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NCL's Free at Sea promotion: What to know before you book

Want a more inclusive experience on a large cruise ship filled with dining choices and activities? If so, Norwegian Cruise Line 's Free at Sea promotion might be just the ticket. This promo provides a number of "free" perks to guests based on the length of their cruise and the stateroom category booked ... but what does the fine print say? Are the perks really free?

In this piece, we're diving into everything you need to know about Norwegian's Free at Sea promotion so there are no surprises when it comes time to book your cruise.

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Overview of Norwegian Cruise Line's Free at Sea promotion

Norwegian's Free at Sea promotion offers guests several perks covered by the cruise fare, with the number often dependent upon the length of the cruise and the stateroom category chosen.

The choice of perks occasionally changes, but Norwegian typically offers the following five: a free drinks package, free specialty dining, free shore excursions, free Wi-Fi and free third and fourth guests in a cabin. Occasionally, free airfare or a 50% air credit for the second person in a cabin is also a Free at Sea option.

The Free at Sea promotion runs almost constantly, with the exact inclusions varying depending on which version of the promotion NCL is running at the time. Currently, you can book and receive all of the Free at Sea perks, though you can decline any you do not wish to receive.

Previously, you could choose the number of Free at Sea perks based on your cabin category. For example, if you booked a studio or interior cabin, you could only choose one perk. Oceanviews, balconies and minisuites could pick a few, while suites and The Haven staterooms received all perks. This version of the deal could come back, but we've been seeing it less frequently than we used to.

Note that this promotion only applies to voyages three nights or longer, and all passengers sharing a cabin must choose the same offers (if there is a choice). Those booking a "Sail Away" (guarantee) cabin are ineligible for Free at Sea. Charter sailings are ineligible as well.

What's included in NCL's Free at Sea promotion?

Let's take a look at what each Free at Sea perk entails and dive into the fine print, so you know exactly what you are (and aren't) getting.

Free Unlimited Open Bar package

The Unlimited Open Bar Package is Norwegian Cruise Line's base drinks package . The drinks package typically costs $109 per person, per day, plus a 20% gratuity, so it is by far the most popular perk chosen with the Free at Sea promotion (when a choice is offered).

The package includes unlimited soda and juice, beer and wine by the glass worth under $15, and select premium cocktails and spirits worth under $15. A 20% discount applies to bottles of wine and Champagne, wine and spirit experiences, tastings and flights purchased on board.

Related: Are cruise line drinks packages worth it?

The package does not include Starbucks, ice bars, room service, bottled water, beer buckets, designated "super" premium brands, minibar purchases, freshly squeezed juices, wine dispensers or energy drinks.

Here's what you need to know before you choose a beverage package as one of your Free at Sea offers: It's not really "free." You still have to pay the 20% gratuity on the full value of the package. This means that if you're 21 or older, you'll have to pay $21.80 per person, per day for "free" drinks. (That's $152.60 for a seven-night sailing.) If you're the first or second guest in a cabin and under 21 (meaning you have the soda package), you must pay $1.59 per person, per day.

If you drink alcohol and plan to enjoy it during your cruise, chances are good that choosing this perk will be well worth the daily gratuity you're charged. If you don't think you'll drink $22 worth of extra-fee beverages, alcoholic or not, per day, choose another perk or flat-out decline this Free at Sea offer. You'll end up saving money in the long run.

The drink packages extend to Norwegian Cruise Line's private island in the Bahamas , Great Stirrup Cay. They do not extend to the line's private destination in Belize, Harvest Caye.

This Free at Sea perk is available to the first through eighth guests on a reservation who are ages 21 and older. If the first and/or second guest in a cabin is under 21, they will receive Norwegian Cruise Line's Unlimited Soda Package (valued at $9.95 per person, per day) as a substitution. If additional guests and beyond are under 21, they will not receive a substitution for this perk. If you're 21 or older but do not drink, you cannot opt for the soda package instead.

Free specialty dining

With the free specialty dining Free at Sea perk, you'll get an included dining package, which lets you dine in one or more specialty restaurants without having to pay the per-person cost and without having to buy the package separately.

Through Free at Sea, the dining package applies to the first and second guests on a reservation who must be at least 2 years old. Here's a breakdown of how many specialty restaurant meals you get if you choose this perk, based on the length of the cruise and the cabin category you have.

You are subject to a 20% gratuity (based on NCL's assessment of the package's value), so as with the beverage package, the package isn't technically "free."

• Three- to six-night cruise, any cabin: one meal ($59 value, $11.80 gratuity/package)
• Seven- to 11-night cruise, studio, inside or oceanview cabin: one meal ($59 value, $11.80 gratuity/package)
• Seven- to 11-night cruise, balcony cabin or above: two meals ($99 value, $19.80 gratuity/package)
• Twelve-night cruise or longer, studio, inside or oceanview cabin: two meals ($99 value, $19.80 gratuity/package)
• Twelve-night cruise or longer, balcony cabin or above: three meals ($139 value, $27.80 gratuity/package)

Restaurants that you can use your specialty dining perk toward include Cagney's Steakhouse, La Cucina, Food Republic, Le Bistro, Moderno Churrascaria, Q Texas Smokehouse, Teppanyaki, Los Lobos, Ocean Blue, Bayamo and Onda by Scarpetta.

At a la carte restaurants, the dining package limits you to one appetizer, one soup or salad, one main course and one dessert. At Cagney's and Le Bistro, you are also limited to one main course per person (in addition to starters and desserts). Additional main courses are charged at the a la carte menu price.

Related: 5 reasons you should splurge on a cruise ship specialty restaurant

Harvest Caye restaurants, The Bake Shop, the Ice Cream Bar, gelato, specialty items in the Asian restaurant, Jazz Brunch, and Wine Lovers and Murder Mystery lunches are not included as part of the specialty dining packages.

Free shore excursions

If you plan to book shore excursions through the cruise line, this perk will likely be well worth it.

You don't necessarily get free excursions, though. Instead, you get a $50 shore excursion credit for the first guest on the cruise reservation in each port. Unlike some Free at Sea offers, this perk does not apply to the second guest. If the tour costs less than $50, no refund is issued. If it costs more than $50, you must pay the difference.

The credit does not apply to Great Stirrup Cay and Harvest Caye equipment rentals. Pre-cruise and post-cruise land tours, private tours and custom shore excursions are not eligible for this promotion; however, group debarkation-day tours are eligible. The first guest may redeem the $50 credit on more than one shore excursion per port but not tickets for them and a travel companion on the same tour.

If a port call or shore excursion is canceled, you'll be refunded the amount you paid. This means that if your shore excursion costs more than $50, you'll only be refunded the amount you paid above $50; you won't be refunded for the credit.

Related: Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

The free Wi-Fi perk does not give you unlimited internet access for the entire cruise. Instead, you get a number of free minutes, depending on the length of your sailing.

For a voyage that's three to six nights long, you get 75 minutes of internet per person. Seven- to 11-night cruises include 150 minutes of internet per person, while 12-night or longer sailings include 300 minutes of internet per person. Choosing Wi-Fi as one of your Free at Sea offers is actually free, as it includes the activation fee.

This offer applies to the first and second guests in a stateroom. Two logins are provided per stateroom, with each package able to be used on one device at a time. It does not allow for streaming.

Related: Wi-Fi on cruise ships: 5 things to know about internet use on board

If you think you'll need more internet, you can upgrade to Unlimited Wi-Fi or Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi (with streaming) for a discounted price as compared to the outright cost of those internet packages. This discount is thanks to a "credit" of the value of the minutes that are included in Free at Sea.

Free 3rd and 4th passengers in a cabin

This perk is not available on every sailing, so check before you book if you wish to take advantage of this freebie. Voyages during popular family cruise times (such as school breaks and summer) will not usually have this perk as an option.

