norwegian cruise ship photos

I sailed on Norwegian Cruise Line's new $1.1 billion Prima cruise ship with two Starbucks, a 10-story slide, and a go-kart track — see what it was like

• Norwegian Cruise Line's newest $1 billion Norwegian Prima ship is ready for revenue sailings in the US.
• The cruise ship is the first of six "Prima class" vessels that'll be delivered from 2022 to 2027.
• Let's take a look around the 18-deck cruise ship with amenities for travelers of all ages.

Norwegian Cruise Line's newest cruise ship — the Norwegian Prima — is finally ready for revenue sailings in the US five years after it was first announced.

Source: Insider , Norwegian Cruise Line 

And while it's not the biggest new vessel we've seen over the last few years, the 18-deck cruise liner certainly has enough amenities to keep travelers of all ages entertained.

Source: Insider

In 2017, Norwegian announced its new Prima class, a group of six ships that will be delivered from 2022 to 2027 starting with this eponymous ship that cost more than $1 billion to build.

Source: Norwegian Cruise Line 

And when it first opened for bookings in 2021, the Prima quickly became Norwegian's "most in-demand ship ever" after it saw record number of bookings within the first day and week, the cruise line announced in 2021.

Source: Norwegian Cruise Line

With all its onboard amenities, it's easy to see why travelers have flocked to this new ship.

So let's take a look around the 965-foot-long Norwegian Prima that can accommodate 3,100 guests and a little over 1,506 crew.

In a bid to attract families, the Prima has a long list of activities and amenities for travelers of all ages, whether it be the water park for children …

… the go-kart track for the whole family …

… or the spa and adults only lounge for parents.

The heart of the new ship is the Penrose Atrium on deck six, an airy and modern three-story gathering space that branches into bars, the casino, and the Prima Theater for live shows.

Nighttime shows are a staple cruise ship entertainment offering.

Here, the new ship brings travelers back in time with a "The Price Is Right Live" show and a Broadway-ready "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical" …

… while adding a modern and fresh flair with a tap dancing and beat boxing mashup in the "Noise Boys" show.

Back to the atrium and up its stairs, cruise goers will find themselves on deck seven, the home of one of Prima's Starbucks outposts and a glass walking bridge.

Drinks and entertainment flow throughout this deck with a comedy club, a cover band bar and venue, and a cocktail bar that uses syrups and liqueurs made — some of which are made with the ship's discarded food scraps.

Above this on deck 8, the outdoor walking path and lounges are the star of the show.

For warm days at sea, travelers can relax on the Ocean Boulevard ...

… an open-air stretch of lounge chairs, pools, and a sculpture garden.

The spa and gym are then located on deck 16 …

… the same deck as "The Haven," an exclusive lounge, restaurant, and sundeck for travelers staying in the higher-end Haven staterooms.

But the Prima's true leisure and entertainment showpieces are nestled on the ship's 17th and 18th deck.

Here, Norwegian's efforts to appeal to families truly shines through with the addition of a virtual reality arcade …

… tri-level go-kart track …

… a collection of outdoor games like a mini-golf course, a modern take on traditional darts, and a pickleball court ...

... and a glass-enclosed observation lounge with an adjacent bar.

Most cruise ships have at least one pool and hot tub.

But on the Prima, there are three pools, four hot tubs …

… a petite children's water park, and a waterslide, the latter an increasingly popular addition to cruise ships.

If the waterslide doesn't provide enough thrill, there's also a freefall slide — this one's dry — that drops passengers down ten decks in just a few seconds.

And what would be a cruise trip without an abundance of food?

There are several on board and specialty restaurants scattered throughout the ship for travelers to dine on sushi, Mediterranean food, and even teppanyaki at sea.

For hungry diners who thrive in the face of decision paralysis, the Prima also has an indoor-outdoor food hall with 11 restaurants and a touchpad ordering system …

… giving travelers the chance to try an international noodle bar, Indian restaurant, and rotisserie concept all in one meal.

The multiple kitchens and two food trucks turned this expansive hall into the Prima's most expensive and difficult dining concept to pull off, Wesley Cort, the cruise line's vice president of food and beverage operations, told Insider during a media panel.

But this effort may be worth it: With all the onboard restaurants, an additional buffet, and this food hall, guests could avoid having a repeat meal during their cruise.

"[This ship] is a huge investment but the return on investment is phenomenal," Simon Murray, Norwegian's vice president guest experiences and innovation, said during the panel.

"These ships are difficult to build," he continued. "There's only so much expertise in the planet that has the knowledge and the know-how to build these things."

Throughout 2023, the new ship will bring passengers to a wide variety of destinations and climates like the Caribbean and Iceland.

The popular cruise line has several itineraries sailing for under $80 a day in 2023, according to data compiled by Cruise Sheet.

Source: Cruise Sheet

But don't expect these low rates to apply to the new Prima.

Rates per person aboard the new ship in 2023 begin at almost $780 for a week-long roundtrip from Orlando, Florida to the Caribbean, a spokesperson told Insider in an email.

