norwegian cruise lines ship classes

The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

Some cruise lines — Viking , for instance — have fleets where many of the ships have the same basic design. Norwegian Cruise Line is not one of them.

If you're thinking of booking a Norwegian cruise, an important thing to know is that there is a wide variation in the size and style of the vessels in the line's fleet.

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Four of Norwegian's 19 ships — Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore — are among the 30 biggest ships in the world. As such, they're loaded with huge numbers of cabins, restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top amusements.

They are, in a nutshell, floating megaresorts .

The line also operates smaller vessels that barely crack the top 100 list of biggest cruise ships. These ships generally have fewer venues and attractions than the bigger ships. However, they still offer a lot for cruisers. Norwegian is a line known for packing oodles of restaurants, bars and entertainment on its vessels — even its smaller ones.

The good news for those of you trying to get a handle on all the options within the Norwegian fleet is that the line's 19 ships can be bunched into just eight groups of vessels with similar amenities. If you know one member of the group, you know them all.

Each of these groups — known as "classes" in cruise industry lingo — is made up of ships that were constructed around the same time in the same basic design.

Related: Everything to know about cabins and suites on Norwegian ships

An introduction to Norwegian Cruise Line ships

Smaller only than Royal Caribbean , Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises , Norwegian has become increasingly known for some of the biggest, most amenity-filled vessels at sea. As mentioned above, though, the line doesn't just operate giant ships. More than half its fleet comprises vessels that, by today's standards, are considered almost midsize.

Indeed, Norwegian is essentially two cruise lines in one. The line's nine newest ships are big, bustling floating megaresorts that can carry upward of 3,000 to 4,000 passengers at double occupancy (even more with every berth filled). At around 144,000 to nearly 170,000 tons, all nine currently rank among the 50 biggest cruise ships in the world (although their rankings will shift downward as more big ships debut).

Norwegian's 10 older ships, by contrast, are much more modest in size, measuring around 75,000 to 94,000 tons and carrying closer to 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Norwegian thus appeals both to cruisers who like a giant resort vibe and those who prefer a resort experience that is more modest. The key, depending on your tastes, is getting on the right ship in the fleet for you.

On the big-ship end of the spectrum, Norwegian's four new Breakaway Plus vessels — Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape — are the line's premier offerings.

One step down in size from the Breakaway Plus ships are the still-quite-large Breakaway-class ships — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — and the one-of-a-kind Norwegian Epic.

The smallest of the line's big ships are the recently unveiled Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima. They are the first two of a new series of six vessels that will transform the brand. Measuring about 143,500 tons a piece, these two new ships are about 17% smaller than Norwegian's biggest vessels.

Norwegian's 10 smaller vessels break down into five classes, though many are roughly the same size and offer similar amenities.

Prima class

Ships in class: Norwegian Prima (2022), Norwegian Viva (2023).

Size: 143,535 tons.

The Prima class of ships is the latest and greatest at Norwegian Cruise Line — the vessels that every NCL fan wants to book.

Only two ships in the series (Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima ) are currently in operation. Four more sister vessels are on order for delivery by 2027.

Under development since 2017, these ships mark Norwegian's first new class of vessel in more than a decade. At 143,535 tons, they are notably smaller than the ships the line has been adding in recent years — a factor that will give them access to smaller ports around the world.

That said, Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima and their coming sisters still are relatively big ships that pack a lot of over-the-top amenities. Both Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima have ridiculously big go-kart tracks spread over three decks (a cruise industry first). The ships also boast The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that the line says provides more G-force than an accelerating Formula One race car.

Additionally, the vessels each are home to a three-deck theater that converts into a Las Vegas-style nightclub, along with a list of interactive, real-life game shows, including at-sea versions of "The Price Is Right," "Supermarket Sweep," "Press Your Luck" and "Beat the Clock."

Related: I've been on nearly every Norwegian ship afloat; here are my first impressions of Norwegian Prima

Still, the new Prima class is about more than flashy entertainment and activities. It marks a more upscale turn for the line. Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima offer the largest variety of suite categories (13) for a large ocean ship, the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessel and the brand's largest-ever inside, ocean-view and balcony cabins.

The entire back of each of the ships is dedicated to an upscale, "ship-within-a-ship" private suite area called The Haven that rises eight decks high and includes 107 suites, a sprawling private indoor lounge area, private outdoor lounge and pool areas, and a private restaurant. Other vessels feature The Haven areas, but none as big as this one.

In addition, the public areas of Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima feel more spacious than many of the other 17 ships in the Norwegian fleet. And, indeed, they are. The Prima-class ships are being built with a higher ratio of space to passengers, which itself is an upscale touch.

Norwegian Cruise Line also says the Prima-class vessels offer the most outdoor deck space of any new cruise ship — including more total pool deck space than any other ships in the brand's fleet.

Note that the last four ships in the Prima-class series, due to debut between 2025 and 2027, are being redesigned to be bigger than the first two ships in the series.

Related: 11 venues, 32 dishes, four days: See what happened when I tried to test every dish at Prima's new Indulge Food Hall

Breakaway Plus class

Ships in class: Norwegian Encore (2019), Norwegian Bliss (2018), Norwegian Joy (2017), Norwegian Escape (2015).

Size: 164,600 to 169,145 tons.

These are the Norwegian ships you go on if you're a fan of megaresorts.

While not quite as big as Royal Caribbean's giant Oasis-class ships , Norwegian's Breakaway Plus-class vessels are firmly in the pantheon of the world's cruising giants. They are the Norwegian ships most packed with restaurants, bars, entertainment and over-the-top attractions. There are so many of these things that you won't be able to do it all in a single, weeklong cruise.

The Breakaway Plus ships are so big, in fact, that they have room for giant go-kart tracks and laser tag areas on their top decks (on all of the vessels in the series except Norwegian Escape). There's also plenty of room to spare for multiple pools, waterslides and a kiddie splash zone.

Each of the vessels also offers real Broadway shows in big, state-of-the-art theaters, sprawling spas, casinos that fill half a deck, dedicated children's play zones, and more than 2,000 rooms.

In addition, the two newest ships in this series, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy, have large gaming and virtual reality zones called the Galaxy Pavilion.

For meals, you'll find at least 20 venues on each of these ships, including multiple main dining rooms and a buffet that come with no extra charge and such extra-charge eateries as a teppanyaki restaurant, a steakhouse, a high-end French restaurant and a Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville at Sea.

With lots of family-friendly attractions such as the go-kart tracks and laser tag courses, these ships appeal heavily to families with children, particularly teens, but they draw a lot of couples, too. They are also popular with solo travelers, thanks to their unusually large complexes of cabins for one (something you'll find on the Breakaway and Epic classes of ships, too).

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian's Latitudes Rewards loyalty program

All four of the Breakaway Plus ships have large, private, two-deck-high suite enclaves called The Haven that come with their own pool areas, restaurants and lounges. They're some of the most spectacular suite complexes anywhere at sea .

The biggest of these ships, Norwegian Encore, measures 169,116 tons, making it the 18th-biggest cruise ship in the world as of this story's publishing (it will drop in the rankings over the coming years as additional megaships debut). That's bigger than all but one Carnival ship and every Princess Cruises ship. Only Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises have a significant number of bigger vessels.

Norwegian Encore can hold more than 5,000 passengers with all berths filled.

Breakaway class

Ships in class: Norwegian Getaway (2014), Norwegian Breakaway (2013).

Size: 145,655 tons.

These vessels are similar to the Breakaway Plus-class ships but slightly smaller. Or, put another way, the Breakaway Plus-class ships are a stretched version of the Breakaway-class ships.

You'll find many of the same eateries, bars, lounges and entertainment venues on the Breakaway-class ships that you'll find on the Breakaway Plus-class vessels. The slightly smaller size of these vessels means there's just a tad less "stuff" on board.

The top decks of the Breakaway-class ships have two pool areas and water parks with waterslides, for instance — just like the Breakaway Plus-class ships. However, they don't have go-kart tracks or laser tag courses. Instead of the latter attractions, you'll find an adults-only pool area called Spice H2O at the back of the vessels. At night, it transforms into a dance club.