The third and fourth guests staying in a cabin will either be free or pay $99 each with the first two guests paying full fare. No deposit is required for the third and fourth guests, but they do have to pay taxes and port fees. The exact charge for these taxes and fees varies based on the cruise length and itinerary but can be over $200 per person on some seven-day voyages.

Related: Kids cruise free: 7 cruise lines offering family deals

If there are five to eight passengers on a reservation, those additional guests are required to pay the prevailing fares.

Can I opt out of Free at Sea?

If your cruise booking comes with more Free at Sea perks than you want, you do not have to choose the amount you are allotted; you can decline any or all Free at Sea perks. For example, if your booking includes all current Free at Sea offers, but you know you won't drink enough soda, specialty beverages or alcohol to warrant the daily gratuity on the Free Open Bar package, you can decline that perk altogether.

If you choose to decline perks, remember that you can't transfer them to anyone else and won't receive any monetary value for giving them up.

Travelers on a tight budget who don't feel the need to take advantage of the Free at Sea perks can also consider booking a "Sail Away" (guarantee) cabin. Booking a guarantee cabin means choosing a cabin category but not a specific cabin on the ship. Closer to the sail date, the cruise line will assign you a cabin within the chosen category. Guarantee cabins are cheaper than booking a specific stateroom and are excluded from the Free at Sea promotion.

What is Free at Sea Plus?

If you want even more perks, you can upgrade to Free at Sea Plus for $49 per person, per day. If the second guest is a child, their upgrade is $29 per day.

Here's what you get with Free at Sea Plus:

• The Unlimited Open Bar Package is upgraded to the Premium Plus Beverage Package. It includes all top-shelf cocktails and spirits; all beer, Champagne and wine by the glass; unlimited soda and juice; unlimited still and sparkling bottled water; all Starbucks coffee and specialty drinks; and energy drinks. It also includes select premium bottles of wine and Champagne with dinner, as well as 40% off all other bottles.
• Two additional specialty dining meals for the first and second guests
• A shore excursion credit of $50 for the second guest
• Unlimited Wi-Fi (no streaming) for the first and second guests

The third guest on a reservation and beyond must purchase the Premium Plus Beverage Package if the first and second guests purchase Free at Sea Plus. They receive it at a reduced rate of $34.80 per person, per day, including gratuity.

If the second guest is a child, they get the same perks except for the Premium Plus Beverage Package; they would still receive the soda package.

Guests who upgrade to Free at Sea Plus can upgrade their unlimited Wi-Fi package to include streaming for an additional $10 per person, per day (applicable to the first and second guests only).

Frequently asked questions about NCL's Free at Sea

Still have a question about Free at Sea that hasn't been covered yet? We address additional concerns below.

Does Free at Sea include daily gratuities?

Sometimes, free daily gratuities pop up as a Free at Sea perk option, but not often. Most of the time, you'll have to pay the daily service charge as normal. It's $20 per person, per day for Club Balcony Suite staterooms and below, and $25 per person, per day for those staying in suites or The Haven. Babies and toddlers ages 2 and under are not subject to the daily service charge.

Does Free at Sea include airfare?

Occasionally, one of the Free at Sea perks is free airfare for the second guest on a reservation when the first guest also books airfare through Norwegian Cruise Line. This offer applies to seven-night or longer voyages and provides economy, round-trip flights from select departure gateways.

Solo travelers paying 200% of the voyage fare qualify for free airfare when offered. You are not eligible for the free air promotion if you book at the last minute (reservations must be made more than 110 days prior to sailing to qualify) or if you choose a Sail Away (guarantee) cabin.

If considering this perk, keep in mind that choosing it puts your air travel arrangements in the hands of Norwegian Cruise Line. While the flights they choose may be convenient and what you would choose yourself, they could also involve less-than-ideal timing, routing and layovers that you could avoid by booking your own air travel.

While this is a perk to consider if you want the cruise line to handle as much of your vacation as possible or you're looking to save on flights, it isn't one we'd recommend you choose.

Do Pride of America cruises offer the same perks?

Hawaii voyages aboard NCL's Honolulu-based ship, Pride of America, offer the same Free at Sea inclusions but have a beverage package perk that's a bit different from the traditional Free at Sea Open Bar package.

The Hawaii Beverage Package perk applies to the first through eighth guests on the reservation and includes a variety of drinks worth up to $15. Those who choose this perk must pay the gratuities, which are $19.80 per person, per day. The retail value of the Hawaii Beverage Package is $99 per person, per day.

The terms and conditions say, "The purchase of any alcoholic drinks within the Hawaii Beverage Package may, in certain individual circumstances, be restricted in accordance with Hawaii's Intoxicating Liquor Law and applicable local rules and regulations."

In addition to alcoholic beverages, the Hawaii package includes fountain soda, fresh juice, bottled water, nonalcoholic beer and specialty coffee ordered in the dining rooms only. It doesn't include specialty coffee outside the restaurants, room service, minibar purchases or vending machine purchases.

The main difference between the Hawaii Beverage Package and NCL's normal beverage package is that the Hawaii package includes specialty coffee in the main dining rooms while the normal one does not.

What else must I know about the NCL's Free at Sea promotion?

Here are some terms and conditions of the Free at Sea promotion:

• Free at Sea selections must be chosen at least 24 hours prior to sailing and cannot be changed once on board.
• For bookings made within 24 hours of departure, Free at Sea perks are chosen at the time of booking.
• Solo travelers paying 200% of the per-person voyage fare qualify for Free at Sea.
• Free at Sea is a cruise-only offer — it does not apply to the land portion of Cruisetours.

Bottom line

If you book a specific cabin with Norwegian Cruise Line, some form of the Free at Sea promotion is almost guaranteed to be included in your reservation. Free at Sea is a great value if you plan to fully take advantage of each perk. If some inclusions work for you but others do not, carefully consider whether the value is worth the cost (i.e., gratuities). Don't be afraid to decline any perks you don't want.

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Norwegian Cruise Line Internet Packages: Before You Buy

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. We may receive compensation when you purchase via my links at no cost to you. See my disclosure for more information.

If you’ve booked a cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line, you might wonder what you can expect from their WiFi packages. How fast is the internet? And is it worth it?

We’ll share our firsthand experience using the Norwegian Cruise Line internet packages and answer your questions. We even conducted several speed tests to see how fast are Norwegian Cruise Line Internet Packages.

Here’s everything you need to know about Norwegian Cruise Line’s WiFi packages.

Table of Contents

Norwegian Cruise Line Internet Packages

Norwegian Cruise Line offers two ways to purchase and use the internet.

NCL offers two unlimited internet packages, the basic Unlimited WiFi and an upgrade plan with faster speeds called Unlimited Premium WiFi .

Here’s what’s included with each package:

In addition to the packages above, you can purchase 250 minutes of internet , which can be used on your device or at the internet cafe on the cruise ship.

Unlimited WiFi Package

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Unlimited WiFi package provides internet access for web browsing, email, and social media. It’s designed for guests who need to stay connected but don’t require high bandwidth for streaming or downloading large files.

The chart below outlines the cost of the NCL Unlimited internet package. You’ll save money on the internet plan when you purchase the Unlimited WiFi plan in advance, as prices are higher once onboard the cruise ship.

*Prices in USD

Unlimited Premium WiFi Package

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Unlimited Premium WiFi package is a step up from their basic offering, catering to guests who need more robust internet connectivity during their cruise. The premium internet plan offers more bandwidth, allowing you to stream video and music, make video calls, and handle large file downloads or uploads.

The faster internet speeds also make it more pleasurable to surf the web.

The package is also designed to provide a more consistent and reliable internet connection, though this can vary with the ship’s location and other factors.

The chart below outlines the cost of the NCL Unlimited Premium Internet package. Like the basic WiFi plan, you’ll save money on the package when you purchase it in advance, as prices are higher once onboard the cruise ship.

* Prices in USD

How Fast is WiFi on NCL

I recently tested the Unlimited WiFi package onboard Norwegian Bliss. The WiFi plan does not allow for streaming, but we were comfortable with the unlimited web browsing and email service.

