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Norwegian Cruise Line: up to $200 OBC for Balco...

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20 Ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet

Ship:  .

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Norwegian Spirit Overview

Refurbish—no, REIMAGINATION! Yes, that’s a better word for all the incredible features you’ll find during your cruise on Norwegian Spirit . All dining venues have been redesigned, and the new Onda by Scarpetta restaurant has been introduced! If you’re a foodie who loves some Italian comfort food, Onda is perfect-o. Meat and potatoes people can get their fix at Cagney’s and finish their night with a flute of bubbly over at Champagne Charlie’s! Onboard you cruise, there is bound to be something for the whole family to do, something for everyone to eat, and that special something you only get with Norwegian Cruise Line. For more information on the beautiful Norwegian Spirit and her unique itineraries, call us today at 1-800-377-9383!

• Passenger Capacity: 2,032 (double occupancy)
• Year Built: 1998
• Last Refurbished: 2022

• Onda by Scarpetta Classic Italian with a modern flair. Like your grandma in a Gucci belt. Tortellini with a twist, revolutionary ravioli, and towering tiramisu will have your taste buds dancing in the warm Tuscan sun.  

• Champagne Charlie’s Champagne Bar Morning mimosas flow at Champagne Charlie’s, but it doesn’t have to be morning to enjoy a nice glass of champagne. If the champagne has you feeling fancy, caviar and foie gras grace the menu here.  

• Cagney’s Steakhouse Classic steakhouse fare in a mahogany accented dining room give you the feel of a 5-star shoreside steakhouse, but where else can you enjoy panoramic views while enjoying a certified aged angus steak?  

• Mandara Spa They all say when you go on a memorable vacation, you come back a new person. The variety of top notch treatments at the Mandara Spa will honestly make you feel that way. Recharge and take the vacation you deserve. And hey, if you literally want to come back a new person, you can get BOTOX here.  

• Casino Blackjack, poker, craps, slots, and so much more! On Norwegian Spirit , you just might win enough for your next cruise.  

• Duty-free Onboard Shopping Ah, another thing on which to spend your casino winnings. Onboard credit even works here! For those of you who don’t know, duty free means that you don’t have to pay the taxes and tariffs on your items. If you catch my drift, that means cheaper!  

Norwegian Spirit Cruise Destinations

Travel the world on Norwegian cruises! This fantastic cruise line boasts over 120 different ports of call, located in countries all over the world. Norwegian Cruise Line is always breaking new ground in their itinerary offerings. You can choose from over 145 different itineraries, each of which has been carefully chosen to present the destination in a unique and exciting way. Kick back on the beautiful beaches of the Bahamas. Become a culinary expert in the Mediterranean. Golf on professional links in Bermuda. Explore the wonders of South America. Enjoy the colors of New England in the fall. Or even sail the Panama Canal!

Enter a new world of mysterious cultures and ancient traditions on a cruise through Asia with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Asia Cruisetours

Expand your Asian cruise vacation with a cruisetour with Norwegian, spending more time in the cities that mean the most.

South Pacific / Tahiti

Exotic creatures, delicious cuisine and rich, traditional culture are ready to be explored on a cruise to the South Pacific and Tahiti.

U. S. Pacific Coast

Invigorate yourself with the wineries and wonders of the U.S. West Coast with a Pacific Coastal cruise.

Norwegian Spirit Departure Ports

Looking for a getaway without the need to fly far, then Norwegian has options for you. The cruise line has ships leaving from New York, Boston, Miami, New Orleans and Seattle. If you do want to travel abroad they have ships in Europe leaving from ports like Venice, Barcelona and Copenhagen. Isn’t it time for you to cruise with Norwegian. Check out all of their itineraries on our site and then call us to discuss the best vacation option for you with our expert cruise consultants. 

The near perfect days, beautiful scenery, pristine beaches and sparkling water offer the perfect backdrop for any dream adventure in Sydney, Australia.

Seoul (Inchon), South Korea

On a visit to Seoul, you’ll enjoy serene gardens, magnificent art and vibrant folklore along with new age technology, ultra-modern skyscrapers and a fast-paced city life. 

Manila, Philippines

Manila, the capital of the Philippines, is sure to please with its historic sites and cultural richness.

Singapore, Singapore

Southeast Asia’s most modern city, Singapore, also contains a lot of history and treasures from the past, along with a perfect tropical climate – all making Singapore a wonderful destination year round.

Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan

Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan is a modern and cosmopolitan city that is perfectly infused with ancient traditions and culture.

Tokyo, Japan

Tokyo is a dazzling city where you might be overwhelmed at first by its modernity but will find lots of interesting subcultures in its various neighborhoods.

Auckland, New Zealand

The mild temperatures in Auckland enhance an outdoorsy cruise destination. Tour the many beaches, hike beautiful mountain ranges or just wander Auckland’s city streets.

Whether it’s your cruise destination or a launching point, Vancouver is a beautiful destination in itself with a sophisticated downtown and lots of natural elements to explore.

Yokohama, Japan

See Japanese history in person as you discover Yokohama, Japan’s biggest port city, where the country was first opened to outside trade after more than 200 years of seclusion.

Norwegian Spirit Deck Plans

Deck eleven, deck twelve, deck thirteen, norwegian spirit staterooms.

Balcony (BA)

Balcony (bb), balcony (bf), balcony (bt), balcony (bx).

A Sail Away Balcony stateroom guarantees a Balcony stateroom or better! Please note that the view from your balcony may be fully obstructed or partially obstructed. Your stateroom may be on any deck and assigned up to one day prior to embarkation.

