the haven norwegian cruise reviews

Cruise Advice

The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line: Is it Worth The Price?

Richard Simms

June 15, 2022

After years of having heard about Norwegian Cruise Line’s The Haven, I finally had a chance to experience it firsthand. Did it live up to the hype? Was it worth the price?

Read on, and we’ll discuss the pros and cons of The Haven.

Not All Haven Areas Are Created Equal

If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you know what The Haven is and are considering booking.

But for those who perhaps aren’t familiar with the space, here is a quick introduction: The Haven is where you’ll find the most luxurious suites… you know, the ones that come with great amenities, lots of perks, and the services of both a concierge and a butler.

Technically, The Haven is a very particular area — accessible by a special keycard — which on most ships contains a lounge area, bar, private pool and sundeck, restaurant, and concierge desk. While some suites are located within The Haven, many are found behind the enclave but still have access to it.

It’s important to note that what is offered regarding accommodations and services varies from ship to ship. For example, not all versions of The Haven feature a private restaurant.

Such is the case at the Norwegian Gem, where Haven guests typically have special access to breakfast at Moderno and lunch at Cagney’s, which are closed to other diners until dinnertime.

My recent experience in The Haven was aboard the Norwegian Getaway , which features a private bar and restaurant for use by guests.

Welcome to The Haven

Despite having done many sailings on Norwegian Cruise Line, the price-point of The Haven had always prevented me from booking.

But better-than-average pricing and a whole lotta accumulated Future Cruise Credits left me saying, “It’s now or never.” (This despite having been warned by numerous people that once I experienced The Haven, I’d never want to go back to “regular” cruising again.”)

Taking a “bite-the-bullet” approach, I booked an amazing two-bedroom suite and invited Doug Parker (aka Mr. Cruise Radio) for the ride. Like me, he’d never sailed in The Haven and was equally interested in discovering the experience.

TRIP REPORT : The Haven Experience on Norwegian Getaway

Almost immediately upon arriving at the New York City terminal from which we were departing, you could tell this would not be your typical check-in experience. Rather than wait in line, we were escorted to a large room to help ourselves with coffee, snacks, and finger sandwiches.

A few moments later, a staffer approached with a tablet in hand and checked us in while we finished snacking. Soon after, another staffer took us onboard the ship and to an elevator that took us directly to The Haven.

This introduction to The Haven perfectly sets the scene for what we experience over the next seven days.

Be Our Guest

As it turned out, our stateroom was only steps away from The Haven lounge, restaurant, and courtyard/pool area. The Haven bartender, concierge, and restaurant hostess knew our names by day two.

Each morning, our butler (who we shared with eight other Haven staterooms) arrived with a pot of coffee and almond croissants. It seemed as if every few hours, someone swung by with a bowl of fruit or finger sandwiches. Various snacks could be found in the courtyard in the afternoon and early evening.

Service and food in the restaurant were impeccable, although it’s worth noting that the menu remains the same throughout the week.

This was a sticking point for some passengers, but we agreed there were plenty of options (especially assuming one planned to do what we did, which was dining in other venues outside The Haven several times during the week).

Should I Stay or Should I Go?

It would be incredibly easy to stay in The Haven all week, never venturing to other spots on the ship. We spent more time within The Haven than we did outside it.

Sure, we went to several specialty restaurants but opted for The Haven’s restaurant for most of our meals.

I’d be willing to bet I spent quite a bit less time (and money) in the casino than I typically might, opting instead to relax at The Haven bar or watch the free in-room movies that were one of the many perks.

I’m not a pool person by nature, and I’m not too fond of the crowds the area draws. But several times, I had the pool and hot tubs in The Haven courtyard to myself and wound up enjoying them (as well as the poolside cocktail service).

Another big perk, as far as I was concerned, came at the end of the week. In the past, I’ve found disembarkation from Norwegian’s bigger ships to be borderline nightmarish under the best circumstances.

As guests in The Haven, we could bypass most (but not all) of the madness, being escorted by the concierge down to the disembarkation point.

The Big Question: Is It Worth It?

Like so many other questions when planning a cruise, deciding whether or not The Haven is worth the price comes down to priorities.

It’s easy to look at the price tag and say, “I could take three cruises in an oceanview or even balcony with that money.” As I was soaking in the hot tub, drink in hand, I had a moment of clarity in which I thought, “Enjoy it, bub, ’cause this is costing a fortune!”

I mistakenly calculated the per-day cost, which I’d avoided previously. When the number sank in, I signaled the server that I would need another drink. “Make it a double.”

I’m looking forward to the next opportunity to sail in The Haven. While I definitely would not pay a premium price for The Haven experience on a ship that did not include a restaurant and bar — both of which were a huge draw — I’m pretty sold on the area as a concept.

Questions to ask yourself before booking The Haven:

• Does the ship on which you’re sailing have The Haven features you’re seeking? For example, I was surprised that the Getaway ‘s Haven courtyard does not have a covered/retractable roof. That would have been a nice perk when sailing out of New York City in March, and it is something that several other NCL ships feature.

• Will your entire party be able to sail in The Haven? This is important because non-Haven guests are not given access to the area and its amenities.

• How will the added expenses of staying in The Haven balance with those you’d have in a regular stateroom? For example, it’s pretty customary to tip the Haven butler and concierge (although how much is, as often with tipping-related topics, hotly debated), as well as the area’s bartender and restaurant host or hostess.

That said, guests may eat in the Haven restaurant (which is included) instead of specialty restaurants (which are not).

Ultimately, the decision as to whether or not The Haven is worth the price will come down to personal preferences (and, of course, one’s budget).

Fresh off my first experience in The Haven, I’m looking forward to doing it again… although my next sailing on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship will be on a balcony aboard the Joy . Unless, of course, I bid to upgrade. But that’s another story…

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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 .

Celestial ceiling lighting above our bed at The Haven on Norwegian Encore

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).

Bathroom with a view in one of the suites adjoining the Courtyard

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.

An uncrowded lounge area outside The Restaurant at the Haven

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).

Not sure where you're headed? Follow the fish, upstream to the bow and downstream to the stern

Personal service

Polished and professional service in The Haven Restaurant

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.

Sleeping area in our suite on The Haven on Norwegian Encore

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.

Haven on Norwegian Encore: Double-vanity sink with L'Occitane Toiletries

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.

Onda by Scarpetta: An Italian-themed specialty restaurant on Norwegian Encore

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.

One of many comfortable seating areas in the Haven Horizon Loungee

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.

The intimate Haven lounge on Norwegian Encore

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.

Norwegian Encore offers Broadway Shows: Here a production of Kinky Boots

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!

Entrance to the Galaxy Pavilion: Fun for all ages

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!

From the Haven on Norwegian Encore: New York Harbor in early morning

All photo credits: Jerome Levine

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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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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~

Why You Should Consider Cruising in The Haven

While there’s plenty to love on a Norwegian cruise, there’s one place on board that will turn your vacation from great to perfection. Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian, home to our most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations. Where glorious rooms meet unmatched pampering, a cruise in The Haven is like cruising in first-class. If you can swing it, here's why spending a little more for this exclusive enclave may be worth your whilst.

Ready to start planning? Explore all Norwegian cruises .

Accommodation

If you have to pick The Haven for one reason and one reason alone, let it be for their accommodations. Not only are these rooms beautifully decorated, they are the most spacious. If you are travelling in a big group there's nothing better than the 3-Bedroom Garden Villa, one of the grandest rooms Norwegian has to offer. Complete with a courtyard, hot tub and a sprawling living room with a baby grand piano, the 3-Bedroom Garden Villa is the ultimate way to cruise.

If you are travelling in a smaller group, stay in the Deluxe Owner's Suite with Large Balcony or Owner's Suite with Large Balcony. These rooms, though smaller than the 3-Bedroom Garden Villa, do not skimp on luxury. Sweeping floor to ceiling views and private balcony makes these rooms worth the price tag.