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• Cruise Reviews

Norwegian Epic: Cruise Ship Overview [PHOTOS]

• December 21, 2021

Norwegian Epic sailed into the cruise world in 2010, bringing several innovative features onboard.

Staterooms for solo travelers, three bowling lanes, a 24-hour grill, large outdoor waterslides, and the elimination of oceanview staterooms created excitement for this new vessel, the third-largest cruise ship when it was launched.

The Haven, Norwegian’s popular ship-within-a-ship concept, originated on the Epic.

Norwegian Epic underwent its most recent renovation in 2020. One of the major rehabs took place in The Haven.

Taken down to the steel, The Haven transformed into a light, contemporary space that exudes luxury throughout. Elsewhere throughout the ship, many carpets were replaced, including in the stateroom hallways. Take a look at the new fish design leading the way to the front of the ship.

Navigating Norwegian Epic requires no special skills, but a few tips make it easier to get around.

Norwegian’s famous fish carpet helps guests navigate the stateroom hallways. Fish swim forward, so getting your bearings is simple enough. At the elevators, the bluish carpet indicates the starboard side of the ship and the orangish color indicates the port side.

There are elevators fore and aft, but no middle elevators. From Deck 15 there are two cylindrical elevators. The port side lift goes to The Haven and requires a keycard. The starboard elevator takes guests to the Deck 18 quiet area sundeck.

La Cucina is accessed most easily via a staircase on Deck 15 at the back of the Garden Café.

Most inside activities take place on Decks 5 to 7.

MORE: Bimini Cruise Port: Everything You Need To Know

Norwegian Epic Staterooms

Always an innovator of new ship concepts, Norwegian Cruise Line introduced The Haven and Studios on Epic.

Oceanview cabins are nonexistent on this ship, which offers many balconies and a renamed category of balcony, originally known as the Deluxe Balcony. These became the mini-suites, although they were just a larger balcony stateroom and not a suite at all.

The new iteration of these is the Club Balcony Suite, which — while still not a suite — comes with a few extra perks, such as pre-booking of onboard entertainment and dining as early as 125 days prior to sail date, complimentary treats delivered to your stateroom, a complimentary bottle of sparkling wine, and a choice of one valet laundry or pressing service.

Curvaceous staterooms are the norm for the inside and balcony categories. The bathrooms have been controversial in these particular staterooms because they are an integral part of the cabin, with the shower on one side of the entry into the cabin and the toilet area across the aisle from the shower. Blackout curtains cover the balcony windows.

There are no USB ports, but those are on the schedule to be added. Balconies and above have coffee makers.

Some staterooms are of particular note:

The Haven includes a variety of staterooms within the actual keycard-access-only area, along with some staterooms outside of this enclosed compound. Recently updated, The Haven’s contemporary look is fresh and soothing.

All furniture and fabrics have been replaced to create a space that is both welcoming and luxurious. Even table settings and linens have been replaced and the staterooms have also been updated.

Guests in this area enjoy their own private dining area, pool area, and sundeck. Three bars are scattered throughout the different areas of The Haven. Butler and concierge service enhance The Haven experience. Toiletries in the staterooms are from L’Occitane.

The Studios

The Studios are located in the middle of the ship and take up two floors. All are inside with “windows” facing into the hallways.

At just 100 square feet in size, these efficiently laid out Studios are often at full capacity. Within the area, there is a central spot for meeting other solo guests who are booked in this enclave.

During non-COVID times, a host plans activities and events. A whiteboard serves as a message board for self-initiated activities or for requests for joining in meals, shore excursions, shows, or other onboard activities.

A bar is open during limited hours. Access to this area is by keycard only and exclusively for Studio guests.

Norwegian Epic provides plenty of dining options onboard ranging from quick snacks to multi-course meals. Garden Cafe on Deck 15 is the bright buffet that extends outside to The Great Outdoors during limited hours for late breakfast and a lunch grill.

During COVID, Garden Cafe is a full-service buffet where guests choose from the offerings and staff plate the selected items. Guests do not touch any serving items or food. Beverages are also served by the crew.

In addition to Garden Cafe, there are several additional complimentary dining venues, all of which offer sit-down service. These include the main restaurant, Manhattan, which is open for dinner only. Taste serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

For 24-hour service, O’Sheehan’s offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It does close for 30 minutes between breakfast and lunch.

Most specialty restaurants on Norwegian Epic incur additional fees, but one dinner venue, Shanghai, which as the name suggests, serves Asian dishes, and is complimentary.

Other specialty restaurants include Cagney’s, La Cucina, Le Bistro, Moderno Churrascaria, Teppanyaki, Yakitori and Sushi. Except for Moderno and Teppanyaki, which currently charge $39, the specialty restaurants are à la carte. Reservations are recommended.

Room service comes with a $9.95 delivery charge. SWIFT Delivery on Demand is a new concept and is available 24/7 and brings cocktails, wine, beer, soda, and snacks to your room. Cocktails are DIY and in limited varieties.

Wine is by the mini- or full-size bottle. A limited selection of snacks is also available. These beverages and snacks are not included in the beverage package. A menu and price list are in each stateroom. There is no delivery charge, but a 20 percent service charge will be added to your order.

