ncl encore cruise ship video

Norwegian Encore Video Tour

The complete video of the Norwegian Encore , the latest ship to have entered into the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. Elegant interiors, lounges and bars, many places for fun and lots of restaurants. Never a moment to be bored when cruising on the Norwegian Encore !

Read all the Reviews of the Norwegian Encore on Cruising Journal , with Report , the Photo Gallery and plenty of information and opinions.

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Norwegian Encore

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Norwegian Encore Review – our favorite NCL ship

The Norwegian Encore was launched in November 2019 to relatively little fanfare. Still, because it is a new ship, we couldn’t resist booking the inaugural voyage from Southampton to Miami New York City. Since then, we’ve been able to experience the ship again to see how well it’s aging.

First and foremost, there are risks in booking a maiden voyage with just about any cruise line ( read this interesting article ). Knowing the risks and knowing that NCL usually manages problems pretty well when things don’t go as planned, we jumped on the chance to be one of the first people to sail on The Encore.

I had originally wondered why there wasn’t much news surrounding the launch of a huge new cruise liner like there usually is with other cruise brands and I quickly realized that the excitement was muted because it’s basically a twin of the Norwegian Bliss.

• Read : Transatlantic cruises – everything to consider before booking

The itinerary for the NCL Encore

The Norwegian Epic was due to depart Southampton England at the end of October headed to Miami. This was perfect as I had plans to be in Europe during October anyway and head back to the gulf coast in November. The itinerary was nice for a transatlantic cruise including a stop in Madeira Portugal (LOVELY!) and a day in NYC with a final destination of Miami.

Fast forward a few weeks and I get a disconcerting email from NCL saying they are going to cut 3 days off the cruise, skip Madeira and stop in NYC, not Miami. HUGE BUMMER! However, they offered to credit the 3 days pro-rated (as expected) and then also threw in some onboard credits and an additional discount on the overall trip to sweeten the pot.

I found this itinerary change quite annoying, however, for me, the circumstances of being in Europe and needing to get back to the USA regardless if it were by ship or plane made the trip still worth it (considering airfare was about the same price).

Onboard the Norwegian Encore

Having been on all types of cruise ships from luxury to basic older ships, I can say the interior of the NCL Encore is absolutely stunning! The design elements and color choices are top-notch and some of the best I’ve seen in the 20+ years of cruising. There is a caveat to the amazing aesthetic though – the material choices. While much of the furnishings and common area decor was amazing, you could tell it was made of material that was not going to wear well over time potentially leading the beauty of the ship becoming quickly tarnished. It’s as if the designers didn’t consider the abuses that furniture and fixtures get on cruise ships. My concerns quickly became reality when I saw a sofa rapidly destroyed with spilled drinks and food. It wasn’t the type of material that was going to recover easily from a good cleaning or steaming! Very unfortunate.

Overall the interior of the ship felt like you were inside a luxury Las Vegas hotel.

The Shopping Arcade on the Encore

The shopping experience is as expected on the NCL Encore. An arcade style / mall style area filled with small shops selling just about anything you could imagine. They were all very tidy, with a good selection of products and again, beautifully designed. So for those who like to by the one off souvenir or luxury watch while at sea, the Encore will not disappoint.

The Casino aboard the NCL Encore

The casino is often the heart of the nightlife on cruise ships because of the whirl and buzz of slot machines, large bar areas, and/or groups cheering alongside the lucky craps and roulette players. While the casino on the Encore was as beautiful as the rest of the ship, it was more spread out and less intimate than most other cruise ships. The bar area wasn’t inviting and never really had many people while the machines largely sat empty as people just passed by and looked out of curiosity. Almost NONE of the gaming tables were ever in use, leaving the staff to appear bored and disinterested. Overall this was the most disappointing space on the Encore and had it been given a more cozy or intimate feeling, it would have been a space worthy of spending some time (and money) in.

Food and Specialty Dining on the Encore

Aside from the occasional miss with an overcooked (or undercooked) meal, the food on the Encore was some of the best we’ve had. The open-seating restaurants were spacious and beautiful with attentive service and the food was often simple but well prepared with a good variety. Unfortunately due to the weather, many of the outdoor dining options weren’t open or were not sufficiently closed enough for comfortable dining, but when they were open, they had the typical fare found on the lido decks of many ships including burgers, hot dogs, pizza, etc.

Specialty dining on the Norwegian Encore

The specialty restaurants that have become popular add-ons to most cruise lines are often hit or miss and make customers wonder if it’s worth paying extra for. I can say, however, that the food at the specialty restaurants was the best I’ve had at sea on a major cruise line. Unfortunately, I was unable to try ALL of the restaurants since there were so many options.

The only restaurant that made me feel like it was an afterthought was the Asian Fusion at the Food Republic

• Read : Learn more about the dining options on Norwegian Cruise Line

The Rooms & Cabins on Norwegian Encore

The cabin interiors on the Encore are as you’d expect from a cruise ship. Approximately 140 sq feet for a typical cabin. In keeping with the look of the ship, the interiors were quite nice with a lovely color palette and comfortable beds. Thankfully the cabins are fitted with a standard-style restroom unlike other ships (the Epic comes to mind) where there is little or no privacy between the toilet area and the sleeping and living area. Gone are the days of the glass walls between the toilet and the bedroom (hopefully!).

There was plenty of space to store all clothing and empty suitcases under the beds.

One thing to note on the design of the cabins: half of the cabins have a bed as you enter the room and the other half have a bed closer to the window. With the bed close to the entry, you have to squeeze around it to use the lounge area which makes it feel very tight. However, the exact same square footage where the bed is closer to the window makes the overall space feel more usable and more like a living area than a tiny bedroom. Customers with mobility issues should also consider this, as the space is more open and usable.

For families and groups, some cabins have doors to adjoining cabins and are indicated on the deck plan.

The Spa Experience on NCL Encore

Keeping up with the beauty of the cruise ship, the spa (run by Mandara) is simply stunning. The decor, while modern, is also welcoming and fresh making it a place where you feel compelled to stay and hang out. With that comes the fact that a LOT of people tend to stay and hang out in the relaxation area, making it a bit overcrowded. As with most spas on cruise ships, the spa on the Encore offers access to the wet areas and use of the facilities for a fee. In the past, I’ve taken advantage of the spa during transatlantic voyages because it offers a place away from otherwise crowded spaces. However, in this circumstance, while the spa claimed they restricted the number of passes sold, it seemed that quite a few more spa passes were sold than they claimed, making the space very busy during some parts of the day. If I were to do another long voyage on the Encore, I would likely not purchase a pass to the spa, but rather use the facility on the odd day I get a massage, etc.

But not all is lost, when the spa was not busy – the experience was lovely. There were multiple warm loungers, hydrotherapy pools, jacuzzis, steam rooms, dry saunas, cold therapy rooms, and a salt therapy room.

As for the treatments, I tried one of the basic massages and it was quite good! However, the rooms they do the treatments in have some strange choices of lighting which makes it a little hard to relax. But the treatment itself was as good or better than most treatments at sea I’ve experienced.

Entertainment aboard the Encore

When NCL announced its entertainment aboard the NCL Encore, I was excited to see the variety and wide appeal for many audiences.  SO!  I tried them all.  The initial thoughts:

Kinky Boots

I’m a huge fan of Kinky Boots and was thrilled to see the show announced on the Norwegian Encore.  However, the reality is that the show was pretty bad.  It pains me to say this because I know the performers work very hard to make a great show, however, I’m not sure if it was the acoustics, sound engineering, or what – but it really felt like a high school play gone wrong.  My hope is that since the crew was new, and the venue was new there were a lot of kinks (pun intended) to work out.  So I do hope it improves, but it was in fact a disappointment.  There is hope though.  I have hope!

The Choir of Man

I had never heard of this show. WHY NOT!  I have no idea. But it was simply AMAZING!  Brilliant! These performers are top notch and their show is thoroughly entertaining. They entertain the audience from the moment they walk in the theater doors by inviting them up on stage for a beer (yep, just go up and grab a beer on the set and talk to the cast!)

As the guests are ushered off the stage and the show begins, it is a mix of theater, an awesome musical, and downright fun entertainment.  Just a really GOOD time to be had.

I almost skipped the performance not being familiar with it – but I recommend anyone who is on the Encore to see this.  Well worth the effort!

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Happy Hour Prohibition

The Musical:  Sadly.  I can say NOTHING good about this.  The concept takes place in the mixed-use area that is also the nightclub after hours. (which in itself is a disappointment compared to other ships).  You pay an additional fee to see this show and it touts that “all drinks are included”.  Which is fine – but most people have some sort of drink package, so really what are you paying for?   Well – I’ll tell you.   You pay for B- entertainment staff doing things like dragging guests onto the stage to do embarrassing things to them (make them drink cocktails, etc).  Well – the irony has it that one of the members of the audience was a friend of mine who didn’t drink.  Awkward! REALLY AWKWARD!  She had fun though, regardless. But let’s discuss the “included” drinks.  Things from the prohibition era like the Moscow Mule (they say).  But they were serving drinks that were only able to be made in pitchers and in bulk.  This of course makes sense given that you are serving a hundred or more people drinks in a rapid-fire and theatrical way. However, if they are going to serve “drinks” they need to at least make them drinkable.  They were simply awful and most people took 1 sip and put the drinks down, not to be consumed.  The general consensus among our group was that it was an unfortunate waste and we lost the opportunity to do something more fun. Most people (read: ALL people) we talked to felt like this should have been free entertainment.

The Washy Washy Staff Becomes Automated (Hygiene)

We all know the washy-washy girls on the NCL cruise ships!  They are still there, but there are so many more automated stations to sanitize your hands as well as areas for hand washing around the eating areas.  Unfortunately, not all guests see the importance of sanitization which sadly has helped perpetuate the negative image some people have of cruising because of the spread of various bacteria, etc.  SO WASH YOUR HANDS!

Embarkation Debarkation

Embarkation was flawless and fast. It took a little longer because the check-in staff had to explain the new RFID room keys and how they were used for everything on the ship just by waving your card on one of the many monitors throughout.

Debarkation was as expected for a ship this size. But for the most part, with it being an inaugural voyage, the staff, all porters, etc had their A-game on.  It took about 2.5 hours to completely disembark.

Some of the features we didn’t like on the Encore

First and foremost, the Norwegian Encore is a beautiful ship and there are very few things not to enjoy. Though there are a few which I will list here :

• They seem to have done away with dedicated space for a “nightclub” or “disco”. Instead, the Encore has a space in the center of the ship that serves multiple purposes which include a late-night disco. The space was honestly too small for this purpose and not well set up. There always seems to be a demand for a late-night venue on cruise ships regardless of the demographic of the customer, so why Norwegian has done away with the dedicated space for this is confusing. I miss the purpose-built space you find on the Epic (Bliss Lounge), etc.
• The center of the ship / Atrium contains too many functions stuffed into one place. It’s here where things like games with the Cruise Director are played, movies are shown, demonstrations are given, etc. As with most atriums on cruise ships, there is a bar as well as guest services and a Starbucks coffee shop. The biggest problem with this is the upper floor which has the all-day/all-night dining venue called The Local Bar & Grill looks into the atrium space. This in itself is a great design – until you are just trying to have lunch at The Local but the event below is so loud or obnoxious that you can’t enjoy the meal.
• Norwegian Cruise Line is notorious for the onboard gaudy sales events in the main corridors and around the shops. I felt this was too frequent and a little too pushy for my taste.

A few additional notes about the NCL Encore. This is the most technologically advanced ship I’ve been on (from the customer’s standpoint). Gone are the directories and deck plan signs. Everything is now large touch screens. I think the concept is great but it was obvious many people were confused. To add to the confusion is the way to reserve show tickets and specialty dining. This is also done via the same large screens throughout the ship. While some of it was intuitive, you could see older folks struggle with the concept leading to frustration. I almost feel like they should have had a quick video on the in-room television on how to use the system.