Balcony (B3)

These connecting staterooms are perfect if you want to bring the whole family. Sleeps up to three guests and includes a sitting area, two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and a pull out sofa in some to accommodate one more. Not to mention the floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a private balcony for the whole family to enjoy.

These mid-ship staterooms can accommodate up to three guests, with two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and a convertible sofa in some to sleep one more. They also include a sitting area and floor-to-ceiling glass doors that open to a private balcony. Because these are mid-ship staterooms, you'll have easy access to everything on board.

Balcony (BC)

With room for up to three guests,Norwegian Spirit staterooms have two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and a pull out sofa to accommodate one more. Along with a sitting area, floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a private balcony with an amazing view.

Balcony (BD)

Inside (I4)

Inside (ia), inside (ib), inside (it), inside (ix).

A Sail Away Inside stateroom guarantees an Inside stateroom or better! Your stateroom may be on any deck and assigned between time of booking up to one day prior to embarkation.

Great for up to four guests, these staterooms come with two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and additional bedding to sleep up to two more. Because these are mid-ship staterooms and located on higher decks, you'll have easy access to everything on board.

Inside (IE)

Great for up to four guests, these staterooms come with two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and additional bedding to sleep up to two more. Because these are mid-ship staterooms, you'll have easy access to everything on board.

Inside (IC)

Norwegian Spirit Inside Staterooms are the most affordable way for you to cruise. With room for up to four, you'll have two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and additional bedding to accommodate two more.

Inside (ID)

Inside (if), inside (i1).

The Family Inside Staterooms are a great and affordable way for you to bring the whole family along. With room for up to four, you'll have two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and additional bedding to accommodate two more. Plus you'll have access to all kinds of amenities in addition to being located close to the Kid's Center, room service and so much more.

Inside (I2)

These larger Family Inside Staterooms sleep up to four guests and are a great and affordable way to bring the whole family. Features two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and additional bedding to accommodate two more. Plus you'll have access to all kinds of amenities in addition to being located close to the Kid's Center, room service and so much more.

Oceanview (O3)

Oceanview (ob).

Oceanview (O4)

Oceanview (of), oceanview (ot), oceanview (o2).

A great way for the whole family to cruise, these staterooms can accommodate up to four guests. They include two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed, a sitting area, additional bedding to sleep two additional guests and a porthole to check out the amazing view.

Oceanview (OX)

A Sail Away Oceanview stateroom guarantees an Oceanview stateroom or better! Please note that the view may be fully obstructed, partially obstructed, porthole or picture window. Your stateroom may be on any deck and assigned up to one day prior to embarkation.

Oceanview (OA)

Norwegian Spirit Oceanview Staterooms located on a higher deck, can accommodate up to three guests and come with two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and additional bedding to accommodate one more. You'll also have a big picture window to enjoy the amazing view.

Oceanview (OG)

These Norwegian Spirit Oceanview Staterooms have room for up to three guests, with two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and a pull down bed in some to accommodate one more. You'll also have a porthole to enjoy an amazing view.

These Oceanview Staterooms have room for up to three guests and include two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and a pull down bed to sleep one more. They also come with a porthole for you to enjoy the view and because these staterooms are mid-ship, you'll have easy access to all the delicious dining and great activities on board.

Oceanview (OC)

These Oceanview Staterooms located on a lower deck, can accommodate up to three guests and come with two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and additional bedding to accommodate one more. You'll also have a big picture window to enjoy the amazing view.

These staterooms can accommodate up to three guests. They include two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed, additional bedding to sleep one additional guest and a big picture window for you to admire the view from.

With room for up to three guests, these Oceanview Staterooms come with two lower beds that convert into a queen-size bed and pull down bed to sleep one more, as well as a large picture window that offers a great view.

Norwegian Spirit Owner's Suites with a Large Balcony are great for up to two guests. They include a living room, dining room and separate bedroom with king or queen-size bed. Along with a walk in closet, luxury bath with whirlpool tub and a large aft-facing balcony with an incredible view. Includes butler and concierge service.

Norwegian Spirit Penthouses sleep up to three guests, and include a bedroom with queen-size bed, luxury bath with shower, living area, dining area, additional bedding to sleep one additional guest and a large private balcony to enjoy the view from. Includes butler and concierge service.

Up to three guests can stay in these Penthouses that come with a living area, dining area and large private balcony. Because these are aft-facing Penthouses, the view from your private balcony is truly stunning. Also includes a bedroom with queen-size bed, luxury bath with shower and additional bedding to sleep one additional guest. Includes butler and concierge service.

Photo Gallery for Norwegian Spirit Cruise Ship

Before you experience “Freestyle Cruising” with Norwegian check out this photo gallery which features many of their ships, specialty dining options and innovative staterooms. 

Balcony Stateroom

Norwegian Spirit

Public aquaswim pools

Stardust Theater

Shanghai Bar

Top 10 Norwegian Spirit Cruises

• Norwegian Spirit 13-days Wonderful Taipei Pre Cruisetour Departing From Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan (Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 9 Night ASIA - JAPAN (KEE/YOK) Departing From Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan (Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 11 Night ASIA - JAPAN (YOK/INC) Departing From Yokohama, Japan (Oct 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 11 Night ASIA - JAPAN (INC/TOK) Departing From Seoul (Inchon), South Korea (Oct 2024 - Nov 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 12 Night ASIA - JAPAN (TOK/TOK) Departing From Tokyo, Japan (Oct 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 11 Night ASIA - JAPAN (TOK/INC) Departing From Tokyo, Japan (Nov 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 14 Night Asia - South East (TOK/MNA) Departing From Tokyo, Japan (Nov 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 12 Night Asia - South East (MNA/KEE) Departing From Manila, Philippines (Dec 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 14 Night Asia - South East (KEE/SIN) Departing From Keelung (Taipei), Taiwan (Dec 2024)
• Norwegian Spirit 11 Night Asia - South East (SIN/KEE) Departing From Singapore, Singapore (Jan 2025 - Jan 2025)

Learn More About Norwegian Cruise Line

Accessibility

Learn about Norwegian Cruise Line's handicap accessible cruises and accommodations for guests with special needs or disabilities, including service animals, Braille and special rooms.