MORE: 25 First Time Cruise Tips

Norwegian Epic Entertainment

Many of the venues onboard Norwegian Epic function differently throughout the day. The Cavern Club, Headliners, and Bliss Lounge host seminars, trivia, art auctions, socials, and other activities during the day.

Once evening comes, the Cavern Club becomes a music venue and, as its name suggests, features many Beatles-themed sessions.

The throbbing beats of piano music emanate from Headliners as Howl at the Moon dueling pianos take over that space several times during the cruise. On other evenings, a variety of comedy shows take place. Bliss Lounge draws the game show fans early in the evening, followed by the karaoke crowd.

The main Epic Theater provides more seating for larger production and music shows. Burn The Floor, Priscilla Queen of the Desert, comedy, and musical acts take place nightly in this venue. Spiegel Tent started life as the area for Cirque Dreams® and Dinner Show.

On Epic, the new show is Zambooka!, a show and dinner with a set meal. Zambooka! features performers culled from “Got Talent” who thrill the audience with their feats of strength and skill.

Public Areas and Watering Holes

The majority of public areas on Norwegian Epic include a bar, which attract a variety of guests not just to enjoy a beverage and socialize, but to also partake of liquor tastings, talks, and games.

Maltings and Shakers Martini Bar buzz throughout the evening and along with beverages, also come with entertainers who keep the crowds glued to their seats. In fact, these two bars are so popular that finding a seat during performance times may be impossible.

Sports fans will want to venture to the popular O’Sheehan’s Pub to grab a beverage and watch one of the multiple televisions tuned to sports channels.

In the Atrium, a big screen promotes Norwegian cruises throughout the day, but also shows movies at select times. The library and adjacent card room have limited hours due to COVID, but are also very popular.

Spice H2O is a modern-day version of a Roman Theater. Outdoors at the aft of the ship, this is an adults-only beach club with hot tubs, a bar, and a grill.

Late in the evening, the venue holds themed parties and dancing. It is the only bar open to all guests that serves the Sail and Sustain cocktail, a special concoction created to use some of the usually discarded parts of food on the ship.

For example, pulverized coffee grounds may be incorporated into a drink. This program is a small part of Norwegian Cruise Line’s commitment to the environment.

There are several decks for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying the hot tubs. On the 18th deck, there is a quiet area for relaxing and enjoying the fresh sea air. Deck 15 is the place to be to enjoy pools, slides, and the rock climbing wall.

Originating on Norwegian Epic, the Ice Bar requires a bit of prep before entering. Guests choose from colorful insulated hooded capes (no evidence of the original silver capes) and spend as long as they can tolerate in an icy bar. Two drinks are included with the experience.

Fitness Center and Spa

Pulse Fitness Center impresses with its large area and variety of machines. In addition to weights and machines, there is a boxing area.

Personal training and classes are offered. As the largest fitness center in the fleet, the size of Pulse along with plenty of equipment lessens the chances of having to wait for a certain machine or weight.

The entrance to Pulse is via Mandara Spa, which comprises multiple treatment rooms to accommodate the full menu of treatments. Many guests, including those who have access because they booked spa balconies, head to the Thermal Suite.

Heated loungers, a variety of different plunge pools, and a limited number of guests make this an ideal area for relaxation and renewal. Passes can also be purchased for a daily visit or for the entire cruise.

Closing Thoughts on Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Epic innovations started when it was first launched and many have been added to the newer ships in the Norwegian fleet. The ship looks almost like new; the most extensive renovations took place in The Haven — or underwater.

Having dined at most of the restaurants onboard, I can say that the quality of the food and the menu choices exceeded my expectations. The tastefully prepared dishes took the food on Norwegian Epic to a new level.

On my first sailing aboard  Epic many years ago, the headliner entertainment was Blue Man Group, so it should come as no surprise that the quality and variety of entertainment continues to impress.

A duo that played a variety of mostly international folk tunes on multiple instruments and a UK group that performed songs from the pop genre to opera were crowd-pleasers, consistently receiving standing ovations.

If I had to mention one aspect of the cruise that I know is on the list to be updated, it’s the lighting in the non-Haven staterooms. I definitely appreciate the low lights for a sleeping area, and the reading lights on both sides of the bed were useful.

But, it was difficult to see into an unlit closet, apply make-up, or read a book while seated on the sofa. I definitely recommend packing a clip-on light for reading or a stick-on light for the second closet.

It should be noted that due to COVID, several activities and areas are not functioning as usual. Those include the Splash Academy kids’ club, bowling, basketball games, and other high-touch, close-contact activities, so please keep current with what is offered on board.

The two weeks on Norwegian Epic passed quickly by, perhaps because of how enjoyable the cruise was. Attentive service by a friendly and dedicated crew, a clean and fresh ship, and an amazing itinerary added to the enjoyment of the cruise.

By Theresa Russell

READ NEXT: 12 Things to Know Before Sailing Norwegian Cruise Line

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Norwegian Encore Pictures – Complete Ship Photo Guide

In this article, we will explore all public areas onboard the Norwegian Encore .