Related: Every Norwegian Cruise Line ship ranked from biggest to smallest

The Breakaway-class ships also boast full-size ropes courses on their top decks. Indeed, they were the first cruise ships ever to have such a feature. Other deck-top features include miniature golf courses on both vessels and basketball courts that double as volleyball courts.

On the entertainment front, both ships offer Broadway shows in their main theaters and have a circuslike show in a secondary theater called "Cirque Dreams." The latter is a dinner show that comes with an extra charge. They're also home to "Howl at the Moon" dueling piano shows and a version of the Latin-themed dance show "Burn the Floor."

Like the Breakaway Plus vessels, the Breakaway ships have large complexes for solo travelers, as well as large, private The Haven suite complexes.

In general, as with the Breakaway Plus ships, these vessels are best for vacationers who like a megaresort-type experience, and they appeal heavily to families with children who love all their deck-top attractions. Each of the two ships in this series — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — holds about 4,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian ship

Ships in class: Norwegian Epic (2010).

Size: 155,873 tons.

Norwegian Epic is an outlier in the Norwegian fleet. Unveiled in 2010, it was originally supposed to be the first of a series of up to three similar vessels. However, after disagreements with the shipyard that built it, Norwegian eventually canceled an order for a second ship in the series and an option for a third ship in the series, leaving Norwegian Epic in a class of one.

While roughly comparable in size to the Breakaway Plus- and Breakaway-class ships (it's a bit smaller than the former vessels and a bit bigger than the latter vessels), Norwegian Epic has a notably different design that includes some unique features.

Perhaps most notably, balcony cabins on the ship have an unusual design that includes curved walls, rounded bed corners, and a sink and vanity area that is in the main living space (for all to see), separate from a closed-off toilet area. The toilet area is behind a translucent door that some cruisers find less private than they had hoped.

Norwegian Epic is also home to the only tube-and-bowl waterslide at sea and has such rare-for-cruise-ships attractions as a rappelling wall and a three-lane bowling alley. It also features an ice bar where customers wear parkas while sipping drinks.

Still, Norwegian Epic also offers a lot that will be familiar to Norwegian fans, including many of the line's signature restaurants, bars and entertainment.

Standout features on Norwegian Epic include a water park with some of the most over-the-top waterslides at sea (including the aforementioned tube-and-bowl slide). It also offers a version of the Burn the Floor dance show that played on Broadway and on the West End in London, as well as a Howl at the Moon piano bar and a recreation of the Cavern Club nightspot in Liverpool, England, where The Beatles got their start (complete with a The Beatles cover band).

In addition, Norwegian Epic has the line's biggest solo cabin complex (with 128 rooms for one) and a giant The Haven private suite complex.

At 155,873 tons, Norwegian Epic currently ranks as the 34th biggest cruise vessel in the world. Notably, it was the world's third-largest ship when it debuted in 2010. That tells you just how much the cruise industry has grown in recent years.

Norwegian Epic carries 4,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Jewel class

Ships in class: Norwegian Gem (2007), Norwegian Jade (2006), Norwegian Pearl (2006), Norwegian Jewel (2005).

Size: About 93,500 tons.

Are you unsure if you want to sail on a megaship with 4,000 or more people but still want a vessel with a good amount of features and activities? The Jewel-class ships may be the perfect solution.

At 93,500 tons, the four vessels in the series are nearly 50% smaller than the line's Breakaway Plus-class ships but still big enough that they have a lot to offer.

Each of the vessels has more than a dozen food venues, including three main restaurants, a casual buffet, a steakhouse, a French restaurant and a teppanyaki eatery.

You'll also find multiple pools on each of the ships, along with whirlpools, basketball courts and golf driving nets. Each of the ships also has a theater, spa, casino, and multiple bars and lounges.

What you won't find on the ships, because of their smaller size, are all the gee-whiz attractions such as go-kart tracks, laser tag courses and large water-park areas that Norwegian has put on its bigger vessels. If you can't live without those sorts of features on a cruise ship, then the Jewel class probably isn't for you.

Note that Norwegian Gem does have a climbing wall and a single waterslide. Norwegian Pearl has a climbing wall but no waterslide. Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Jade have neither of the attractions.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line ships listed from newest to oldest

Each of the Jewel-class ships holds around 2,400 passengers at double occupancy (plus a few hundred more with every berth filled). That's about 40% fewer passengers than you'll find on the biggest Norwegian ships.

That makes them perfect for cruisers who want to get away from the sort of crowds that are on the biggest megaships without giving up many of the amenities that big ships have to offer.

Pride of America class

Ships in class: Pride of America (2005).

Size: 80,439 tons.

Like Norwegian Epic, Pride of America is an outlier in the Norwegian fleet. In fact, it's perhaps an even bigger outlier than the former vessel.

Sporting a patriotic U.S. theme (you'll find venues named after Thomas Jefferson and John Adams) and a distinct array of lounges and entertainment, it's a ship specifically designed to sail year-round in Hawaii — the only one of its kind at any line.

Pride of America notably flies a U.S. flag and operates with a mostly U.S. crew, in keeping with regulations governing cruise itineraries that only include U.S. ports. That's a big difference from any other big cruise vessel in the world.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

It's also the only Norwegian vessel without a casino, in keeping with local Hawaii regulations.

If you sail on Pride of America, you'll find such one-of-a-kind eateries as the classic American car-themed Cadillac Diner. You'll also find some of Norwegian's signature offerings, including a Cagney's steak house and Italian eatery La Cucina. The ship's other onboard attractions include a showroom, lounges, bars and a top deck with extensive open-air pool and sun lounging areas.

Thanks to its ownership of Pride of America, Norwegian is the undisputed leader in Hawaii cruises. Most cruise lines that offer sailings to Hawaii only offer a limited number of such trips during a few months each year. Norwegian, by contrast, offers sailings around the Hawaiian Islands every week of the year — the only cruise line in the world to do so.

An iconic presence in Hawaii, Pride of America has been permanently dedicated to the archipelago since its debut in 2005. It offers a repeating seven-night itinerary that begins each Saturday in Honolulu and brings the chance to visit four different Hawaiian islands on a single, seven-night trip.

Beginning and ending on the island of Oahu, the itinerary includes two days each on Maui, Kauai and Hawaii. The two-day visit to Maui involves an overnight stay at the port of Kahului. The two-day visit to Kauai involves an overnight stay at the port of Nawiliwili. The two-day visit to Hawaii is split between a call at Hilo and a call at Kona.

Ships in class: Norwegian Dawn (2002), Norwegian Star (2001).

Size: 92,250 and 91,740 tons.

The Dawn-class ships are similar to the Jewel-class ships in size and amenities, with a few differences.

Like the former vessels, the Dawn-class ships have around a dozen food-serving venues, including three main restaurants, a casual buffet, a Brazilian churrascaria (barbecue) restaurant, a French restaurant and a teppanyaki eatery.

You'll also find multiple pools on each of the ships, whirlpools, basketball courts and golf driving nets. Each of the ships also has a theater, spa, casino, and multiple bars and lounges.

Like the Jewel-class ships, the Dawn-class vessels lack the sort of big attractions such as go-kart tracks and large water parks found on bigger Norwegian vessels. In addition, there are no Broadway musicals on Dawn-class ships, and they don't have a private The Haven suite area (though they do have several giant suites called Garden Villas that measure more than 6,000 square feet).

If you can't live without those sorts of features on a cruise ship, then the Dawn class probably isn't for you.

Ships in class: Norwegian Sun (2001), Norwegian Sky (1999).

Size: 78,309 and 77,104 tons.

Dating to 2001 and 1999, respectively, Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky are among the smallest ships at Norwegian. They offer fewer onboard attractions and amenities than is typical for the line's vessels.

In general, they appeal to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise ship than what you'll find on the big Norwegian ships. They also draw cruisers who care more about the destinations that they visit on a cruise than onboard attractions.

On each of the vessels, you'll find more than half a dozen eateries, including several main dining rooms, a casual buffet, a diner-style pub, a steakhouse, an Italian trattoria and a French bistro.

On their top decks, the ships have pools (one on Sun, two on Sky), whirlpools, a basketball court that doubles as a volleyball court, golf driving nets and a jogging track. The ships also have casinos and theaters with nightly shows.

Unlike most bigger Norwegian ships, neither of the vessels has a private The Haven suite complex or solo cabins.

Ships in class: Norwegian Spirit (1998).