So, how fast is Norwegian Cruise Line’s WiFi?

I conducted speed tests throughout the cruise to get an accurate measure of the internet speed at different times of the day and in different locations.

Norwegian’s Unlimited WiFI averages 3-5 Mbps download speed and upload speeds between 0.1-0.25 Mbps . These speeds are slower than you might be used to but fast enough for basic web surfing and on par for similar cruise ship internet packages.

We noticed a few days on the cruise where the WiFi continually went in and out. And speaking with other passengers, many mentioned the same issue. However, the internet connection was consistent and reliable on most days on the ship.

It should be noted that we were using the basic WiFi plan. You should expect faster speeds if you purchase the Unlimited Premium Internet Package.

Users who purchased the Premium WiFi reported internet speeds between 5 to 10 Mbps.

The most significant benefit of upgrading to Premium Internet is the ability to stream and video call. I’ll definitely purchase Premium WiFi on my next Norwegian cruise to take advantage of the faster speeds.

Bottom line:  Web pages may take a little longer to load than you are used to, and the connection might fade in and out depending on the ship’s location. The internet connection is reliable and fast enough for basic internet browsing.

How to Get a Discount on the Internet Packages

If you  purchase an internet package on your cruise , you can get a discount by booking in advance. Buying the internet package before your cruise sailing date saves you up to 15% on the WiFi plan.

You will pay full price once you get on board, so do yourself a favor and purchase it in advance.

You can also get a discount on internet packages as part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Promotion . 

The Free at Sea promotion offers several perks to customize your cruise experience. The popular promotion includes several benefits as part of the cruise fare, such as an NCL drinks package , shore excursion credits, and specialty dining options.

You can select “Free WiFi” as your Free at Sea perk, but you don’t get the full internet package. 

The Free WiFi perk gives you 250 minutes of basic internet access to use anytime during your voyage. The number of free minutes you get depends on the length of your cruise:

• For 3-6 day cruises, you’ll receive 75 minutes of WiFi.
• For 7-12-day cruises, 150 minutes are included.
• For cruises 13 days or longer, 300 minutes of WiFi is offered.

But you can upgrade to Free at Sea Plus for unlimited internet access.

What if you run out of minutes?

If you run out of minutes, you’ll have to purchase another internet package to continue accessing the cruise ship’s WiFi.

I recommend keeping your WiFi off when not in use, as many mobile apps periodically connect to the internet to receive updates, eating away at your precious minutes.

Tip: If you get an NCL’s Drink Package, I recommend choosing Free Drinks instead of the free WiFi. That’s because the drink package is more expensive, and you’ll save a lot more money than if you were to purchase the drink package and take the Free WiFi. 

Using Multiple Devices With One Package

Cruise ship internet is expensive. Fortunately, you can save money using one internet package with multiple devices.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s internet packages aren’t tied to one device, allowing you to switch between devices with a single-device plan. This means that even though the package is for one device at a time, it’s possible to alternate between different devices as needed.

For example, you can switch the connection between a laptop and a mobile phone as long as only one device is connected at a time. If you try to connect with a different device, the previously connected device loses internet connection.

Switching between devices is a great way to save money on your cruise if you don’t need a constant internet connection.

Marcello De Lio

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I am sailing on the Bliss next week and the website doesn’t show the premium internet. Do you know if that only can be booked onboard? Just to text family on board to get together for supper etc what is required if anything

Hi Monique,

You should be able to book it in advance, which I recommend. We were able to use the premium internet on our Norwegian Bliss voyage so I don’t know why it wouldn’t be available on your sailing. I don’t have any insider knowledge so I won’t be able to help much. But, you can call Norwegian support (1.866.234.7350) for specific information or visit https://www.ncl.com/ca/en/onboard-packages/internet-packages

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Good Deal? Everything to Know About Norwegian’s “Free At Sea” Sale

Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Free at Sea” deal is one of the most appealing cruise line offers out there. After all, everyone likes getting something for free.

But is it a good deal? It is worth buying? And what details should you know when you book?

While cruise passengers have gotten used to shelling out plenty of cash for extras on the ship after they board, not everyone likes being nickeled-and-dimed.

That’s why this offer aims to provide many of the extras you’d normally buy on a trip, all included in your cruise fare at a price that’s normally less than if you booked them all separately. That gives you a more all-inclusive atmosphere on the ship, instead of worrying about more spending once on the ship.

With Free at Sea, you book a cruise and get any number of “free” perks included with your cruise. While what’s offered to passengers does change slightly from time to time, the traditional deal offers a lineup of perks for you to select from:

• Free open bar
• Free specialty dining
• Free shore excursions
• Free third/fourth guests

So with the deal you can pay one price and then get drinks for the duration of your trip, wi-fi, shore excursions, and more.

Norwegian has been offering some version of the sale for some time now. And anecdotally, it’s one of the most appealing offers out there. Who doesn’t want to get free drinks or free specialty dining tacked onto their cruise? In fact, it promises to take away so many of the extra charges that creep into the cost of a cruise these days.

But while the sale sounds mouth-watering, there are definitely some things you will want to know before you purchase your fare in order to get the best deal… and avoid any surprises.

In This Article...

The Number of Perks May Depend On Your Cabin Type (But Often Includes All Perks For Every Cabin)

First things first, while you can get all the perks included with your cruise, the number of freebies you can select may depend on the type of cabin that you purchase. Often no matter which cabin type you book, all the perks are included. Other times, it may be that the higher grade of cabin you choose, the more picks you receive. The offer can change occasionally.

If you book at a time when not everything is included, then if you pick a studio or inside cabin, you might only be offered one or two free perks. Oceanview, balcony, and mini-suites will usually get to pick more offers offers, while suites, and The Haven cabins normally get to select all the perks. 

But it seems limiting the perks based on cabin type is becoming less common . For example, as of this writing all cabins — regardless of if they are inside rooms or top-of-the-line suites — are able to get all the perks included in their fare.

Sometimes More Perks Are Offered

In addition to changing the number of perks included with the room you book, NCL also adjusts the actual perks themselves at times. Typically, this means adding a perk or two occasionally to sweeten the offer.

What you’ll find is the five base “freebies” don’t change. They include: 

But occasionally the cruise line adds in other deals. Most recently we’ve seen seen free airfare for second guests (for those flying to the port) and free cruise credit to put toward booking another trip while onboard the ship.

The Free at Sea Offer Runs Consistently

With the ability to get all the perks included with your cruise, it can be tempting to want to jump at the deal so that you don’t miss out. In fact, normally you’ll see a timer on the Norwegian website counting down until the sale ends.

In this case, you don’t seem to have much to worry about. The offer has run in some form or another (there are small tweaks here and there) for years. And while we don’t check every day, we can’t think of a time in recent history that it hasn’t been offered.

So yes, the sale may change slightly, but some form is seemingly always offered. Don’t think you have to rush to buy or risk missing out. If the time isn’t quite right to book, you’ll most likely see something similar when you are ready.  

Rooms Without Perks Are Less Expensive (If You Can Find Them)

One of the things you might not realize is that you can purchase cabins on the ship without the perks offered. Why would you want to do that? Sailing without the perks is actually cheaper than buying the same cabin as part of the sale.

Take a balcony cabin we found for 7-day Alaskan cruise, for instance. The price per person for a balcony cabin that included the Free at Sea offer was $2,369 per person. 

Norwegian also offers a “Sail Away” balcony, which is a room that’s not part of the promotion, and the cruise line picks your room. In return, you get a cheaper rate. In this case, it was $2,319 per person.

So the Free at Sea deal was actually $50 more per person — or $100 extra for a couple sailing together.

Remember that for that price difference you get all the perks and get to choose your actual cabin on the ship. As well, if you plan to buy things like drink packages ($109 per person, per day), you still come out way ahead despite the higher price. Still, it is a higher price to pay for the same type of room.