Additionally, those cruisers who love to have their room cards punched so they can put it on a lanyard will be disappointed. Room keys are all RFID so they can be used throughout the ship for different purposes. So if you punch the key to hang on a lanyard, it stops working.

Have any questions about the NCL Encore? Just leave a comment below!

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Cruise Gear Editor

I'm a global nomad at heart, and the dedicated editor behind CruiseGear. For the past two decades, I've experienced exciting voyages across the world, discovering countless ports from the decks of dozens of ships, visiting 40+ countries (and living in some of them for years). It's been an exhilarating journey to say the least! I want to share everything I've learned and hope to make your next cruise vacation as enjoyable as possible.

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The Haven on Norwegian Encore: Simply Heavenly

They must have made a typo when they named The Haven on Norwegian Encore . I think they left out an “e” and meant to call it Heaven . 

Along with travel agents and other media, we were recently invited to spend two “preview” days and nights on the ship when it was docked at Pier 88 in New York Harbor before the ship made its way to its christening in Miami. When we arrived at our stateroom (14880), we were thrilled to find out that we were assigned to a Category 6, aft-facing penthouse with a balcony in The Haven.

Soon after is launch in November 2019, Cruise Critic named the Norwegian Encore the best new ocean-going vessel in its Editor’s Picks Awards. In 2020, Porthole Cruise Magazine named Norwegian Encore it Best Ocean Ship in the magazine’s 2020 Reader’s Choice Awards.

The ship is the newest Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) ship, the fourth and final one to be built in the Breakaway Plus Class, which also includes Norwegian Escape , Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy .  

For anyone who loves cruising, staying in a stateroom in The Haven on Norwegian Encore is a pretty heavenly way to travel because it meets the needs of those who like big ships, those who like small ships, and those who have a hard time deciding which ship size they prefer. 

That’s because The Haven offers all the benefits of a mega-ship—which usually means more of everything—as well as the bespoke feel and special perks associated with a small, boutique ship.

Rather than offering a comprehensive review of all the ship has to offer, this review is primarily focused on The Haven experience on Norwegian Encore . 

Jump ahead to...

What is The Haven?

The Haven is an all-suite private enclave, a virtual ship within a ship, located on the upper decks of certain NCL ships. It offers upgraded accommodations, butler and concierge service, and exclusive access to a range of other special amenities and privileges (to be described below). 

Which NCL ships offer The Haven?

The Haven is available on some of the cruise line’s newer ships, including Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Epic, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Pearl.

What types of accommodations are offered at The Haven on Norwegian Encore ?

The ship has a total of 80 all-suite Haven staterooms: The majority of them (50) are located in a two-story complex at the bow of the boat that spans both the 17th and 18th decks. That area feels much like a private residential neighborhood overlooking a central courtyard. 

Another 30 Haven suites are scattered on Decks 10, 11, 12, 13, 14 and 15, most of them either aft- or forward-facing cabins, many with sweeping ocean views. On these balconies, you almost feel like you are alone on your private yacht.

Although all the suites have spacious balconies, the balcony of our suite on Deck 14 had expansive 180° views. About 200-square-feet in size, it had more than enough space for two lounge chairs as well as a table with chairs for al fresco room service (in warmer climates).

Haven suites come in seven different categories (H2-H9), ranging in size from 430 to 1458 square feet, with different room configurations and price points. 

What amenities does the Haven offer?

Respite from the crowds.

Although Norwegian Encore accommodates some 3900 passengers, it doesn’t feel that way for guests in The Haven, where the ambiance is more like that of a luxury yacht: There are no crowds or queues to contend with, and entry is limited to those with a special electronic keycard. 

Guests staying in one of the 50 Haven suites at the bow are probably most likely to forget they are on a mega-ship. While guests booking any of the 30 scattered Haven suites enjoy the same privileges, they have to walk the full length of the ship (the equivalent of three football fields) to get to the common spaces they share with other Haven guests (e.g. the sundeck, lounge, bar or restaurant).

Personal service

Because the ship within a ship is small and exclusive, it doesn’t take long for the crew to get to know everyone in The Haven by name, as well as their preferences.

The Haven provides 24-hour, trained butler service as well as a designated concierge desk to help guests with reservations for restaurants, shows, spa treatments, excursions and such.

Upgraded accommodations

All of the suites on Norwegian Encore are tastefully appointed with contemporary decor but those in the Haven are the most luxurious, comfortable and spacious.

Our H6 penthouse suite was about 600 square feet with a bedroom, living room with dining space, and two bathrooms—yes, two. The live-in master bath was striking with a double-vanity sink, separate commode area, stall shower and soaking tub with views of the water. No waiting when two people are dressing for an evening out at the same time: The second bathroom provides an additional shower.

Although there wasn’t much space to spare on either side of the sleeping area, our King bed had an uber-comfortable mattress wrapped in fine linens. Bathroom appointments were equally lovely: Hans Grohe faucets, a floor-to-ceiling glass shower door, L’Occitane toiletries and oversized towels.

The cabin had flat-screen TVs in both the bedroom and sitting area, and a coffee bar with a Nespresso machine and a small refrigerator. We would have been comfortable curling up in this sybaritic cocoon for at least a week without leaving.

Gourmet dining

There are 29 eateries on board Norwegian Encore and like other guests, passengers in the Haven can’t get bored trying the wide variety of cuisines and venues. During our two-day stay, we only got to sample a couple of them. 

But after a meal in The Haven Restaurant, we decided that there was no reason to try any additional ones. While good, none could compare to The Haven Restaurant in terms of the quality of the food, beautiful plating and presentation, exclusivity and excellent service. In fact, it was more comparable to a land-based restaurant in Manhattan than any other we had experienced at sea.

The light-filled restaurant feels intimate, seating no more than 100 people with additional space for 40 more on an outside deck. Open only to Haven guests, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. 

Other highlights of The Haven on Norwegian Encore

The Haven Courtyard, which houses a sundeck, padded lounges, pool and Jacuzzis, is simply stunning. Restricted to Haven guests ages 16 and older, it has an all-weather retractable roof. With courtyard attendants to bring you fresh fruit, drinks or extra towels, this private sanctuary is a great place to read, relax or take a swim.

The Haven Horizon Lounge is a two-story private, observation lounge with comfortable seating and expansive views. The upstairs section houses a small library and downstairs, a circular buffet table is continually replenished with complimentary snacks and beverages throughout the day.  

The Haven Lounge is a small, private bar, also exclusive to Haven guests. It is here that the very best mixologists on board can whip up almost any drink that’s requested.

Additional Haven amenities include:

• A welcome bottle of sparkling wine;
• Personal escort for expedited embarkation and disembarkation;
• Skip-the-line gangway access and escort at each port of call;
• Priority dining reservations in specialty restaurants;  
• White tablecloth, in-suite room service;
• Special reserved VIP theater seating; and
• Free third or fourth persons (with Haven privileges) in a stateroom, on selected sailings.

Access to the offerings of a mega-ship

Think of it this way. Cruising in The Enclave on Norwegian Encore is like living in a tony suburb and having easy access to the theater, entertainment, restaurants and lounges, spa, casino and more that is available in Manhattan.

All you need to do is take the elevator to Decks 6, 7, and 8 where all the action happens.

The Haven is a terrific option for multigenerational groups because it offers a relaxed setting for older travelers while younger family members can enjoy possibilities for camaraderie, adventure and excitement that await them on other parts of the ship.

Older kids, teens and the young at heart will enjoy go-kart racing on a bi-level Speedway; playing laser tag in an outdoor arena with a view; enjoying swimming pools and a waterpark; or taking simulator rides and playing virtual reality games in the Galaxy Pavilion. And I’ve not even mentioned shore excursions!

Tipping policies on Norwegian Encore  

There are no required or recommended tipping policies on NCL ships. However, employees are permitted to accept cash when offered by guests.

Because the relationship with butlers, in particular, is so personal, we would suggest planning to tip your butler a minimum of between $10-15 per day; some travel experts suggest front-loading the gratuities at the beginning of the voyage.

COVID-19 update

Of course, since the pandemic, health and safety have been top of mind for both cruisers and the industry. On August 7, 2021 Norwegian Encore was the first NCL ship to set sail from a U.S. port of call since the start of the pandemic in March 2020. 

NCL’s Sail Safe page outline vaccine, testing, masking and shore excursion policies, which are continuously updated as governmental restrictions and infection rates change.  

Wondering what to expect of post-pandemic cruising? Check out recent passenger posts and reviews on Cruise Critic .  

Bottom line

While Norwegian Encore is no longer brand-new, it is NCL’s newest ship, a cruise line known for having the newest fleet at sea. There is something to be said about sailing on a ship with all the high-tech bells and whistles, one that builds upon the line’s prior successes and takes them to the next level.

From our experience, I know that the most difficult challenge of a hassle-free, luxury voyage in The Haven will be facing that morning of final disembarkation!

All photo credits: Jerome Levine

READ MORE ON THE HAVEN

Irene’s article on Forbes: First Peek: The Haven on the new Norwegian Encore 

READ BEFORE YOU GO: CRUISE HACKS

Cruise Hacks: Packing and Other Cruise Tips  

Disclosure: We were invited guests on this preview of Norwegian Encore but any opinions expressed in this post are our own.

Learn more about Norwegian Encore and find out about itineraries, fares and booking.

An introduction to the Haven on Norwegian Encore on YouTube

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Note: This page was reviewed and updated on February 20, 2022.  

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23 Comments

I didn’t know there is such a service!!! I would love the feeling of a private yacht! Off to look for a great itinerary~

You will love The Haven!

The Haven sounds like a brilliant idea for people looking for a boutique experience but all the amenities of a large ship. Those views from your balcony are stunning and wow, the pool area is beautiful.

Yes, The Haven on Norwegian Encore offers the best of both worlds!

I’m not a great one for cruises, partly because I don’t like crowds. But The Haven does sound like the best of both worlds, with all the amenities as well as a bit of space.

If you are cruise aversive, you might even want to start smaller or gentler, perhaps on a barge of river ship:-)

Those suites look very posh. Who doesn’t love a view like that from their bathtub? I’m a fan of the loungers in the water too.

The water views from the deck of a ship can be stunning. The one from the tub was a bonus:-)

Wow! I’ve never cruised on a ship that big and with so much to offer. Norwegian Encore does, indeed, look heavenly. Your suite must have been amazing

It was my first time on a big ship like that, too. The Haven sure made it feel more intimate! It was a respite from the crowds!

WOW-this sounds absolutely Haven-ly! Sign me up!

I’m sure you’ll get there one day!:-)

I absolutely love a well-done review. So hard to find. I am a total fan of the NCL Haven. I have done 22 cruises in 40 years. My Thanksgiving Cruise was on the NCL Getaway tour of New Orleans in a Haven Spa Suite. My family of five had booked a June 2020 cruise on the NCL Pearl in a Haven Two-Bedroom Family Villa. After our experience on the much larger Getaway, I canceled the reservation on the Pearl and immediately booked on the NCL Encore in the same Haven Suite. One of the things I do prior to a cruise is research it very deeply. I have found that I can eliminate some disappointments and enhance my time as well as my families. Cruise are what you make of them and your need to accurately set your expectations. On the Encore, you just have to know there are some really neat things you can do that will cost you. You have to know you will have to wait for your turn on the go cart track even if you have a reservation. You have to know to get to the Choir of Men 20 minutes early to meet the cast and have a beer with them. You in your post and your Forbes article did so much work for those interested. Thank you and I look forward tour our upcoming May 2020 Encore experiences in large part to your writing. Cruise well.