Size: 75,904 tons.

Dating to 1998, Norwegian Spirit is Norwegian's smallest and oldest ship, and — like the line's Sun-class ships — it generally appeals to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience than you'll find on the big Norwegian ships.

At 75,904 tons, Norwegian Spirit is less than half the size of Norwegian's biggest ships, and it carries just 1,966 passengers — more than 2,000 fewer than the Norwegian biggies.

It also offers fewer (but still quite a few) venues and attractions. In all, you'll find 13 food outlets on board, including two main restaurants, a casual buffet eatery, and versions of the line's signature Cagney's steakhouse and French eatery Le Bistro. There are more than half a dozen bars and cafes.

Deck-top attractions include several pools, whirlpools, waterslides, a basketball court and a jogging track. The ship also has a casino, spa, nightclub and theater.

Of note, Norwegian Spirit originally was built for Asia-based Star Cruises (where it was called SuperStar Leo).

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9 NCL Cruise Ship Classes

Your guide to ncl ships.

Discover more about Norwegian Cruise Lines 9 different classes of cruise ships.

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Explore All 9 Classes Of Norwegian Cruise Line Ships

Ahoy there, landlubbers! Today, I’m going to take you on a wild voyage through the diverse and exciting fleet of Norwegian Cruise Line. Prepare to be amazed as we explore the wide variation in the size and style of these magnificent vessels.

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An introduction to Norwegian Cruise Line ships

Norwegian Cruise Line operates 19 vessels that can be broken down into nine distinct groups, also known as classes.

Big and small, NCL has it all

Unlike other cruise lines that stick to a specific size or style, Norwegian Cruise Line is the master of versatility. They operate both large megaresorts and smaller vessels, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

For the adventurers seeking a small and intimate experience, the smaller ships in NCL’s fleet are the perfect choice. These nimble vessels allow guests to discover hidden gems and explore ports that larger ships can’t access. It’s like having your own private yacht, but with all the amenities and services of a world-class cruise line.

Categories to categorize

With such a diverse fleet, Norwegian Cruise Line has cleverly categorized their ships into eight groups based on their amenities and features. This makes it easier for cruisers to find the perfect ship that matches their preferences.

Whether you’re looking for non-stop entertainment, luxurious comfort, or family-friendly fun, NCL has a ship for you. From the Bliss and Breakaway Plus class to the Jewel and Spirit class, each category offers a unique experience that will leave you wanting more.

Ahoy, megaresorts!

If you’re a fan of big, bustling floating megaresorts, then Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ships will blow your expectations out of the water. These floating cities are packed with amenities and attractions that will keep you entertained from sunrise to sunset and beyond.

Imagine racing down thrilling waterslides, enjoying Broadway-style shows, feasting on gourmet cuisine, and dancing the night away under a sky full of stars. It’s an experience like no other, and only Norwegian Cruise Line can deliver it in such grandiose fashion.

Oldies but goodies

While the newest ships steal the limelight, let’s not forget about the older ships in NCL’s fleet. These vessels may be more modest in size, but they still offer a lot for cruisers seeking a classic and timeless experience.

These ships have a certain charm that can’t be replicated. From their cozy cabins to their intimate lounges, each corner exudes a nostalgic atmosphere that harkens back to the golden age of cruising. If you’re yearning for a simpler and more laid-back voyage, these older ships are the perfect choice.

So, whether you’re an adventurer craving serenity or a party animal ready to make a splash, Norwegian Cruise Line has the ship of your dreams. Get ready to set sail on a truly unforgettable journey!

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Prima Class: Sailing into Luxury and Fun

Norwegian prima (2022), norwegian viva (2023)..

Norwegian Cruise Line is renowned for its diverse fleet of ships, each offering a unique and unforgettable experience. Among its remarkable collection is the Prima class, which includes the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. These smaller ships are specifically designed to provide guests with upscale amenities and an intimate atmosphere that sets them apart from larger vessels.

Size Doesn’t Matter, Amenity Does!

Now, you might be wondering if the Prima class ships are as grandiose as their larger counterparts. The answer is a resounding “Absolutely!” Although slightly smaller in size, these ships do not disappoint when it comes to over-the-top amenities. Prepare to be pampered and treated like royalty from the moment you step on board.

Imagine waking up in a plush and comfortable suite, stretching your legs and enjoying a cup of freshly brewed coffee on your private balcony. The Prima class ships offer a variety of suite categories, catering to every taste and preference. From spacious and elegant staterooms to luxurious penthouses, each with its own unique charm and features, there’s something for everyone.

Over-the-Top Entertainment Options

Prepare to be dazzled by the over-the-top entertainment options available on the Prima class ships. With a focus on providing exceptional live performances, you can expect to be captivated by Broadway-caliber shows, musical performances, and awe-inspiring aerial displays. Delight in the mesmerizing skills of talented acrobats, dancers, and musicians as they take the stage to deliver unforgettable performances. The entertainment onboard these ships will leave you wanting more and create memories that will last a lifetime.

Designed for Access to Smaller Ports

One of the standout features of the Prima class ships is their ability to access smaller ports around the world. Unlike larger ships that are limited to popular and heavily trafficked destinations, the Prima class ships can navigate pristine waters and dock at picturesque ports that are off the beaten path. This allows guests to explore hidden gems and truly immerse themselves in the local culture and charm of each destination. Whether it’s a remote Mediterranean village or a secluded Caribbean island, the Prima class ships open up a world of possibilities for the intrepid traveller.

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Breakaway Plus class

Norwegian encore (2019), norwegian bliss (2018), norwegian joy (2017), norwegian escape (2015).

Breakaway Plus class ships are the largest vessels in the Norwegian fleet. These magnificent ships are packed with everything you could possibly want for a fun-filled vacation. From exquisite dining options to exciting entertainment choices, there is something for everyone onboard.

Exciting Attractions

One of the standout features of the Breakaway Plus class is that the ships are giant megaresorts on water. With numerous restaurants, bars, and entertainment options, there is never a dull moment on board.

For those seeking thrills, the Breakaway Plus class ships have plenty to offer. From go-kart tracks to laser tag areas, there are endless opportunities for adrenaline-pumping fun. Guests can challenge family and friends to a race on the go-kart track or engage in a friendly battle in the laser tag arena. These unique attractions make cruising on the Breakaway Plus ships an unforgettable experience.

Broadway at Sea

Prepare to be dazzled by world-class entertainment on the high seas. The Breakaway Plus ships offer Broadway-style shows that will leave you in awe. Sit back and enjoy spectacular performances featuring talented singers, dancers, and actors. From classic musicals to contemporary productions, there is something for everyone’s taste. Make sure to book your seats early as these shows are not to be missed!

Breakaway Class

Norwegian getaway (2014), norwegian breakaway (2013).

If you think bigger is always better, then you might be surprised to learn that when it comes to Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships, the Breakaway class actually falls slightly short in size compared to its sibling, the Breakaway Plus class. But don’t let the smaller scale fool you – these ships still pack a punch in terms of features, amenities, and entertainment options.

One of the standout features of the Breakaway class ships is their impressive pool areas. With not just one, but two pool sections, you’ll have plenty of room to swim, sunbathe, and cool off from the summer heat. Plus, with a ropes course and miniature golf available onboard, you can add a touch of adventure and friendly competition to your vacation.

When it comes to entertainment, the Breakaway class ships truly deliver. Prepare to be amazed by Broadway-caliber shows that will have you dancing in your seat and singing along to familiar tunes. If you prefer a more intimate setting, head over to the dueling piano bar where talented musicians compete to showcase their skills and entertain the crowd.

Sailing Solo

Solo travellers will find large complexes designed to cater specifically to their needs on the Breakaway class ships. These solo sailor complexes ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience, with features such as private lounge areas, dedicated dining venues, and spacious accommodations. It’s a perfect opportunity for individuals to meet like-minded guests while still having their own personal space.

Norwegian Epic (2010)

Let’s talk about the Norwegian Epic, shall we? This ship is truly one of a kind in the Norwegian fleet. It stands out with its unique design featuring curved walls and cabin layouts that you won’t find anywhere else.