The tour begins with the restaurants on lower levels and ends on the highest deck.

Information about each venue has been included as well – as are my experiences cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line .

This can help you decide if the Norwegian Encore is right for you. 

All restaurants/activities that cost extra onboard are clearly marked. 

The District Brewhouse – Deck 8

The District Brewhouse is a bar on deck 8.

It’s one of my favourite places on board and I’ve never seen a bar quite like it on a ship before!

The bar has a biker/motorbike theme and has lots of beers on tap. The bar also has a photo booth where – for a charge – you can have photos taken.

I visited the Norwegian Encore on a press cruise so it was free to use, I took some photos and left them on the board, I wonder if they’re still there ..?

Food Republic – Deck 8

Food Republic is one of the many speciality restaurants onboard the ship. Food Republic is designed to offer little tastes of dishes from all over the world.

Take your palate on an international journey of Asian and Latin Flavours at Food Republic. Travel to Mexico and scoop up some tasty street food. Jet away to Japan and try a new kind of sushi roll or have a hearty helping of Thai noodles. Norwegian Cruise Line

In food republic, guests use iPads to order – which I like. Each time on the menu has a price and you pay per item.

Pricing ranges from $15 to $19 per roll for sushi, and between $8 to $19 each for sharing plates.

Desserts are priced at around $9, so if you order a meal with a few different plates, it is likely to cost between $40 – $80.

Norwegian does include Food Republic in its “Speciality dining packages. “

Find out more about speciality dining packages, a cutting onboard spending when you cruise in the article below:

Cutting Onboard Expenses, BEFORE You Cruise. (Drinks, Speciality Meals, Excursions and More)

Waterfront – Deck 8

These photos do not do the waterfront justice.

The waterfront is an amazing section of the ship where you’ll find bars and restaurants which open out onto the promenade deck.

In good weather, this is a very popular place and you’ll always find people sitting in the bars and restaurants. It’s also a great place to come for a stroll along the promenade deck.

There is plenty of seating and when I have an inside cabin I like to think of the waterfront as being my huge balcony. I’ll often be found here with a drink and a book.

Cellars – Deck 8

On deck 8 you’ll find Cellars, a wine bar with hundreds of wines to choose from.

For a bottle of wine here you’re realistically looking at around $30-$100 per bottle. The bar is primarily about trying different wines, so they do offer wine tasting experiences.

The bar has a prime location right in the middle of the ship and can be busy in the evenings.

Maltings Whiskey Bar – Deck 8

Maltings Whiskey Bar is one of my favourite bars onboard.

Rather unsurprisingly the bar focuses on Whiskey but you can get a variety of drinks here. I’d personally recommend ordering an old-fashioned.

The seating area in the Whiskey Bar is relatively small – so at peak times it can be difficult to get a seat here.

That said, passengers seem to move around often and with the number of bars onboard Norwegian Encore you’ll soon find a seat.

The Whiskey Bar is located by the cigar lounge and you can also step out onto the waterfront promenade deck.

The Cavern Club

In the Cavern Club, you’ll find a Beatles tribute band.

If you do want to see the Beatles tribute band, make sure that you arrive early. This bar fills up very fast when they are playing.

There is a bar here, just to the right of this picture and they serve a variety of drinks including brilliant cocktails.

Sugarcane Mojito Bar – Deck 8

This is another very popular bar which can get very busy, it’s located by one of the main atriums and a lot of people walk past the bar, stopping, of course, for a Mojito!

The bar serves a variety of drinks but is best known, of course, for the Mojitos.

The Mojito bar is home to my all-time favourite cruise drink – the Raspberry Mojito!

I’d strongly recommend that you have one if you are at the bar, I never knew that there were so many ways to make Mojitos.

Onda – Deck 8

Onda by Scarpetta restaurant replaces La Cucina which you’ll find on some older Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

It is an Italian speciality restaurant which is located behind the Cellars wine bar. I’ve got to be honest, I have no idea who Scarpetta is – but Onda seems like a high-quality Italian eatery.

A full review of Onda by Scarpetta can be found on EatSleepCruise here:

Onda by Scarpetta Restaurant Review.

Deck 8 – Tradewinds

Norwegian Encore has a large shopping area in the middle called Tradewinds. You can buy just about anything here – perfume, gifts, makeup, toys, medicines, toiletries – you name it.

Certain items such as toiletries have a huge markup on cruise ships so I’d always suggest bringing anything that you can instead of buying it onboard.

That said, being able to buy things like an emergency packet of cold and flu medicine can be a real lifesaver. Just be aware that it’ll likely cost 3-4 times the land price.

To learn more about what happens if you are unfortunate enough to get sick on your cruise, check out this post:

  What Happens if You Get Sick on a Cruise? Simple Step by Step Guide.

Photo Gallery – Deck 8

Norwegian Encore has a modern photo gallery where photos are shown on screens.

If you have photos taken of you when on board this will be linked to your cruise card and you’ll be able to see them when you get to the photo gallery.