So glad you liked my review and that it was consistent with your experience. Thanks for sharing a couple of tips, too! Hope you have a wonderful time on your upcoming cruise! Warm regards, Irene

My sister and I took a 7-day cruise on the NCL Joy in 2020. Our ship was less than 1/2 the full number of guests. We were in the Owners Haven Suite. Heavenly is the word!! If at all, you can afford the Haven, I suggest book a cruise in the Haven. You can always do a suite and hope for an upgrade possibility near the departure date.

Thanks for sharing that helpful tip!

I blog on many social media sites focused on cruising and specifically the “Secrets of the Haven VIP Experience”. I have booked the Haven Spa Suite wall the way up to recently the Haven (H2) Deluxe Owners Suite with Large Balcony. As we all know there is a premium for this type of “Ship within a Ship” NCL experience. I still cruise in and out of the Haven. If I am outside the Haven, I attempt, like everyone else, to upgrade to the Haven using the bid upgrade option when available. My biggest suggestion from a guest to a guest standpoint in the Haven, set realistic expectations. Know what amenities are available to you and leverage them if they will improve your experience. If you never had a butler before research what they will do and not do. Always communicate your special needs to the pre-cruise Haven Desk and if they can’t take care of them, they will give you instructions. Cruise well and enjoy every moment.

Thanks for your helpful comments!

We have booked this same room 14880. can you tell me if you would do it again as we are traveling to Alaska and torn between the Aft room and inside the Haven itself. Is it easy access from 14th floor to the Haven restaurants etc.?

Thanks so much for this review! R Carr

Stateroom 14880 is at the end of a corridor so you will have to do a bit of walking back and forth to get to the Haven restaurants. I haven’t stayed in the main part of the Haven but I might opt for it next time. The balcony and deck of 14880 are terrific. You should have a great cruise either way! Hope this was a bit helpful. Irene

Hi I was wondering how kid friendly is haven. I saw courtyard is 16 plus, is that if they are alone or only 16 plus are allowed in? I have small Kids 4 and 7 and wondering their limitations.

It’s pretty sedate but the rest of the ship would be their playground:-)

Hello, the Haven Courtyard which is on deck 17 is for everyone. Seating, loungers, small pool and one hot tube. Many complaints happen about unsupervised children and I know that won’t be the case in your situation. The Haven Sundeck on deck 18 is for 16 and above. It has two hot tubs.

The Haven Blogs have mixed feelings about young children. The fact is, the Haven with their two bedrooms villas are designed for the entire family. I hope this helps you.

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• Norwegian (NCL) / Ship Reviews

Norwegian Encore Ship Review

by Prof. Cruise · Published October 6, 2021 · Updated May 24, 2022

First off, a confession.  I don’t like big ships and I cannot lie.  Actually that’s a lie, at least a partial one.  Let me try that again without the overused 90’s rap reference.  I love all cruise ships, but I prefer the smaller, understated ones to the big, flashy ones.  So why did I book the Norwegian Encore, you ask?  Because I could walk to it from my apartment in downtown Seattle for one.  And I had a bunch of NCL credit to use by the end of the year for two.  And the prices were great, for three.  And capacity was limited to around 60% for four.  And I was eager to sail as a newly Platinum Latitudes member on NCL (well not so newly, but cruising shut down right after I turned Platinum in February 2019) for five.

But does one ever need a reason to book a cruise?  Any cruise?  On any ship, big or small? 

If there’s one thing you should learn from this lecture, even if you have no interest in the Encore, it’s that it’s always a good time to book a cruise, any cruise on any line on any ship going to any port.  Go ahead, tell your husband or wife or partner that Prof. Cruise made you do it.  And if they push back, put your hand out and do a dramatic 180 degree turn as you threaten to take me with you instead of them.  And then take me with you. 

Now that we have that settled, read on if you actually came here with the intention of learning more about the Encore and didn’t accidentally land here after googling “horrible 90’s rap references you should never use in blog posts.” 

The Norwegian Encore: The Facts

This section is the equivalent of the CDC version: the facts as they exist today.  Then we’ll move onto my opinion which is the equivalent of your cousin Chet swearing that 30 consecutive hours on the leg press machine sprint pumping the maximum weight, followed by a Clorox enema and a dinner of grass-fed beef and organic broccoli cured him of Covid.

The Encore, the fourth and last breakaway-plus class ship in Norwegian’s fleet, debuted in November 2019 just a few months before Covid hit and shut down the cruising industry for over a year.  So those of us who sailed on her in 2021 were sailing on a practically new ship.

She has 20 floors with a guest capacity of 3,998 and a crew of 1,735.  She is 1,094 feet long and weighs in at 196,116 gross tons (with all that dessert onboard, it’s no surprise).  She currently sails from Miami to the Caribbean in the fall, winter, and spring and to Alaska from Seattle in the summer.

Things I Loved About the Norwegian Encore

The observation lounge.

I spent more time in the Observation Lounge reading, working, snoring loudly in a lounger (sorry about that), and eating than in any other location on the ship.  This beautiful and comfortable space offers everything you’ll need for a relaxing morning, afternoon, or evening at sea.  There is a bar, a buffet that serves a small selection of items for breakfast and lunch, comfortable seating, and amazing views from huge windows at the front and sides of the ship.

Pro-tip #1: This is a perfect spot to watch sail-away or for scenic sailing days if it’s too hot or cold to sit outside.  Get there early though – prime seats fill up fast!

Pro-tip #2: The desserts on the small buffet in the observation lounge are sometimes better than those in the regular buffet and often have an international twist. 

Pro-Tip #3: If the Observation Lounge is too crowded, try the District Brew House. It’s rarely crowded and also offers some great views and comfortable seating.

Indian Food on the Buffet

NCL offers a large selection of both hot and cold and vegetarian and non-vegetarian Indian selections on the buffet.  It’s authentic and flavorful and is my go-to lunch on every NCL cruise.  You’ll be hard pressed to find better Indian food in major cities on land – that’s how good it is!

While the Indian selections were by far my favorite, a quick word about the food in the main dining rooms: It was typical cruise food – good, but not great (which is fine by me, I’m not picky). I also ate in two specialty restaurants which was a new and fun experience for me. You can read my review of Cagney’s Steakhouse here and Los Lobos here . And you can go here for all the restaurant menus on the Encore and here for all the bar menus .

Well-Equipped Gym with Good Hours

The gym was large and well-equipped with posted hours from 6am-11pm (but was always open already when I arrived at 5:45am).

Due to limited capacity on our sailing there was a crew to passenger ratio of around 1:1, so one would expect service to be good.  It was beyond good though – it was outstanding.  On the last day, I passed out these cards * with an extra cash tip inside to crew members who had made my cruise extra special:

The Waterfront

This was one of my favorite spots on the Bliss and the Breakaway and impressed me on the Encore as well.  I love all the comfortable seating and outdoor bars and dining areas.  If you’re worried about not having a balcony booked on the Encore, don’t – The Waterfront will serve as a wonderful alternative.

Contemporary Design

This ship is almost brand new and the furnishings reflect that. 

Hard Ice Cream on the Buffet

The buffet includes hard ice cream you can have served in a cup or a cone.  Standard flavors are available daily along with a number of rotating flavors like green tea, pistachio, rocky road, coconut, and butter pecan.   

Kinky Boots

This was the best cruise ship production show I’ve ever seen at sea, including on other NCL ships.  I loved the music, the story, the talented performers, and the set.  Don’t miss it! 

There was a wide variety of live music available at different venues every afternoon and evening.  Performers were talented and entertaining. 

Cleanliness

The ship was spotlessly clean, with crew constantly clearing dishes, mopping, vacuuming, dusting, and disinfecting.

Covid Protocols

While it was a little weird adjusting to a ship full of almost totally unmasked people after coming from a city with an indoor mask mandate, I was impressed with NCL’s Covid protocols requiring 100% vaccination and temperature checks and Covid testing at check-in (provided by NCL at their expense).  The testing was very efficient and added an additional layer of reassurance with the Delta variant circulating so widely at the time of my sailing.  Masking was also required in all ports and terminals and all crew members were masked at all times (except those performing on stage).

In addition, all passengers were required to wash their hands upon entering the buffet and hand sanitizer was widely available. 

Things I Didn’t Love About the Norwegian Encore

No 360 degree promenade deck for walking.

I love walking the Promenade deck on a cruise ship – listening to a book or podcast while I breath in the clean ocean air and watch for wildlife.  My favorite ships have Promenade decks that wrap all the way around the ship.  The Encore does not have such a deck.  However, I mostly made do with a few alternatives:

I walked around on The Waterfront on deck 8 when the weather was good (passing through a brief inside area at the front of the ship to make the full loop) and I used deck 7 (where the life boats are located) when it was raining (as it’s fully covered).  The public area of deck 7 does not wrap around either the front or back of the ship, so you’ll have to go out and back on either the port or starboard side.

Narrow Hallways

The stateroom hallways on the Encore are extremely narrow.  When cleaning carts are lined up along them and room stewards are working around them, passing can be tricky, especially for anyone with mobility issues. 

Pro Tip: If you use a walker or scooter, have mobility issues, or have an infant or toddler in a stroller, book a cabin as close to elevators as possible. 

Size of the Ship

I guess this was both a plus and a minus.  Unfortunately, the walk from the elevator to my cabin was approximately 6 miles.  On the plus side, I felt justified ordering that second dessert in the MDR each evening.

Extra Charges

Cruise lines (and especially NCL) have a reputation for nickel and diming passengers once onboard.  And the Encore is no exception.  Those that point to this class of ship as great for families may forget to mention that much of the fun stuff your kids will love costs extra.  Leave room in the budget for the Norwegian Speedway, the Galaxy Pavilion, and the arcade.  If you have multiple children or a bored husband, these activities can get quite pricey. 

No Naturalist Onboard

As a veteran cruiser to Alaska, I was really disappointed that there wasn’t a naturalist onboard, offering lectures about Alaska and other programming.  This is the first Alaska cruise I’ve been on without one (and I’ve been on a lot of Alaska cruises on every non-luxury line) and it really did affect the experience for me.  We did have park rangers board the ship for our scenic cruising day through Glacier Bay National Park, but they were only onboard for that one day. And we did have some presentations about Alaska given by the CruiseNext department, but again, it didn’t compare with having a naturalist with years of professional training and experience.

See my “Top Tips For Maximizing Your Day in Glacier Bay” HERE

Lack of programming for nerd types.

And really, there was an overall lack of programming for us nerd types (except for trivia which I’m not really a fan of).  No book club.  No lectures by experts in various fields.

New Alaska Piers

NCL has spent millions building new piers for their ships in Alaska.  And let me tell you, from a passenger perspective, they suck.  No way around it.  They are further away from the action and require a bus or gondola ride, wasting valuable time you could be spending in port (and those buses and the gondola ride may eventually end up costing you extra money to ride – stay tuned).  Honestly, I would no longer choose NCL for Alaska for this reason alone (unless the price and timing were too tempting – which I’m sure they will continue to be for me at times).  If this is your one shot at Alaska and you don’t need all the bells and whistles of a mega ship, pick a different line.  Holland America, Princess, and Celebrity all do Alaska so very well and you’ll avoid the hassle of these new NCL piers.  It pains me to say this, I’m platinum on NCL and generally love the line, but alas…I want to always be candid and honest with you. 

Small Cabins Without Much Storage

You can tour my balcony stateroom and read my full review HERE . It generally worked well for my mom and I, but I didn’t love the size and lack of storage.

Frequently Asked Questions From My Cruise On The Encore

Here are some of the questions I was asked most frequently while onboard the Encore:

Q: Are there spin bikes in the gym on the Encore?  Or, do I need to sign up for a class to use the spin bikes on the Encore?

A: yes, there is a large spin room and you can use it as long as there isn’t a class scheduled (i asked to verify this and used it every morning)..