But what sets the Norwegian Epic apart even more are its over-the-top attractions. I mean, where else can you find a tube-and-bowl waterslide and a rappelling wall on a cruise ship? It’s like they took a regular ship and thought, “You know what would make this epic? A waterslide that sends you spinning in circles and a wall you can climb down like a daredevil!” And honestly, they were absolutely right.

Now, let’s talk about the dining options on the Norwegian Epic. It’s not just your typical buffet or a couple of restaurants. No, this ship goes above and beyond to satisfy your taste buds. With multiple dining options to choose from, you can have something different every night of your cruise. From juicy steaks to fresh seafood and everything in between, the Norwegian Epic has got you covered.

But it’s not just about the food. This ship also knows how to entertain its guests. There are entertainment venues scattered throughout the ship, each offering a unique experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a Broadway-style show, a comedy performance, or some live music, you’ll find it all on the Norwegian Epic. And let me tell you, these performers know how to put on a show. They’ll have you laughing, dancing, and singing along in no time.

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Jewel Class

Norwegian gem (2007), norwegian jade (2006), norwegian pearl (2006), norwegian jewel (2005).

Welcome to the wonderful world of the Jewel class ships! Prepare to be dazzled by a ship that offers the perfect combination of features and activities for a truly unforgettable cruise experience. These ships may be smaller than their megaship counterparts, but don’t let their size fool you – they pack a punch when it comes to amenities and entertainment.

One of the standout features of the Jewel class ships is the wide array of dining options available. From elegant fine dining establishments to casual buffet-style eateries, there is something to satisfy every palate. Whether you’re in the mood for a juicy steak, fresh seafood, or international cuisine, you can find it all on board. And of course, no cruise would be complete without a visit to the ice cream parlor for a sweet treat!

When it comes to relaxation and pampering, the Jewel class ships have you covered. Indulge in a soothing massage or rejuvenating facial at the onboard spa, or take a dip in one of the sparkling pools. For those who like to try their luck, the casinos offer a thrilling gaming experience. And when the sun goes down, the bars and lounges are the perfect spots to unwind with a refreshing cocktail and enjoy live entertainment.

What sets the Jewel class ships apart is their ability to offer all of these amenities and activities in a more intimate setting. With fewer passengers on board, you can enjoy a smaller crowd and a more personal experience. Whether you’re lounging by the pool or catching a show in the theater, you won’t feel overwhelmed by a sea of people.

Accommodation options on the Jewel class ships are as varied as the activities. From cozy interior cabins to spacious suites with ocean views, there is something to suit every budget and preference. For those seeking the ultimate luxury experience, the private suite complexes offer an exclusive and opulent retreat.

Pride of America Class

Pride of america (2005).

The Pride of America is truly a one-of-a-kind ship in the Norwegian fleet. While it may be smaller in size compared to its counterparts, it certainly doesn’t lack in amenities or excitement. In fact, it manages to pack a punch and offer a fantastic range of experiences for all cruisers to enjoy.

This class of ship is ideal for those who prefer a more intimate cruise experience. With fewer passengers on board, guests can enjoy a quieter and more personalized vacation. The smaller size also allows the ship to access unique ports of call that larger ships cannot reach.

However, it’s important to note that the Pride of America class does not have the same level of amenities as the larger classes. While it still provides a comfortable and enjoyable experience, passengers may not find all the bells and whistles that are available on the bigger ships.

Despite this, the Pride of America class is a popular choice for many cruisers. Its unique itinerary, intimate atmosphere, and variety of onboard offerings make it a standout option. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveller, the Pride of America class provides a memorable and enjoyable holiday experience.

Norwegian Dawn (2002), Norwegian Star (2001)

The Dawn-class ships are just as fabulous as the Jewel-class ships when it comes to amenities and size, with a few distinctions. Similar to the previous ships, the Dawn-class vessels offer over a dozen dining options, with three main restaurants, a casual buffet, a Brazilian churrascaria, a French restaurant, and a teppanyaki eatery. Furthermore, each ship features multiple pools, whirlpools, basketball courts, and golf driving nets. You can also enjoy a theater, spa, casino, and various bars and lounges on board. Like the Jewel-class ships, the Dawn-class ships may not have big attractions like go-kart tracks and massive water parks that can be found on larger Norwegian vessels. Additionally, you won’t find Broadway musicals or a private Haven suite area on these ships.

Norwegian Sun (2001), Norwegian Sky (1999)

Discover the charm of the Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky, two of the smaller ships in the Norwegian fleet. While they may not have as many bells and whistles as the larger ships, they provide a more intimate and personalized cruise experience for travellers who value destination over onboard attractions. Indulge in a variety of dining options, with over six restaurants to choose from including main dining rooms, casual buffets, and specialty eateries. On top of that, both ships offer pools, whirlpools, sports courts, and even a jogging track for those looking to stay active while at sea. And of course, don’t miss out on the nightly entertainment and excitement at the onboard casinos and theatres. Keep in mind that unlike the bigger ships, the Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky do not feature private suite complexes or solo cabins. But if you’re looking for a more cozy and down-to-earth cruising experience, these ships are the perfect choice for you.

Norwegian Spirit (1998)

Get ready to experience the charm of Norwegian Spirit, the smallest and oldest ship in the Norwegian fleet. If you’re looking for a more cozy and personal cruising experience, this is the ship for you. With a weight of 75,904 tons and room for just 1,966 passengers, Norwegian Spirit offers a more intimate setting compared to the larger Norwegian ships. While it may have fewer options than the bigger ships, there are still plenty of choices for dining with 13 food outlets, including main restaurants, a buffet eatery, and specialty restaurants like Cagney’s steakhouse and Le Bistro. Don’t worry, there’s no shortage of entertainment and activities on board. From pools and waterslides to a casino and nightclub, Norwegian Spirit has everything you need for a fun and memorable vacation. So get ready to set sail and make unforgettable memories on Norwegian Spirit.

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Norwegian Cruise Ships by Size, Age and Class (Updated 2022)

Norwegian Cruise Line has an active fleet of seventeen ships with a further two ships due in 2022-23 ( Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva ) plus, a further four more ships due between 2024-27.

The fleet is primarily based in the United States and sails frequently from the ports of Miami and Port Canaveral. However, they do also sail from New York.

Additional sailings take place throughout Europe, including Southampton.

In this guide, we will cover all the different ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet and how they compare to each other.

Introduction to Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line or NCL as it is more commonly known amongst cruisers started off back in 1966. However, it didn’t actually cruise from Norway originally!

It was founded by two men, Knut Kloster and perhaps more famously known now, Ted Arison (of Carnival Cruise Line ).

Their first vessel Sunward , a modified car ferry which also provided passenger services operated between the ports of Southampton and Gibraltar. It wasn’t long after that that Ted Arison left to found Carnival Cruise Line and Knut Kloster grew Norwegian Cruise Line to what it is today.

It wasn’t until 1971 that Norwegian Cruise Line had its first custom-built cruise ship, Starward delivered into service. Like the original Sunward the two ships also had car-carrying capacity, albeit via a well-concealed stern (rear) door system.

Fast forward to 2000 and NCL was sold to Star Cruises (a subsidiary of Genting Hong Kong) – this lasted until 2007 when Star Cruises sold 50% to an investment management company ( Apollo Management ) and then in 2013 the company reorganized again to become Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings.

Since 2013, the company has acquired two further cruise brands ( Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises ) and continues to grow the NCL fleet with several new builds announced for the current decade.

Norwegian Cruise Line Frequently Asked Questions

Is norwegian cruise line going to survive.

Whilst NCL has been one of the slowest to return to service (with Norwegian Getaway still not due back in service until November 2022) the cruise line has taken on additional debt to manage the day-to-day operations of the company and therefore it is more than likely to stay around!

What is the largest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

Norwegian Encore is currently the largest NCL ship at 169,116 GRT and able to carry 3,998 passengers.

What is the smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The smallest NCL ship is Norwegian Spirit at 75,904 GRT and able to carry 2,018 passengers – half of the largest ships in the fleet.

Which Norwegian Cruise Line ship is the newest?

Norwegian Prima will be the newest ship to join the fleet in August 2022.

Which Norwegian Cruise Line ship is the oldest?

Norwegian Spirit is the oldest ship in the fleet. Which entered service in 1998 and was last refurbished in 2020.

Is Norwegian Cruise Line owned by Royal Caribbean?