If the perks aren’t something you’ll use, then it may not be worth it for you to book the offer. But for most people, it likely will be worth the extra cost.

One thing to note is that it seems the fares without the offer often say they are sold out on NCL’s website. It may be difficult for you to find a fare without the offer.

You May HAVE to Buy the Free at Sea Offer

In years past, there was a rather large difference between the cruise fares with the Free at Sea offer and those sail away balconies (on the order of hundreds of dollars). Then that difference seemed to get smaller and smaller to where booking with the offer was a no-brainer. Now, it can be seemingly tough to find a cruise without the offer included.

During our most recent price checks, we looked at several cruises departing in the weeks ahead all the way to more than a year out. On none of them were we able to find a sail away room available. While the option was shown for all cruises, the website labeled them all sold old — even for cruises leaving more than a year from now. Meanwhile, there were still options available with the Free at Sea perks included.

In other words, if you wanted a fare without the offer, it may be tough to find.

You Still Have to Pay Gratuity… Even on Free Things

One of the biggest draws to the Norwegian sale is that you can get free open bar on your trip. With the price of alcohol on a cruise being high (think $10-14 for a cocktail or about $6-8 for a beer), having free bar privileges can be a huge money saver. Meanwhile, Norwegian charges $109 for an unlimited drink package. On a 7-day trip, that’s hundreds of dollars you’re saving by having it included.

But with the free drink package (as well as other things like specialty restaurants), you are still on the hook for gratuities. With Norwegian, that’s an automatic 20% on the value of the package, or $21.80 per person, per day. For two people, that’s $43.60 each day.

So on a 7-day cruise, a couple will end up paying more than $300 in gratuities for your “free” drinks.

It’s similar with the specialty dining package. There, you will see gratuities on the free meals with the offer, which are paid when booking.

You can opt out of the free drink package and specialty dining to avoid paying the gratuities. (See more on that below.)

You Don’t Have to Select a Perk If You Don’t Want It

With the extra gratuity cost of some perks like free drinks and specialty dining, there can actually be a disadvantage to having it included on your cruise if you don’t use these offers. That’s ok. When you book, you don’t have to take advantage of every single perk that’s offered.

When making your reservation, you have the choice to opt out of those packages that require a gratuity charge such as the drink package and specialty dining. That way if you don’t think you’ll get your money’s worth, you don’t have to pay the gratuity charge.

Understand the Terms & Conditions Before Booking (Lots of Fine Print)

In general the perks from Norwegian are straightforward, but there are some terms you should know about.

Gratuities: We’ve mentioned that gratuities are still charged even on free perks. But if you take advantage of the third and fourth guests in a cabin sail free perk, they will still be charged a daily service charge of $20 per person on the ship like any other passenger.

Specialty Dining: While other things to know include that the free specialty dining perk is only for a some meals (two per person in total for a 7-day cruise if booking a balcony cabin, for example but only one per person in a studio, inside, or oceanview) and gratuities are also charged on the value of the package.

Wi-Fi: The free wi-fi offer is for only 75 minutes on cruises less than seven days or 150 minutes for trips of 7-11 days. It is not unlimited.

Shore Excursions: While the shore excursions are labeled as “free” in fact, it is actually a $50 credit for the first guest, per excursion. If your excursion is more, then you’ll need to pay the difference. And NCL says the “offer is application to first guest on the cruise reservation” — not multiple guests in the cabin.

For the full terms and conditions of the offers, you can click here . And here is a breakdown of what’s included from Norwegian Cruise Line.

“Free At Sea Plus” Offer Could Be Better For You

Maybe you’ve made the choice to book Free at Sea instead of a basic cabin without the perks. There’s one more choice to consider, and that is Free at Sea versus Free at Sea Plus.

Norwegian has created an upgrade with the following perks included:

• Premium Plus Beverage Package (includes all top-shelf spirits)
• Two additional specialty dining meals
• $50 shore excursion credit per tour for both first and second passenger
• Unlimited wi-fi for first and second passenger  

Compared to the regular Free at Sea deal, this includes a higher-tier drink package , more specialty dining meals, an additional $50 credit per shore excursion, and unlimited wi-fi instead of a bundle of minutes.

The price runs $49 per person, per day ($29 pp for kids and $42 pp if traveling solo).

Given the list prices of these services, you do come out ahead with this package if you used the features. For instance, the Premium Plus Beverage Package is $29 more per day while unlimited wi-fi runs $30-40 per day. That alone is more than the $49 per day that you’ll spend. Add on a couple of uses of the $50 shore excursion credit and the additional meals, and you’re well in the black.

But these are also extras that you may not need. For instance, many passengers would be just fine with the basic drink package. Some may not need unlimited wi-fi. Others may take only an excursion or two during the trip, meaning the discount isn’t as big a deal.

Before you book, you’ll want to do the math to figure if the daily cost ($98 a day for a couple traveling) is worth the upgrade. 

Check Prices on Airfare Offers

One of the perks that can be popular for people living a distance from the port is free airfare. Often, it is free for the second guest on the cruise, although the offer specifics can vary.

As you might expect, there are some caveats when it comes to free flights. Most notably, airfare charges will vary depending on where you’re flying from. You’ll be able to select your departure city, and then it will tell you the price of airfare for the guest that does have to pay.

In that case, it’s worth a quick search of flight-search websites like Kayak to see what the airfare rate will be. In a recent search, we found flights on our own for several hundred dollars cheaper than what we were quoted on the NCL website. However, when you consider the free airfare for the second guest, the Free at Sea offer was better overall.  

Good Deal? Likely, but Do the Math Before You Buy

For many people, selecting the Free at Sea offer is a no-brainer (or may be required if a sail away fare isn’t available), and they will end up saving a considerable amount of money. 

But if you aren’t a big drinker or plan to drive to the port instead of fly, or don’t care about shore excursions, it could be that buying the cheaper cabin is worth it for you. After all, you’ll have to pay gratuities on the drink package, still have to pay for some flights, and pay gratuities on specialty restaurant dining.

So if you won’t use the perks that are offered, be sure to consider if the deal is worth paying the higher price. If not, then you might be better off sailing without them. Even so, there’s a reason the offer is popular — for many people it’s a smart move.

More on Sailing NCL:

Worth It? Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide

• 25+ Fun Must-Do Things on a Norwegian Cruise

20+ Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know

Popular: 39 useful things to pack (17 you wouldn't think of), read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, 10 major differences between royal caribbean and norwegian cruise line (ncl), ‘be on time’: cruisers show little sympathy for ncl passengers who missed ship, norwegian cruise line gratuities (tips): full guide to cost & how they work, ncl welcomes its newest ship — norwegian viva — to fleet.

Ncl offers additional 50% off from normal 50% off. It says upon reservation to see as it is added to latitudes account. So in order to actually see total cost I have to book the cruise?

Please Beware, If you take the “Free” drink package you will be charged the $19.80 per day regardless of weather you drink or not, we do not drink. When I asked for a refund of the $200 gratuities Norwegian now says it is a service charge and not refundable. So the “Free” drink package cost us $200, IMO very dishonest and misleading.

Also they advertise a Bingo with a $5000 prize. AFTER you buy the tickets then then tell you the “RULES” You have to get a full card in 47 or less numbers to get this prize. It has about the same odds as getting struck by lightning.

At this point if you are considering a cruise with this company please investigate their claims carefully. This is my 4th cruise and the first with Norwegian while the entertainment and food were decent their business practices are very suspect .

I bough the cheaper inside cabin and got 2 free perks and 50 dolars OBC. The gratuities are included we don’t have to pay more. https://www.ncl.com/es/en/free-at-sea “Offer is applicable to all categories including IX, OX, BX and MX (Sail Away Categories).” “20% gratuities on the retail value of the Premium Beverage Package ($19.80 USD per person per day) and/or Soda Package ($1.59 USD per person per day) are included.”