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For those who are looking for something more intimate I suggest unwinding in The Haven Spa Suite with Balcony. Offering an oversized waterfall shower with body jets, in-room Jacuzzi, and free access to the Thermal Spa Suite , this room is the ultimate way to relax and rejuvenate.

Private Venues

Gone are the days of elbowing through buffet crowds or fighting for the last deck chair because The Haven offers exclusive venues only accessible by Haven members. In The Haven Lounge you'll find a comfortable seating area perfect for meeting other Haven guests and a private bar ready to concoct your favourite drinks.

The Haven Lounge opens up to The Haven Courtyard where you will find a pool, multiple hot tubs and a private sun deck with plenty of loungers for you to enjoy. Keep an eye out for the deck valets who come around with complimentary wet towels and cold fruit skewers! If you have a hankering for something more, make your way to The Haven Restaurant where you can order items such as Foie Gras, Grilled Atlantic Cod, and Whole Roasted Prime Rib.

Unparalleled Service

If you like to be pampered you're in the right place. Haven guests are the only people on board that will have access to a 24-hour trained and certified butler. Waiting on your beck and call, your butler can assist with tasks ranging from pouring your champagne, setting up in suite dining, and even unpacking and packing your suitcase.

In addition to that you have access to a private concierge, perfect for a stress free holiday. Whether you want to make a last minute reservation in a Speciality Restaurant , attend a Broadway show or register for a Shore Excursion, your private concierge can pull together your plans in a drop of a hat.

Exclusive Amenities

A cruise on Norwegian will bring you to beautiful destinations on a ship with more options than you'll know what to do with. If you want a holiday experience like no other, cruise in The Haven, where luxurious accommodations, unparalleled service, and indulgent amenities are the standard. Once you have the best of the best in The Haven , you'll never want to cruise any other way.

If you are still in the planning stages for your upcoming cruise vacation, be sure to sign up for Norwegian's cruise deals . You'll be one of the first to know about any new deals and special offers.

Where are you cruising next? Let us know in the comments!

EDITOR'S NOTE: This article was originally published on August 11, 2016. It has been updated to show related content and itineraries.

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: Review

Post author By Debbie Lee Wesselmann
Post date April 3, 2022

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: The pool and atrium in The Courtyard

For a recent cruise of the western Caribbean, I booked Norwegian Cruise Lines ’ The Haven on the Norwegian Joy as a last minute substitute for a cancelled European trip. NCL’s upscale “ship within a ship” concept in The Haven aims for a more exclusive cruise experience, with pricing to match. Although I had previously cruised in many NCL ships, including The Joy, I had never before tried The Haven because of the cost. But with fewer people traveling and The Joy being one of NCL’s mid-sized ships, the stateroom price was the lowest I’d seen for The Haven. I jumped on it.

Luxury — and pricing — of The Haven depends highly on the individual ship. The smallest and oldest ships in Norwegian’s fleet don’t offer all the perks while the largest and newest ones go all out. Probably because the Joy fits somewhere in the middle, some aspects of my experience disappointed me while others met, or even exceeded, my expectations.

Because each ship has a different lay-out, décor, and staff, this review refers only to the Norwegian Joy.

Differences Among The Haven Staterooms

Most NCL ships differentiate Haven staterooms by location: The Courtyard Haven, the Spa Haven, and Haven Staterooms. Only staterooms with a “courtyard” designation are located within The Haven itself. The one exception is the Owner’s Villa at the top of the ship. Spa Haven rooms are adjacent to the thermal spa and come with a pass to use it. (Other passengers have to pay extra for a pass.) The regular Haven rooms can be located on multiple decks below The Haven, usually aft or forward, and they tend to be larger than the staterooms inside the Courtyard.

Anyone with a stateroom designated as The Haven can access the Courtyard facilities — restaurant, lounge, sun deck, small pool, and hot tubs — with their key card. We booked a stateroom within the Courtyard for easier access to all the Haven amenities.

Location Can Be Everything

The Haven on the Norwegian Bliss: Hallway connecting pool area to observation lounge

During our trip, my husband and I debated which location would be better, in the Courtyard area or on one of the other decks and locations. I loved staying in The Courtyard because all services, including the dedicated concierge desk and the restaurant, are steps away. I find it much quieter than the rest of the ship. My husband hated the roving band of unsupervised boys in the lounge area (more on that later) and how difficult it was to get a cocktail during dining hours when the bartenders also mixed drinks for the restaurant.

I maintain that having to walk through the main part of the ship to get to these places negates the disadvantages. I don’t think I’d take advantage of all that The Haven has to offer if I had to take an elevator up several decks and walk across the length of the ship.

Courtyard Penthouse With Large Balcony

We booked a Haven Courtyard Penthouse with Large Balcony on Deck 17. It sounds as though it’s the most high-end stateroom on the ship, but it’s not. In fact, the stateroom proved to be my biggest disappointment. Having sailed on the larger, sister ship Norwegian Bliss just a couple of months earlier, our Joy Haven stateroom on Deck 17 was only marginally larger than our Bliss Club Balcony Suite despite the cost difference. The Bliss Club Balcony Suite had a much better shower, a comparably-sized bathroom, and much more storage room.

Initially, we feared that it would be noisy staying in a stateroom next to the pool, but a hallway divides the two areas. Our only issue occurred when the hot tub broke, and they had to run an enormous fan right outside our door. But when I complained that our room began to smell like chlorine, the staff jumped into action.

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: Hallway dividing staterooms on the right from the pool/public areas on the left

I loved the Nespresso machine and the cabinet above with assorted glassware. It also contained more than enough espresso and lungo cups with saucers.

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: Cabinet with glasses and coffee cups

The balcony was indeed larger than most we’ve encountered; however, it still had two regular chairs and a small table, which made for wasted space. I would have preferred to have had lounge chairs, although I suspect Haven staterooms elsewhere on the ship do have them. (I could some lounge chairs looking down from my balcony.) The Haven Courtyard staterooms on Deck 18, the have average-size balconies.

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: About half of the balcony and all of the seating

Those who follow my hotel reviews know that my pet peeves are not enough seating for two and insufficient outlets for charging devices. My Joy stateroom had a chair-and-a-half, two chairs on either side of a round table, and an ottoman for sitting near the hair dryer/desk. The oversized chair could convert into a single bed. We had plenty of seating, especially once you added in the two balcony chairs.

The outlet situation was more annoying. One side of the bed (my husband’s) had a US outlet, but my side of the bed had a European one. A stateroom at the Haven level should have had both types of outlets on both sides of the bed. Fortunately, because of my pre-cruise research, I knew to bring an international outlet converter. I also brought a multi-port USB adapter and an outlet extender with six foot cord for the desk/counter top so that we could plug in many devices, including laptops, at once.

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: Tub/shower combination and dual sinks

My husband and I hated the shower/tub combo. On our one rough sea day, the sliding doors opened and closed with the ship’s movement. I did like that we had individual bottles of Bulgari toiletries instead of the wall dispensers of generic shampoo and body wash found in most rooms.

The Haven has upscale bed linens and oversized towels, although the towels were somewhat rough.

Families (And Children)

Don’t book The Haven thinking that you’ll get an adult-only experience. Since many of the staterooms have two (or in some ships, three) bedrooms, people find The Haven an attractive way to cruise with their children and extended families. If your vacation corresponds with school breaks, then you’ll likely encounter a number of kids in The Haven’s public spaces. On my cruise, most kids behaved well and stayed with their parents; however, one band of five pre-teen boys ran, sometimes literally, free. Especially on sea days, kids of all ages streamed through the various Haven spaces. The sun deck, however, is limited to 16-and-older guests.

Some parents may feel that they don’t need to supervise their children. For those of us not traveling with kids, it can seem inconsiderate. A lot depends on your expectations and tolerance of sometimes rambunctious kids.