Q: Can I change my dinner reservation for Cagney’s to an earlier time onboard?

A: yes.  while all the times available to book online in advance were later than 8pm, i was easily able to change my reservation to an earlier time by visiting the dining reservations desk at embarkation (located in the atrium near the cruise next desk)., q: is starbucks included in any of the drink packages, a: yes, in the premium plus package., q: are there free drinks at the latitudes officer’s reception, a: yes.  free and plentiful.  waiters will walk around with trays of pre-made drinks or you can request something (they won’t be able to accommodate every request due to what’s available at the bar – but it can’t hurt to ask for what you like..

Despite the things I didn’t love, my mom and I still had a wonderful cruise onboard the Encore. After not seeing each other for over a year during the pandemic, I treasured every second I got to spend with her and, as always, appreciated Mr. Cruise holding down the fort at home to make it possible.

And with that…

Class Dismissed.

Homework (10 points): Go here to check out all my posts related to the Encore and be sure to follow Prof. Cruise on social media:

Bonus Cruising Pro Tip

Never purchase cruise insurance through a cruise line. You’ll pay more and get less than if you purchase it on your own. Use a site like TravelInsurance.com * to compare rates and plans and get exactly what you want for the least amount of money. Savings can be significant and mean more to spend onboard, at port, or on another cruise!

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 by Prof. Cruise · Published March 3, 2019 · Last modified September 16, 2019

12 Responses

• Comments 10
• Pingbacks 2

Very good and honest review, thank you so much for sharing! This provides a great perspective for cruisers who will be going on a cruise to Alaska on the Norwegian Encore, and for those who will be sailing to the Caribbean on this ship as well. Honest reviews are the best!

Thank you so much for the feedback and for all the support! I can’t wait to see all your content from the Encore. Be sure to follow CruisingWithJT on youtube and Instagram everyone. He’s awesome!

The hallway cleaning carts DO leave room for a mobility scooter to pass. Tight.

I fully agree that the out of town docks were very inconvenient especially for the mobility impaired. I too will look for other cruises and ships docking close in town.

Thank you so much for the information about mobility scooters. That’s good to know!

Your review was very helpful and concise. I have been on Bliss and Joy, so I am familiar with their layout and amenities. I am sure this ship is similar. Your photos were beautiful too. ( the chandelier near the long and lighted , winding staircase, is somewhat peculiar !) I cannot wait to board for Thanksgiving. What time do the shows begin? Are there two performances each night? I want to plan my dinner times around their times. Do you happen to have a list of the officers, or the triangular photo that is posted of all of them? Thanks again for your great review of The Encore.

Thanks for your kind words and feedback! I’m so excited (and a bit jealous) that you’ll be on the Encore for Thanksgiving! In terms of your two questions, you can see the Freestyle Dailies and the list of officers at this link: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2796767-freestyle-dailies-from-the-norwegian-encore-august-7-2021/

Have an amazing cruise and say hi to everyone on the Encore for me!

Thank you so much for this review! We are booked on the Encore in April and have noted your pro tips!

How exciting! I hope you have an amazing cruise on the beautiful Encore!

Thanks so much for writing this review. I am fairly new to cruising(I’ve been on 3 so far and have 3 more booked) so I am always looking for more cruising content to consume. My goal is to sail on as many different cruise lines as possible. So, I am booked on the Encore in September of next year for an Alaska cruise. I have seen video reviews and the ship looks awesome and so do the ports in Alaska. But it’s also good to hear your personal experience on there as well. Thanks again and I look forward to reading more of your reviews.

Hi Michael, Thanks so much for reading! And enjoy the Encore and Alaska!

[…] And while I loved my past two cruises, this one on the Ovation and one a week prior on NCL’s Encore (you can read my full review HERE), there were a few things about each of them that bugged me. On […]

[…] (10 points): Check out my Encore Ship Review and my Review of a Balcony Cabin on the Norwegian Encore. And don’t forget to follow Prof. […]

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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Cruise line Norwegian Cruise Line

• Seattle (Washington)
• Miami (Florida)

Norwegian Encore current position

Norwegian Encore current location is at North America West Coast (coordinates 37.80427 N / -122.40058 W) cruising en route to Astoria OR. The AIS position was reported 4 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Encore current cruise is 21 days, one-way from Miami to Seattle . Prices start from USD 2589 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 07 Apr, 2024 and ends on 28 Apr, 2024 .

Specifications of Norwegian Encore

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Norwegian Encore Itineraries

Norwegian encore review, review of norwegian encore.

The 2019-built Norwegian Encore cruise ship is the fourth (last) Breakaway Plus-class NCL vessel, with sisterships Norwegian Escape (2015), Norwegian Joy (2017) and Norwegian Bliss (2018). Encore is NCL's 13th vessel built by Meyer Werft (Papenburg Germany) .

The vessel (IMO number 9751511) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311000879) and registered in Nassau .

History - construction and ownership

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)  is a subsidiary company of the shipping corporation Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH). NCL was founded in 1966, headquartered in  Miami (Florida USA)  and publicly traded (NASDAQ) company listed on NYSE ( NYC ). NCLH's major shareholders are the corporations Apollo Global Management (American), Genting Group (Malaysian) and TPG Capital (American). In 2017, the brand NCL had a worldwide cruise market share 8,7% (passengers) and 8,4% (revenue). NCLH (shipowner) owns the brands  NCL ,  Oceania  and  RSSC (Regent) .

In comparison to NCL Breakaway-class, the 4000-passenger ship Norwegian Encore has an expanded The Haven - "ship within a ship" leisure concept. This is area an exclusive accessible only by keycard. There is an outdoor terrace, private restaurant, courtyard area covered with a retractable roof, swimming pool, whirlpools, spa treatment rooms, sauna, private sundeck. Other differences from the Breakaway-class are more Haven Suites, Penthouses, Spa Suites, Studios (single cabins).

Decks and Cabins

Norwegian Encore staterooms  (2043 total, in 42 grades) include 1587 outside, 374 Inside, 82 Studios (single cabins). Most staterooms are sized 160-170 ft2 (15-16 m2). Balcony cabins are 1112, Oceanviews 111, Inside 374. Wheelchair-accessible cabins are 47. The largest accommodations are The Haven Deluxe Owners Suites (970 ft2 / 91 m2, with wraparound terrace sized 490 ft2 / 46 m2).

The 82 Studios (designed for solo travelers) are with virtual views and exclusive access to Studio Lounge. The ship also features many family cabins (connecting staterooms) across most categories.

The boat has  20 decks , of which 16 are passenger-accessible and 11 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

Norwegian Encore's à la carte specialty dining at the signature specialty restaurants onboard provides passengers with the freedom to savor gourmet dishes, various tastes and the flexibility to choose the number of courses to enjoy during the meal. On Norwegian Encore, guests can choose between 11 complimentary dining options. They can also experience new flavors at signature specialty restaurants, such as Le Bistro, La Onda, Cagney’s Steakhouse and Bayamo by James Beard Award-winning chef Jose Garces. Norwegian’s signature specialty restaurants feature enhanced menus including favorite dishes and new tastes. Whether passengers prefer a light meal of a favorite soup or appetizer, or indulge in a dinner featuring Maine lobster, with the new à la carte options, they have the opportunity to create their own, desired dining experience.

The shipboard dining options feature a Texas steakhouse (barbecue eatery named Q), with live country music. The menu includes brisket, chicken, ribs and sausages smoked over oak, pecan and hickory woods. A modern Mexican restaurant is named Los Lobos (2016-debuted on Norwegian Dawn ). Adjacent to Los Lobos is The A-List Bar, serving handcrafted cocktails, premium spirits and wines.

Norwegian Encore also boasts a full-service Starbucks Shop. The first Starbucks at sea was opened in 2010 on Allure of the Seas ( Royal Caribbean ). Another new for NCL is the chocolate-themed dessert outlet Coco’s, serving handmade pralines, crepes, truffles and other treats paired with brand teas and coffees.

In June 2019, NCL announced the partnership with LDV Hospitality for Encore ship's "Onda by Scarpetta" - a new Italian specialty dining concept to be gradually implemented fleetwide.

• The new "ship restaurant" joins Scarpetta's land-based venues in NYC New York (Long Island's The Hamptons), Las Vegas, Miami FL , Newport RI , Philadelphia PA , and London UK . The brand name Scarpetta is derived from the Italian expression "fare la Scarpetta" (to savor a meal to the last bite).
• La Onda (“wave” in Italian) restaurant's menu showcases dishes that the modern Italian restaurant chain is popular for, including seafood and signature items like Yellowtail Crudo, Branzino, home-made daily pasta and some of Italy's best-known desserts.
• The new specialty dining venue is cozy, with stylish atmosphere, contemporary design and provides expansive sea views from both within the restaurant and alfresco (on The Waterfront).

Follows the complete list of Norwegian Encore restaurants and food bars.

• Savor Restaurant (forward Main Dining Room /complimentary)
• The Manhattan Room (aft Main Dining Room /complimentary, Freestyle dining, dinner-only) has a dance floor for the evening dance show.
• Taste Restaurant (forward Main Dining Room /complimentary)
• “Private Room at Taste” (group private dining, 100 seats capacity, with a separate lounge area)
• The Local Bar & Grill is a complimentary eatery designed as an updated version of O’Sheehan’s Pub. The menu showcases similar offerings, such as Fish and Chips, Chicago Style Hot Dog, and some new additions (like Tortilla Bowl). The Grill is open 24 hours per day serving up different menus depending on the time of day guests choose to dine).
• Q Texas Smokehouse is a BBQ restaurant featuring live country music. It serves authentic Texas-style barbecue including smoked meats, pulled pork, brisket, beef and pork ribs, and side items.
• Teppanyaki is the Japanese Hibachi specialty restaurant (reservations’-only, at surcharge US$29 pp, kids charged a full cover). The Teppanyaki restaurant is open for Lunch (12-1:30 pm) and Dinner (5:30-10 pm). It features live cooking demonstrations and traditionally prepared (a la carte priced) specialties, including sushi, fruit sashimi, Yakitori grill, a sake menu.
• Food Republic is a new and exclusive dining concept (via a partnership with the Pubbelly Restaurant Group). This specialty restaurant is open lunch through dinner, offers international cuisine with a la carte menu and iPad ordering system.
• "Onda by Scarpetta" is an Italian restaurant (reservations-only, cover charge, kids charged a full cover). The Onda restaurant is open between 5:30-9:30 pm and has large tables. The ship’s Italian dining experience is marked by a casual atmosphere and large portions (perfect for family dinners) and traditional Italian fine wines and gourmet cuisine specialties – pizzas, pasta, seafood, classic salads, freshly baked bread, desserts (including ice cream). Onda by Scarpetta additionally has a separate outdoor seating terrace (waterfront) area.
• Ocean Blue (seafood restaurant, reservations-only, with cover charge US$39 per person, kids are charged a full cover) is open for lunch and dinner. It is run by the Michelin Star chef Geoffrey Zakarian, who personally picked the 4-course menu and each of the wine pairings. “Ocean Blue on the Waterfront” is the restaurant’s outdoor seating/alfresco dining area.
• Cagney’s Steakhouse is a specialty dinner-only restaurant (open 5:30-10:30 pm) serving prime steaks (Certified Angus Beef) and gourmet seafood. The Cagney’s restaurant is reservations-only, with cover charge US$30 per person and a free Kids Menu. At Cagney’s, kids are charged a full cover. Additionally, the steakhouse is open for suite-guests only serving Breakfast (7:30-9:30 am) and Lunch (12-1:30 pm).
• Le Bistro French Restaurant (reservations-only, cover charge US$20 per person, kids charged a full cover). The intimate and romantic Bistro restaurant is dinner-only (open between 5:30-10:30 pm) and offers some of the NCL Encore ship’s best luxury dining experiences with its upscale amenities, superior white-glove service, sophisticated cuisine with a vintage wines selection and classic French gourmet specialities in the menu. During the day, Le Bistro hosts food and wine tasting events.
• American Diner is a speciality American Bar & Grill restaurant (outdoor seating, at a surcharge of US$9 pp) which offers complimentary fast food choices and live music performances during the day.