Looks like you’re booking a cruise in Europe. For U.S. departures, there is still the $19.80 in gratuities you have to pay:

“Guest is responsible for 20% gratuities on the retail value of the Premium Beverage Package ($19.80 per person per day) and/or Soda Package ($1.59 per person per day) prior to cruise.”

What a joke, only get the one free perk when you book inside cabin, if you do not buy the least expensive inside cabin. If you upgrade (pay more) you could get the one free perk of $50 per cabin. Just spoke to Norwegian on the phone, to get the correct information. I Asked about the cost to use the bowling alley on the pearl, which I saw on a review from a past guest was $5. But this rep told me there is no bowling alley, now I am confused. Any body got any more interesting tips around things we should know about before we sail. Love to hear from you.

Been on the Pearl 5 years ago. Yes they have a bowling alley. I believe 4 lanes only. Line to use it was crazy. Not worth it. Also this ship had very few bars and lounges. They used the space to put in many specialty (pay extra) restaurants. I’d never go back on the Pearl.

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NCL Free At Sea: Everything You Need to Know

What exactly is “NCL Free at Sea”? Dive into the Norwegian Free at Sea promotion and explore the latest NCL Free at Sea Plus addition. Is it a worthwhile choice?

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea offer includes free specialty dining, unlimited open bar, Wi-Fi minutes, shore excursion credits, and sometimes 3rd & 4th guests free and-or free flights. But is it a fit for every cruiser?

After our Norwegian Joy cruise , we debated the value of the beverage package. One of us is completely sober, questioning its worth. But then, on our Norwegian Encore cruise to Alaska , we upgraded to the NCL Free at Sea Plus .

Let’s look at what’s included in your options and help determine if you should take advantage of the NCL’s year-round promotion offers and if upgrading to NCL Free at Sea Plus is worth it. Follow along as we review Norwegian’s Free at Sea offer in 2024.

Which one is your favorite Norwegian Free at Sea perk?

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission at no extra cost. Please refer to our  full disclosure  for details.

• The pricing and examples provided apply to a seven-night duration and are calculated for two passengers.
• Tasty Itinerary is an independent entity not associated with or employed by Norwegian Cruise Line.

Table of Contents

What is Norwegian’s Free at Sea?

Norwegian’s Free at Sea is a promotion that allows cruisers of the following perks:

Free Unlimited Open Bar

Free specialty dining, free shore excursions.

The 5th and 6th perk rotates throughout the year, and sometimes they are both offered at the same time.

• Free 3rd & 4th Guests

Free Airfare

** The NCL Free at Sea package does not apply to Sail Away rates and cabins.

Upgrades Available:

• NCL Free at Sea Plus Explained

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Original Free At Sea Promotions Explained

Let’s dive in and look at the NCL Free at Sea offers so you can decide if they’re right for you.

• Make sure to go through the Terms & Conditions of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free At Sea promotions. While we cover essential details below, it’s advisable to familiarize yourself with the additional fine print.

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NCL Free at Sea Open Bar

Premium Beverage Package for cruises over three days (valued at $109 per person daily).

• Covers drinks up to $15; extra charges for exceeding this limit.
• Free-flowing cocktails, wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages (up to $15) from boarding to disembarkation, including some favorite NCL cruise cocktails .
• You can order two drinks at a time.
• Exclusions: Unlimited bottled water, bottles of wine, energy drinks, specialty coffees, mini bar items, high-end spirits, etc.
• Free open bar for guests 1-8, aged 21 and older; minors get the soda package.
• 20% service/gratuities of the value of the package is added to the cruise fare.

Is there a service fee for the NCL Free at Sea Open Bar?

Yes. Opting for the NCL Free At Sea drink package adds a 20% gratuity to your cruise fare, calculated on the Beverage Package’s value ($109 per person per day for double occupancy) at the time of booking. The service charge is automatically included when you add this perk to your reservation.

Is Norwegian Free at Sea Open Bar worth it?

Whether the cruise drink package is worth it depends on your drink preferences and consumption. Calculate daily drinks at $9 to $15 each, reaching at least $305 for a 7-day cruise for two.

• If the estimate exceeds the service fee, it’s worthwhile.
• If it equals the service fee, it’s still worth considering.
• If it’s half the service fee or less, it may not be the best choice.

The beverage package offers convenience for worry-free ordering, whether you prefer soda or virgin frozen drinks.

Alternatively, a soda package at $9.95 per person daily plus a 20% gratuity is an option. However, after doing the math, you might find the Free Open Bar’s gratuities provide better value.

Calculation example: ($10 per drink) x (how many drinks a day) = estimated total for one cruise day. (Total of one cruise day) x (# of days of your cruise) = estimated total for the entire cruise. You can also use our handy Cruise Drink Package Calculator below.

Cruise Drink Calculator

Option to Upgrade to the NCL Free at Sea Plus

Another option is upgrading the Free at Sea Open Bar to the Premium Plus Beverage Package without having to upgrade to the full NCL Free at Sea Plus . The Premium Plus Beverage Package costs $29 per person per day, plus 20% gratuity.

With the NCL Free at Sea Plus , your beverage package will be upgraded to the Premium Plus Beverage Package, which includes Starbucks, all bottled water, high-end spirits, and more.

About the Hawaii Beverage Package

Pride of America sailings does not qualify for the Free at Sea Open Bar offer. It has a similar Hawaii Beverage Package; the difference is that it includes bottled water and specialty coffee (in dining rooms only). It applies to guests 1-8 in the stateroom.

Read more: Norwegian Drink Packages Explained

NCL Free Specialty Dining

Free Specialty Dining Package Inclusions (NCL):

• Guests enjoy complimentary meals at specialty restaurants.
• The number of meals included in the offer depends on the stateroom type and the length of the cruise.
• Applies to guests 1 & 2.
• Covers one appetizer, soup or salad, main entree, and dessert per guest.
• 20% service/gratuities added to the cruise fare.
• Other stateroom guests: Purchase a dining package or pay a la carte.
• Children can order from the kid’s menu.

How many meals are included in NCl free at sea?

The free specialty dining is a great offer if you enjoy eating at the cruise ship’s pay restaurants. As foodies, we take full advantage of this offer.

You can make reservations for specialty restaurant dining starting 90 days before embarkation day . You can also book your dining reservations on embarkation day. So, if they seem to be booked full online, don’t worry; the ship only releases a certain percentage of the reservations online. Just wait till you embark on making the reservations.

What is included in the free specialty dining package on NCL?

When dining at an ala carte restaurant, the NCL free specialty dining package will cover one appetizer, soup or salad, a main entree, and dessert for each guest (guests 1 & 2). If the restaurant cost is a cover charge, then the dining package will cover the cover charge to that restaurant.

Is there a service fee for the NCL Free at Sea Specialty Dining?

Yes, a 20% service fee covers the value of a specialty dining package, which retails at $89 to $119 per person. The service fee is minimal, ranging from $10 to $24 per person.

If you add this perk to your reservation, the service charge is automatically added to the cost of your cruise.

Is Norwegian Free at Sea Specialty Dining worth it?

Since the service fee is minimal, it is well worth the cost of their NCl specialty dining package to dine at the ala carte specialty restaurants. These restaurants serve top-notch gourmet food that differs from the main dining room. Your dinners easily add up to over $100 at a specialty restaurant without a specialty dining package.

This offer allows you to try out some of the best restaurants at sea without breaking the bank.

It may not be worth it if you don’t think you’ll use it or if you plan to eat most of your meals at the buffet.

If you upgrade to the Free at Sea Plus , you will receive two additional specialty dining meals for guests 1 & 2.

Want additional specialty dining meals without upgrading to the Free at Sea Plus ? Upgrade for $69 per person, plus 20% gratuity for an additional 2 Meal Dining Package .

NCL Free at Sea Shore Excursions

• Not a free excursion, but a $50 discount.
• Applies only to the first guest in the reservation.
• Credit is applied to shore excursions booked with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Consider it a discount for shore excursions at all ports of call in your itinerary (excluding pre/post-cruise tours). If you discover a shore excursion priced at $50 or less, it could be a “free” excursion for one person.