No. It is owned by Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings. They also own luxury brands Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships by Size (from largest to smallest)

What does ‘tonnage (grt)’ mean.

GRT (Gross Registered Tonnage) is a term used to calculate the volume inside a ship. It is a measure of cubic capacity and is calculated by the total volume from inside the hull and decks of the ship. 1 GRT = 100 cubic feet of space. In essence, the bigger the GRT – the more ‘space’ the ship has for passengers, cargo, etc.

How are ‘Passengers (Max)’ calculated?

You’ll see multiple numbers for passengers on ships – this is because many ships include extra beds in cabins (such as the sofa/couch can convert to a pull-out bed) – but the majority of cabins usually have 2 people in them. the ‘Max’ number is if every cabin used their additional pull-out bed, etc. This number is unlikely to be reached very frequently.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships by Age (from newest to oldest)

Are all norwegian cruise ships new builds.

Actually, NCL has possibly one of the most complicated fleets as a good majority of their ships are fairly old (compared to some of the other cruise lines).

Norwegian Sky for example was originally constructed as Costa Olympia , but was actually sold during construction to NCL and sailed as Pride of Aloha from 2004-2008.

Both Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn were both originally ordered for Star Cruises ( Superstar Libra and Superstar Scorpio respectively) but ended up being transferred to NCL before they launched.

Norwegian Spirit was built as SuperStar Leo for Star Cruises and sailed with them from 1998 until 2004 when she transferred to NCL and was renamed.

Norwegian Jade was previously named Pride of Hawaii for NCL America. She entered service in 2006 and was transferred to NCL, renamed and has been sailing for them since 2008.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships by Class (from newest to oldest)

Final thoughts.

Norwegian Cruise Line is a large cruise line in the industry, but has been overtaken by many others ( Carnival Cruise Line , Royal Caribbean to name just two) – however, NCL has been groundbreaking when it comes to bringing new ideas to the cruise industry.

They were the first to offer a more casual-relaxed dining approach, with any-time dining instead of the traditional two-set timed dining system that other lines previously (and still) use.

Thanks to the SS Norway (which NCL acquired in 1979 – then named France ), Norwegian rebuilt the liner as a cruise ship and added vast amounts of extra space for entertaining cruise passengers – something that set the boom in large cruise ships in the industry going.

These days, Norwegian is a very popular cruise line that still brings out a number of ‘firsts’ over other lines (such as Go-Karting at sea), and whilst their fleet is on the slightly older side, they will have some much newer and larger vessels being delivered over the next few years.

Enjoy this guide? Read our other comparison guides on Carnival Cruise Line , Holland America Line and MSC Cruises .

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Norwegian Cruise Line Fleet

Norwegian cruise line ship fleet information. Cruisedeckplans.com shows the different classes of ships in the Norwegian fleet. On this page you can also compare features and dining options for each Norwegian ship. You will find daily service charge information, number of cabins, and gross tons for each ship. You can CLICK ON any ship to go to the ship page for that ship. Check out our unique stateroom capacity trend chart showing the changes in the size of the Norwegian cruise line ship fleet over the past few years. Check out our Master Ship List . You can filter and sort by cruise line or ship.

CLICK on a ship below to go to the ship decks and cabins page. Norwegian Cruise Line has 20 ships in the fleet. You can filter the Norwegian fleet by ship class using the box below. Typically Norwegian Cruise Line will build or buy several ships sharing similar features. They define the different types of ships as classes. Ships of the same class may be almost identical to each other.

Norwegian Aqua

CLASS: Prima Plus Tons 156k Built 2025 Cabins 1760

Norwegian Bliss

CLASS: Breakaway-Plus Tons 168k Built 2018 Cabins 2043

Norwegian Breakaway

CLASS: Breakaway Tons 147k Built 2013 Cabins 2008

Norwegian Dawn

CLASS: Dawn Tons 92k Built 2002 Cabins 1170

Norwegian Encore

CLASS: Breakaway-Plus Tons 168k Built 2019 Cabins 2043

Norwegian Epic

CLASS: Epic Tons 156k Built 2010 Cabins 2114

Norwegian Escape

CLASS: Breakaway-Plus Tons 165k Built 2015 Cabins 2174

Norwegian Gem

CLASS: Jewel Tons 94k Built 2007 Cabins 1197

Norwegian Getaway

CLASS: Breakaway Tons 146k Built 2014 Cabins 2008

Norwegian Jade

CLASS: Jewel Tons 94k Built 2006 Cabins 1201

Norwegian Jewel

CLASS: Jewel Tons 94k Built 2005 Cabins 1196

Norwegian Joy

CLASS: Breakaway-Plus Tons 165k Built 2017 Cabins 1926

Norwegian Pearl

CLASS: Jewel Tons 94k Built 2006 Cabins 1197

Norwegian Prima

CLASS: Prima Tons 143k Built 2022 Cabins 1646

Norwegian Sky

CLASS: Sun Tons 77k Built 1999 Cabins 1002

Norwegian Spirit

CLASS: Leo Tons 75k Built 1998 Cabins 1022

Norwegian Star

CLASS: Dawn Tons 92k Built 2001 Cabins 1172

Norwegian Sun

CLASS: Sun Tons 78k Built 2000 Cabins 968

Norwegian Viva

CLASS: Prima Tons 143k Built 2023 Cabins 1646

Pride of America

CLASS: America Tons 81k Built 2005 Cabins 1094

About Norwegian Cruise Line

Freestyle Cruising is all about flexibility and freedom. Freedom from stress. Freedom from schedules. Freedom to create your own vacation. On an NCL cruise, you can eat where you want, when you want, with whom you want. And with up to 13 different restaurants and dining rooms on board, you can certainly eat whatever you want. You can also dress the way you want and, at the end of your cruise, get off the ship whenever and however work best for you.

SELLING POINTS: Norwegian Cruise Line is a leader in offering a different cruise experience. Each ship is loaded with many dining options (some at additional cost) that give the cruiser a choice. You won't get bored on a Norwegian ship. The day and night is filled with activities. You will find bowling, rock climbing, water slides, rope courses, pools on many of the ships. You will find live music venues throughout the ship. Norwegian Cruise Line also offers one of the best Suite programs at sea. For those who can afford it, you will find Suite only pools, dining, and lounge areas. If you like crowds, lots of activities, shows, games, and dining then Norwegian Cruise Line is a great choice.

Stateroom Capacity Trend Chart

Watch growth and decline rates. Rapid growth may lead to quality and service issues.

The following is a listing of some of the features that Norwegian Cruise Line offers.

CRUISEDECKPLANS.COM Use the input buttons above to go to the main page for a Cruise Ship or Cruise Line.

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What We Love About Norwegian Cruise Line Prima Class Ships

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima Class of cruise ships launched in 2022 with the debut of Norwegian Prima .

Distinguished by a more intimate size with all the signature dining, entertainment and top-deck attractions, Norwegian Viva joined its nearly identical sister in August 2023. Here’s why Prima Class is one of our favorite classes of ships, across the board.

With four more Prima Class ships expected by 2027, cruise fans might be wondering what it is about this class of ships that set them apart from the rest of the Norwegian fleet. Here’s what impressed me the most.

Norwegian Prima Class Favorites

Indulge food hall.

Why pick one type of cuisine when you can sample a half-dozen in one sitting? And why shell out for all of these tasty plates when you can order them for free?

Cruisers who are indecisive or adventurous eaters will especially love the Indulge Food Hall, new to Norwegian’s Prima Class. Indulge Food Hall offers the atmosphere of a food truck court with the convenience of indoor/outdoor seating and streamlined tablet ordering.

Though you can place your order from a table or booth, we highly recommend that you wander the entire food hall first to get a feel for the various offerings. 

Take a look at the menus. You’ll find dishes from venues including Nudls (various noodle dishes), Tamara (Indian cuisine), Seaside Rotisserie (grill), the Latin Quarter (Mexican), and The Garden (soups and salads) just to name a few.

Of course, we can’t forget about the sweets, with Just Desserts, offering grab-and-go cakes, pies and more by the slice.

There is a Starbucks station inside Indulge on Norwegian Prima. Indulge on Viva removed Starbucks to add more seating. Indulge is an extremely popular and complimentary dining venue, especially at lunch. The extra capacity is a welcome addition and a sign that Indulge is a new passenger favorite. 