Butler, Concierge, and Steward Service

The real luxury of The Haven comes with the service. Only the best stewards, concierges, bartenders, servers, and butlers work here — and it shows. The staff quickly learned our names and greeted us using them. You should tip your butler and concierge separately (more on that below), as they don’t draw from the main pre-paid gratuity pool.

If you stay in The Haven, you will have a butler assigned to your stateroom. Don’t be intimidated. Your butler is not like Alfred in Batman — he or she is assigned to multiple rooms. A cruise ship butler handles all the food and snacks delivered to your room and can facilitate communication with appropriate staff members. Our butler, Melody, checked on us whenever we saw her and made sure we didn’t need anything.

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: Welcome snacks, fruit, and flowers left by our butler

She brought in daily snacks that included chocolate-covered strawberries, canapés, and a cheese plate. If we had wanted to dine in our room, she would have set up our stateroom table and would have served our meal. In-room dining, whether breakfast, lunch, or dinner, needs to be arranged with your butler in advance.

The dedicated concierge desk handles all dining, entertainment, and excursion reservations. You don’t have to go down to Deck 6 and stand in line for those. Guests from The Haven have priority for all specialty restaurants and shows, although you need to book those either online before you board or on the first day. The concierge will also escort you directly via service elevator to the exit on port days.

You will be assigned to one concierge, although all will assist you. We had a team of excellent staff members at our concierge desk, especially Efren and Lyster. As with your butler, your concierge should be tipped separately, though usually not as generously, near the end of your cruise.

Your steward handles the cleaning and restocking of your room. I was never quite sure whether our butler or steward did it, but our Nespresso pods and used glassware were miraculously restocked, even when the room hadn’t yet been made up. If you avail yourself of the ship’s laundry service, your steward will pick up and deliver that.

The Restaurant

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: The Haven Restaurant

Not all ships have a Haven Restaurant — Haven passengers eat breakfast and lunch in a reserved dining room, but they dine on their own for dinner. Since eating dinner at the restaurant is one of the best perks of The Haven, I would hesitate paying for The Haven on a ship without one. (I do have a future cruise in The Haven without a restaurant, but only because Norwegian cancelled another cruise for the same dates.) On the Joy, the restaurant has both inside and covered outside seating, although the outside can get noisy because it overlooks the ship’s main pool area and its blaring speakers.

The menus in The Haven restaurants stay the same throughout the cruise, day to day. Breakfast has more limited choices than what you can get in the main complimentary restaurant, but the staff better accommodate special requests. Instead of breakfast being coursed out, you help yourself to a buffet with fruit, yogurt, pastries, smoked fish, and cheese while you await your main course.

We enjoyed lunch in The Haven Restaurant, but the real wow factor came at dinner. My husband ordered the surf-and-turf — filet mignon with a lobster tail — every night we ate there. When I didn’t feel like eating beef, I asked for two lobster tails. No problem. And on my last dinner in the restaurant, I asked for one lump crab cake and one lobster tail. Again, no problem. Those items incur a surcharge even in the specialty restaurants, but not in The Haven. In the gallery below, you’ll see a sampling of lunch and dinner options.

You can order cocktails at The Haven Lounge that you cannot get elsewhere on the ship, although these drinks aren’t necessarily listed. If you want both a show and an excellent cocktail, order the smoked Old-Fashioned — stay at the bar to watch the whole process. The bar has an array of specialty bitters, infused alcohols, and vermouths. If you upgrade to the Premium Plus package, you can get a Whistle Pig Manhattan (better than the Whistle Pig Manhattan in the A-List Bar by Cagney’s) or a glass of Veuve Cliquot Yellow Label. But even if you haven’t shelled out the bucks for Premium Plus, the Haven bartenders still make the best cocktails on the ship.

The Haven bartender preparing a smoked Old-Fashioned cocktail

On Deck 17, on the other side of a glass wall from the lounge, The Courtyard Pool and hot tub, with limited seating around them, offer a usually quiet place to cool off. The area is air conditioned, even when the retractable roof is deployed on port days. Unlike on the sun deck, seating can be difficult to find during at-sea days or if all-aboard times are early enough.

A shallow-water seating area gives passengers a place to read while dipping their barefeet in the water.

The Sun Deck and Interior Sun Deck

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: The outdoor pool deck on the forward top of the ship

Both sun decks, inside and out, are located at the top of the ship. The interior space is air-conditioned and overlooks the pool area of The Courtyard. Hardly anyone used it, even during at-sea days. You get the brightness of sunshine without the heat and UV rays. My husband and I started preferring this area for reading and work.

Even during at-sea days, you can usually find a lounge chair on exterior sun deck, no matter the time of day, although choices of seating can be limited. Unlike at the Joy’s main pool area where people violate ship’s rules by “reserving” their spots with towels at dawn, few Haven guests do that — or need to do that, except for the few shaded cabana seats. I got annoyed that some guests felt that they had to right to claim those cabana chairs even though they weren’t using them.

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: Indoor sun deck along the top of the atrium

The outside deck has two hot tubs, one on each side, padded lounge chairs for one or two, a roaming server to take drink and food orders, towels —and no children. Located at the forward top deck of the ship, you have unobstructed sun unless you want to position yourself under an umbrella or in a cabana.

The Haven Observation Lounge

Located one deck up from the main Observation Lounge, The Haven Observation Lounge is small and usually quiet, although the seating isn’t as comfortable and as versatile I would have liked. They have a small buffet stocked all day (the main Observation Lounge buffet has specific hours) and an espresso/cappuccino machine. The windows aren’t as high or as impressive as the lounge down a deck, but they do offer nice views.

The Haven on the Norwegian Lounge: Buffet in the Havem Observation Lounge

The Library

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: The Haven Library

Because my husband had to work during our cruise, he often planted himself in the usually quiet (and somewhat dark) library. The space has some fantastic art books as well as board games. During at-sea days, teenagers and pre-teens often played board games, making the room too noisy for my husband to work and for me to read.

Special Requests and Snacks

As a guest of The Haven, you get a dedicated pre-cruise phone number and email to make special requests. I had made a mistake when reserving restaurants online — you can’t undo those choices until you are onboard — and requested changes from the pre-cruise concierge. Those changes had been made by the time I boarded. You can also request M&Ms and/or gummy bears in your stateroom. I also asked to have the refrigerator emptied of for-pay items and for a pitcher of water. We ended up not needing the water since we upgraded to the Premium Plus beverage package and could get Panna Aqua or San Pellegrino to take to our stateroom.

Our butler delivered snacks daily to our stateroom. Honestly, we had more food than we could eat and sometimes left those snacks.

The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: Sweet snacks left by our butler one afternoon

Norwegian calculates more-or-less mandatory gratuities that can be pre-paid. In addition, guests of The Haven have an additional $18.95 per person, per day gratuity added to their bills. Given the level of their service, the staff deserves at least this amount. Even if you do pre-pay, however, you will need cash for additional gratuities.

Because your butler and concierge do not receive tips from the pool, they should be tipped separately. As a general rule, the butler should receive $10-30 per day. Because we didn’t ask for extras, such as room service, and were only a couple, we tipped $20/day. Likewise, the concierge should receive a gratuity, the amount also depending on how much service he/she provided, $5-15 per day.

We also gave our room steward an extra tip even though he got a share from the larger pool. And we tipped bartenders and the best food servers.

The Verdict

I overheard several people saying near the end of the cruise that they hadn’t entered the facilities before or eaten at the restaurant. If you book a Haven stateroom elsewhere on the ship, don’t make that mistake. You should at least see what The Haven Courtyard has to offer. At dinner, the restaurant is comparable to the ship’s specialty dining venues. Yes, you may not want that more quiet retreat, but you should make that a decision early in your cruise by touring the facilities.