Savor Freestyle dining aboard Norwegian Cruise Line, including the specialty restaurants like Ocean Blue, Cagney's, Le Bistro, Moderno Churrascaria, The Haven Restaurant, the main dining rooms and several pubs, bars, grills and cafes.

Entertainment

Enjoy Norwegian Cruise Line's onboard entertainment, including Broadway productions, comedy clubs, dueling pianos and much more.

Onboard Activities

Engage in Norwegian Cruise Line's onboard activities, including water parks, casinos, dance clubs, arcades, ropes courses, sports courts, duty-free shops and more.

Service & Awards

Learn how Norwegian Cruise Line takes care of your every need with an extensive list of onboard services. Plus, view Norwegian Cruise Line's awards.

Spa & Fitness

Participate in Norwegian Cruise Line's fitness centers, training programs and relax at spa treatments, including massages, body wraps, acupuncture, facials and more to relax and soothe.

Special Events

Learn about Norwegian Cruise Line's special themed cruises, including popular rock music themed cruises through a partnership with Sixthman.

Learn about Norwegian Cruise Line's staterooms, including suites, mini-suites, balconies, oceanviews, interiors and solo-traveler Studio rooms.

Youth Programs

Learn about Norwegian's Splash Academy youth programs and cruising with children of all ages.

Cruise Type

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Norwegian Spirit Deck Plans & Reviews

Norwegian Spirit

Activities & entertainment

• Arts and Crafts Classes
• Basketball Court
• Behind the Scenes Tour *
• Social Comedy and Night Club
• Bridge Viewing Gallery
• Observation Lounge
• Bliss Ultra Lounge
• The Humidor
• Dance Classes
• Deck Parties
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes *
• Gaming Lessons *
• Golf Driving Net
• Whirlpools (5)
• Late Night Dancing
• Lifestyle Room
• Poolside Games
• Spa and Salon *
• Steam and Sauna *
• Table Tennis
• The Writing Room
• Video Arcade *
• Wine Tasting *
• Medical Center
• Comedy Performances
• Onboard Movie Screenings
• Stardust Theater
• Live Nightly Music
• Sports Games Televised
• Windows Main Dining Room - Main
• Taste - Main
• Atrium Cafe and Bar - Coffee Bar *
• Henrys Pub - English Pub *
• Le Bistro French Restaurant - French *
• Teppanyaki - Japanese *
• Sushi Bar - Sushi *
• Raffles Terrace Bar - Pool Bar *
• Bier Garten - Pool Bar and Grill
• Cagneys Steakhouse - Steakhouse *
• Onda by Scarpetta - Italian *
• The Local - Pub
• Garden Cafe - Buffet
• Silk - Asian
• Magnums Champagne and Wine Bar - Champagne and Wine Bar *
• Waves Pool Bar - Pool Bar *
• Room Service *
• Excellent 17
• Very Good 27
• Terrible 22
• All languages ( 99 )
• English ( 99 )

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• Cruising / Norwegian (NCL) / Ship Reviews

Norwegian Spirit Review and Ship Tour (Post Refurbishment)

by Prof. Cruise · July 28, 2022

Introduction

This sailing on the Norwegian Spirit was significant to my family for three reasons. First, this was our first cruise that sailed to both Hawaii AND Alaska. The Spirit sails this itinerary one or two times a year and I HIGHLY recommend it (although packing will fill up your curse jar in record time). Second, this was the smallest NCL ship we’ve ever sailed on (and I consider that a good thing). And third, two of the three of us came home with Covid. After more post-Covid cruises than I can count, it was bound to happen eventually and, thankfully, we didn’t test positive and experience (mild) symptoms until after we arrived back home to Seattle. But even with a Covid chaser, this cruise was one of my favorites ever!

Let me introduce you to the ship, then I’ll discuss the many, many things I loved about her and a few things I didn’t love. I’ll even throw in a handful of extra-credit pro tips for those who slog along all the way to the end! So with that…

The Norwegian Spirit: Just the Facts

At 880 feet long and, according to approximately 384,000 veterinary scales (I mean, how else would you weigh a cruise ship?), weighing in at 95,904 gross tons, the Spirit is actually the smallest ship in the NCL fleet. However, what she lacks in size, she makes up for in speed – she could beat the Encore in a race with a max speed of 28 MPH (vs 26 MPH for the Encore). She can carry up to 2,018 passengers (based on double occupancy) and 912 very happy crew (because they don’t have to constantly direct lost passengers to the go karts).

Much like me, the Norwegian Spirit completely reinvented herself (sadly I had a real job before becoming a “Professor of Cruising”). She was born in 1998 to Star Cruises and named SuperStar Leo, but in 2004 her hippie parents no longer wanted her and she was transferred to the loving care of Norwegian Cruise Line and renamed the Spirit. Then in 2020 she underwent a massive 120 million dollar refurbishment, to emerge post-Covid as an entirely new version of herself. Many were hoping she would inspire me to undergo a few “updates” too. But alas, I still shun makeup and pack the same outfits I’ve been cruising in for over a decade. *shrug*

Tour of the Refurbished Norwegian Spirit

Her refurbishment really is impressive. The only videos I could find of her prior to my sailing were from before the pandemic shutdown, so she looked like an entirely different ship when I stepped onboard. Here’s a complete ship tour of the Spirit post-refurbishment:

And here are the many things I loved about her…

Things I Loved about the Norwegian Spirit

Let’s start with food because, well, I do more eating on a cruise than anything else.