The Stadium

Norwegian’s Prima Class has taken the idea of a traditional sports court and modernized it for contemporary cruising kids and families. Up on Deck 18, many of the ships’ thrills are concentrated, including the expanded, three-deck Norwegian Speedway racetrack.

But free to all are a number of games like pickleball and a kooky, ball-kicking competition called subsoccer. A shiny, chrome tabletop shuffleboard area is an upgrade to the sleepy idea of seniors pushing around pucks at sea.

While the buzzing racetrack and jangling mini golf court are located nearby, we appreciate that Norwegian has made an effort to upgrade this space. It is approachable for all ages and also free of any extra fees. Plus, there’s an alcohol-free version of beer pong.

Unique Convertible Theater on Prima Class Ships

One of the biggest changes to roll out with the Prima Class is the concept of a convertible main theater. If you’re attending the welcome show on the first night, this might not be immediately apparent to you. 

The Prima or Viva Theater seats a full crowd or partially fold down for additional floor space. The entire theater seats can “disappear” for standing room-only concerts.

This shift from a standard, proscenium theater is very intentional. It allows the entertainment staff greater flexibility to develop shows that might use part of the floor.

For example, Syd Norman’s nightclub is a popular place for late-night entertainment from the in-house cover band. Occasionally this show can be expanded to a wider audience inside of the main theater.

Currently, the headlining show onboard Norwegian Prima is “The Donna Summer Musical,” while on Norwegian Viva it’s “Beetlejuice.”

However, while a closing date hasn’t been announced for either Broadway production, Norwegian Cruise Line entertainment has admitted it is moving in the direction of in-house and original productions going forward.

We were also told that the physical abilities of the theater to transform, along with its impressive lighting and projection effects, will play a major role in future entertainment offerings across the Prima Class ships and beyond.

Ocean Boulevard

The idea of outdoor dining and a continuous promenade connecting these bars and restaurants isn’t new for Norwegian. The Waterfront debuted with the Breakaway Class in 2013 and quickly became a well-liked — and fitting— concept for the cruise line.

Who wouldn’t want to drink or dine on a cruise ship with alfresco views of the sunset? The concept continued throughout the Breakaway and Breakaway Plus Class.

Beginning with the Prima Class, this idea of an outdoor promenade has expanded even further.

There’s more space in general (44,000 square feet of it to be exact) with more seating and even an outdoor art and sculpture garden called The Concourse.

A stroll along Ocean Boulevard, located on Deck 8 onboard Prima and Viva , has surprises in store. These include a glass-bottomed walkway called Oceanwalk or the elegant La Terrazza open-air lounge overlooking the ocean.

Expanded Mandara Spa

If you’re a spa lover, you’ll be impressed by Norwegian’s stylish expansion of its Mandara Spa, now two stories on Prima Class ships.

Even for those who are just a bit curious about a relaxing day at sea will likely be impressed by the sexy design of the thermal suite. Enter the suite by a grand spiral staircase with two pools beneath a multilevel waterfall.

Surrounding the space are a variety of saunas and steam rooms, from a salt room and ice room to a charcoal sauna.

There was no jetted therapy pool and both pools were lukewarm.

Norwegian has moved its relaxation room and fitness center to the bow of the ship for the first time. This affords gorgeous views over the bow while using the exercise equipment or resting before or after a treatment.

Mini golf is a cruise ship staple. While it’s also known for being a free pastime accessible to all passengers, we can forgive a slight upcharge for Norwegian’s new, interactive take on traditional top-deck mini golf.

Located near The Stadium and across from the new Bull’s Eye private dart suites, Tee Time is available by reservation or with a walk-in group for about $15 per person.

The nine holes dazzle with individual themes, lighted signs and interactive screens posing trivia questions at each hole. An automated scoring system keeps track of your group’s par. A digital roulette wheel can add points at random.

Between wacky obstacles and a hole with a photo booth, the course is worth playing at least once as a family or group. Packages are available to bundle top-deck attractions if you suspect you’ll be getting a request for “again!”

A swanky addition to the Norwegian Cruise Line dining scene is Mediterranean seafood restaurant Palomar. Along a full wall of windows, this specialty restaurant presents sophisticated Greek and Italian flavors in an understated atmosphere lit by natural light or candlelight.

Dishes worth noting include a fresh seafood salad, Dover sole, grilled lobster. There is also a variety of simply prepared but elegant sides. These include grilled asparagus, baked bean stew in tomatoes or honey-roasted carrots with cumin and ricotta.

Do not miss the incredible galaktoboureko, a Greek dessert incorporating an orange custard and Greek yogurt sorbet on the side.

Guests can pay for Palomar either à la carte or with a specialty dining package credit. You may also request an outdoor table. Unfortunately, the al fresco dining is located at a noisy area by the pool. 

Drop and Rush Dry Slides

Spiraling from the sides of each Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva are The Drop and The Rush, each a different take on a 10-story dry slide.

The Drop is a free-fall slide with a removable platform that, when moved, you drop! The Rush is actually a set of dueling slides, so you can see who makes it to the other end faster.

The free-to-use dry slides speed you from Deck 18 to Deck 8. No water means you won’t freeze if the weather is iffy.

You are likely to be regaled with the screams of children — and adults — making their way down the slide if you are camped out near the sun loungers or at the outdoor seating of The Local Grill on Deck 8, 

Prima Class Has Expanded the Haven Complex

Norwegian’s ship-within-a-ship suite complex made waves when it launched in 2013. The cruise line has been innovating on the Haven ever since.

On Norwegian Prima Class ships, the keycard-accessible Haven is now larger than ever. Located at the aft of the ship, the views from the wake are superb. 

All Haven suites come with butler and concierge service, complimentary room service and priority reservations. There is also access to the Haven’s exclusive bar, restaurant and lounge.

Perhaps the most stunning component of the Haven is the Haven Courtyard, a two-level sun deck with cabanas, padded loungers, hot tubs and infinity pool over the back of the ship. What’s more, guests can enjoy a Finnish-style sauna and cold room right from the sun deck without leaving (or paying) to go to the spa.

Prima Class is designed for guests seeking Norwegian’s signature attractions with a slightly more intimate and upscale feel.

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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:

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• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
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• 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.

The best new cruises in the world: 2024 Hot List

By CNT Editors

It’s inevitable: every spring when we pull together the Hot List, our annual collection of the world’s best new hotels, restaurants, and cruise ships, a staffer remarks that this latest iteration has got to be the best one ever. After a year’s worth of travelling the globe – to stay the night at a converted farmhouse in the middle of an olive grove outside Marrakech or sail aboard a beloved cruise line’s inaugural Antarctic voyage – it’s easy to see why we get attached. But this year’s Hot List, our 28th edition, might really be the best one ever. It’s certainly our most diverse, featuring not only a hotel suite that was once Winston Churchill’s office, but also the world’s largest cruise ship and restaurants from Cape Town to Bali . We were surprised and inspired by this year’s honorees, and we know you will be too. These are the Hot List cruise winners for 2024.

Celebrity Ascent, Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is a premium big-ship cruise brand, focusing on exquisite dining, cutting-edge amenities, Instagram-worthy public spaces chock-full of bespoke art pieces, and avant-garde onboard entertainment. The ship makes passengers feel, in a word, glamorous. Celebrity Ascent’s sumptuously designed interiors are flooded with natural light and evoke an air of playful sophistication that makes a week on board an escape worth cherishing. Passengers may find themselves longing to return for just one more succulent crab claw at Raw on 5, one more martini poured by bottle-spinning bartenders in the Martini Bar, or one more dazzling, acrobatic stage show, in the days following their farewells to this beautiful ship. From around £574 per person for a seven-night sailing. Scott Laird