Is there a service fee for the NCL Free at Sea Free Shore Excursions?

No. There is no service fee added when booking shore excursions.

Is Norwegian Free at Sea Shore Excursions worth it?

It all depends on your port preferences. If you tend to book cruise line-sponsored excursions at every port, this offer can be a money-saver—a handy discount. However, keep in mind that cruise ship-advertised tour costs can be inflated. Before deciding, compare them with independently run tours.

For cruisers who prefer independent exploration or booking their excursions, as we do, this offer might not be the most valuable choice.

In exceptional instances, you might stumble upon tours, tickets, or transfers at port that align with the discount’s value, essentially converting it into a complimentary tour.

Read more: Tips to Book Cruise Shore Excursions On Your Own

Thinking about upgrading to Free at Sea Plus ? When you upgrade, a $50 credit is added to guest 2 in the cabin. This brings the shore excursion credit to $100 per stateroom per tour ($50 per guest 1 & 2).

NCL Free at Sea Wi-Fi

The Wi-Fi Free offers include internet minutes you can use during your cruise.

• 75 minutes per person (guests 1 & 2) for 3-6 day cruises
• 150 minutes per person (guests 1 & 2) for 7-11 day cruises
• 300 minutes per person (guests 1 & 2) for cruises over 12 days

Is there a service fee for the NCL Free at Sea WiFi?

No service fee.

Is Norwegian Free at Sea WiFi worth it?

It depends on your internet usage plans. The free minutes suffice for checking emails and texts a few times on the cruise until you’re onshore.

Choosing this perk won’t incur any extra cost as part of the “choose all perks” offer.

With Free at Sea Plus , you will receive unlimited internet for guests 1 & 2, but it will not include streaming.

You can upgrade your Free at Sea WiFi to Unlimited Wifi without upgrading to the full Free at Sea Plus package.

• Unlimited WiFi (no streaming): $109.03/person (guest 1&2).
• Premium Unlimited WiFi (with streaming): $179.93/person (guest 1&2).

3rd & 4th Guests Sail Free

NCL Free 3rd & 4th Guests

This NCL Free At Sea Offer is free to cruise fare and is known as 3rd & 4th guests Free or at $99 per guest. Sometimes, this promo is also known as “Kids Sail Free.”

• 3 & 4 Guests Sail Free or for $99 per guest, with dates subject to change without notice.
• Only available on select sailings.
• Only valid for guests 3-4 sharing a stateroom with guests 1-2 paying full fare. Guests 5-8 in a reservation must pay fares.

The NCL Free at Sea offer for the third and fourth guests in a stateroom is great for families of four or groups of friends willing to share a cabin.

This offer is not always available as a perk, but it comes up often.

NCL Free at Sea Airfare

This perk offers a roundtrip economy airfare for the 2nd guest, occasionally a 50% credit. The 1st guest will have to pay full airfare via NCL.

• The promotion applies to guests 1-2 only.
• Does not apply to sail away sailings.
• Not available for sailings less than 7 nights.
• Deviation requests of 2 days before or after the cruise need to be submitted in advance.

How does NCL free airfare work?

Norwegian takes charge of your airfare, determining the flight details closer to the cruise date. This could result in multi-stop flights that might have been direct if booked independently.

Opting for flexibility may lead to significant savings, especially for international cruises with embarkation and disembarkation in foreign destinations.

While the potential savings are considerable, the drawback lies in relinquishing control over the airfare details.

We personally don’t favor NCL’s free airfare due to the lack of control over specifics. Our advice is to handle your airfare independently to avoid surprises.

The Option to Upgrade with Norwegian Free at Sea Plus

What is Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Plus?

NCL Free at Sea Plus is the latest addition to Norwegian’s Free at Sea program. And it is a game changer! You can elevate your Norwegian cruise vacation by upgrading to the NCL Free at Sea Plus for an additional cost per person. It includes an upgraded version of everything in the original Free at Sea promotion.

What is the cost of the NCL Free at Sea Plus ?

Upgrading to NCL Free at Sea Plus is an extra $49 per person daily for guests 1 & 2, plus gratuities. It’s important to note that you must have initially selected the original Free at Sea promo to qualify for this upgrade.

What is included in the NCL Free at Sea Plus ?

NCL Free at Sea Plus (based on a 7-day cruise on a balcony and above) includes:

• Premium Beverage Plus Package
• 4-night Specialty Dining Package (two nights from the original Free-at-Sea promo, plus two nights from the Free-at-Sea Plus upgrade)
• $100 shore excursion credit per tour ($50 for the 1st passenger from the original promo, plus $50 for the 2nd passenger with the NCL Free-at-Sea Plus upgrade)
• Unlimited Wifi (no streaming)

Is the Free at Sea Plus worth it?

That is going to be up to your budget and cruise vacation style. Will you drink an additional $700+ on a 7-day cruise? Is two extra nights of specialty dining and free unlimited Wi-Fi (no streaming) important to you?

We upgraded to the Free at Sea Plus Package on our Norwegian Encore cruise and found it valuable, even though my husband is sober. By the end of the cruise, we came out even.

We ordered all the Starbucks we wanted to drink and multiple pellegrinos throughout the day, and I ordered top-shelf drinks and even enjoyed $30 glasses of champagne at Le Bistro. The unlimited Wi-Fi kept us in touch with our dog sitter and family. We tried two extra specialty restaurants, and was worth it since it was a full-capacity cruise and the MDRs were overwhelmed.

It was fun. It was convenient. And it worked for us and what we wanted out of our cruise.

NCL Free at Sea FAQs

How many norwegian free at sea promotions can you choose.

Typically, the number of perks you can choose is determined by the booked cabin category. However, keep an eye out for limited-time offers where all cabin categories may have the option to select all the available offers. The Open Bar perk extends to guests 1-8, while the remaining perks apply to the lead guests 1 & 2 in the stateroom .

Is NCL free at sea really free?

Not entirely. While the package is labeled as “free,” a service fee/gratuity is attached, depending on the selected offers. If you opt for the “free” Open Bar or the “free” Dining Package, a 20% gratuity/service fee, calculated based on the package value, is added to your cruise fare.

In essence, the package is complimentary, but gratuities/service fees are not covered.

The debate about whether it’s genuinely free due to the service fee is subjective—some argue tipping bartenders for drinks is common.

Another important consideration in marketing and promotions is that the cost of many of these “free perks” is likely already included in the overall cruise fare . Despite this, the allure of complimentary perks remains universally appealing.

Does NCL Free at Sea Include Gratuities?

Cruise gratuities are not part of the NCL Free at Sea package. Although there have been instances when free gratuities were offered as a perk, they typically exclude gratuities on beverage packages, dining packages, and other services.

When does Norwegian’s Free at Sea sale happen?

The NCL Free at Sea promotion is ongoing throughout the year. Perks may vary, offering a choice of 2 or all, with occasional additions of other NCL promotions to enhance its appeal.

When does the Norwegian Free at Sea promotion end?

The Norwegian Free at Sea promotion never ends. The perks rotate or change throughout the year and sometimes with additional perks.

Is Norwegian Free at Sea worth it?

The NCL Free at Sea can be worth it, especially if your drinking habits align with the perks and you enjoy dining at specialty restaurants. It becomes a great promotion when you see the additional gratuities as added value.

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BEFORE YOU SET SAIL, HERE ARE SOME RELATED ARTICLES YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS:

• NCL Drink Package List Explained
• Norwegian Cruise Drinks Cruisers Love
• 10 Highlights of Norwegian Cruise Line
• Getting Ready for Your Cruise: 11 Tips

Meet Kathy Ava, a food, travel, and cruise writer based in Los Angeles/Pasadena, and the owner and main writer of Tasty Itinerary. With over 20 years of experience planning trips and logistics at her full-time job and for herself, she's become a pro at crafting unforgettable tasty itineraries. She's always on the hunt for delicious, fun travel destinations and cruise itineraries. She firmly believes that life is short and we must make the most of it, so always say yes to dessert.