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

The Encore vessel features an expanded 55-suite Haven, a spacious sundeck, 2 whirlpools, private dining and specialty restaurants, expanded courtyard, outdoor terrace, Thermal suite, treatment rooms (14 – suite Heaven SPA) and a fitness center.

NCL Encore is the world's third cruise ship (together with NCL Joy and NCL Bliss) fitted with a Ferrari racetrack (deck 19). The racetrack is built by RiMO Supply (RiMO Germany Group) and operated via a partnership with Scuderia Ferrari Watches. This is also the first-ever branded Formula 1 race car track.

• The 2-level track spans on 2 decks and offers incredible sea views at height of 60 m (200 ft). It has a capacity up to 10 racers at a time on electric go-karts (Ferrari branded).
• The GoCars can reach speeds up to 40 mph (65 kph). In comparison to the sister-ship Norwegian Joy, Encore's racetrack is 40% longer and has 10 turns (Joy has 8), two of which are cantilevered over the ship's side.
• Passengers booked in Concierge and The Haven staterooms enjoy complimentary rides with bookings. The used by RiMO technology ensures optimal usage under intensified UV conditions and saltwater exposure.
• In comparison to NCL Joy, the racetrack on Norwegian Encore is larger (extending 4 m / 13 ft off ship's both sides) and upgraded with a covered open-air viewing area (in the center). There, passengers can measure go-karts speeds by tagging the passing race cars with a laser beam.

NCL Encore also features an open-air laser tag course (deck 18), Aqua Park with Double Aqua Loop (two multi-deck waterslides - one hull-extending loop, one with transparent loop section stretching down to the below deck) and 2 racing slides (high-speed inner tubes with length over 110 m / 360 ft) both with a transparent section.

Pool Deck 16 has 2 swimming pools (located away from midship) and cantilevered whirlpools (hot tubs over the ship's sides). A top-deck water fun kids zone has splash pads, tipping buckets, water cannons and slides.

Entertainment options also include the NCL's FIREWORKS show (on each voyage), "Rock of Ages", "Cirque Dreams", "Illusionarium" (magicians show).

Follows the complete list of Norwegian Encore lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens and adults.

• Encore Theater (900 seats; features Broadway-style musical productions; two grand shows per night). Theater's signature programming features the ship-exclusive “Kinky Boots" (Tony Award-winning musical with original Cyndi Lauper songs) and "Four Seasons" musical (NCL exclusive production show by Warren Carlyle / themed on Cuba’s culture - dancing, music, costumes).
• Atrium “678 Ocean Place” is a 3-decks high, open-floor designed midship area with live entertainment and a big-size LED screen for movies. The Atrium is served by Atrium Bar.
• Coco's is a chocolate-themed dessert outlet/patisserie serving handmade pralines, crepes, truffles and other treats paired with brand teas and coffees.
• Chess & Card Room, Library, Internet Cafe (open 24 hours), Meeting Rooms; Photo Studio & Shop; Art Gallery
• Reception (Guest Services Desk- assistance, reservations, information); Shore Excursions Desk (information, planning, booking)
• Starbucks Coffee Shop features the full Starbucks menu on offer.
• Social Comedy and Night Club (103 seats) has a large dance floor and offers live entertainment by stand-up comedians and DJs.
• Maltings Whiskey Bar (56 seats) serves a rich variety of premium whiskies and beers; live music. The Maltings lounge also doubles as Library( books, board games, cards playing).
• Mixx Bar (piano bar) is a modern pre-dinner gathering spot.
• Encore Casino is a premium gaming lounge with both smoking and non-smoking areas, large-size LED screens, a separate Encore Casino VIP Room (high-stakes gambling room) and is served by Skyline Bar.
• Skyline Bar offers cocktails before dinner. Guests can meet friends after a show or press their luck with the bar-top poker screens.
• Promenade Deck’s best feature is the Waterfront Promenade (1320 ft/402 m long, open-air area with multiple alfresco dining and entertainment venues). It offers a unique open-air deck experience by several seaside venues with outdoor seating. The list of the venues features shops, bars, restaurants, a 1/4-mi-long boardwalk (outdoor area with shaded seating) located 8 stories above the water.
• The District Brew House has a keg room and offers a selection of 50 bottled beers and 24 draft beers on tap (including the new Wynwood brew). The venue is operated via the NCL partnership with Miami’s Wynwood Brewing Company.
• The Humidor Cigar Lounge & Bar is the ship’s smoking-allowed bar lounge.
• The Cellars Wine Bar is operated via NCL partnership with Mondavi and offers premium wines and tapas-style a la carte menu. The Wine Bar has a separate room for wine tastings (with sommelier service) and outdoor seating area on The Waterfront.
• Sugarcane Mojito Bar features live Latin music performances.
• Dolce Gelato (Italian ice cream bar, a la carte)
• Carlo's Bake Shop is a premium patisserie/bakery by ‘the “cake boss” Buddy Valastro.
• Tradewinds Tax & Duty-Free Shops are duty-free retails selling alcohol, tobaccos, NCL-logoed merchandise, jewelry, watches, perfumes and cosmetics, brand fashion and accessories, special occasion gifts. The shopping complex includes Tides Boutique, Cartier, Omega, Bvlgari, Fine Watches, The Time Zone, Salvatore Ferragamo, Versace, Bally, Godiva (gourmet sweets, including truffles, premium chocolates, soft-serve ice cream), also Beauty Shop.
• The Cavern Club Lounge (replica of Liverpool's music club) offers Beatles music, tribute bands performances and "The Choir of Man” crew show (dynamic performances with live percussions, high-energy music, dancing and foot-stomping by 9 crew performers).
• Photo Gallery & Shop (photo-video services by professional onboard photographers)
• The A-List Bar serves handcrafted cocktails, premium spirits and wines.
• Observation Lounge & Bar (deck 15) is a VIP lounge exclusive for Concierge Level passengers with a delicious buffet available for light breakfast, lunch and afternoon snacks.
• Garden Cafe (708 indoor seats, 280 outdoor seats) is a complimentary, buffet-style casual restaurant, plus an Open-Air Garden Cafe (outdoor seating area). It offers traditional Asian cuisine as well as specialty dishes from all around the world.
• Waves Pool Bar (15 seats) is a casual outdoor bar serving beverages, including popular cocktails.
• Aqua Park (3-decks high, with 2 pools, 5 multi-level waterslides / Ocean Loop; 2 racing-slides, “Free Fall” drop-slides; 4 Whirlpools, poolside bar, Sun Deck area); Kids'Aqua Park
• Splash Academy (kids 3-12 yo, is 2-story high, offers themed activities, with a light-up floor (for interactive dancing), circus school (with a resident clown), Nintendo and PS3 console games, kids-only cinema, crafts-arts, pirate parades. The area hosts also the Guppies Nursery (toddlers 6 months to 2 yo) and the Kid’s Aqua Park (splash pool, Nickelodeon characters entertainment).
• NCL Encore ship’s Mandara Spa & Fitness (wellness complex) consists of Thermal Suite (heated loungers, sauna, steam rooms, solarium), Salt Room (halotherapy room), Beauty Salon, Foot Clinic, Barber Shop, Medi Spa (teens), Aerobics Studio (classes).
• Entourage Teen Centre is a teens-only club lounge for kids 13-17 yo (complimentary, supervised by certified counselors). The teen lounge has Video Games Arcade, large TVs for movies, PlayStation 3 gaming consoles, game tables (pinball, foosball, air hockey). Here are hosted themed parties (dance, pool, pizza) and teen discos in the evenings.
• Galaxy Pavilion is an indoor complex for virtual-world and multi-player gaming, equipped with interactive video walls and virtual reality technology. 
• “The Haven” complex is for Villa- and Suite passengers only, and consists of “The Haven Courtyard” (has a retractable roof, adults-only pool area, 2 Whirlpools), spa, steam room, gym room), “The Haven Restaurant” and “The Haven Lounge & Bar” (offering a delicious limited buffet for breakfast and lunch with delicious traditional Chinese and Western cuisine).
• Spice H2O (lower level 1 of 2) is an adult-only relaxation area, with 1 pool, 2 Whirlpools, huge outdoor LED screen, Poolside Bar, Grill.
• Pulse Fitness Centre features Technogym equipment and a separate Aerobics Studio for classes, among which Yoga, Pilates, Zumba, boxing, TRX).
• Sports Complex has a Bungee Trampoline, Spider Web (climbing wall with spiral slide), Mini Golf and Ropes Courses, Zip Line, The Plank (walking platform); combined sports court (basketball/volleyball), Race Track (Ferrari TM go-karts), Rock Climbing Wall, Jogging Track.
• Race Track is operated with 10 electric carts and 5-6 min race sessions. Go-Karts are decorated with different companies' logos.
• Laser Battle is an open-air Laser Tag Course (deck 18) with obstacles and a large-size touch screen for kids.
• Vibe Beach Club (99 seats, deck 19) is an adults-only relaxation area (surcharges per day apply) with cantilevered whirlpools, sunbathing area with sun loungers and luxury chaise lounge chairs, outdoor bar, private cabanas.

Next are listed the NCL Encore ship's venues by deck location.

• On deck 20 are the Laser Tag Course, Ropes Course, Aqua Racer Waterslide (entry-level), Vibe Beach Club (upper level).
• On deck 19 are located The Haven Courtyard (sundeck with 2x Jacuzzies), Vibe Beach Club (sundeck with 2x Jacuzzies), Encore Speedway (Race Track), Mini-Golf Course.
• On deck 18 are located Ocean Loops Waterslide (entry-level), The Haven complex (Courtyard, Lounge, Restaurant, Outdoor Restaurant, Horizon Lounge), Encore Speedway (Race Track), Laser Tag Course, Sports Complex (Bungee Trampoline, Spider Web, Zip Line, Rock Climbing Wall).
• Forward on decks 17-18 are located two 2-level bar lounges (exclusive for The haven passengers) - Horizon Lounge and The Haven Lounge.
• On deck 17 are located The Haven Courtyard (Sundeck, Jacuzzi, Swimming Pool), Sundeck (with 4x Jacuzzies), Speedway Jogging Tracks, Le Bistro French Restaurant, American Diner, Galaxy Pavilion.
• On deck 16 are located Garden Cafe, swimming pools, Sundeck, Kids' Aqua Park, wellness facilities (Fitness Center, Mandara Spa, Beauty Salon, Barber Shop).
• Forward on deck 15 is the Observation Lounge & Bar (444 seats, size 2723 ft2 / 253 m2). This is a VIP lounge (exclusive for Concierge Level passengers) with a delicious buffet (available for light breakfast, lunch, afternoon snacks) and offers 270-degree ocean views (from floor-ceiling windows) and full Bar service.
• On deck 13 is the Infirmary/Medical Center.
• On deck 11 is the Studio Lounge (exclusive to Studio/single cabin passengers).
• On deck 8 are Cellars Wine Bar, Maltings Whiskey Bar, Cavern Club, Humidor Lounge, Sugarcane Mojito Bar, The A-List Bar, Onda by Scarpetta Italian Restaurant, Ocean Blue, Los Lobos Cantina, Cagney’s Steakhouse, Food Republic, Maltings Whiskey Bar, Dolce Gelato, Carlo's Bake Shop, Tradewinds Shops.
• On deck 7 are the Box Office, The Local Bar & Grill, Encore Casino, Manhattan Restaurant.
• On deck 6 are Shore Excursions, Internet Cafe-Library-Card Room, Perspective/Photo Studio, Meeting Rooms, Reception/Guest Services, Art Gallery, Atrium Bar, Q Texas Smokehouse, Teppanyaki, Taste and Savor restaurants, Mixx Bar, Starbucks Bar, Social Comedy Nightclub, Coco's.
• On deck 5 are located childrens' venues (Splash Academy, Guppies, Video Arcade, Entourage).