I would not have been successful at avoiding an assassin on the Spirit because every night at 7:00pm I could be found in the exact same spot: the crepe station on the buffet. At least I would have died happy, because with numerous rotating filling options and fresh creme for the top, the crepes were amazing!

Extra Credit Pro Tip: If you want a simple but delicious crepe, grab a pack of butter near the bread station and some sugar near the coffee and ask for them in your crepe.

Extra Credit Pro Tip: If you want any of the fillings (they had M&M’s one night, for example) on their own, you can take a bowl up and have the crew member making the crepes fill it up for you.

Cobbler/Bread Pudding

There were so many outstanding desserts both in the buffet and dining room on the Spirit, but my number one favorites were the warm cobblers and bread puddings served with homemade caramel sauce at lunch and dinner in the buffet. And if that wasn’t good enough…

I always asked for a giant scoop of vanilla ice cream on top! There were also always at least three other rotating flavors of hard ice cream/sherbet on the buffet served in either a cone or bowl.

Breakfast at Local

Breakfast at Local was a great alternative to the buffet and dining room. It was quiet and the food was hot, fresh, and delicious.

Here’s the menu:

NCL’s Local Breakfast Menu

And a few more food pics. I loved everything I ordered there.

Onda Italian Specialty Restaurant

While we were pretty disappointed in the other two specialty restaurants we visited (stay tuned), we loved Onda and ate there twice (for free with our dining package/platinum benefits). Mr. Cruise especially loved the pizzas (which could be ordered as an appetizer with the dining package/platinum dinner) and I loved that there were great vegetarian options. I don’t think we’d pay retail to eat there, but we really enjoyed it as a free perk and appreciated having something different on such a long itinerary.

NCL’s Onda Menu

For meat eaters, Mr. Cruise recommends the macellaio pizza, the braised octopus, and the tagliatelle pasta. For vegetarians I loved the creamy polenta, the mezzelune pasta, and the rosemary lentils. We tried most of the desserts and the butterscotch budino and the panna cotta were our favorites.

Silk Complimentary Chinese Restaurant

Silk, the complimentary Asian restaurant on the Spirit, is another great alternative to the buffet and dining room. We ate there twice and enjoyed everything we tried, although I wish there was a vegetarian entree on the menu.

Silk Menu on the Norwegian Spirit

And here were my two favorite desserts:

Extra Credit Pro Tip: Order the Wasabi Cocktail at Silk. It’s my #1 favorite cocktail at sea!

If the next cruise ship I sail on sinks, it’s because I talked about salad in a cruise review. But because this was such a long sailing, I figured I’d need a few vitamins here and there to keep me alive. And the least offensive way I found to get them was through the rotating daily pre-made salads on the salad bar. I’d mix all three of them together over a big pile of greens and it turned out like a fancy salad you’d get at, like, Nordstroms.

The Premium Beverage Package

Time spent eating was followed closely by time spent drinking on this sailing. While we normally opt for the “sail away” rate that doesn’t include the beverage package , due to price drops, we ended up getting a better cabin and the dining and beverage package included for less (including the gratuity charges) than what we originally paid for our “sail away” inside cabin. And with 16 days, we were able to take full advantage of it.

I started by ordering all my favorites: bushwackers, lemon drops, and mango meltdowns, among others…

Then I made my way through each bar menu.

But after that there were still 10 days left! So I started playing games like, “order a drink starting with every letter of the alphabet.” Or I’d have a color of the day. This day was red:

By day 16, I’d been officially cut off by both the ship doctor, my family, and the general public who’d never heard Whitney Houston sung quite like that before. So I ordered a Pepsi and threw in some peanuts to jazz it up.

You can read my Ultimate Guide To NCL’s Premium Beverage Package Promotion in 2022 HERE!

Sustainable Drinks

We’re not done with drinking yet though! I can’t forget the rotating “sustainable” drink of the day available at the Spice H20 Bar on deck 10 aft. I have no idea what makes them sustainable other than the paper straws they serve with them that had me cursing myself ($1 for the jar) for forgetting to pack my metal straws and Googling, “can Amazon Prime deliver to a cruise ship?”

Anyway, some were better than others, but they were really fun to try.

Henry’s Bar

Henry’s was my favorite bar on the Spirit. It was conveniently located off the atrium, but was also a bit hidden away behind the internet cafe, so it was almost never crowded. Plus peanuts were served and the menu included two weird, but delicious drinks, “grass clippings” (pictured above on the right) and the “getaway.” While the name “grass clippings” reminds me of all the reasons I live in a downtown high rise (if I never have to mow another lawn…), it’s truly a great drink. Give it a try if you like cucumber and cilantro (I know some of you are gagging right now…sorry!). Here’s the menu:

Henry’s Bar Menu on the Norwegian Spirit

While it’s normally impossible to talk about cruise buffet “coffee” without air quotes and dramatic gagging sounds, the complimentary Colombian coffee on the Spirit was quite good.

This was the perfect sized ship for me. Even though it’s the smallest ship in the NCL fleet, it’s not SO small that if I wore the same three outfits for the entire cruise (I should have said when ) everyone would notice, but not so big as to require her own congressional district.

NCL is known for its hull art, and while the new hull art on the Spirit isn’t as eye-catching as some, I love the colors and calming wave-like pattern.