People say that once you’ve cruised in The Haven, you’ll never want to cruise any other way. That’s true for me but not for my husband. Although I wished for a more luxurious stateroom, I appreciated both the excellent service and the restaurant as well as what I perceived as a much quieter cruise. My husband disagreed that it was quiet. He objected to the noise levels at times and called it a “daycare for kids”— but also loved the restaurant and the drinks we could get in the lounge. We agreed that the service was exemplary, even for a cruise line that had treated us well in the past.

When you book, remember that your experience will vary from ship to ship, with some more well-appointed than others. The Joy offers a solid Haven experience, probably not the best but also not the worst.

By Debbie Lee Wesselmann

I am a world traveler, foodie, and the author of three works of fiction: Captivity, Trutor & the Balloonist, and The Earth and the Sky.

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Home Trends Inspiration Blogs A Customer Review Norwegians The Haven

A Customer Review: Norwegian’s The Haven

By Tully Luxury Travel | 01-10-2020 |

Cruise Bermuda United States

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Natalie Thomson, Senior Travel Designer “The Haven” is an “Escape” or “Getaway” for guests hidden away at the top of the ship. It is home to the most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations. Not only will you have access to all the ship has to offer, but you will enjoy the personal service of a concierge and 24-hour butler service throughout your entire stay. This area onboard NCL’s newer ships are exclusive to those guests who are booked and confirmed to sail in one of The Haven suites. The price point for these suites are at a higher premium; however, the perks you receive are well worth the additional cost. Once onboard, Haven guests get priority embarkation and disembarkation, and you meet your personal butler and take in your private areas aboard these ships, I promise, The Haven is completely unique and what you paid will be the furthest from your mind. My Client’s Review: Our cruise was wonderful!!!! Honestly, we only had a couple little hiccups, NCL had changed pricing on many drinks and restaurants the day we got on board. So for the first couple of days there was confusion for the staff on who got things included and who didn’t (even though it was on our cards). I took care of it with the concierge, she promised it would not happen again. My point was that I should not have to check my bill daily to see what I had been erroneously charged. They fixed their problem and it was flawless from then on. Our suite was unbelievable. Our butler told us 16102 is the best accommodations on the ship. It was as close to being on a private yacht as we will ever get. In some ways it reminded me of the old cruise ships – like the titanic – with classes of passengers. No doubt all the Haven guest were special. From check in to departure. The ship is a ridiculous size, I would not have wanted to be anywhere else. The pool area was just too small for this many people. If you didn’t go claim a chair early am you weren’t going to get one. The size did not affect us thanks to the Haven. As far as the Haven, the restaurant was spectacular, when we took advantage of it. We had breakfast served to us in our suite almost every day by our butler. How sweet is that? Kayla had suggested I talk to the concierge about getting off the ship first to get to the airport. They informed me that our flight time was late enough we would actually be one of the last off the ship! O.K. I was still skeptical, but listened to him. We were able to stay in our suite as long as we wanted, we went to the lounge about 9:15 to be privately escorted off the ship! They used crew elevators to move the Haven passengers. Then on the pier we were escorted to a totally different area to go down to get our luggage. 30 seconds to find our luggage, a porter took us to the front of the customs line and then to the curb to wait for our transportation. 10 mins. tops!!!!!! Just an fyi for future clients he took us to a place to wait on the lower level. Car services have to use the upper level so through phone conversations and texting we found each other. No big deal we were at EWR at 10:05. Something happened with the other 4000 people and the lines to get off the boat were not moving for almost 3 hours. This was my 4th trip to Bermuda, my husband and the Kmetz’s had never been. It is just a gorgeous place, the people are so nice and the turquoise water is like no other place. I thought the ship did an excellent job moving people. The dockyard where they dock it a great place. Last time I was there it truly was an old Navy yard. We lucked out with the weather calm seas and only rain at night. I was not impressed with the Newark Hilton and would not recommend staying there. The rooms were very small and dark. Very tired looking but clean. Just so you know the 15.50 pp we were charged everyday did not include the butler. We didn’t have a problem taking care of him on the ship, he was very uncomfortable telling us, he told us they make the butlers tell their guest about the policy. He didn’t mention it until the last evening when he was going over departure with us. I don’t remember seeing anything about the butler’s gratuities in our info. Gian was wonderful, I am sure we didn’t use his services enough. We had the Kmetz’s in our suite for departure from Bermuda, he set up Champagne and snacks for us – including the white table cloth! Thank you for all your help. When we decide on another adventure we will contact you. I can tell you I am ruined for regular cruising. It’s the Haven or nothing! – Julie Catlett, USA

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Norwegian Breakaway - The Haven

TripSavvy - Linda Garrison

The Haven is an exclusive luxury area on the Norwegian Breakaway cruise ship and is located on decks 15 and 16. It certainly meets the "ship within a ship" concept since The Haven features small luxury ship amenities and service. Guests staying in The Haven have the best of both worlds--they have luxury suites and exclusive dining, lounge, and outdoor deck areas; but they also have access to the rest of the Norwegian Breakaway cruise ship venues.

The Norwegian Breakaway has almost 2000 cabins and suites , of which only 42 are the luxury suites with access to The Haven. Those staying in accommodations categorized as The Haven enjoy private (key-card access) areas such as a courtyard with pool and retractable roof, sun deck, concierge desk, lounge, and restaurant. All of the areas are exclusive to those guests staying in accommodations labeled as "The Haven".

Four levels of suites are located in The Haven complex: Deluxe Owner's Suites (category S2), Owner's Suites (category S3), Two-Bedroom Family Villas (category S4), and Courtyard Penthouses (category S5). Three other levels of suites are found elsewhere on the Norwegian Breakaway but have access to The Haven: Aft-Facing Penthouses (category S6), Forward-Facing Penthouses (category S7), and Spa Suites (category S9).

The Haven on Other Norwegian Cruise Line Ships

The Norwegian Breakaway is not the only Norwegian Cruise Line ship with an exclusive area where guests can stay in luxury suites and have access to dedicated areas. Guests staying in The Haven also enjoy 24-hour butler service, concierge service, and a private sundeck. The Haven is also available on the Norwegian Escape , Norwegian Getaway , and Norwegian Epic .

Guests staying in The Haven have exclusive access to The Haven Lounge, which is a great place for a quiet drink with new friends you've met in The Haven or old friends you are traveling with.

The Haven Courtyard area is for the exclusive use of The Haven guests. It has a swimming pool and sundeck that are perfect for warm, sunny days, but also has a retractable roof, making it usable in all types of weather.

The Haven courtyard provides a great view of the swimming pool and very comfortable lounges. This exclusive area is always much quieter than the main pool deck, which is usually filled with families having a good time, but also noisy.

Courtyard Lounges

Don't you love these floating lounges? They look very cool and comfortable.

Courtyard Decor

The decor in The Haven is contemporary and relaxing.

Private Sun Deck

Guests staying in The Haven have a private outdoor sun deck with clam shell lounges for their exclusive use.

Deluxe Owner's Suite Bedroom

The bed linens and furnishings of The Haven suites are luxurious and elegant.

Deluxe Owner's Suite Living Room

The Living Room of the Deluxe Owner's Suite Living Room in The Haven of the Norwegian Breakaway feature the same contemporary furnishings seen in the bedroom.

Deluxe Owner's Suite Dining Area

The Deluxe Owner's Suite in The Haven of the Norwegian Breakaway has a dining table that seats 6 and a bar.

The Deluxe Owner's Suite Living Room in The Haven of the Norwegian Breakaway has huge windows that provide great views of the sea.

Deluxe Owner's Suite Bathroom

Have you ever taken a bath and watched the sunset over the ocean? You can do that in the bathroom of the Deluxe Owner's Suite in The Haven.

Owner's Suite Bedroom

Owner's suite living room, owner's suite bathroom, master bedroom in the two-bedroom family villa.

Families traveling with children will love the two-bedroom Family Villa on the Norwegian Breakaway.

Two-Bedroom Family Villa Children's Bedroom

Living room in two-bedroom family villa, two-bedroom family villa living room, two-bedroom family villa master bathroom.