Emerald Sakara, Emerald Cruises

Now with two oceangoing vessels joining Emerald’s more established fleet of nine river-dedicated “Star-Ships,” the decade-old cruise line is extending a brand built on unpretentious luxury to more corners of the world. Christened last August , the 100-guest superyacht, Sakara, is a near twin to Azzurra, which in 2022 ushered in a new era for Emerald by taking to the high seas. Sakara, like its sister, delightfully blurs the line between the luxury and ultra-luxury cruise categories, offering attentive service, gourmet cuisine, tasteful decor, and an eclectic slate of activities at a price point friendly to more budgets. The cherry on top with both superyachts is a slew of perks atypical of small-ship sailing, ranging from an impressively comprehensive spa to a marina platform well equipped for more fun in the sun. Despite having so much good stuff, each vessel is remarkably spacious. Getting a sense of being on a private yacht is easy like Sunday morning. Sakara is homeported in the Caribbean and the Mediterranean through at least March 2026; Azzurra, too, in addition to the Middle East, Kenya, and the Seychelles . Emerald’s river operations are based in Europe and Southeast Asia. (Note that a third ship, the Kaia, has just been announced by the cruise line; it debuts in April 2026, and, for all the early birds, it is now open for bookings.) From around £3,112. David Dickstein

Explora I, Explora Journeys

With a showpiece lobby bar, upscale restaurants, and a sultry infinity pool, Explora Journeys' relaxed luxury-resort-at-sea vibe strikes the perfect balance on Explora I. Launched in August 2023, the all-inclusive ship is disarmingly beautiful. A sleek navy blue exterior cocoons 461 suites, all with deep balconies, walk-in closets, and marble bathrooms. There is free-flowing Champagne, 7,500 square feet of wellness space, and 18 drinking and dining venues. From Emporium Marketplace, with its decadent raw bar, to pan-Asian restaurant Sakura, the dining on Explora I is sensational. Marble & Co. Grill is an intimate steakhouse where ageing meats hang in temperature-controlled cabinets. At Anthology, the ship's only supplementary restaurant, guest chefs – such as Claude Le Tohic of San Francisco's O' by Claude Le Tohic – curate sublime tasting menus. There's more: The only Rolex boutique at sea, huge hot tubs, and a shore program that sees some land experiences developed in partnership with revered explorer Mike Horn. From around £564 per person per night. Kerry Spencer

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean International

Aboard the Icon, you can really get lost. The behemoth is just plain big, with a capacity for nearly 8,000 when combining passengers and crew across 20 decks and 250,800 gross tons. Two and a half laps around the ship’s jogging track, a particular highlight onboard, and you’ve run a mile. So one can find themselves in need of a map – forgetting your sunscreen , for example, in your cabin is a bit of a chore depending on how far you’ve made it. But the abundance of things to do is also narcotic, and you feel a bit like a lotus-eater attempting to navigate it all while keeping your head. Amid the relentless entertainment, not to be missed are the top-notch performers present everywhere, from the Olympic-level aquatics show that you can watch from the windows of the speciality seafood restaurant should seating be elusive (it often is) to the cafeteria, where crewmembers dressed as food items sing songs reminding (commanding, actually, which is fabulous) passengers to wash their hands at sinks near the entrance. If you wish to enjoy the largest waterpark at sea, by the way, do what I did not and pack a swimsuit without zippers. From around £1,818 . Charlie Hobbs

Sarah James

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli

MSC Euribia, MSC Cruises

Looking at a row of cruise ships in port, you'll spot MSC Euribia right away. She's covered bow to stern by an ocean-themed mural by German artist Alex Flämig that bears the hashtag #SaveTheSeas nodding to the MSC's dedication to sustainable cruising: the Italian cruise line aims to be net-zero by 2050. MSC Euribia brings it one step closer to that goal, as it's the fleet's greenest ship yet, operating on liquified natural gas (LNG) and running advanced water and waste treatment systems onboard. But enough with the technical details – this mega-ship is packed with activities and entertainment, with 10 restaurants, 21 bars, five pools, two performance venues, and a bevvy of family-friendly amenities, like an F1 simulator, a waterpark, and a bowling alley. More adult-oriented highlights include the MSC Aurea Spa, with a thermal suite outfitted with thalassotherapy pools, a salt cave, and a snow room, as well as the Helios Wine Maker bar for wine tastings. Itineraries from around £420. Stefanie Waldek

Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Cruise Line

The second entry in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new Prima Class, Viva is like an Irish twin of older sister Prima. There’s the same stateroom count at 1,586, done in pristine and pleasing neutrals, as well as familiarly tricked-out amenities like the zippy 1,400-foot go-kart racing track that undulates over-the-top decks. Importantly, the Ocean Walk, which my colleague Mercedes Bleth adored aboard the Prima, remains. But round two afforded the premier name in large-ship cruising a chance to tweak and perfect, with an influx of seating options both in the ship’s complimentary dining hall as well as on its myriad decks. Across from the signature “zero-waste” Metropolitan Bar, where yummy drinks are whipped up from the ship’s food waste (I particularly enjoy a buttery Croissant Mai-Tai, for which hardening pastries are boiled down into sweetening syrup; the same is done with banana peels) is an interactive piece of digital art 52 feet wide that sees butterflies flit beside passersby. Breezy class all around. From around £791. Charlie Hobbs

Oceania Vista, Oceania Cruises

Vista, Oceania’s first new ship in more than a decade and the first of its Allura Class, debuted with small but mighty upgrades to its previous ships: better stabilisers for a smoother sailing experience; stronger Wi-Fi; lighting and architecture designed to make the ship’s common spaces look and feel roomier; a resort-like pool deck; and balconies in every cabin. The real star of the show, though, is the food and beverage experience – Vista’s culinary program delivers on its promise of top-quality venues you’ll want to make the rounds at. New to the lineup are Ember, a steakhouse with decor straight out of Napa Valley , and Aquamar Kitchen, serving up lighter fare that doesn’t skimp on taste. Celebrate a birthday, an anniversary, or a just-because occasion with the Cellar Masters Wine Luncheon, a five-course meal and wine pairing. And don’t miss the elaborate sea day brunch, where towers of lobster, crab, and caviar await. Of course, the ship is just one destination. This year, Vista is splitting time between the Mediterranean and the Caribbean; next year, it will venture farther into Europe with ports of call like Istanbul , Stockholm, and Klaipeda, Lithuania. Its sister ship, Allura, sets sail in 2025. From around £2,182. Madison Flager

Scenic Eclipse II, Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours

The eagerly awaited Scenic Eclipse II is the new and improved version of Scenic's first expedition vessel, Scenic Eclipse. Dubbed "discovery yachts" for their sleek look and top-tier service, the sisters are nearly identical, with most changes so subtle that most guests might not even notice them, such as the slight enlargement of the steam room in the spa. But a big difference can be found on deck 10, where a plunge pool with jets for simulated lap swimming has taken the place of two hot tubs – and there's a new Sky Bar up here. Otherwise, Scenic Eclipse II has the same beloved amenities of its sister, most notably 10 exceptional dining experiences, from a sushi bar to a French restaurant with an attached Champagne bar; a 5,920-square-foot spa; two helicopters; and a submersible. Capable of sailing all over the world, including the polar regions, Scenic Eclipse II has itineraries for every type of traveller. From around £6,025. Stefanie Waldek

Seabourn Pursuit, Seabourn Cruise Line

Pursuit is a small, “yacht-like” expedition ship with a distinct green exterior whose destinations range from Antarctica to warmer climes like the Kimberley in Australia. The decadent cabins, bigger than some standard hotel rooms, feel spacious and relaxing, complete with all the subtle touches that make you feel immediately at home. You can hang your evening attire in the walk-in closet and dry your wet swimwear – or damp Arctic expedition gear – in the built-in warming compartment; have sunrise breakfasts or sunset cocktails mixed at the in-room wet bar on your private balcony; and sleep in a plush, queen-sized bed. But what truly sets this cruise apart is the attentive and personable staff who quickly learn your name and personal preferences, providing VIP treatment throughout the journey. From around £8,729. Taylor Eisenhauer

Seven Seas Grandeur, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Ports in the Caribbean, the Greek islands , and the Riviera might be the draw, but the all-inclusive luxury line Regent Seven Seas Cruises produces ships that have travellers looking forward to those days at sea, as its sixth offering, Grandeur, further proves. All of the 372 suites, which start at a roomy 307 square feet, are decorated in calming neutral blues and beige, and feature furnished balconies; most have L'Occitane bubbles for the marble tub. Quiet comfort can also be had in the Serene Spa & Wellness outdoor lounge area, following a massage on a quartz crystal bed that mimics the feel of warm sand. Cravings for a porterhouse or a vegetarian Salisbury steak can be sated by Prime 7, with other venues serving speciality pan-Asian cuisine, French fare, ample buffets, and Italian offerings. Mainstay Compass Rose has been reimagined as a light, airy space where diners breakfast under playfully elegant pillars that resemble crystal trees. Grandeur's whimsy extends to its reception area, where guests can check out Journey in Jewels, the Fabergé egg made specifically for the vessel, where it will remain for the rest of its jewelled ovoid days. The maximum number of 744 guests ensures unhurried service and uncrowded environs as you recover from a sunny day of swimming with Caribbean pigs. From around £3798. Alexandra Sanidad