I do quite like looking at other people’s photos but photos aren’t displayed. This gallery style is much more efficient than printing out lots of unwanted photos.

There are also gifts and gadgets to buy if you wish .

Theatre – Deck 7

One of my favourite things about Norwegian is the theatre shows that are put on daily.

On big ships like Norwegian Encore, you’ll find a Broadway-style production and other shows performed throughout your cruise.

Due to the size of the ship, the shows are repeated on multiple nights.

This means that you won’t be able to go to the theatre to see a different show every night – which is something that I usually like to do.

That said, that’s the price you have to pay to see popular shows like Kinky Boots or The Choir of Man.

It’s worth noting that all shows here are included in your cruise fare but you do have to book a space ahead of time to see the shows.

This can be done on the Norwegian Cruise Line app, on your TV in your cabin or at the theatre desk. I’d strongly advise that as soon as you step onboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship that you book your entertainment for the week.

You can cancel if you would like to, but some shows fill up FAST and it would be a shame to miss out.

The Local is one of my favourite places onboard Norwegian Encore.

The Local is the new version of ‘O-Sheehans’ or the ‘Blue Lagoon’ on older Norwegian Ships.

The Local is a great place to grab a quick burger, hot dog, chicken wings or sandwich.

It’s usually open 24 hours a day and it’s included in your cruise fare.

The local overlooks the atrium and has a bar too, many people sit here to watch sporting events which are shown on the big screen.

This area is exactly the same as the one on the Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway.

The three ships are actually all pretty similar. To find out more, including which I prefer, check out this video:

Casino – Deck 7

On Deck 7 you’ll find a huge casino. The casino spans across half of a deck and has various machines, tables and games to play.

The Casino has a designated smoking room, but guests aren’t able to smoke in the rest of the Casino.

Many people walk through the casino to get to other areas of the ship as it has a central location, for this reason, I’m glad that smoking is confined to a smoking room.

Manhattan Room – Deck 7

On Norwegian ships, you’ll find multiple main dining rooms. The Manhattan Room is located at the back of the ship and it is the biggest dining room onboard.

To dine in the dining room you just show up to be seated when you are ready – there’s no need to book and there are no set dining times.

To learn more about all of your included food options on a Norwegian cruise, check out this post: 

Do Norwegian Cruise Line Cruises Include Meals? Included Food Guide.

Savor & Taste – Deck 6

There are two more included main dining room options called “Taste” and “Savor.”

These are located opposite each other and are pretty much the same restaurant, they serve the same menu and provide a slightly more relaxed dining experience than the Manhattan room.

That said, all dining options on a Norwegian cruise is incredibly relaxed.

Norwegian don’t have any formal nights but do still have some dress codes, to learn more about this, check out this post: 

Norwegian Cruise Line Don’t Have Formal Nights, Here’s What They Have Instead

Teppanyaki is a speciality restaurant which serves Japanese cuisine.

The food is cooked on the table in front of passengers and it’s as much about the entertainment as the food.

You’ll find Teppanyaki-style restaurants on many different cruise ships and other cruise lines.

Social Comedy and Night Club – Deck 6

On deck 6 you’ll find the Social Comedy, this is an entertainment area with a bar and is decorated in bright colours. It’s located right in the heart of the ship.

By day you’ll find various events scheduled here and you’ll find passengers enjoying the space late into the evening.

Behind the main room, you’ll find a green room – I’m not too sure why everything is green but it’s certainly an interesting place to hang out!

Starbucks – Deck 6

For those who need a Starbucks fix, there is a Starbucks on deck 6.

The drinks are priced similarly to how they are in a Starbucks on land, and the majority of the drinks you’ll find on land are available here.

Drinks will be charged to your cruise card and added to your onboard account.

It isn’t actually necessary to spend anything on tea or coffee when you cruise.

Find out more about what you can expect to pay extra for in the article below:

Onboard Expenses – What Costs Extra On A Cruise? Gratuities, Wi-Fi And More…

Atrium Bar – Deck 6

Located right in the centre of the ship you’ll find the Atrium Bar. This is a very popular place for passengers to meet up before dinner and can get very busy.

Q Texas Smokehouse

Q Texas Smokehouse is a speciality BBQ restaurant onboard Norwegian Encore.

I had a meal here and it was fantastic. If you are a fan of meat and BBQ ‘s this is the place to be.

The restaurant itself is rather dark and mysterious, it’s decorated with neon signs and has cups which look like plastic cups – but they aren’t!

Observation Lounge – Deck 15

At the top of the ship, you will find a huge lounge. This is one of my favourite places on the ship to grab a drink and sit down in a comfy seat while watching the world go by.

The lounge stretches along two sides of the ship and around the back. Cruise ships of this size can feel very busy but it was always possible to get a drink and a seat in this lounge.

You’ll also find breakfast options available in the Observation lounge in the mornings. This is a great alternative to the buffet or main dining room.

In the evenings the lounge is very popular and you’ll find live music and passengers enjoying drinks here.

Sun Deck – Deck 6

It might not have been very sunny when I took this photo but this is the sun deck.