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This was very helpful. Thank you so much for sharing your knowledge.

Appreciate your comment. Happy to hear it helped.

I tried Norwegian's 'Free at Sea' promo for complimentary drinks, excursions, and more. My cruise was a great value but not as all-inclusive as it seemed.

• After 50+ cruises, I booked my first sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line using a "Free at Sea" promo.
• The promo promised everything from free bar drinks to included internet, specialty dining, and more.
• Some of the perks advertised fell short, but it saved my family a lot of money on our vacation.

As a frequent cruiser, I've often seen ads for Norwegian Cruise Line's (NCL) "Free at Sea" promotions, which promise a variety of complimentary perks, including specialty dining , bar packages, internet, shore excursions, and more. 

So, when booking a recent sailing to the Norwegian fjords I decided to try NCL and see if its "Free at Sea" package lived up to the hype. 

Ultimately, my family of three enjoyed the benefits this offering provided during our 10-night sailing on the Norwegian Prima. However, a few things surprised me . 

Here are the main things you should know if you're considering booking the package yourself. 

The number of included perks can vary based on the length of the cruise and the level of stateroom you purchase, so read the fine print.

NCL's "Free at Sea" promotion comes with various perks, but the exact benefits available vary based on several factors, including the length of the sailing, what type of stateroom you choose , and more. 

For example, I booked an ocean-view stateroom for my sailing, which entitled me and my husband to one complimentary meal in the specialty dining restaurant of our choice. However, guests who opted for a pricier balcony or suite room received additional dining credits.

Before booking, it's important to research and read all the fine to better understand what's included with your sailing .

The complimentary beverage package was the best deal, but it came with a few caveats.

Of the included perks, the unlimited bar package was a hit for me and my husband.

Although I generally don't opt for unlimited drink packages on cruises as I don't order enough to justify the hefty price tag, having beverages included on this sailing was a carefree addition to my vacation.

We did have to pay for the gratuities for this package, which amounted to $218 per person for our 10-night sailing, but we felt this was a relatively small price to pay for the convenience of not paying per drink. Plus, it was still a great deal because the unlimited drink package usually costs over $100 per person per day.

However, unlike drink packages offered by competitors such as Royal Caribbean, NCL's did not include bottled water or specialty coffees. These items still required an upcharge, as did premium alcoholic drinks costing more than $15.

The included internet was also a great value for those looking to do a small amount of browsing while at sea.

With the promo, my husband and I also each received a 150-minute internet package for use during our sailing. This was an amazing addition to our cruise as it gave us enough time to check in with the "real world" without feeling glued to our devices. 

Like many other included benefits, this package was only provided to the first two people on the booking. So, my 10-year-old son did not receive an internet package of his own. 

As an avid gamer, he was disappointed — especially since onboard gaming options at the ship's virtual-reality arcade, Galaxy Pavilion, were limited. However, as a parent, I was happy to see him (mostly) unplugged for a change.

Saving on excursions was a nice perk, but I don't like that they were listed on the NCL website as being "free."

In my opinion, the most misleading part of the "Free at Sea" offer had to be the "Free Excursions" listed on the NCL website. 

Just next to that offer, the site reads that each stateroom is actually only entitled to $50 off per tour for the first guest on the booking. A $50 excursion could be free with this promo, but all of the ones on my cruise cost well over $50.

For example, the Land of the Trolls excursion in Alesund, Norway, cost my family of three $577, or $527 after the $50 credit was applied. 

Saving money on excursions is always welcome, but I wish the language of the promotion had been more straightforward. 

Representatives for Norwegian Cruise Line didn't respond to a request for comment from Insider.

We loved the complimentary dining voucher for two, but our son had limited options.

With eight specialty restaurants on the Norwegian Prima, the complimentary dining voucher from the "Free at Sea" promo was a clear winner. The restaurants, which are not included in the cost of the cruise, have seafood, steak, sushi, tapas, and more.

My husband and I loved getting one free specialty dining meal — and we only had to pay $10 per person in gratuities. 

Again, this benefit was only for the first two people booked in my stateroom, so my son did not get complimentary dining unless he ordered from the standard kid's menu.

This menu, which included generic kiddie fare such as chicken nuggets, was the same every night of the cruise, making it a less-than-exciting option for my budding 10-year-old foodie. 

As such, we allowed him to order off the adult menu while dining with us at the ship's Italian eatery, Onda by Scarpetta, which cost us an additional $44.35.

Although NCL's "Free at Sea" promotion was not as comprehensive as I had hoped, it saved my family money and is a good value for budget-conscious travelers.

Norwegian Cruise Line's "Free at Sea" promo sometimes includes other perks, such as discounted flights, and it often can be combined with other ongoing deals that provide additional savings.

It's this combo of compelling offers that helps make NCL a great choice for anyone looking to get a lot of bang for their buck.

Not only did my family save hundreds of dollars on drinks, dining, and shore excursions, but also we enjoyed things we likely would not have splurged on otherwise , such as the internet package.

So, although I was a little underwhelmed with some of the savings advertised, I believe the "Free at Sea" promotion offers good value for travelers, and it greatly enhanced my family's vacation experience.

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This Norwegian Cruise sailing takes you on a bucket list adventure: What it's like aboard

F or Kylie Herd, an Australian passenger on Norwegian Dawn’s Feb. 25 southern Africa itinerary, cruising has been the best way to check places off her bucket list.

“I just go with whatever cruise line has the itinerary that I want to do at the time that I’m available. It tends to be Norwegian, and when I saw that Norwegian had all these African cruises, I just thought, ‘I’m going to spend summer in Africa,’ because it’s an amazing itinerary,” she told USA TODAY.

When it comes to cruising, most Americans probably think of bopping around the Caribbean or checking out the wilds of Alaska if they’re feeling especially adventurous, but that’s really just scratching the surface. Cruise lines are increasingly offering diverse itineraries including expedition cruises to remote parts of the globe and introductory sailings to help travelers explore countries and regions they might never visit otherwise.

Start the day smarter. Get all the news you need in your inbox each morning.

Madagascar was the real draw for months of consecutive cruises on the Dawn for Herd.

“I’ve been trying to go to Madagascar for years. I always wanted to go there way before the movies ever came out. It’s one of those places that’s really difficult to get to,” she said. “When I saw Madagascar on a cruise itinerary I was like, ‘I have to do it.’ ”

Although the Feb. 25 sailing had to skip Madagascar for logistical reasons after a delay departing Mauritius, Herd said that she was able to visit the country earlier on her trip and that it was a real highlight.

Norwegian’s Africa itineraries had various changes and missed ports throughout the season. Passenger contracts give cruise lines some leeway to alter itineraries on short notice for reasons including weather or conditions on the ground that prevent ships from reaching or being accommodated safely in a scheduled port. Such changes can be especially common in regions prone to political unrest or that lack sophisticated port facilities.

Even so, Herd said she understood why passengers who missed out would be frustrated, but she encouraged her fellow travelers to keep an eye on the positive. “I understand the disappointment. I was disappointed, too, but we’re still having a great time.”

The Feb. 25 cruise still stopped at Reunion, a French island in the Indian Ocean, which has an active volcano, as well as ports in South Africa where travelers could spot local wildlife.

Safari from a cruise

Norwegian Dawn stopped at four ports in South Africa, three of which offered safari experiences as shore excursions.

▶ From Richard’s Bay, passengers could visit the iSimangasilo Wetland Park , home to elephants, rhinoceroses, hippopotamuses, zebras and other classic African big game. The park is about an hour and a half drive from the port, and Norwegian’s shore excursion included two game drives, snorkeling and a traditional South African braai, or barbecue.

Just as cruise itineraries can sometimes be subject to last-minute changes, safaris are at the whim of wild animals. Sightings are not guaranteed, but patience and vigilance are often rewarded.

