon boarding to discuss specific accommodations.
Priority Services: Priority embarkation and disembarkation can often be arranged for families who may find the crowds and waiting times challenging.
Latitudes Rewards is Norwegian Cruise Line's loyalty program for past guests. Membership is complimentary, and guests (18+) are automatically enrolled within 48 hours after completing their first cruise.
How it Works
Members get one Rewards Point for each night they sail. Guests can also earn extra points to move up to higher tiers more quickly:
- Suite & The Haven Bonus: Earn one additional point per night when you book a Suite or The Haven.
- Insider Offer Bonus: Earn one additional point per night when you book a designated "Latitudes Rewards Insider Offer."
Membership Tiers and Key Benefits
The program features seven tiers, each unlocking deeper discounts and exclusive onboard experiences:
- Bronze (1-19 points): The entry tier offers a 10% discount in duty-free shops, a signature pin, and keycard recognition.
- Silver (20-44 points): Builds on Bronze with a 10% discount on shore excursions, a 20% discount on photos, a 15% discount on spa treatments (while in port), and an invitation to an exclusive onboard cocktail party.
- (45-74 points): Adds valuable perks like 50% off one bag of laundry, priority tender tickets, priority disembarkation (for U.S. citizens), and a complimentary carton of water.
- Platinum (75-149 points): A major upgrade offering priority check-in, a 15% discount on internet packages, concierge service, and two complimentary meals for two at specialty restaurants (one at Cagney's/Le Bistro and one at Moderno/La Cucina).
- Sapphire (150-349 points): Enhances benefits with priority restaurant and entertainment seating, dinner with ship officers, and an increased 20% discount on internet packages.
- Diamond (350-699 points): Offers exclusive high-value rewards, including a one-time free cabin upgrade (valid for one category increase), a Sail & Sustain Mixology experience, and a 25% internet package discount.
- Ambassador (700+ points): The elite tier rewards loyalists with a one-time complimentary 7-day cruise (in a balcony stateroom), a special Ambassador gift, and the highest priority for pre-booking dining and entertainment.
Discover all Latitudes Rewards benefits!
Important Information
- Status Matching: Through the Loyalty Status Honoring Program, members can receive equivalent tier status when sailing with NCL's sister brands, Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.
- Kids' Status: Children under 18 earn points for every cruise, but these points are "banked" and do not activate tier status until they turn 18 and complete their first cruise as an adult.
- Missing Points: If a past cruise is missing from your history, you can submit a request via your online account or contact Latitudes Rewards customer service. Claims must be submitted within 12 months of the sailing.