Encore is NCL's first liner with the new "Onda by Scarpetta" - specialty restaurant offering dining premium experiences (planned to be introduced fleetwide). In June 2019, NCL announced the company's exclusive partnership with Scarpetta Restaurants via LDV Hospitality (USA-based boutique hospitality company specializing in unique restaurant and bar experiences). The new "cruise restaurant" joins Scarpetta's land-based restaurants in NYC , The Hamptons (Long Island NY), Miami FL , Philadelphia PA , Newport RI , Las Vegas NV, and London OH. "Onda by Scarpetta" restaurant's menu showcases the unique flavors of modern Italian cuisine featuring a selection of beautifully presented seafood and signature dishes, including daily handmade pasta and traditional gourmet desserts. The new NCL Scarpetta restaurant is similarly designed to the land-based venues, with an interior featuring walnut wood and Calacatta marble.

Galaxy Pavilion (930 m2 / 10,000 ft2 sized gaming center) is equipped with interactive video walls and Oculus virtual reality technology. The equipment includes three XD Dark Ride Motion simulators (with 3D real-time graphics, 3D Virtual Surround Sound, multi-sensory effects), six Xbox stations, Star Wars Battle Pod (arcade game), hovercraft bumper cars.

Itineraries

Norwegian Encore itinerary program is based on homeport Miami (Florida USA) roundtrips (Sunday departures) on 7-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries with call ports San Juan Puerto Rico , St Thomas USVI and Tortola BVI .

Previously (in 2017), NCL announced that the liner will be deployed in Asia and homeported in China.

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Other Norwegian Cruise Line cruise ships

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• Norwegian Gem
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Norwegian Encore Wiki

On January 31, 2018, was held the vessel's steel-cutting ceremony at Meyer Werft Shipyard in Papenburg Germany , with which officially started its construction. The ceremony was attended by NCL executives gathered at the yard's laser cutting hall.

On November 28, 2018, was the vessel's keel-laying ceremony. The special event was a construction milestone and featured the traditional “commemorative coin” placing (within the keel blocks) and a surprise “Kinky Boots” live performance by “The Choir of Man” (9 crew show).

The vessel was launched (floated out from drydock) on August 17, 2019. The float-out started at ~8 am. Once removed from the drydock hall, it was berthed at the shipyard's outfitting pier for funnel cladding and further outfitting works. Then followed the passage through Ems River for the North Sea trials (testing the machinery and performance). NCL Encore's crewed conveyance to Eemshaven Holland started on September 30 and finished on October 1. The ship was officially delivered to NCL from Meyer Werft on October 30, 2019, in Bremerhaven Germany . The ceremony was attended by Andy Stuart (NCL's President and CEO) and Tim Meyer (one of Meyer Werft Papenburg's managing directors).

NCL Encore's hull artwork was created by the Spanish painter Eduardo Arranz-Bravo (1941-born in Barcelona , first exhibition in 1961). NCL ship's namesake is the 2016-launched Seabourn Encore ( Seabourn ).

Cruise liner's christening ceremony was on November 21, 2019, held in NYC New York . Ship's godmother is Kelly Brianne Clarkson - 1982-born (in Burleson, Texas USA) singer, actress, author and TV celebrity. She became famous in 2002 when won American Idol's first season and signed a deal with RCA Records (a Sony subsidiary). Kelly Clarkson's best-selling song is "Stronger (What Doesn't Kill You)" (2011). As godmother, Kelly Clarkson performed live at the naming ceremony in PortMiami. The event was attended byFrank Del Rio (NCLH's CEO), Andy Stuart (NCL's old President and CEO), Harry Sommer (NCL's new President and CEO) and 3500+ VIP guests including US Government officials, travel agencies, media representatives, investors, NCLH partners.

Inaugural cruise itineraries 2019

On March 22, 2018, were opened the NCL Encore bookings on all Caribbean 2019 voyages. The inaugural season (November 2019 through April 2020) offers Miami roundtrips (Sunday departures) on 7-day Eastern Caribbean itineraries with call ports San Juan Puerto Rico , St Thomas USVI and Tortola BVI .

Next tables show the ship's "Inaugural Cruise" itineraries with call ports times and prices per person (USD, based on double occupancy Inside Cabin rates).

Initially was scheduled (but later changed) an 11-day maiden voyage (Europe-USA repositioning Southampton-Miami) priced from USD 1200 pp. The cruise (departing Southampton on Nov 2) included a visit to Ponta Delgada, Sao Miguel Island, Azores (Nov 6, port stay 9 am - 6 pm) and arriving in Miami on Nov 13.

Following the delivery (Oct 30), on October 31 started a "preview cruise" from Bremerhaven to Southampton (November 2). This voyage was not opened for booking but only for industry and media representatives, travel agents and VIP guests. A second preview cruise (2-day) was scheduled for November 11-13 (roundtrip from NYC). 

9-day "Inaugural Cruise" (Transatlantic repositioning crossing from Southampton to NYC) - from USD 600 pp

7-day Inaugural Eastern Caribbean cruise from Miami - from USD 900 pp

(special) 4-day Inaugural Bermuda cruise from NYC - from USD 630 pp.

The regularly scheduled 7-day roundtrip itinerary is priced from USD 880 pp and includes 2 overnights in King's Wharf (Royal Naval Dockyard).

7-day Inaugural Western Caribbean cruise from Miami - from USD 650 pp

12-day Inaugural Panama Canal cruise from Miami - from USD 1600 pp

7-day Inaugural Alaskan cruise from Seattle - from USD 1050 pp

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21 Tips & Things to Do on Norwegian Encore

With its debut in late 2019, Norwegian Encore becomes the latest and greatest ship in the Norwegian fleet.

How big of a deal is the new ship? At nearly 1,100 feet long, 20 decks, and 169,000 gross tons, Encore comes in the top 10 of the largest cruise ships in the world. But that’s only the size of the ship.

On board you’ll find a stunning number of things to do and experience, ranging from the go-kart track that’s more than 1,000 feet long and juts out over the side of the ship to a new gelato shop (Dolce) to tons of eateries, laser tag, virtual reality, a dozen bars and lounges, and a lot more.

With such a big ship — that’s also brand new — there’s a lot for passengers to know before they even set foot on board. From simple tips like how to get a table without a reservation to the best spots to people watch, we have a number of tips and things to know about Norwegian Encore before you set sail.

The Observation Lounge Makes a Comeback

The Encore is fourth Norwegian ship in the “Breakaway-Plus” class, joining its sister ships Norwegian Joy, Bliss, and Encore. One of the distinguishing features of the Joy, Bliss, and now Encore is the Observation Lounge. What’s become a passenger favorite is a two-story windowed lounge with breathtaking views that sweep the entire horizon. Complete with a bar, if you’re the sort of person who just wants to soak in the view in a quiet spot — and possibly with your favorite beverage — it doesn’t beat the Observation Lounge.

The Race Track is Bigger and Better

By now, the race track on a Norwegian ship is practically a must-have. Norwegian Encore takes the track to the next level. The track snakes back and forth more than 1,100 feet at the top of the ship. In fact, this time the designers even put the track jutting out 13 feet over the side of the ship to allow more space to race. You do have to pay to drive, but it’s definitely worth doing at least once to have the experience. Read more about Norwegian’s go-kart track here .

Tip: Don’t Have a Reservation? Head to the Restaurant Anyway

On Norwegian ships the specialty restaurants like Food Republic, Q Texas Smokehouse, Ocean Blue and others take reservations. If you don’t reserve early enough, then the prime times can fill up quickly. That can be disheartening when there is a restaurant you really wanted to eat at and you see that the list is filled up.

If this is the case, don’t give up hope just yet. Have a backup plan, but go ahead and head down to the restaurant anyway and see if there is any room to seat you. Sometimes people with reservations don’t show or others may finish their meal early, freeing up space. It’s worth a shot. At worst, you’ll simply have to try for another night. It’s also a good idea to try early or late in the evening when fewer people are eating.

The Casino Is Ready for Those Wanting to Try Their Luck

Having a casino on a cruise ship isn’t a big deal; every ship under the sun has one. What’s different about Norwegian Encore’s (and the rest of the Breakaway-Plus ships) is how it’s styled. Many cruise casinos are small and seem to be dimly lit, along with low ceilings and lots of machines and tables jammed in. On the Breakaway vessels, however, casinos have moved to being open and airy and even have designated smoking areas so that not everyone has to breathe secondhand smoke. It’s a welcome change if you’re a casino player.

Have a Beer at The District Brew House

Encore has its own iteration of The District Brew House, which is also on some of its sister ships. What’s so special about this spot? Over the past decade or so beer has become a big deal, with craft brews and designer labels becoming insanely popular. The District Brew House is a beer-lover’s paradise, with dozens of beers on draft and bottled. Sit, have a brew, hang out with friends… and did we mention the insanely good views of the water from here?

Eat Some “Q” at Q Texas Smokehouse

Now if you’re from Texas then BBQ on a cruise ship may either be sacrilege or a welcome taste of home. No matter where you’re from though, it’s worth a stop to the Q Texas Smokehouse on the Encore. It’s a specialty restaurant, so you’ll want to make reservations and will have to pay a little extra to eat here. Later in the evening it turns into a honky-tonk with dancing and a band playing.

Grab a Seat in the Atrium to People Watch

Norwegian Encore — like its sister ships — has a large center atrium, including a pass-through that spans three decks. On Deck 6 there is seating where you can have a drink, chat with friends, or just people watch.

What’s unique about the atrium is that its location in the center of the ship (and multiple decks) means that it’s the heartbeat of the ship.. As well, it’s always active and lively, with practically the entire ship passing through at some point or another. That makes it absolutely perfect for people watching.

Brave? Try Riding the Ocean Loops

There are waterslides on cruise ships… and then there is the Ocean Loops. You’ll see the slide before you even board as it’s hard to miss. It makes a large “figure 8” on the pool deck. But what’s so special is that it loops out over the side of the ship. You’ll start almost vertically, drop down and then out over the water before making a big loop back onto the ship’s deck.

And did we mention that much of the slide is clear so you can see the water below as you sail through?

The ride only lasts a few seconds, but you aren’t going to forget it anytime soon.

Take a Dip in the Most Exclusive Cruise Ship Pool at Sea

Most people sailing on the Encore will never see it, but for the exclusive few staying in The Haven, the pool is a can’t miss.

For those not familiar, The Haven is Norwegian’s “resort within a resort.” The area consists of a handful of rooms that leave no expense spared. Huge suites and large balconies are just the start for these rooms. There’s also an exclusive restaurant, bar, and the pool that’s only for guests staying in The Haven. While Haven guests can enjoy the rest of the ship, other passengers can’t enter The Haven.

That means the pool is only for a few rooms, giving you some peace and quiet — and your own space — away from the larger crowds on the mega ship.

Walk The Waterfront on Deck 8

One of the defining features of Breakaway-class ships is what Norwegian calls The Waterfront. Put simply this is a wraparound promenade that encircles about 3/4 of Deck 8. What’s nice about it is that unlike the promenade decks on some cruise ships, this one is uncovered and isn’t cluttered with things like lifeboats or large beams. The result is a walkway that connects you with sweeping views of the ocean as you sail. It’s a great place to start your day with a cup of coffee as you stroll alongside the ocean or to end your day with a walk after dinner.