Refurbishment

And while I love what was done during the refurbishment to the outside of the ship, the inside is even more impressive. The interior received a complete overhaul including some fairly significant structural changes such as the removal of a fountain in the atrium, the addition of a giant screen, and a staircase. New venues were added, the kid’s club and kids water park were removed (more on that later), every stateroom was redesigned and modernized, and all carpets, art pieces, furniture, and other furnishings were replaced. Those who sailed on her post refurbishment would see her now and gossip like a couple of neighborhood busy bodies about all the work she’s had done: “I wonder how much that new restaurant set her shareholders back.”

While a fountain in a cruise atrium sounds kind of cool to me, it’s probably like a water bed. Cool in theory, but not very functional. But the new atrium is all kinds of functional, with lots of comfortable seating, an area for crew to host trivia and other events, and a giant screen. There’s also a beautiful glass staircase which allows for easy access to Magnum’s bar and the shops one deck up. The glass elevators, interior facing windows, and Roman style columns remain from her prior lives to remind us that this gal is the perfect combination of old and new.

Spinnaker Observation Lounge

While the Spinnaker Observation Lounge on the Spirit isn’t as huge and dramatic as it is on some of the newer NCL mega ships, it’s still pretty impressive with sweeping views out the front of the ship. It’s a great place to read, look for wildlife, attend trivia, make a craft, or listen to some live music. It can get crowded, especially on bad weather days, so secure your spot (and a helper to bring you your meals and save your spot when nature calls) early!

This was my favorite (non-food) area on this ship! Located aft on decks 10, 11, and 12, Spice H20 includes padded loungers (many of them shaded for much of the day if you’re a fellow vampire) with gorgeous wake views. This was my view for much of our cruise (You WILL see a lot of your own feet, so you may consider a pre-cruise pedicure or, at the least, matching socks.):

The hot tub to human ratio on the Spirit was among the best of any ship I’ve sailed on. There are four hot tubs located near the main lido pool and two more located aft in Spice H20 (these are adults only and have amazing views out the back of the ship). We never had trouble finding an open hot tub.

Basketball Court

While I didn’t partake of the basketball court much myself, it was one of the only kid-friendly areas of the ship and kept my son occupied for hours each day.

Wraparound Promenade Deck

Those bored (I mean kind) enough to regularly read my reviews know that I’m obsessed with wraparound promenade decks and the Spirit had a great one! While there was no seating, it was wide and perfect for walking and one of my favorite features of the Spirit! I wish the newer ships had them!

Glass Elevators

With no Kid’s Club or amusement park-like features, we had to sell the glass elevators to my son as a “ride.” He didn’t buy it, but I almost convinced myself and sometimes rode them up and down for hours before my Mr. Cruise tracked me down for meals: “you can ride them again if you eat all your dinner!”

Wide Hallways

Another feature I love about older ships are the wide stateroom hallways. I don’t know why hallways got narrower as people got fatter. But after 16 days of carb loading, I appreciated the extra space on this old gal.

The Great Outdoors

For warm weather sailings, it’s nice to eat outdoors. Located just aft of the buffet is “The Great Outdoors” with numerous tables and a dedicated bar with full drink service. It was usually less crowded than the indoor buffet area and offered fresh air and great views.

Spin Bikes/Gym

Spinning is my least hated form of exercise. I still hate it, mind you, but not with the same passion as the treadmill or elliptical machine. So I was happy to see a spin room on the Spirit. And I was able to use it early in the morning for the first half of our sailing. After that the room was locked and I was no longer able to use it without signing up for a class.

The gym overall was large and clean, had good hours (although I wish ship gyms would stay open 24 hours), and all the equipment looked brand new.

Chelsea Reynolds

The piano bar vocalist onboard, Chelsea Reynolds, was fabulous. And her Fleetwood Mac tribute show was my favorite performance over all 16 days.

Guest Performers

While I don’t usually love magic and hypnosis and skip those shows if I’m sailing solo, my son LOVED these shows on the Spirit. You can see a recording of the hypnotist here:

Things I Didn’t Love about the Norwegian Spirit

Jogging track.

The jogging track on the Spirit was so narrow, it made it nearly impossible for anyone with a pace above that of a drunk snail to get a proper run in (because you’ll get stuck behind walkers with no room to pass). Your best bet is to get up there very, very early in the morning or very, very late at night.

Le Bistro and Cagney’s

I usually find eating at specialty restaurants as a vegetarian extremely disappointing and my experience at Le Bistro and Cagney’s was, sadly, consistent with past experience. While there were a few vegetarian items on the Le Bistro menu, they all had blue cheese, which reminds me of rotten milk soaked gym socks in a sweltering car. And saying “hold the blue cheese” left me with some plain lettuce and a bland veggie thing. The dessert was good, but honestly not much better than the buffet and main dining room desserts. Mr. Cruise, not a vegetarian, ate there with me and reported that he liked his soup and appetizer, but that his fish tasted, “fishy.” Overall, it was a fail for us and we probably won’t eat there again, even if it’s free (which it was this time).

Cagney’s was a fail too. I ended up ordering a tomato appetizer (that was literally just a tomato with a bit of a garnish and a drizzle of dressing), several tiny (and I mean TINY) vegetarian sides, and the smallest portion of berry crisp I’ve ever seen. And it was no better or different than the crisps available on the buffet. I’m used to steakhouse desserts being huge and delicious, so I was pretty disappointed. I wouldn’t eat there again.

Mr. Cruise once again liked his soup (lobster bisque), but found the portion of his fish plate small and the quality underwhelming. The cheesecake was good, but not worth paying extra for. I know many love Cagney’s and we probably just ordered wrong, but we’d skip it in favor of Onda in the future.