It’s quite small compared to other ships of her size because there is a Go-Kart track/Laser Tag course at the back and the Haven (a premium area) at the front of the ship.

Find out which Norwegian ships have Go Kart Tracks on deck here:

Which Norwegian Ships Have Go Karts Tracks?

This means that there is less space for sunbathing than you’d find on other ships.

The main pool is a good size and there are waterslides here too, one of which actually goes over the edge of the ship.

I loved the Norwegian Encore but this small sun deck is one of the things that I didn’t like.

To find out more, check out this video:

American Diner – Deck 17

On deck 17 you’ll find a speciality restaurant which is styled as an American diner.

I ate here in the American Diner during my trip – and although the food was good, I don’t know that I would recommend it due to the charge.

The included food found in other restaurants is of similar quality so really what you are paying for is the atmosphere.

We had a great meal here and the restaurant is well decorated.

I recently cruised onboard P&O’s largest ship, Arvia. They have a wonderful American diner, and you can eat there at no extra charge at all. I loved it, and ate there on a number of occasions.

Find out more about P&O’s Arvia in the video below:

Speedway – Deck 18

Right at the top of the ship, you’ll find a Go-Kart track called the speedway.

This is what Norwegian Encore is famous for and it makes the ship instantly recognisable from a distance.

The go-kart track takes up around 1/3rd of the top deck and it costs approximately $15 to ride the go-karts.

Although I didn’t try out the Go Kart Track on Encore, I have on Norwegian Prima . Find out more about that here:

Laser Tag – Deck 18

Also on deck 18, you’ll find laser tag. The laser tag course is outside and has a snake theme.

It’s actually a very big space, no photos/videos do it justice.

Unfortunately, the laser tag course can’t be used in heavy rain because it’s outside, not a problem if you’re sailing somewhere warm but if you’re taking a cold-weather cruise, this may mean that the course is closed.

It costs around $10 for a game of laser tag, or it is possible to purchase an unlimited pass.

The Buffet (Garden Cafe) – Deck 16

Norwegian Encore has a large buffet with various stations.

The buffet is open from early in the morning until late in the evening and instead of closing the buffet completely between meals various stations usually just open or close.

This means that you’re able to find food all day long.

You’ll find food from all over the world and plenty of places to sit. It’s quite a long walk to the end of the buffet because it is so huge – but we never struggled to find a seat and would usually walk to one end.

There are also lots of stations where you can get tea, coffee or a glass of water. Tea and coffee in the buffet are always included in your cruise fare and there is usually quite a lot of variety.

To learn more about what’s included in a Norwegian cruise line cruise, check out this post:

Galaxy Pavilion – Deck 17

On deck 17 you’ll find another pay extra area called the Galaxy Pavilion.

Here you’ll find a variety of VR games with quite elaborate setups.

I’m personally not a big fan of VR – it makes me feel queasy. If you are a VR lover, you’ll definitely enjoy the games onboard.

There is a charge for each game which is charged to your onboard account.

Video Version:

This post was based on the video tour of Norwegian Encore. If you’d like to know more, check out the full video below:

Before You Go

My favourite ever cruise ship balcony cabin was onboard the Norwegian Prima . Find out why I liked it so much here:

I Stayed in a Balcony Cabin on The Norwegian Prima (Full Review)

If you are impressed by the Norwegian Prima cabin, check out this full ship tour. I loved Prima, and you might love her too!

Norwegian Prima – Full Photo Ship Tour (I Spent 7 Days Onboard) #ad

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Norwegian Epic Deck Plans & Reviews

Norwegian Epic

Activities & entertainment

• Arts and Crafts Classes
• Barber Shop *
• Behind the Scenes Tour *
• Bridge Viewing Room
• Climbing Wall
• Dance Classes
• Bliss Ultra Lounge
• Deck Parties
• Epic Plunge
• Fitness Center and Spa
• Fitness Classes *
• Gaming Lessons *
• Hair Salon *
• Whirlpools (9)
• Hydrotherapy Pool *
• i_Connect Internet Cafe *
• Jogging Track
• Late Night Dancing
• Photo Studio *
• Poolside Casino *
• Poolside Games
• Pulse Fitness Center
• Smile Spa *
• Spa and Salon *
• Sports Complex
• Video Arcade *
• Waterslides (3)
• Wine Tasting *
• Entourage Teen Club
• Kids Aqua Park
• Splash Academy Youth Center
• The Humidor Cigar Lounge
• The Haven Lounge _ Suite Guests
• Private Courtyard Lounge _ Suite Guests
• Comedy Performances
• Epic Theater
• Headliners Comedy Club
• Onboard Movie Screenings
• The Cavern Club
• Live Nightly Music
• Sports Games Televised
• Taste Restaurant - Main
• The Manhattan Room Restaurant - Main
• Atrium Cafe and Bar - Atrium Bar *
• Garden Cafe - Buffet
• Spiegel Tent - Cirque Dinner Theatre *
• Le Bistro French Restaurant - French *
• The Haven Courtyard Grill - Suite Guests
• The Haven Restaurant - Suite Guests
• Ice Bar - Ice Bar *
• La Cucina Italian Restaurant - Italian *
• Teppanyaki - Japanese *
• Wasabi Sushi and Sake Bar - Sushi *
• Shakers Martini Bar - Martini Bar *
• Shanghais Restaurant - Asian
• Posh - Pool Bar *
• Waves Pool Bar - Pool Bar *
• OSheehans Neighborhood Bar and Grill - Pub
• Cagneys Steakhouse - Steakhouse *
• Maltings Beer and Whiskey Bar - Whiskey Bar *
• Moderno Churrascaria - Brazilian *
• Spice H2O Pool Bar and Grill - Pool Bar and Grill
• Room Service *
• Excellent 81
• Very Good 61
• Terrible 112
• All languages ( 412 )
• English ( 371 )
• Spanish ( 18 )
• French ( 9 )