Eat Outside on The Waterfront with Million-Dollar Views

If a restaurant on land was right on the water with 180-degree unobstructed views of the water, it would likely be the most popular and the most expensive place in town. On Norwegian, nearly all the restaurants and bars on Deck 8 have outdoor seating on The Waterfront.

Now eating outside might seem like a simple thing. But remember there are some big challenges to eating outdoors on a cruise ship. During the day the sun can be brutal if you are in the tropics. And if the ship is underway, then there is a constant breeze. On the Encore, Norwegian has smartly designed outdoor eating areas to take care of these issues while still keeping your view of the open water intact.

Experience Virtual Reality at the Galaxy Pavilion

One of the unique attractions you’ll find on newer Norwegian ships like the Encore and the Joy is the Galaxy Pavilion. This spot is a virtual reality arcade where you’ll find things like immersive “4-D” video games, racing simulators, and more. Strap on a headset and take a ride on a roller coaster (complete with a moving seat so that you actually feel the drops and climbs) or maybe try walking a balance beam high above the ground below (despite only being about six inches off the floor). If you’ve never experienced virtual reality games before, this is a can’t miss, but keep in mind that it does cost extra.

Tip: Avoid Getting Turned Around — Look at the Fish

Here’s a tip if you’re sailing on Norwegian Encore or any other ship in the NCL fleet: Look at the floor.

When you leave your cabin and enter the hallway, it can be disorienting. The halls seem to stretch forever, with door after door after door. Without any sort of visual aid, it’s hard to tell whether you are going forward or aft.

To help you out, Norwegian put in carpet with lots of little fish on it. If you notice, they all face one direction. The way the fish are facing is forward on the ship. So if you want to head to the bow (front), just walk in the same direction as the fish are “swimming.” Want to go aft? Walk against the school of fish.

Get Your Workout In While at Sea

Ships like the Norwegian Encore are great for fitness buffs who don’t want to let the fact they are on a cruise get in the way of their workout schedule. The ship has the Pulse Fitness Center on board, located on Deck 16, just off the pool area. Now if you’re expecting something like you’d find in a hotel with maybe a few weight machines and a treadmill, reset your expectations. Gyms on these ships are big and roomy with tons of different equipment. They are also ideally placed high on the ship with tons of floor to ceiling windows so that you can have the best view you’ve ever had when working out.

Don’t Miss the Production of Kinky Boots

On each new Norwegian ship there has been a tradition of bringing a hot Broadway-style musical to the stage at sea. For instance, Norwegian Joy has Footloose, which is a huge hit with passengers. For Norwegian Encore, that show is Kinky Boots. The show on Broadway won Tony awards for best musical and best original score and has traveled everywhere from Chicago to Toronto to the West End. Now you can see the Norwegian production on your cruise, and it’s free of charge. We highly suggest getting there early as the best seats can fill up fast for these shows.

Go Back in Time (and Music) With the Cavern Club

On the Encore there is another iteration of the Cavern Club, which the ship shares with the Bliss, Epic, and Joy. For those who aren’t fully versed on music history, the Cavern Club is the spot in Liverpool, England where The Beatles got their start. On the Norwegian ships its a recreation of the music hall where guests can have a drink and listen to live music. Norwegian even has a Beatles cover band that plays so you can feel like your in England in the 1960s.

Lounge in the Exclusive Vibe Beach Club

If you aren’t fortunate enough to book a cabin in The Haven, don’t worry. You can still find some exclusivity aboard Norwegian for when the pool deck gets a little too crowded.

The Vibe Beach Club is actually positioned right near the sun decks for The Haven, but it’s open to regular passengers. Purchase a day pass at the Guest Services desk and you can enter. The area is adults-only and offers a more refined experience than the crowded pool area. There’s a full bar, hot tubs, loungers, even chilled towels and fruit skewers. It’s away from the crowds and ideal if you’re looking for a more private space to get some sun on those days at sea.

Don’t Forget Your Morning Starbucks

Are you the type who likes to start each day with Starbucks? Or maybe you just like to get it as a treat once in a while?

Well, you don’t have to go without just because you are on a ship in the middle of the ocean. Norwegian Encore features a full-service Starbucks (not just Starbucks-branded drinks) on Deck 6, near the main atrium. Get your double-mocha soy latte or just a cup of black coffee. It’s all here for passengers. Just keep in mind that there are charges for these drinks; Starbucks isn’t included in your cruise fare.

Laser Tag Is Back in Action

Laser tag is a unique activity aboard Norwegian that you don’t want to miss if you have kids. The theme of the Encore version is Atlantis, complete with a huge serpent and tentacles snaking their way through the open-air outdoor area. You’ll find the course at the back of the ship on Deck 18, right near the race track.

View this post on Instagram Are you a Laser Tag master? Challenge your skills on the LARGEST OPEN-AIR LASER TAG AT SEA. #NorwegianEncore #CruiseNorwegian A post shared by Norwegian Cruise Line (@norwegiancruiseline) on Dec 1, 2018 at 10:45am PST

Tip: The Free Phone App Is Extremely Helpful

On a big ship like the Encore (20 decks!), it is extremely easy to get lost. There’s also a lot going on all around the ship, and knowing what’s happening and when is important. To help you out, Norwegian has the Cruise Norwegian app . Download it for free before you get on the ship.

The app is great because it features ship maps, schedules, profiles of restaurants, and even can show your onboard spending (great for budgeting) and information about restaurants and activities. It’s extremely useful to have on a mega-ship like the Encore and will help you make the most of your cruise. You can read more about the app here .

Tip: The Corks & Caps Could Be a Better Deal for a Drink Package

Drink packages are hugely popular on cruise ships, and Norwegian is no exception. The regular package runs $99 per day, plus 20% gratuity. While that’s a good deal if you plan to drink quite a bit, it actually may be more than you want to spend… and more package than you need.

The regular drink package covers most beverages on board, including beer, wine, and cocktails. But what if you have simple tastes and don’t want a lot of variety? In that case, the Caps & Corks Package may be exactly what you want. It offers up many of the benefits of the traditional drink package, but only offers beer and/or wine. The catch? It’s much cheaper — $65 per day plus gratuity. It’s not for everyone, but if you are a beer or wine drinker, it may be just the thing.

Have more questions about sailing on the Norwegian Encore? Let us know in the comments below…

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The 7 best cruise ships for kids

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Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.

Kids can make or break your family cruise. If they’re bored and hate the food options, they will loudly and repeatedly express their displeasure. Pick the wrong cruise ship, and parents will feel as trapped as if they were stranded on a deserted island … with biting crabs underfoot.

The best cruises for kids take advantage of ships with endless fun for the under-18 crowd, plentiful dining that appeals to both young palates and bottomless teen tummies, accommodations and ship services that keep families in mind, and opportunities to meet and hang out with peers. No matter your family size or price range, you can find some incredible vacations at sea that will have kids exclaiming, “Best cruise ever!” by the end of the week.

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Find the top ship for your next trip with our list of the seven best cruise ships for kids (and their parents).

Disney Wish

No one is surprised that kids are highly entertained on a Disney cruise — but what might be surprising is how much there is for adults to do and enjoy , too. That’s especially true on the new Disney Wish , which debuted in the summer of 2022.

Disney Wish has four kids clubs divided by age, but the main Oceaneer Club for 3- to 12-year-olds has an all-new and exciting grand entrance. Kids get to enter the club by slide — and once inside, can explore the club’s spaces themed to “Star Wars,” fairy tales, Marvel and Disney Imagineers.

Along with the kids club on Disney Wish, junior cruisers will find two movie theaters with first-run Disney movies, Broadway-caliber shows featuring Aladdin and the Little Mermaid and dining experiences themed around Arendelle from “Frozen” and the Worlds of Marvel .

In addition to a “Star Wars-” themed bar and adults-only fine dining restaurants, adults will appreciate the little touches on Wish that make family cruising easier — split bathrooms in most cabins, a drop-off nursery, a splash area for toddlers and restaurant staff members who will offer high chairs and puree baby food.

Disney Wish sails short three- and four-night trips from Port Canaveral , Florida (near Orlando) that include a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island , with its family beach, supervised child care, splash pad and strollers to borrow.

Related: How to save money on the cost of a Disney cruise  

A nearly identical sister ship, Disney Treasure , will debut in 2024.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas

It hasn’t even launched yet, and we’re already confident that Royal Caribbean ‘s new Icon of the Seas , soon to be the largest ship afloat, will be one of the top cruise ships for kids. Kids will never be bored on a ship with a six-slide water park, wild ropes course, surf simulator, rock-climbing wall, sports court and Surfside — a half deck of play spaces and restaurants devoted to little kids and their families.

Kids (and parents) who like a good show can gasp as ice skaters land jumps on a rocking ship, and acrobatic divers flip and splash in the AquaTheater, now up high on the ship under a glass dome. Don’t miss pizza and parades on the Royal Promenade, Icon’s indoor shopping strip.

The ship will also have innovative new family cabins and suites, some with separate kids’ rooms, to better accommodate guests of all ages. The Ultimate Family Townhouse will be a massive three-floor living space with a screening room, karaoke machine, in-suite slide and a backyard that leads out to the Surfside family neighborhood.

Related: 5 best Royal Caribbean ships for kids

Icon of the Seas will sail weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami beginning in January 2024.

Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Encore has a more grown-up vibe than many of the family-focused ships on our list, but its onboard attractions make it a huge hit with teens. Its top decks lure older kids with one of the biggest go-kart tracks in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet and an open-air laser tag arena ideal for shooting matches under the stars. A huge virtual reality playground features rides and games that blow the standard cruise ship arcade out of the water.

Note to parents: Cruiselong passes for the go-kart race track , virtual reality games and laser tag do not come cheap. Be prepared to pull out your wallet to keep the teens happy.

At night, teens can feed their growing bodies with tacos, hibachi and barbecue, plus 24/7 burgers and comfort food at The Local. Afterward, they’ll agree to be seen in public with their parents at a show as cool as “Choir of Man.” It’s an easy concession, as they know they can always escape to the teen club, Entourage, to hang out with the cool kids late at night.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Norwegian Encore spends its summers in Alaska and winters in the Caribbean, with a handful of Panama Canal and Pacific Coast sailings in between.

Carnival Celebration

Passengers and crew members on Carnival Cruise Line ships come ready to meet new friends or share a laugh, a story and a drink with their shipmates. Social kids will fit right in and love the line’s huge, new ship Carnival Celebration . They can make friends at the Family Harbor Lounge, Camp Ocean and Dr. Seuss Bookville; older kids will enjoy the teen and tween clubs conveniently located near Guy Fieri’s burger stand and the video arcade.

Carnival Celebration and its near-identical twin fleet mate, Mardi Gras , are the only cruise ships boasting a top-deck roller coaster called Bolt. (That is until a third sister, Carnival Jubilee, debuts in late 2023.) A ride here is Instagram gold and the ultimate bragging rights for kids on vacation. The coaster dominates the Ultimate Playground area of the ship, where young cruisers can challenge their new friends to miniature golf, waterslide races, basketball and ropes course domination.

Kids who love a good food court can meet up with friends or family at several no-fee, casual eateries, including Shaq’s Big Chicken restaurant and a trio of Street Eats venues featuring dumplings, meat on a stick and loaded French fries. All-hours pizza and ice cream will keep the whole family fueled up for the interactive “Family Feud Live” show.

Related: The ultimate guide to Carnival Cruise Line ships and itineraries

Carnival Celebration sails weeklong Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami. Its sister Mardi Gras sails similar Caribbean itineraries from Port Canaveral, Florida (near Orlando). Carnival Jubilee will be based out of Galveston, Texas, and offer seven-night Western Caribbean cruises only.