No Kid’s Club

The refurbished Spirit is the first “adults oriented” NCL ship at sea. While kids are permitted to sail on the ship, there’s no kid’s club or dedicated youth-only spaces. There were some activities geared toward kids and teens (video game competitions, sports competitions, etc), but otherwise this was not a youth friendly ship.

There were about 100 kids/teens onboard and nowhere for them to go. So at times it felt like the worst of both worlds. Kids, but bored kids who had no choice but to hang out in spots where adults were hanging out. As much as I hate to say this (because we love bringing our son on long, unique itineraries with us, like those featured on the Spirit), I’m wondering if it would make more sense for NCL to just go all in and make this an adults only ship. Share your thoughts about this to the comments.

7 Extra Credit Pro Tips for the Norwegian Spirit

Now that we have the negative stuff out of the way, here are seven extra credit pro tips that I hope will help you maximize your time onboard the Spirit, if you’re lucky enough to be booked on her:

Tip 1: Visit the Cruise Next desk if you’re Platinum status or above for $25 in onboard credit in lieu of the ship tour.

As of our sailing the ship tour for guests who are platinum status or higher still wasn’t available. However, in lieu of it, you can receive $25 in onboard credit. HOWEVER, you must ask for it at the Cruise Next desk on embarkation day.

Tip 2: Find a beautiful indoor spot to relax and look out at the ocean.

For cold or hot weather days, my two favorite indoor spots were:

Two tables with comfortable chairs next to a giant window located just off the Magnum’s Champagne Bar on deck 8 midship. They are tucked away a bit and offer some serenity and privacy.

And this elevated seating on either side of the front of the Spinnaker Observation Lounge:

Tip 3: Check out the “secret” multi-purpose room.

The “secret” multi-purpose room located all the way forward on deck 13 isn’t even listed on many deck plans, but, trust me, it’s there! And it’s a great, uncrowded spot to take in the views from the front of the ship, play cards or a board game, or borrow a book. It features game tables, a small library, a large television, and comfortable seating facing out the front of the ship. Here’s a tour:

Tip 4: Order Irish or Spanish coffee with the beverage package.

One of the downsides of the Premium Beverage Package on NCL is that it doesn’t include espresso drinks. However, it DOES include Irish or Spanish coffee. If you’re looking for a spiked hot beverage (perfect if you’re cruising to Alaska where it can be chilly), order one at most bars and in the dining rooms!

Tip 5: There is overflow breakfast and lunch buffet seating in Onda and it’s never crowded.

Buffet seating can get VERY crowded at peak times. However, additional seating is available at breakfast and lunch at the Onda restaurant.

I often had the whole place to myself and it’s a beautiful space!

Tip 6: Pick up a daily trivia, soduko, and crossword puzzle each morning from the Spinnaker Lounge.

Tip 7: Arrive at the Windows main dining room a bit before 5:30pm for a spot next to the windows.

While the dining room opens for dinner at 5:30pm, the line starts forming earlier. And they always fill up the window seats first! Get there by about 5:15pm if you want to sit next to a window (including the gorgeous aft windows for which the dining room is named):

Tip 8: Preview menus in advance.

You can find all the dining and bar menus here:

Norwegian Dining and Restaurant Menus 2022

Norwegian Cruise Line Bar Menus And Drink Prices 2022

With a final toast:

And one of our best cruises ever behind us:

We arrived home with an unwelcome stowaway (you can read about my experience catching Covid on the Spirit HERE ):

But thankful for mild symptoms and treasured memories to see us through quarantine, including one of the most beautiful sunsets I’ve ever seen at sea:

And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Homework (10 points): Check out my review and tour of a balcony cabin on the Norwegian Spirit .

And don’t forget to subscribe to my  YouTube channel  and follow Prof. Cruise on your favorite social media sites:

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I would like to see the video tour of the newly renovated Spirit ship. The link isn’t working. Thank you, Melissa

Thanks for alerting me to this! It seems there was a copyright claim for one of the songs playing on the ship in the background and that it was blocked from being played. I’ve gone in and muted that section of the video (so if I suddenly stop talking right in the middle for a minute, that’s why). It should be back up and available to play at the same link very soon. Thanks again!

[…] (10 points): Check out my recent Norwegian Spirit Review and Ship Tour (Post Refurbishment) and share to the comments which speciality restaurant on NCL is your […]

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About Prof. Cruise

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

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Norwegian Spirit

Ship specifications.

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Norwegian spirit itineraries, 16 night alaska & honolulu: glacier bay, kauai & maui to vancouver, 16 night alaska to hawaii: juneau, ketchikan, kauai & maui, 12 night south pacific: kauai, maui & moorea, 10 night asia: kobe, kochi, nagoya & mt. fuji, 16 night honolulu to vancouver: kauai, maui, juneau & ketchikan, 7 night alaska: hubbard glacier & skagway to seward, 7 night alaska: hubbard glacier & skagway to vancouver, 9 night asia: osaka, mt. fuji & okinawa, 16 night vancouver to alaska: juneau, ketchikan, kauai & maui, 11 night asia: osaka, jeju & nagoya, 11 night asia: osaka, kochi, jeju & mt. fuji, 12 night asia: osaka, sapporo, buscan & mt. fuji, 11 night asia: osaka, jeju, nagoya & mt. fuji, 11 night asia: osaka, kochi, jeju & nagoya, 14 night japan: osaka, ishigaki & shimizu, 12 night asia: hong kong, ishigaki & naha, 14 night asia: philippines, vietnam & malaysia, 4 night asia, 12 night australia & new zealand, norwegian cruise line fleet.