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Information to Prepare for Your Cruise

Pre-cruise need to knows.

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Thank you for choosing Norwegian. We can't wait to welcome you onboard, but first, let's go over everything you need to prepare for an amazing holiday ahead. Learn what to expect at the pier and how we've enhanced Online Check-In to expedite the boarding process and maximise your holiday time. Sail Safe™ Health & Safety Program . All guests age twelve and over and crew are required to be 100% fully vaccinated so you can do what you’ve always wanted to do on a cruise — EVERYTHING.--> Start customising your holiday by logging in to My NCL or download the Cruise Norwegian App .

*As government regulations evolve, our health and safety protocols will evolve as needed to ensure compliance. This may mean different protocols from ship to ship based on local requirements. For additional information, please visit Cruise Travel Requirements by Country . Check our frequently asked questions in regard to Sail Safe™ Health & Safety Programme .

Please note on the video below: The pre-testing information in the Health & Safety video below is only applicable on cruises with embarkation dates through January 16, 2022.

PREPARATION FOR YOUR CRUISE

Online Check-In

Download eDocs

Download the Mobile App

Country Requirements

All guests age twelve and over must be fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks prior to embarkation. Proof of accepted vaccination against COVID-19 must be shown at the cruise pier to board the ship. Pre-cruise testing and additional health screenings for unvaccinated guests under the age of twelve (on sailings from or to a U.S. or Canadian port) will be conducted at terminal for extra measure.

Unless otherwise stipulated by local regulations (Cruise Travel Requirements by Country) that would supersede our policy, at time of check-in, all guests will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or NAAT test (i.e. PCR) result administered by a verified third party or via medically supervised home test within two days prior to embarkation date for cruises originating in a U.S. or Canadian port and within three days prior for voyages departing from a non-U.S. port.

In order to facilitate, Norwegian has partnered with Inspired Diagnostics lab to ensure that guests have access to a quick, efficient and easy way to access the required FDA-approved proctored in-home antigen test prior to embarkation from the comfort of their own home. Inspired Diagnostics is a subsidiary of Inspire Health Alliance, a leader in best-in-class health services. Testing at home is safe, simple, and convenient. Purchasing in-home testing kits is simple.

• Sign up on the testing site https://inspirediagnostics.com/ncl/
• Receive the test kit(s) by UPS
• Schedule an on-line proctoring consultation
• Receive certified results via email

Guests are also responsible for complying with all local health and safety requirements which may include additional pre-embarkation testing at the terminal. On select sailings where local government or health authorities may require guests to partake in additional COVID-19 testing prior to boarding, NCL will provide free testing at the terminal. Please refer to Cruise Travel Requirements by Country for country specific requirements.

All unvaccinated guests under the age of 12 will be required to bring proof of a negative NAAT test (i.e. PCR) result administered by a verified third party within three days prior to embarkation date. Failure to comply will result in denial of boardin g.

Additionally, unvaccinated guests under the age of 12 on sailings from or to a U.S. or Canada port will be subject to additional testing at embarkation and disembarkation administered and paid for by the cruise line, as part of the U.S Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Voluntary COVID-19 Program for Cruise Ships Operating in U.S. Waters.

Other available pre-embarkation testing services:

Additionally, the following services offer a verified third party or medically supervised at home testing: eMed or BioReference-Scarlett Concierge testing service – BioReference sends a trained Scarlet Health Professional to your home to collect your COVID-19 test specimen. Locate a Covid-19 Testing Provider Prior to Your Cruise: Should you need to locate a testing provider prior to beginning travel or while traveling prior to your cruise, please visit TestForTravel.com , an easy-to-use online tool for locating COVID-19 testing providers around the world. Simply enter your zip code, or city and country, and the website will display locations, contact information, and testing hours. It also allows you to search by test type – PCR or Antigen

At time of check-in, all guests will be required to provide proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test result administered by a verified third party or via medically supervised home test (i.e.  https://www.emed.com/  or  BioReference-Scarlett Concierge  testing service - BioReference sends a trained Scarlet Health Professional to your home to collect your COVID-19 test specimen), within two days prior to boarding for cruises originating in a U.S. or Canadian port and three days prior for voyages departing from a non-U.S. port. If a guest is unable to provide proof of a negative result at the time of embarkation, testing will be available at the terminal at the guest’s expense. Guests are also responsible for complying with all local health and safety requirements which may include additional testing.