Silver Nova, Silversea Cruises

A voyage on Silversea’s latest ship, Silver Nova, is one of taste and style. With expansive glass features throughout each of the 11 decks, and an ocean-facing saltwater swimming pool , the ship’s unique asymmetrical design leaves room for adults to run and play (with swank, of course). The Nova’s reimagined culinary experience, SALT (Sea and Land Taste), is the first large-scale, regional restaurant at sea, and acts as an invitation to guests to experience more than an excursion. While initially introduced on Silver Moon, the Nova’s SALT program includes SALT Lab by day: an intimate cooking class with highly acclaimed chefs and regional cuisine recipes inspired by the next destination. With one nightly seating, SALT Chef's Table offers an exclusive and creatively interactive dining experience. It’s all very intimate – as chefs showcase the art of their crafts firsthand, guests peek into a new culture and place before even disembarking. From around £2465. Jessica Chapel

Viking Aton, Viking River Cruises

In the style of all Viking ships, the Rottet Studio – designed Aton is intended for comfortable and thought-provoking exploration – just look to the book-filled shelves in the cabins, curated by London’s Heywood Hill library, and the revolving door of on-board lecturers (on my trip, an English curator spoke about the evolving depictions of Egypt in 1900s popular art). It should be no surprise that in a destination as rich and storied as Egypt ’s Nile, where the Aton is permanently based, the guides set apart what may read as a quintessential itinerary. On the Pharaohs & Pyramids journey, which takes travellers from the Valley of the Kings, where King Tut lies, to the Great Pyramid of Giza and well beyond over 12 days, esteemed Egyptologists oscillate from translating hieroglyphics on temple walls in real-time to shepherding travellers through modern night markets with endless fervour. On this ship it isn’t just what you see but how much you listen – and the team here, predominantly Egyptian, has much to say. These days, travellers crave perspective-altering experiences more than ever; get on the Aton, and you’ll get once-in-a-lifetime access (until that is, your next Aton sailing). From around £4849. Megan Spurrell

Resilient Lady, Virgin Voyages

Stepping onto Resilient Lady feels a bit like heading to summer camp. The massive vessel is like a giant playground for adults, which is why it draws a fun-loving crowd. Theme night parties, a nostalgic arcade room, plenty of board games, and basketball courts are just a few of the seemingly limitless onboard activities. Compared with its sister ships, the newest Virgin Voyages addition includes upgraded onboard entertainment and exciting new ports of call like the Greek Islands, Bali, and Mumbai . Most of the shows on this specific ship are new to the line, such as Persephone, an interactive performance developed in collaboration with famed Brooklyn nightclub House of Yes, and Another Rose, an immersive dinner experience. Dining options are abundant on the ship – 20-plus to be exact – and all of them are included with every passenger ticket. Plus, you can’t miss out on a visit to the several different sauna experiences in the Thermal Suite inside the Redemption Spa. From around £1616 . Rachel Dube

World Voyager, Atlas Ocean Voyages

There are superbly comfortable spaces and floor-to-ceiling windows aplenty on World Voyager, the latest vessel from Atlas Ocean Voyages. On an Antarctica expedition, you might watch turquoise icebergs float by from the sauna or the spa’s relaxation room, with its heated loungers perfectly positioned in front of a wall of glass. Back in your cosy stateroom, Champagne and strawberries await, as do the views from a Juliet or walkout balcony. The look throughout the 100 cabins and public spaces is Scandinavian modern, thanks to blond woods, marble floors, plush carpets in geometric patterns, and curvaceous furniture draped in velvety fabrics. In the elegant dining room, the focus is on international cuisine with a farm-to-table slant – think mushroom risotto and smoked duck with chargrilled vegetables. Meanwhile, the multipage cocktail menu beckons guests to a pair of spacious lounges. Blending yacht-style elegance and boutique-resort intimacy, this is a ship where you can make new friends easily but also retreat to a favourite spot to enjoy high tea in peaceful solitude while awaiting details from the crew on the adventures that lie ahead. From around £1495. Celeste Moure

More winners from Hot List 2024

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The best new hotels in the world

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• NCL unveils culinary and beverage innovations for Norwegian Aqua...

NCL unveils culinary and beverage innovations for Norwegian Aqua cruise ship

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled the upcoming culinary and beverage enhancements for the fleet's newest (Prima Plus-class) vessel Norwegian Aqua , scheduled for inauguration in April 2025.

Sukhothai, the inaugural Thai specialty restaurant within the company's portfolio, promises a menu featuring traditional Thai cuisine with innovative reinterpretations. Offerings such as Thai Cashew Chicken, Salt and Pepper Prawns, and Thai Grilled Steak Salad will tantalize guests' palates. The restaurant's ambiance, crafted by London -based interior design firm SMC Design, blends traditional Thai elements with contemporary aesthetics. Bamboo and rice paper lights, alongside geometric-patterned floors and vibrant furniture, await guests on deck 17 .

Indulge Food Hall, a popular feature returning to Norwegian Aqua, introduces Planterie, a new addition offering plant-based bowls and health-conscious fare on deck 8 . Dishes like the Southwest Bowl with smoked tempeh and the Mediterranean Goddess Bowl highlight the menu's diversity. Revamped by New York's Rockwell Group, the food hall now boasts a modern design inspired by international marketplaces. Deep wood accents, opulent furnishings, and rich hues create an inviting atmosphere.

Debuting onboard Norwegian Aqua, Swirl Wine Bar, nestled between the Whiskey Bar and Hasuki, presents a curated selection of wines in an intimate setting on deck 6 . Studio Dado's design draws inspiration from Arizona's Antelope Canyon, blending warm tones with cascading lines and azure accents.

Returning venues receive fresh updates aboard Norwegian Aqua. The Commodore Room, a main dining space, showcases a design paying homage to its namesake, evoking the ambiance of a vintage captain's quarters. Metropolitan cocktail bar relocates to the aft of deck 7 , now featuring live music entertainment amid art deco-inspired decor envisioned by Studio Dado.

Nama Sushi and Sashimi, now redesigned by Studio Dado, boasts a vibrant aesthetic inspired by Japanese manga.

Surfside Cafe, reimagined by London's AD Associates, radiates warmth with sunset tones, while Palomar seafood restaurant incorporates natural elements like rope and wood accents.

Penrose Bar and Waves Pool Bar undergo redesigns, and expansions are planned for The Local Bar & Grill, Hasuki, and Cagney's.

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Shore Excursion Details

Ceviche master class, ensenada, mexico.

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• 3 1/2 hrs Estimate Duration

Learn to prepare ceviche from scratch in a hands-on cooking class and then enjoy the freshly made dish for lunch. The venue for this culinary experience will be Manzanilla, one of the city’s premier restaurants. Chefs Benito Molina and Solange Muris source the ingredients for every dish in their home state of Baja California. You will accommodate one of the chefs to a nearby market to select the fish for the ceviche that you will make. During the fun and instructive class that follows, you will learn each step in the process. Ceviche originated in Peru millennia ago and there are many variations of this raw fish dish. You will prepare two versions of ceviche using sustainable ingredients such as lime juice, onions, tomatoes, hot green chili peppers, avocado and Manzanilla green olives – the delectable ingredient that inspired the restaurant’s name. Afterwards, you will dine on the fruits of your labor.

• Prepare two versions of ceviche in a hands-on cooking class lead by a renowned chef. • Select a freshly caught fish for the ceviche in a local market. • Learn how ceviche recipes vary from region to region. • Enjoy a glass of wine and the raw fish ceviche that you have prepared for lunch.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing. • Bring a swimsuit, towel and sunscreen. • Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.

Need to Know:

Check out the, activity attributes, excursion type:.

Local Food-Wine Tasting

Activity level:.

• 3 Challenging