Sun Princess

It may seem odd that two of our top ships for kids haven’t debuted yet. However, like Icon of the Seas, Princess Cruises ‘ new 4,300-passenger Sun Princess will be heads and shoulders above the rest of the fleet in terms of family entertainment. If you’re booking a multigenerational family cruise for 2024 or beyond, you will definitely want to keep this ship in mind.

Sun Princess will be the first Princess cruise ship to feature an expansive upper-deck activity zone that kids will love. Named Park19, it will feature nine fun-in-the-sun activities spanning three decks. The attractions include the Sea Breeze Rollglider (imagine a safer version of hang-gliding from an elevated track), a climbing structure with obstacles and a slide, a ropes course, a splash zone and a sports court.

Inside the ship, Firefly Park will have drop-off kid programming and family play spaces for kids 6 months to 7 years old. Tweens and teens will each have their own hangouts, Neon Grove and The Underground, with cozy lounge furniture and plenty of video and other games.

Related: Which cruise ship cabin category should your family book?

Sun Princess will split its time between Mediterranean cruises out of Civitavecchia (the port for Rome), Piraeus (the port for Athens) and Barcelona as well as Caribbean sailings from Fort Lauderdale.

MSC Seascape

MSC Cruises ‘ MSC Seascape is a floating megaresort with something for every type of kid. The ship stands out from its sisters because of its Robotron amusement park-style ride . Three riders at a time buckle into seating attached to a robotic arm, which then twists and turns to fly the riders over the ship and sea.

Water babies will make a break for the Pirates Cove Aquapark, with slides, a splash zone and a rope bridge. Other kids might spend their parents’ money on more virtual fun, indulging in F1 race car simulators, VR motorcycle racing, a 4D movie theater and a video arcade. Family groups can split into teams for sports court competitions or participate in organized games that rely on the latest technology to challenge guests of all ages.

The ship’s Lego-themed Doremi Land kids club has dedicated spaces for babies, kids and teens. The 7,567-square-foot space includes two Lego rooms (one for little kids to play with Duplos, the other with regular Lego bricks for older kids); the area also includes three spaces for teens — a gaming area (with VR options), a hangout with ping pong and foosball and a dance club.

Related: 7 cruise lines where kids sail free

And let’s not forget the line’s amazing pizza (including dessert versions slathered in Nutella) that families are sure to love.

MSC Seascape sails seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean cruises from Miami.

AmaWaterways’ AmaLea

The typical river cruise draws a lot of retirees — except when Adventures by Disney partners with AmaWaterways. The two travel companies have created a river cruise vacation that is fun for grown-ups and kids.

AmaLea is one of the ships AmaWaterways custom-built for these family cruises. Certain twin balcony cabins sleep three, and suites sleep four to accommodate kids, with connecting cabin options for families who need more space. Unlike many river ships, AmaLea has a pool, as well as a surprise kid hit — giant outdoor chess.

While other ships sail the Seine and Rhine rivers, AmaLea travels the Danube through Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. Adventures by Disney makes the most of your time with shore excursions planned to entertain kids and adults, with options for supervised kid activities while parents head out on more grown-up tours. Your family might meet farm animals in Hungary, play hide-and-seek in a palace’s labyrinth maze in Austria and hang around in a treetop playground in Germany.

Related: Best river cruises in Europe

On board, kids’ menus are available, and the occasional pajama party whisks kids away for pizza and a movie while adults linger over dinner.

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Norwegian Encore

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Norwegian Encore: Cruise Critic's 2019 Editors' Pick, Best New Ship

Norwegian encore: porthole cruise magazine 2020 editors' pick, best new ship.

• Ship 169,116 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3958 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Length 333 m Overall Length
• Width 41 m Max Beam
• Year 2019 Year Built
• Crew 1,735 Ship Crew

Norwegian Encore CRUISE SHIP HIGHLIGHTS

NEW! Starlink High-Speed Internet

Starlink provides fast Internet service at sea and is now available on Norwegian Encore. Using advanced low earth orbit satellites, SpaceX's Starlink delivers industry leading broadband internet connectivity, which will improve the capacity, speed, and reliability of Internet on board.

Jaw-Dropping Cruise Activities

Cutting-edge technology and daring new thrills take cruising to a whole new level. Watch the ocean blur by as you zoom around curves suspended 13 feet over the side of the ship on Norwegian Speedway, the largest race track at sea. Bring the secrets of the past to life in the lost city of Atlantis, where laser tag meets augmented reality. Ready for an immersive experience of a whole other level? Step into the high-tech, virtual world of the Galaxy Pavilion.

Extraordinary Dining: Feel Free to Ask for Seconds

Each of our venues, including the all-new Onda by Scarpetta, provides its own unique experience of flavours and cuisines from around the world and every dish has been crafted to tantalize your taste buds with the freshest, highest quality ingredients. Explore our wide selection of speciality and complimentary dining options, where you'll find your new favourite dish every day that you're on board

Award-Winning Entertainment

Bask in the bright lights of Broadway with dazzling performances that will have you tapping your feet. Rock along to classic hits in a British pub at The Choir of Man.

Norwegian Encore Cruise Image Gallery

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• MI.ShipsGallery.Encore_ObservationLounge
• MI.ShipsGallery.Encore_LaserTagLifestyle
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• MI.ShipsGallery.Encore_CavernClub
• MI.ShipsGallery.Encore_LaserTagDaytime
• MI.ShipsGallery.Encore_GalaxyPavilion
• MI.ShipsGallery.Encore_CoupleHotTub
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• MI.ShipsGallery.Encore_Vibe2Floors
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Discover Her Unique CRUISE DESTINATIONS

Alaska Cruises

Every bit as spectacular as you've heard. Magnificent glaciers, wildlife, and history.

Caribbean Cruises

Turquoise water and white sands shimmer in The Caribbean. Experience the sublime colourful architecture of these breezy, tropical ports.

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Set sail from one destination and end in another. It's the ultimate way to experience it all.

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The sunsets will melt your cares away, as will the beaches, diving and fun-filled adventures.

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Take the short cut that made history and make some unforgettable cruise memories.

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Leisure days at sea, exciting moonlit nights, and nothing to distract from the journey ahead.

See Encore STATEROOMS

• Club Balcony Suite

Hidden at the top of the ship, The Haven features our most luxurious, well-appointed accommodations as well as 24-hour butler service, concierge service and private sundeck.

Whether it's the two of you or your family, our Club Balcony Suites are accented with the finest touches. And enough room to make memories forever.

See the world like never before. Floor-to-ceiling glass doors open to your very own private balcony. Stylish and sophisticated appointments enhance these modern rooms.

Experience comfort all around you. These stylish staterooms feature fine appointments, which are highlighted by nice touches and clear views of the ocean.

Relax in lively style and smart sophistication. Our modern inside staterooms are highlighted with appointments like a TV, sitting area and more.

Specifically designed and priced for solo travellers, our Studios feature a full-size bed, separate bath area and access to the private Studio Lounge - no single supplement required.

Experience WHAT’S ON BOARD

• Speciality Dining
• Bars & Lounges
• Entertainment
• Onboard Shopping

Serving a wide variety of culinary delights to please every palate, our complimentary dining options include three main dining rooms, a help-yourself buffet and a variety of casual cafés, grills and on-the-go choices. Plus, our Main Dining Rooms offer a menu that changes daily, Chef's Signature Dishes and carefully selected wine recommendations, guaranteeing a different culinary adventure with every visit.

Fulfill your current craving or expand your palate with the fantastic dining options on Norwegian Encore. Authentic al-dente Italian at Onda by Scarpetta will make you feel like you're at a Tuscan trattoria. And whether it's smoky Texas-style ribs or a succulent filet mignon, Q and Cagney's both have you covered. With so many amazing options, you'll come back and never have the same thing twice.

Another round is always in order at your favorite watering hole on The Waterfront or at any of the many other bars and lounges. Grab a freshly muddled mojito anytime you like at Sugarcane Mojito Bar. Looking for a taste of Napa Valley? Stop by The Cellars to enjoy your favorite vintage. Then move to the top deck for incredible ocean views and a frozen beverage at Vibe Beach Club. Or toast to an incredible day with your favourite pint of craft beer at The District Brew House. You'll find an option to suit any mood on board Norwegian Encore.

Raise the roof every night at our spectacular shows including The Choir Of Man, where you sing along to classic rock hits.

Whoosh out over the side of the ship on Ocean Loops in our Aqua Park. Zoom around hairpin turns on the largest racetrack at sea. Or uncover hidden treasure with our revolutionary laser tag. Wanna get lucky? Bet it all at our award-winning Casinos at Sea®. No matter which thrill you seek, there's always something to get your heart pumping.

Welcome to Mandara Spa. Start with a hot-stone massage, one of over 50 speciality treatments offered by our well-trained massage therapists. Then unwind in the Thermal Suite with a steam or a dip in the Vitality Pool. Within these tranquil walls, experience the Salt Room, a dramatic grotto surrounded with layers of body-cleansing salt crystals.

Forget to pack something? No worries! Our gift shops onboard carry everything you'll need for fun in the sun. Shop from a variety of souvenirs, cosmetics, clothing, snacks and sundry items. Treat yourself at our duty-free shops full of fantastic savings on fine jewellery, accessories, perfume, liquor and tobacco.

Read THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT

Cruise Like a Pro

Learn how to get the best cruise deals, no matter where you're going. Read our top tips for getting the biggest bang for your holiday buck.

Find Adventure

From ziplining to cave tubing, there is no shortage of adventure awaiting in The Caribbean. Here are our top choices.

Top 10 Beaches in the Caribbean

When you cruise to the Caribbean, a day on the beach is a must. Use this guide to help you pick which spot to visit on your next cruise.

Take a Shortcut

Cruise through the Panama Canal, the world's greatest shortcut, comprised of 51 miles of waterway from the Atlantic to Pacific Oceans.

Inside Look: The Haven

Bask in true luxury from port to ship and back again. Get the scoop on what it's like to cruise in The Haven, from port to stateroom.

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Helping you find cruise ships you'll love

Observation Lounge on Norwegian Encore likely to be downsized

The Observation Lounge on the Breakaway-plus class ships is one of the most impressive spaces for taking in beautiful panoramic vistas while sailing. It’s one of the reasons ships like the Encore and Bliss have been embraced for Alaskan Cruises. Now we see speculation that Norwegian might be downsizing this area on yet another one of its ships, the Norwegian Encore .

Norwegian’s website lists new cabins reminiscent of changes made to Norwegian Joy

The Norwegian Joy, the predecessor to the Encore, recently went through a dry dock where Norwegian converted the port side of the Observation Lounge to 24 additional cabins. ( read more about the changes here )

An eagle-eyed reader alerted us that NCL.com is currently selling cabins in Deck 15 forward. The deck plans don’t show any cabins in this area, but guests can book a cabin here. For example, cabin 15108 is available for booking on a January sailing of the Encore. Looking at the Norwegian Joy, that cabin number is in the new section that replaced the part of the Observation Lounge. 

Downsizing likely to occur during December dry dock

While no dry dock has officially been announced, looking at the schedule, we see that in early November, Encore is heading over to Europe. Once there, the ship has two weeks with no cruises scheduled. This is likely when the ship will undergo the renovations. 

We still don’t know what other changes they may make. On the Joy, they removed the Galaxy Pavilion and Laser Tag arena, so there’s a chance they may do something similar here. We’ll update this story if we get a response from Norwegian Cruise Line.

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Randy Young

Randy Young is the founder and editor-in-chief at Cruise Spotlight. He has been in marketing for 19 years and has been cruising for just as long. Over the years, he's worked with products like TVs, copiers, light bulbs, and EV chargers, but cruising has always been his passion. There's nothing Randy likes more than the first couple of hours on a ship, exploring every nook and cranny and seeing how it's different from everything else out there. He's known for providing detailed and analytical coverage of cruising to help cruisers get a comprehensive picture of a ship's offerings.

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