Taking a bath in this tub sure provides some great views.

Courtyard Penthouse

Courtyard penthouse living room.

Yes, that is a coffee maker sitting on the cabinet in this penthouse suite!

Bedroom in Aft-Facing Penthouse

The aft- and forward-facing Penthouses have a bedroom, living room, and dining area. The bath has double sinks and a separate tub and shower.

Living Room in Aft-Facing Penthouse

Bathroom in aft-facing penthouse, forward-facing penthouse bedroom, forward-facing penthouse living room.

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Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL Joy Review 8/30/23-9/5/23 with Haven

By DAK333 , September 6, 2023 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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Great review. Sounds like you had an amazing first cruise and might be hooked like the rest of us.

Two Wheels Only

Thanks for the review. Joy is going to go through some changes during the next drydock but most of the ship will remain the same.

Three of the four Breakaway Plus ships have the Observation Lounges (Escape does not). You can also look to the newest class of ships (Prima and Viva are built) of which there will be 6 ships.

The Waterfront is also on Breakaway and Getaway so those are 2 more options which you might enjoy.

Thanks for the review. We’ve been in the Haven on the Joy twice and absolutely loved it as well! Did on in the Breakaway Haven as well, but much preferred the Joy. (Not that it wasn’t great, but the Joy was better. 😃 ). We’re trying the Haven on the Epic in December. Can’t wait!

Welcome to the addicts club!

Sand and Seas

Thanks for sharing with us!

We love the entertainment on NCL. So glad you enjoy the Beatles shows too!

It's fun to see what you thought of your first cruise 😎

Thanks for your review. On Joy's Haven in November. Looking forward to it after being in the Haven 5 times already on Epic, breakaway and getaway.

We are pretty lucky to sail the way we do. Finding the right price.

Yes Joy is going into dry dock after our cruise early next year. Small changes like some of the observation lounge being turn into cabins. A spa I think is also being added.

Footloose won't be on our cruise but it seems there are plenty to do anyway. Good to hear food is of standard. I'm not a fussy foodie and food is relatively but each to their own.

Barb Nahoumi

21 hours ago, Two Wheels Only said: Thanks for the review. Joy is going to go through some changes during the next drydock but most of the ship will remain the same. Three of the four Breakaway Plus ships have the Observation Lounges (Escape does not). You can also look to the newest class of ships (Prima and Viva are built) of which there will be 6 ships. The Waterfront is also on Breakaway and Getaway so those are 2 more options which you might enjoy.

I wish that NCL would not descecrate the Observation Lounge. on the Joy. It was my favorite place to sit and enjoy the sea. It was always busy in there. Enlarging the swimming pool would be a great idea, if they could do that instead.

Mustlovecruises

Thanks for the review! We are sailing next month in the Haven on the Joy and happy to hear how happy you were! I am sure we will as well, no such thing as a bad cruise, some are just better than others!

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Norwegian Cruise Line food: The ultimate cruise guide to restaurants and dining on board

Norwegian Cruise Line has always been a bit of a rebel when it comes to food.

Back in 2000, the company introduced the concept of Freestyle Cruising, and with it, the idea of Freestyle Dining. Guests no longer were assigned to traditional early or late dinner seatings in the main dining rooms on Norwegian Cruise Line's ships, but rather could decide when they wanted to eat and with whom.

The cruise line also began to roll out specialty restaurants — smaller, cuisine-specific dining venues such as the French-themed Le Bistro and Cagney's Steakhouse — that passengers could reserve for an additional cover charge.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Today, passengers will find more than three dozen dining options, including 21 that require a cover charge or feature a la carte pricing, on board NCL's 17 ships. While the cruise fare covers a number of restaurants, specialty restaurants requiring an extra charge are popular, and new specialty restaurants are introduced with each class of ship.

The onboard restaurant lineup also varies by ship, with those in the Prima, Breakaway and Breakaway Plus classes having a larger selection than the line's older, smaller ships.

How do you make sense of it all? We've compiled a rundown of all the Norwegian Cruise Line food options, from coffee and gelato shops to a la carte restaurants where the tab can easily top $150 for two. Here's what's included, what you'll pay extra for and the ships that feature each dining venue.

American Diner

Included; lunch and dinner

This 1950s-inspired diner featured on all six ships in NCL's Breakaway and Breakaway Plus classes offers quintessential midcentury comfort foods — from cheeseburgers and meatloaf to chicken pot pie and spaghetti and meatballs. Desserts include bread pudding and carrot walnut cake. The food is now all free (Norwegian made this change in early 2024), but if you want to wash it down with a milkshake, you'll need to pay up.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Encore, Escape, Getaway and Joy

Atrium Cafe

A la carte; coffee and snacks

Atrium Cafe is a coffee and cocktail bar that serves hot and cold beverages along with a selection of cookies, pastries and other snacks. Alternately, some NCL ships feature Starbucks cafes.

Available on : Norwegian Escape, Jewel, Spirit, Star and Sun

Cadillac Diner

Included; breakfast, lunch and dinner

You'll have to head to Hawaii to enjoy the barbecue pulled pork sliders, pretzel bites, Reuben sandwiches and more served up retro-style in the Cadillac Diner. This venue, with its funky black-and-white checkered floor and vinyl booths wedged between two sections of a vintage red sedan, is found exclusively on Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America. It's open 24 hours a day, and everything is complimentary except for the milkshakes.

Available on : Pride of America

Cagney's Steakhouse

A la carte; dinner

One of NCL's most popular specialty restaurants, Cagney's features a classic steakhouse menu with plenty of options for seafood lovers as well. The stars are the cuts of aged certified Angus beef (rib-eye, filet mignon, porterhouse and New York strip) with a choice of sauces and side dishes such as truffle mashed potatoes and sauteed garlic mushrooms. Other options include cedar-plank steelhead trout and double-cut Australian lamb chops. Save room for the OMG Caramel-Butterscotch Cheesecake.

Available : Fleetwide (except Norwegian Sky)

Related: The best cruise ship steakhouses and steak-serving restaurants

Chinese restaurant

Included; dinner, plus lunch on select days

If you're craving shrimp dumplings or a bowl of stir-fried noodles with beef, a number of older Norwegian Cruise Line ships feature a complimentary Chinese restaurant where you can get your fix. Names vary by ship — you'll find Bamboo on Dawn, Shanghai's on Epic, Orchid Garden on Gem, Jasmine Garden on Jade, Chin Chin on Jewel, Lotus Garden on Pearl, Silk on Spirit, Ginza on Star and East Meets West on Pride of America — but the menus are similar.

Available on : Norwegian Dawn, Epic, Gem, Jade, Jewel, Pearl, Pride of America, Spirit and Star

A la carte; snacks and treats

A cross between an ice cream parlor and a candy shop, Coco's features an array of treats — chocolates from around the world, milkshakes, crepes and more — to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss and Encore

Dolce Gelato

When it's midafternoon and the sun in the Caribbean or Mediterranean is blazing, you can head to this takeaway counter on Deck 8 for a cup or cone of irresistibly creamy gelato.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Encore, Escape and Getaway

Food Republic

A la carte; dinner and lunch on sea days

This globally inspired specialty restaurant with an Asian-Latin fusion theme remains popular almost a decade after its debut on Norwegian Escape. You'll want to order multiple dishes to share family-style from Food Republic 's menu sections: Sushi Bar (eight different rolls), Hand Helds (everything from pork belly bao buns to kanpachi wonton tacos), Sharing Is Caring (grilled shishito peppers, spicy Korean fried chicken, salt and pepper calamari and more), Noodles/Rice/Soups (shrimp pad thai to Vietnamese Pho Tai) and Sugar Pump (desserts featuring green tea, chocolate and ginger caramel).