Norwegian Viva

Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Sky

Norwegian Sun

Norwegian Star

Norwegian Dawn

Norwegian Pearl

Pride of America

Norwegian Jewel

Norwegian Jade

Norwegian Gem

Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Breakaway

Norwegian Getaway

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Joy

Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Bliss

• CruiseMapper

Norwegian Spirit cabins and suites

Norwegian spirit staterooms review, floor plans, photos.

Norwegian Spirit cabins and suites review at CruiseMapper provides detailed information on cruise accommodations , including floor plans, photos, room types and categories, cabin sizes, furniture details and included by Norwegian Cruise Line en-suite amenities and services.

The Norwegian Spirit cruise ship cabins page is conveniently interlinked with its deck plans showing deck layouts combined with a legend and review of all onboard venues.

Owners Suite

Layout (floor plan), penthouse suite, balcony cabin, oceanview cabin, interior cabin, norwegian spirit cabins review.

NCL Spirit cabins for disabled passengers (wheelchair accessible rooms) are all 5, in the following categories (with deck location in brackets): Oceanview (OG-deck 4, number 4498) and Interior/Inside (IA-decks 10 and 11, numbers 10137, 10637, 11129, 11629). The number of cabin categories is 27 (including guarantee cabin grades).

Follows the review of Norwegian Star staterooms as amenities, furniture and included (complimentary) services:

All staterooms as amenities have a sleeping area (bedside tables, 2 lower beds convertible to Queen-size double bed, plus additional/optional beds to accommodate more passengers), en-suite bathroom (WC-toilet, sink, shower stall, bath products, hairdryer, towels), lounge/sitting area (wardrobe /ample closet space, vanity table, chair, smart HDTV (infotainment system), electronic safe box and life jackets (in the closet), mini-refrigerator, direct-dial phone, individual air-conditioning.

Additional amenities / bonus perks for Suite cabin guests include: butler / concierge service, key card access, in-room dining (suites-only room service menu, full breakfast, treats delivered nightly), specialty restaurant dining (complimentary breakfast and lunch), luxury bedding sets (pillow menu, deluxe mattresses), welcome gifts (Champagne, bottled water, fruits, flowers), espresso coffee maker, cotton bathrobes, slippers, terry towels, walk-in closets, priority services (check-in, embarkation, disembarkation, ports of call tender boarding, reservations /spa, specialty restaurants, show venues).

All grades suites and balcony cabins feature a private veranda with lounge furniture (small table, chairs, loungers /Owner suites).

Both Owners Suites on deck 9 have a separate bedroom (queen bed), living and dining rooms, luxury bathroom (whirlpool bathtub, plus separate shower, WC and double-sink vanity), guests bathroom (WC, sink), wet bar.

Deluxe Penthouses also feature luxury bathrooms (with whirlpool bathtub, separate shower, WC, double-sink vanity), lounge and dining areas, wet bar, queen beds.

SE-SG Penthouses (Junior Suites) have queen beds, lounge and dining areas, a separate bedroom with direct access to the bathroom (whirlpool bathtub, separate shower, WC, double-sink vanity). SG-Penthouses are with aft location and larger balconies.

All balcony cabins feature a sitting area with a single sofabed and bathrooms with shower.

Oceanviews are of two types – with large Picture Window or with round-shaped Porthole Window.

Inside cabin sizes vary between 150 and 200 ft. The largest (200 ft) are rooms 5035, 6035 and 6535. Next, by size (190 ft) are rooms 9203 and 9207.

Since May 2015, the Norwegian Cruise Line charges US$7,95 for room service dining. This is an extra service charge implemented fleetwide (including on the NCL Spirit ship). Passengers exempted from the new (uncommon for the industry) room service fee are only the occupants of “The Haven” suites. Still, as an exception, all passengers can order (for free) their room-service morning coffee and Continental Breakfast. After implementing the new service charge, NCL upgraded the room service menu, adding more hot food items for Breakfast and a wider food & drinks selection (available for ordering 24 hours a day).

Norwegian Spirit cabin and suite plans are property of Norwegian Cruise Line . All floor plans are for informational purposes only and CruiseMapper is not responsible for their accuracy.

6 best Alaska cruises for families

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Adorable sled dog puppies, graceful whales, fascinating totem poles, crazy lumberjacks, majestic glaciers — Alaska has much to offer families of all ages. But if you’re looking for the best Alaska cruise for kids, which ship should you choose?

Families have great choices when sailing up north, including a ship full of Disney characters, one with laser tag and a go-kart race track and many with expansive play spaces for kids, waterslides and family-focused onboard activities. Look for bigger ships with plenty of amusements; smaller and older ships might not have as many kid-friendly attractions.

I’m not mentioning luxury cruise ships here because they are geared for adults, but families looking for a more upscale, smaller-ship cruise to Alaska should know that many high-end lines will put on some kid programming during summer-break cruises to Alaska with a higher-than-usual number of children on board.

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

If you’re ready to cross Alaska off your bucket list, here are our recommendations for the best Alaska cruises for families.

7-night Alaska Adventure cruise on Quantum of the Seas

The 4,180-passenger Quantum of the Seas is not one of Royal Caribbean ’s largest-in-the-world Oasis Class ships that boast zip lines, ice skating rinks and AquaTheaters. But it still offers a great mix of activities, including a skydiving simulator, high-tech theater with robotic “dancing” screens, an escape room, indoor basketball court/bumper car pavilion and dedicated spaces for both kids and adults.

Kids can gobble up hot dogs and pizza at themed eateries, while adults can enjoy date night at Wonderland with its imaginative molecular gastronomy or Jamie’s Italian, created by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver.

Seven-night Alaska cruises sail round-trip from the easily accessible port of Seattle and visit Sitka, Skagway and Juneau, Alaska; as well as Victoria, British Columbia. One day is spent cruising through the scenic Endicott Arm to Dawes Glacier. Sailings depart between late April and September.