▶ In Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth), Norwegian Dawn’s passengers could visit Addo Elephant National Park, also about an hour and a half drive from the port.

As the name suggests, Addo is home to a huge and docile population of more than 600 elephants. These animals often congregate around watering holes accessible from well-worn safari tracks.

Even after a strong rainfall the night before the excursion, which allowed elephants to retreat into the bush and temporarily lessen their reliance on overtaxed wells, dozens of the creatures greeted visitors coming from the ship for two-hour game drives.

▶ In Mossel Bay, passengers could also access private game reserves, which often have a higher concentration of wildlife roaming free but can include animals that are not directly indigenous to the area.

Cape Town and the winelands

There’s more to Africa than safaris, and Cape Town is an especially good place to experience metropolitan life and other kinds of outdoor activities on the continent.

South Africa’s legislative capital offers excellent hiking, a great foodie culture, beautiful (if slightly chilly) Atlantic beaches, penguins and more.

For travelers willing to explore beyond the city, South Africa’s wine country is close at hand in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, and many vineyards offer tastings and meal experiences. One Norwegian excursion took passengers to the Blaauwklippen wine estate in Stellenbosch, which is best known for its Zinfandel.

Is an Africa cruise worth it?

From a financial standpoint, a cruise around Africa can be an excellent way to explore. For American travelers, however, flights to and from the ship are often more expensive than the cruise itself.

For example, a 13-day Norwegian itinerary that begins in Cape Town on Dec. 7 and ends in Mauritius on Dec. 20 has prices that start at $899 per person for an inside stateroom, but flights can be well over $1,000 round trip. The current cheapest itinerary from Detroit, for example, is a 42-hour slog on multiple airlines via Montreal and Dubai to Cape Town. The return trip is a bit shorter, at 31 hours, also via Dubai and Montreal. That routing would cost $1,694 per person in economy as of March 18, according to Google Flights.

Logistically speaking, though, it can be much easier to book a cruise and rely on the line’s shore excursions to expand one's horizons than to coordinate one's own safari.

“With multiple diverse ports of call within one coastal continental area, our Africa voyages provide our guests the opportunity to explore lush rainforests or volcanoes, experience captivating wildlife tours, learn about the rich culture on the South African coastline, indulge in Cape Town’s incredible wine regions, and so much more,” Brian Gilroy, vice president of revenue management and itinerary planning for Norwegian Cruise Line, said in a statement to USA TODAY.

The one thing to keep in mind is that the African cruise market is less mature than the Caribbean – at many ports, there just aren’t comparable facilities to handle big ships. That doesn’t mean the cruises can’t or don’t happen, just that sometimes the operation is a little less fluid than the well-oiled Miami machine.

“Our 11- and 12-day cruises start and end in either Cape Town, South Africa, or Port Louis, Mauritius, and include an overnight stay in one of those magnificent cities, giving our guests the chance to fully explore what these regions offer. The variety of adventures our guests can experience in these destinations are endless, which makes for a truly unforgettable cruise experience," Gilroy said.

Travelers may be more likely to encounter a hiccup on their Africa cruise, but that’s all part of traveling to a new and exciting place. A missed port or an extra sea day can be a great time time to take stock, focus on the highlights, enjoy the experience of unlocking a new destination, and maybe take another sip of the wine your onboard sommelier recommended.

Just take a page out of Herd the Australian’s book. Despite some schedule changes, she said, “I’ve loved every single thing.”

The reporter on this story received access to this sailing from Norwegian. USA TODAY maintains editorial control of content.  

Zach Wichter is a travel reporter based in New York. You can reach him at [email protected]

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: This Norwegian Cruise sailing takes you on a bucket list adventure: What it's like aboard

• Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Base 150Minute WIFI

By redratcruiser , November 21, 2022 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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redratcruiser

I am aware that the base 150 minutes WIFI package that was included with our purchase is made for emails, messaging and general surfing. I have another person on the ticket and was wondering if it was 150 minutes per person? Can we both use it at the same time?

Also, I am not really tech savvy and ideally I would like to know how I can get it up? Is their a specific part of the cruise check in site that I can find the log in details?

Thank you very much.

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Share on other sites, mocruisefan.

When you get on the ship go to the internet cafe and ask the internet manager any questions you have.  He will be happy to assist you.

when did you book your cruise? the new free at sea wifi plan now is now per person 

to use the wifi, connect your device to the ship wifi network just like you were using the app. in the broswer on your device there is a specific page you need to access to access the internet. it is something like login.com . the app also has instructions 

Based on my Bliss cruise 2 weeks ago it was 150 min. per person, per device.

Instructions were very clear, and we were impressed with the internet speed.

As always remember to log out.

It used to be "250min for the first passenger" they updated the free at sea package recently, now it's "150min for two passengers" less per person, but more in total 

We got 150 mins pp and it would normally be enough for the few mins check in online each day but on our January cruise I need to be contactable so I upgraded just my Wi-Fi to unlimited. I assumed DH would still keep his 150 mins but I read that somebody onboard right now upgraded one person in the room but the other person lost the 150 mins also. Anybody have info on this, if that's correct?

cruiseny4life

19 minutes ago, Cruise-mom said: We got 150 mins pp and it would normally be enough for the few mins check in online each day but on our January cruise I need to be contactable so I upgraded just my Wi-Fi to unlimited. I assumed DH would still keep his 150 mins but I read that somebody onboard right now upgraded one person in the room but the other person lost the 150 mins also. Anybody have info on this, if that's correct?

On both cruises we've taken this year, my husband upgraded his WiFi to the unlimited plan. I retained my 150 included Free at Sea minutes. 

18 minutes ago, cruiseny4life said: On both cruises we've taken this year, my husband upgraded his WiFi to the unlimited plan. I retained my 150 included Free at Sea minutes. 

Thank you, that's what I thought.

• 1 month later...

On 11/21/2022 at 8:08 PM, seekatz said: Based on my Bliss cruise 2 weeks ago it was 150 min. per person, per device. Instructions were very clear, and we were impressed with the internet speed. As always remember to log out.

Is Logging Out obvious to do?

I presume its a specific login.out to the internet connection?

I also presume the NCL app works separately with its own, initial login?

For newbies to using NCL's satellite WiFi internet access, stop by the iCafe desk and pickup one of the printed mini-guide of how to's - it explain how to login and logout via the mobile browser, connecting to ship's WiFi, and Chrome & Firefox browsers are supported.  iCafe manager has posted office hours in the morning, afternoon & early evening if extra help is needed - it's fairly easy DIY.  

The "Norwegian" App (iOS/Android) be sure to run the newest/updated version - is the main portal to access your account, login and passwords can be set to use your NCL username or email address and password - gateway to viewing your Onboard account charges, upgrades and bookings, etc. without necessary establishing another userID and password or 2FA, etc. 

There are screenshot samples as FYI, not intended as a tutorial or detailed instructions.  

To maximize online access, disable and/or turnoff all background cloud updates, backup or playstore patches, etc. as those will vastly slow down the device, worsen the latency with the narrow bandwidth, and easily result in unresponsive apps ... crashing / FC your device, etc. 

2 hours ago, SleeStack1 said: Is Logging Out obvious to do?   I presume its a specific login.out to the internet connection?   I also presume the NCL app works separately with its own, initial login?

You type logout.com in the browser window when you're done.  But be aware on the Bliss 4 years ago I had several occasions where it did not log me out and used up my minutes.  I got it reinstated but that's at the discretion of the internet manager.

   The app does not require a login.

Do you need the NCL app to use your free 150 minutes?  He just wants to surf the web, no emails.

i have the app on my phone but my husband does not.  Thank you.

4 minutes ago, Grumpella said: Do you need the NCL app to use your free 150 minutes?  He just wants to surf the web, no emails.   i have the app on my phone but my husband does not.  Thank you.

app is not needed

go to login.com or something like that start the clock and then you will access to surf the web

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