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Encore, Escape, Joy, Prima and Viva

Garden Cafe

Sometimes, the buffet is the answer. It's perfect when you get on board the first day and need to grab a quick bite before you explore the ship or when you arrive back after a daylong shore excursion and want to refuel right away without having to change clothes. Garden Cafe offers plenty of options, including carved meats or grilled fish with assorted side dishes, a salad bar, soups, pasta, burgers and fries, and desserts. Most items are precooked and kept warm under heat lamps, so it's not the freshest option, but it's usually packed at breakfast and lunch with guests who like the all-you-can-eat portions.

Available : Fleetwide (except Norwegian Prima and Viva)

Related: Cruise ship buffet taboos: 10 things you should never do at mealtime

Cover charge; dinner

This is a slightly more elevated version of NCL's Teppanyaki restaurant. You'll be seated with other guests around a grill, and as you dine on edamame, miso soup and seaweed salad, the chef will prepare your entree (a choice of chicken, beef, seafood or teriyaki-glazed tofu or one of four combinations) with great flair. These fresh-from-the-grill proteins are served with garlic fried rice and grilled vegetables, and the dessert that follows is either a green tea cake or fruit sashimi.

Available on : Norwegian Prima and Viva

This circular, light-filled space debuted on Norwegian Prima in 2022 as a new main dining room option. It features the same daily rotating menu as the second main dining room, the Commodore Room, but what sets this venue apart is its bright-and-airy ambience, courtesy of 270-degree floor-to-ceiling windows.

Indulge Food Hall

This new casual dining concept, also introduced on Norwegian Prima, quickly became a popular alternative to the Surfside Cafe buffet (see below) for both lunch and dinner; at breakfast, it serves a similar but more limited menu as Surfside. The appeal of Indulge Food Hall is the variety — there are more than four dozen menu items from seven vendors: Tapas, The Garden, Nudls, The Latin Quarter, Q Texas Smokehouse, Seaside Rotisserie and Tamara — served in small-plate portions. You can enjoy chicken korma, pad thai, pulled pork, crispy fried okra, a mushroom tostada and bacon-wrapped medjool dates, all ordered from your table via a tablet.

Related: 11 venues, 32 dishes, 4 days: I tested every eatery at Norwegian Cruise Line's new Indulge Food Hall so you don't have to

La Cucina was Norwegian's sole Italian specialty restaurant until the launch of Onda by Scarpetta on Norwegian Encore in 2018, and the two restaurants are quite different. La Cucina is the more traditional, featuring classic Italian favorites — caprese salad, fried calamari, spaghetti carbonara, pizza, chicken cacciatore and osso buco alla Milanese — while Onda's menu focuses on more finessed modern Italian dishes.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Dawn, Epic, Escape, Gem, Getaway, Jade, Joy, Pearl, Sky, Star and Sun

Like Cagney's, NCL's French fine-dining restaurant is a longtime favorite that's featured fleetwide (it's called Jefferson's Bistro on Pride of America). Popular with couples for special occasion dinners, Le Bistro features everything from steak tartare and escargot to braised lamb shank and roasted duck breast. With its a la carte pricing, this is among the richest (and costliest) dining experiences on board, especially if accompanied by a bottle of Champagne or other French wine. Le Bistro restaurants on Norwegian Prima and Viva are especially atmospheric, with dramatic large-scale chandeliers and elegant ivory-and-blue decor.

Available : Fleetwide

Vibrant decor and sophisticated Mexican cuisine that goes beyond the usual Tex-Mex fare make Los Lobos an appealing option if you're sailing on one of the six ships that feature it. The guacamole, made fresh tableside, is a must. Other menu options include Mexican-style shrimp ceviche, grilled mahi-mahi tacos, nopales (cactus) salad, chicken mole enchiladas and cochinita pibil (slow-braised pork). Top it all off with a tres leches cake with coconut cream.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Dawn, Encore, Prima, Sun and Viva

Main dining room

Norwegian Cruise Line ships feature at least two main dining rooms, and sometimes even three. Names vary by ship — although the six Breakaway Class and Breakaway Plus Class ships all feature the Manhattan Room, plus Savor and Taste, and Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva have the Commodore Room and Hudson's. Menus change daily throughout the cruise and feature a selection of American and international dishes.

Moderno Churrascaria

Carnivores can devour their fill of a variety of meats the traditional Brazilian way as gauchos carve and serve cuts of beef, lamb, pork, sausage and chicken right at the table. Those who prefer to limit their meat intake can fill up instead at the salad bar, which features 43 items. White rice, black beans, sauteed mushrooms, garlic mashed potatoes, fried yucca and Brazilian cheese bread are also served as side dishes.

Available on : Norwegian Breakaway, Dawn, Epic, Escape, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Pearl, Star and Sun

Nama Sushi & Sashimi

Another new restaurant to debut on Norwegian Prima, Nama Sushi & Sashimi doesn't veer too far from its name, serving six different sushi rolls (from yellowtail to rock shrimp), three sashimi options and a variety of appetizers, most of which feature raw fish. Even the dessert — pineapple carpaccio — is uncooked.

Ocean Blue is an elegant seafood restaurant featured on NCL's six Breakaway Class and Breakaway Plus Class ships. (It's known as Bayamo by Ocean Blue on Norwegian Escape.) Guests can savor appetizers such as crabcakes, pan-seared scallops and an ahi tuna and avocado tower, followed by steamed or grilled lobster, seafood linguini or simply grilled fish (salmon, tuna, cod or sea bass) served with a choice of sauces. All Ocean Blue restaurants are located on Deck 8 and feature indoor and outdoor seating on The Waterfront.

Onda by Scarpetta

Modern Italian cuisine is the centerpiece of Onda by Scarpetta, another of NCL's elevated specialty dining options and the sister restaurant to land-based Scarpetta. Introduced in 2019 on Norwegian Encore and more recently rolled out on the line's newest ships (plus at least one older vessel), Onda by Scarpetta indulges with antipasti starters such as burrata, short ribs and braised octopus, a half dozen pasta options (including pappardelle Bolognese and Scarpetta's famous spaghetti with tomato and basil) and finally gets around to secondis such as veal Milanese and grilled branzino. The main question will be: Do you have room for dessert?

Available on : Norwegian Encore, Prima, Spirit and Viva

O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill

Included; 24-hour dining

This lively and social pub-style eatery overlooks the buzzing three-deck Atrium on Breakaway Class ships and is also featured on seven older NCL ships. It's open 24 hours a day and serves comfort classics such as burgers, fish and chips, chicken wings, beef chili and loaded nachos.

Available on : Norwegian Breakaway, Dawn, Epic, Escape, Gem, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Pearl and Star

One of NCL's newest dining venues, Palomar celebrates the Mediterranean with a menu featuring lots of Greek influences. Seafood dishes outnumber meat options and include tuna crudo, grilled prawns, Mediterranean sea bass with chickpeas and saffron puree, and sea scallops with prosciutto, le puy lentils, clams and pistachio pesto. Desserts include Greek yogurt sorbet with orange custard pie.

Pincho Tapas Bar

This unique Spanish-style tapas bar is found on only one ship in the Breakaway Class and fits in with the ship's overall Miami/Latin-influenced theme. Head to Pinchos if you're looking to enjoy small-plate dishes such as blue crab salad and bacon-wrapped dates, as well as chorizo, calamari, shrimp, scallops and more served a la plancha. Wash it all down with a Spanish red, a glass of sangria or a signature Matador cocktail.

Available on : Norwegian Escape

Included; casual lunch

Three Norwegian ships feature a pool grill (all with different names) that's open for lunch and late afternoon snacks. The venue serves casual fare such as burgers, hot dogs and french fries.