Related: Alaska cruise packing list: What to pack for a sailing up north

7-night Alaska cruise on Disney Wonder

Disney Cruise Line ‘s 1,754-passenger Disney Wonder (which can carry 2,713 guests when completely full) is the perfect size ship for a family cruise to Alaska. It’s smaller than many of the megaships catering to families in this part of the world, so guests can view glaciers and enjoy shore excursions without feeling too crowded.

The ship is full of Disney magic — photo ops with Mickey and friends and Disney princesses, restaurants themed to “The Little Mermaid” and “The Princess and the Frog” and a musical stage show of “Frozen.”

Cabins are thoughtfully designed for families, with plentiful bunkbeds and split bathrooms so two people can get ready for bed at once. Waiters assist with cutting up food for little cruisers or bringing pureed baby food, and the imaginative kids clubs keep little ones happily occupied when you’re not exploring in port.

Disney Wonder’s weeklong Alaska cruises sail round-trip from Vancouver, so all Americans, even kids, will need passports to fly in to the departure port. The ship visits Juneau, Ketchikan and either Skagway or Icy Strait Point, with glacier viewing at the Stikine Icecap. Seasonal sailings run May to September.

Related: Alaska cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

7-night Alaska cruise on Carnival Spirit

Carnival Cruise Line ’s Alaska cruises aboard the 2,124-guest Carnival Spirit might not be the cheapest sailings the line offers, but you get a lot for your money. Families will appreciate not having to pay extra for kid-friendly eats at the onboard pizzeria, Mexican outlet, Guy Fieri’s burger joint and all-day soft serve ice cream station. Comedy shows (both family-friendly and adults-only), an onboard water park, mini-golf and kid, tween and teen clubs are also included in the fare.

Cabins are no-frills but tend to be roomier than comparable cabins on competitors’ ships. Many rooms sleep four, but connecting cabins will get you more space and an extra bathroom while still keeping the family together.

Carnival Spirit spends summers in Alaska from late April to mid-September. It sails round-trip from Seattle and visits Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, BC, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

7-night Glacier Bay cruise on Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Cruise Line offers one of the longest cruise seasons in Alaska, and Norwegian Encore is based in the region from April through October each year. This might not help the typical family, but if your kids are young, you homeschool or have atypical breaks, a shoulder-season deal might be waiting for you.

The 3,998-passenger ship is NCL’s biggest, and families will be amazed at how much there is to do on board (though be prepared to pull out your credit card for the best activities). The ship features a laser tag arena, go-kart race track, virtual reality pavilion and water park.

Norwegian is also known for its entertainment, and after a day hiking on glaciers or chowing down at salmon bakes, you can take in the spectacular “Choir of Man,” sing along to the Beatles tribute show at The Cavern Club, or laugh yourself silly at The Social Comedy Club.

Like many of the best Alaska cruises for families, Norwegian Encore sails round-trip from Seattle, stopping in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan and Victoria. The standout day on this itinerary is scenic cruising in Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve , which only a limited number of ships can visit each year. Save more by taking advantage of Free at Sea perks , which often include a free beverage package, Wi-Fi, shore excursion credit, specialty dining and — perfect for families — free third and fourth guests in each cabin.

Related: Alaska cruise mistakes you never want to make

7-night Voyage of the Glaciers cruise on Royal Princess

Families with a little more vacation time might want to tack a visit to the Alaskan interior before or after their cruise, either independently or with a cruisetour. For this, you’ll need a one-way cruise that begins or ends in an Alaskan port.

A top candidate for this kind of family vacation is a seven-night cruise on Princess Cruises ‘ Royal Princess sailing between Vancouver and Whittier, Alaska. The ship stops in Ketchikan, Juneau and either Skagway or Sitka, with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and either College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier, depending on the itinerary.

It’s then up to you whether you spend you pre- or post-cruise time in the Kenai Fjord area, in Anchorage or traveling north to Denali National Park, Fairbanks or into the Arctic.

Royal Princess is known for its fan-favorite Alfredo’s pizza, Movies Under the Stars (when the Alaskan weather permits) and snacks and entertainment in the central Piazza. With its special North to Alaska activities, families can cuddle some adorable sled dogs on board the ship and meet Iditarod winners and other notable locals. Kids can become junior rangers with the help of the park rangers who come aboard the ship in Glacier Bay.

7-night Kids in Nature cruise on Wilderness Legacy

Suppose your family isn’t into the big-ship lifestyle and wants a small-ship, off-the-beaten-path experience that’s also geared toward families with kids and teens? In that case, the best family cruise to Alaska for you might be the “Kids in Nature” departures of UnCruise Adventures ’ 86-passenger Wilderness Legacy.

The ship sails round-trip from Juneau on “Glaciers & Wildlife” itineraries. These seven-night cruises include hiking and biking on Chichagof Island, daytime and evening kayak and skift tours in places like Patterson Bay and Robert and Crow Islands, exploring Glacier Bay’s less-visited “Outback” and visits to the LeConte and Baird Glaciers.

On three departure dates in June and July 2024, the Wilderness Legacy will staff up with “Kid Wranglers” who will lead the kid-focused activities. The minimum age to sail is 8 years old, but plenty of tweens and teens join the fun as well.

Bottom line

You no longer have to wait until you’re retired to explore Alaska. Take the kids on a weeklong exploration of the 49th State, and you’ll have plenty of cruise ships and itineraries to choose from. The best Alaska cruises for families combine action-packed itineraries with vessels designed for family fun, but we’re sure your family can find a way to have a great time up north no matter which cruise ship you choose.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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

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