All unvaccinated guests under the age of 12 will be required to bring proof of a negative NAAT test (i.e. PCR) result administered by a verified third party within three days prior to embarkation date. Failure to comply will result in denial of boarding.

Should you need to locate a testing provider prior to beginning travel or while traveling prior to your cruise, please visit TestForTravel.com , an easy-to-use online tool for locating COVID-19 testing providers around the world. Simply enter your zip code, or city and country, and the website will display locations, contact information, and testing hours. It also allows you to search by test type – PCR or Antigen.

For guests that prefer to test prior to travel in the comfort of their home or while traveling, we have partnered with Inspired Diagnostics to provide FDA-approved, proctored, in-home antigen testing for our guests. Inspired Diagnostics is a subsidiary of Inspire Health Alliance, a leader in best-in-class health services. Testing at home is safe, simple, and convenient. Purchasing in-home testing kits takes just five simple, easy steps at: https://inspirediagnostics.com/ncl/ .

*Residents of the United Kingdom are required to provide additional proof of a negative COVID-19 antigen or PCR test. See FAQs below.

Save Time at Embarkation Complete Your Online Check-In

New health and safety steps added to Online Check-In will significantly cut down processing time at the pier. Experience a much faster, more seamless boarding process when you complete all required steps listed below. Online Check-In for all guests is required to download your eDocs (boarding pass). Port security requires each guest to present their eDocs to enter the pier. PLEASE NOTE: You will lose the opportunity to Check-in online 3 days prior to sailing.

Complete these steps in Online Check-In:

• Travel Documentation: Provide passport number or travel documentation information
• Flight Information: Provide airline details and purchase transfers to the pier and back to the airport.
• Onboard Payment Preferences: Select either credit card, debit card or cash

Added Steps for Health and Safety:

• Acknowledge that you and each guest age twelve and over in your stateroom will be fully vaccinated at least 2 weeks prior to departure (for sailings prior to December 31, 2021)
• Take a Selfie Photo: Use your computer webcam or mobile phone camera to capture your pre-cruise security photo. You can come back to this step on the Mobile app if you don't have a web cam.

These steps will be available 21 days prior to your sail date:

• Reserve an arrival time to check-in at the pier. You will only be allowed to enter the terminal during this time.
• Watch the Required Safety Video in advance to avoid large crowd gathering onboard. Learn important muster drill, life jacket and onboard safety procedures.

Download or Print EDOCS - Your Boarding Pass

Select "Download eDocs" once you've completed Online Check-In for each guest. Print a copy or save a screen grab from your phone containing guest name, terminal arrival time, ship, stateroom and bar code. Port security will check eDocs for this information along with passport/identification to allow entry to the port. You'll be able to download eDocs 21 days prior to your sailing after Online Check-In is complete. Failure to show eDocs at embarkation will result in long wait times at the port.

Planning in the Palm of Your Hand Cruise Norwegian Mobile App

Download the Cruise Norwegian mobile app via the App Store or Google Play. The first step to planning your cruise is linking your account to to the app. You'll be all set to explore and plan all the things you can do onboard. The Cruise Norwegian App will work automatically when you connect to the ship's wi-fi when you board the ship.

Log In to My NCL

• If you booked through a travel agent, or never logged in before, create an account.
• Answer "yes" to "Do you currently have a cruise reservation?"
• Enter your ship name, reservation number and sail date to add your reservation to your account.
• If you're having trouble finding your cruise, either re-set your password or call our Technical Support department at 00800 0310 21 21.

Customise Everything Onboard and Ashore

• Book Shore Excursions. Explore & Plan adventures at each port.
• Make dinner reservations. You can plan a different restaurant for every day of the week
• Learn about all of the onboard experiences on your ship.
• Reserve your seats at award-winning entertainment.
• Get a birdseye view of your itinerary. See everything you've planned for the days at port.
• Join a “Virtual Queue” to avoid long lines.
• Text message and call other guests when onboard.
• Read the Digital Freestyle Daily Newsletter , a timetable of what's happening onboard.
• Track your onboard purchases throughout your holiday.

Our enhanced, staggered embarkation process will streamline check-in by allowing guests to reserve arrival time at the pier during Online Check-In. Security will allow guests to enter the port at reservation time noted on your eDocs.

All unvaccinated guests under the age of twelve on sailings from or to a U.S. or Canadian port will be subject to additional testing at embarkation and disembarkation administered and paid for by the cruise line.

Along with your eDocs, you'll need to bring proof of COVID-19 vaccination (if you are age twelve and older), proof of negative COVID-19 test (PCR if under the age of twelve and unvaccinated), your passport and/or required travel documentation to board the ship.

We've developed a robust and comprehensive health and safety strategy with new and enhanced protocols to create multiple layers of protection against COVID-19. Our science-backed plan will be continuously evaluated using the latest science and technology.

LEARN MORE >

Please note: The Health & Safety video below is only applicable on cruises with embarkation dates through January 16, 2022.