Available on : Norwegian Dawn, Gem and Pride of America

Q Texas Smokehouse

This barbecue eatery debuted on Norwegian Bliss in 2018, and its menu features smoked meats (pit classics like brisket, pulled pork and beef short ribs), as well as calorific sides (loaded fries, crispy fried okra, onion rings and macaroni and cheese). You can also enjoy live country music and even sweat off the excess calories by dancing (before ordering pecan pie or peach cobbler for dessert). A more limited menu is available for free as part of Indulge Food Hall on Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva — but you'll need to dance elsewhere.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Encore and Joy

Savor (and Taste)

These two restaurants on all six Breakaway Class and Breakaway Plus Class ships are essentially smaller-scale main dining rooms. They are located across from each other on Deck 6 and feature lunch and dinner menus that change daily.

Shanghai's Noodle Bar

This casual dining venue serves a selection of freshly prepared and wok-fried Asian noodle and rice dishes, from pork pot stickers and steamed vegetable dumplings to Singapore-style rice noodles and udon noodles in broth.

Available on : Norwegian Breakaway, Epic and Getaway

Included; casual pub fare

While most NCL ships, with the exception of Pride of America, have a pub-style complimentary eatery — either O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill or The Local Bar & Grill — one older outlier has Sports Bar. Like the other eateries, this venue is free and features comfort classics such as Reuben sandwiches, chicken wings and fish and chips.

Available on : Norwegian Sun

A la carte; coffee, breakfast and snacks

NCL wasn't the first cruise line to feature the well-known coffee chain (that would be Royal Caribbean), but it now has the most Starbucks cafes on board its ships. Guests can purchase frappuccinos, lattes, cold brews and many of the other coffee, tea and breakfast and pastry items that are available on land.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Encore, Epic, Gem, Getaway, Joy, Prima, Sky and Viva

Surfside Cafe & Grill

With the debut of Norwegian Prima, NCL evolved its buffet-style restaurant (known as Garden Cafe on most ships) to Surfside Cafe & Grill. The Deck 17 space is notably smaller, though, due to the fact that Prima Class ships also feature Indulge Food Hall and The Local Bar & Grill as complimentary casual dining options. The reduced size does result in some overcrowding, especially at breakfast, with overflow guests directed to find seats in the adjacent Food Republic space.

All but three NCL ships feature Teppanyaki , a Benihana-style Japanese restaurant where the live-action preparation is integral to the experience. You'll be seated around a grill as your chef prepares your entree (either chicken, beef, seafood or teriyaki-glazed tofu or one of four combinations) with dramatic flair. You'll start with miso soup and seaweed salad, and all entrees are served with garlic fried rice and grilled vegetables. Dessert is either a green tea cake or fruit sashimi. Hasuki replaces Teppanyaki on Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Dawn, Encore, Epic, Escape, Gem, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Joy, Pearl, Spirit, Star and Sun

The Bake Shop

A sugar rush is practically guaranteed at The Bake Shop, a Deck 8 confectionery selling assorted bonbons (with fillings from passion fruit to praline), cupcakes (more than a dozen options, including red velvet, chocolate-pistachio and lemon merengue) and French macarons in a dozen flavors.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Encore and Getaway

The Great Outdoors

Included; lunch

This outdoor casual buffet on seven Norwegian Cruise Line ships has a come-as-you-are dress code and serves burgers, hot dogs, fries and other items for guests who want to enjoy some ocean scenery with their lunch.

Available on : Norwegian Epic, Gem, Jade, Jewel, Pearl, Sky and Sun

The Haven Restaurant

Included for guests booked in The Haven; breakfast, lunch and dinner

If you book a suite in The Haven, the exclusive ship-within-a-ship enclave found on every new NCL ship since it was introduced on Norwegian Epic in 2010, you'll enjoy access to The Haven Restaurant. Open only to Haven guests, it serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. Menus here do not change, but there are generally enough options (a dozen appetizers and 10 entrees at dinner, for example) that you can dine here multiple times without repeating a dish or running out of interesting dishes to try.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Breakaway, Encore, Epic, Escape, Getaway, Joy, Prima and Viva

The Local Bar & Grill

The Local Bar & Grill is a favored hangout for sports telecasts and trivia contests, as well as a go-to for guests when anytime-hunger strikes. Like its comfort food sibling O'Sheehans's Bar & Grill, its 24-hour menu features breakfast, all-day and late-night items that include omelets, cheeseburgers, chicken wings, fish and chips and loaded nachos.

Available on : Norwegian Bliss, Encore, Joy, Prima, Sky, Spirit and Viva

The Raw Bar

Located adjacent to Ocean Blue, this casual option with counter seating serves oysters, clams, shellfish and crudos (salmon tartare, black sea bass ceviche and more), as well as wines by the glass and a selection of desserts.

Available on : Norwegian Breakaway and Getaway

Topsiders Bar & Grill

Included; casual pool grill with varying hours

Five older NCL ships feature Topsiders Bar & Grill, a poolside venue serving burgers, hot dogs, french fries and other takeaway items.

Available on : Norwegian Gem, Jewel, Pearl, Sky and Star

Wasabi (or Sushi)

This contemporary sushi bar — called either Wasabi or Sushi, depending on the ship — is the spot for cocktails, sake and Japanese specialties that include sesame seaweed salad, sushi and specialty rolls, nigiri, sashimi and yakitori. On Prima Class ships, you'll find Nama Sushi & Sashimi with a different menu.

Available on : Norwegian Breakaway, Dawn, Epic, Gem, Getaway, Jade, Jewel, Pearl, Spirit, Star and Sun

FAQs about NCL dining

Is norwegian cruise line's food free.

You can dine for free during your cruise at any of the complimentary dining venues on board NCL ships. There are typically four to six included dining venues per ship, several of which serve breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Is there a main dining room?

Yes, all NCL ships feature a main dining room — some have as many as three — and Freestyle Dining means you can choose when to dine (within the specified breakfast, lunch and dinner hours).

Do I need to make reservations?

You do not need to make reservations for the main dining rooms or casual venues like O'Sheehan's or the buffet. However, you can make reservations for the main dining rooms if you'd prefer to eat at a specific time and wish to avoid long wait times during the most popular dinner hours.

Sit-down specialty restaurants always require a reservation. The sooner you can make one, the better. You can book specialty dining online via the cruise line's website or app or by calling Norwegian reservations. You can also reserve when you get on board, but you risk that the more popular eateries will already be fully booked, especially during the peak summer and holiday periods. Walk-ins are permitted if space is available, but you'll likely need to show up early or late to snag a table.

Does Norwegian offer room service?

Yes, NCL offers 24-hour room service, but you will be charged a convenience fee of up to $9.95 per delivery, with the exception of morning coffee, continental breakfast and orders placed by guests staying in The Haven. A 20% gratuity and beverage service charge will also be added for noncomplimentary beverages and special occasion items delivered to your room.

How much does specialty dining cost?

It varies by restaurant. At venues with a la carte pricing, such as Cagney's, Ocean Blue, Onda by Scarpetta and Le Bistro, it's easy to rack up a bill of $80 per person, not including beverages. NCL's sushi restaurants are also a la carte, as is Food Republic. Two people with an average appetite can dine at both for around $50 to $60 per person, not including beverages. Other venues, such as Teppanyaki and Moderno Churrascaria, feature a set cover charge of $59 per person.

Does NCL offer specialty dining packages?

Yes and if you like a variety of cuisines and plan to dine at two or more extra-charge restaurants, purchasing a specialty dining package makes sense.

These range in price from $99 per person for a two-meal package to $469 per person for a 14-meal package. The price per meal gets lower the more meals you purchase — from $49.50 per dinner on a two-meal package to $33.50 per dinner for 14 meals. Even the four-meal package at $169 per person is a good deal at $42.25 per dinner, given the a la carte pricing greatly exceeds that (for three courses) at most specialty restaurants and eateries with cover charges are priced at $59 per person.

Also, a select number of specialty dining meals are typically included with NCL's Free at Sea booking promotion .

What about service charges?

A 20% gratuity and specialty service charge will automatically be added to the cost of your specialty dining package when you purchase it or to your onboard dining charge if you pay a la carte or a flat cover charge.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
15 ways cruisers waste money
The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

A couple eating ice cream on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship

IMAGES

The Haven on the Norwegian Escape Cruise Ship
Norwegian Prima
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Cruise Line The Haven Review -- Worth the Money?
The Haven by Norwegian Cruise Line NCL
Norwegian Viva Cruise Ship

VIDEO

Norwegian Getaway Haven Area
Is Norwegian Viva's most luxurious experience worth it?
The Haven Suite Room Tour
Norwegian Getaway 14730 cabin tour
The Haven on the Norwegian Escape Cruise Ship
Episode 16: Gastronomic experiences in HAVEN Norwegian Joy

COMMENTS

The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line
The Haven is the all-suite section of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, accessible by keycard-holders only. The Haven allows passengers to enjoy everything from a private bar and lounge to a custom ...
Norwegian Cruise Line Haven Is It Worth The Price
Technically, The Haven is a very particular area — accessible by a special keycard — which on most ships contains a lounge area, bar, private pool and sundeck, restaurant, and concierge desk.
Is The Haven on Norwegian Worth It?
You can plan on spending around $500 - $1,000 per person, per day for this luxury experience, depending on ship, sail date and destination. In terms of inclusions, the Haven on Norwegian is worth it because of its ship-within-a-ship concept. This is an especially attractive option for those traveling with multi-generational families.
Guide and tips to Norwegian Cruise Line's The Haven
The Haven offers unparalleled accommodations aboard Norwegian Cruise Line vessels, and offers guests private access to exclusive spaces such as The Haven Lounge and The Haven Restaurant (Or, if on a Jewel-class ship, a dedicated speciality restaurant that is used for exclusive breakfast and lunch offerings). Guests staying in this exclusive and ...
Is Haven worth the money?
Considering booking a Haven suite to Alaska in summer 2022. Have done 14 cruises in the Neptune suites on Holland America, but friends are trying to convince us to do NCL. The cost is pretty much the same as the Neptune, but we haven't had a butler. Will former Haven passengers please weigh in? T...
What is The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line? Full Guide to Perks, Venues
The Haven by Norwegian Cruise Line represents the pinnacle of luxury cruising, offering a private and pampered experience. With its array of exclusive amenities, dining options, and private areas like the Courtyard, Sundeck, and Lounge, The Haven is an ideal choice for those seeking a refined and secluded escape at sea. Whether you're cruising ...
The Haven on Norwegian Encore: Simply Heavenly
Haven Courtyard on Norwegian Encore. 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).
Norwegian Cruise Line The Haven Review -- Worth the Money?
In this video, I discuss all the features and benefits that come with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)'s "The Haven" experience. I then try to answer the seemingl...
The Haven
1.866.234.7350. Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian, home to our most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations. Not only will you have access to all the ship has to offer, you'll enjoy the personal service of a concierge and 24-hour butler throughout your entire stay.
Why You Should Consider Cruising in The Haven
January 30, 2023. By: Jennifer Wu. Why You Should Consider Cruising in The Haven. Share: While there's plenty to love on a Norwegian cruise, there's one place on board that will turn your vacation from great to perfection. Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian, home to our most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious ...
NCL Haven The Luxury Suite Enclave On Norwegian Cruise Line
If you take the price of a Club Balcony Suite, then you will be anything from around 2-3 times per person more for access to The Haven. For example, for a 7 day Caribbean sailing in 2025 on Norwegian Prima I can see Club Balcony Suites starting from $2149 per person (before gratuities, taxes and fees).
The Haven on the Norwegian Joy: Review
For a recent cruise of the western Caribbean, I booked Norwegian Cruise Lines ' The Haven on the Norwegian Joy as a last minute substitute for a cancelled European trip. NCL's upscale "ship within a ship" concept in The Haven aims for a more exclusive cruise experience, with pricing to match. Although I had previously cruised in many ...
The Bliss, The Haven, an Opinion
6.8k. May 9, 2009. #1. Posted December 21, 2021. The Bliss, the Haven, my opinion. Having sailed on the Bliss last week and booked in the Haven, I offer these thoughts. If you haven't tried the Haven experience before, then if you plan to someday to see what it's like, I suggest the Bliss. We found both the Haven facility and the crew ...
A Customer Review: Norwegian's The Haven
A Customer Review: Norwegian's The Haven. "The Haven" is an "Escape" or "Getaway" for guests hidden away at the top of the ship. It is home to the most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations. Not only will you have access to all the ship has to offer, but you will enjoy the personal service of a concierge and 24 ...
Norwegian Encore
The HAVEN aboard the Norwegian Encore provides a one of a kind luxury experience, without sacrificing the fun activities of a large ship. The suites are ama...
The Haven on the Norwegian Escape Cruise Ship
The Haven on the Norwegian Escape cruise ship is a private key-card-access enclave for those guests staying in one of The Haven suites. Located on decks 17 and 18 forward, The Haven features the ship's most luxurious accommodations, along with a dedicated restaurant, courtyard, bar, concierge, sun deck, and 24-hour butler service.
The Haven on Norwegian Cruise Line
I sailed aboard the Norwegian Encore in September 2021 to Alaska. Through Norwegian's Upgrade Advantage program, I was able to win an upgrade bid and stayed...
Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Cruise Line. The Haven is an exclusive area on the Norwegian Getaway for those staying in one of the seven categories of suites labeled S2, S3, S4, S5, S6, S7, and S9. Forty-two of these luxurious suites are on decks 15 and 16. The 16 Haven Spa Suites are adjacent to the Mandara Spa on deck 14, and The 22 Haven aft or forward-facing ...
Norwegian Breakaway
The Haven is an exclusive luxury area on the Norwegian Breakaway cruise ship and is located on decks 15 and 16. It certainly meets the "ship within a ship" concept since The Haven features small luxury ship amenities and service. Guests staying in The Haven have the best of both worlds--they have luxury suites and exclusive dining, lounge, and ...
Norwegian Cruise Reviews (2024 UPDATED): Ratings of Norwegian Cruise Line
Helpful. Disappointing for the most part. Review for a Bermuda Cruise on Norwegian Gem. Sailingaway2024. First Time Cruiser • Age 70s. Read More. Sail Date: April 2024. Helpful. Good cruise, bad ...
NCL Joy Review 8/30/23-9/5/23 with Haven
Norwegian Cruise Line ; NCL Joy Review 8/30/23-9/5/23 with Haven NCL Joy Review 8/30/23-9/5/23 with Haven. By DAK333, September 6 in Norwegian Cruise Line. Share ... Thanks for your review. On Joy's Haven in November. Looking forward to it after being in the Haven 5 times already on Epic, breakaway and getaway. ...
Everything You Need to Know About the Haven on Norwegian Prima
When pricing out cabins on Norwegian Prima in a Haven Penthouse balcony versus a standard balcony cabin, the cost is 2.5 to 3x more. The cost for a 7-day cruise in The Haven Penthouse is on average $4,500 or more per person. Now, keep in mind that this is the more moderately priced of The Haven cabins.
Norwegian Pearl Cruise Ship
Norwegian Pearl Review. 4.0 / 5.0. Editor Rating ... the wild and wacky charters the ship sails with Norwegian Cruise Line Holding's theme ... can book a room in The Haven, an exclusive area with ...
Norwegian Breakaway Cruise Review by LindaM118
Read the Norwegian Breakaway review by Cruiseline.com member LindaM118 from April 14, 2024 of the 7 Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay & Dominican Republic (Miami Roundtrip) cruise. ... Amazing NCL Haven Cruise Norwegian Breakaway Cruise Review to Caribbean - Eastern Share. Tweet. LindaM118 . Contributor Level: Purser ...
Norwegian Cruise Line food: The ultimate cruise guide to ...
If you book a suite in The Haven, the exclusive ship-within-a-ship enclave found on every new NCL ship since it was introduced on Norwegian Epic in 2010, you'll enjoy access to The Haven Restaurant.