As I set sail on my first Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) adventure, I couldn’t help but feel like a bird soaring through the open sky. The bright blue ocean stretched out in front of me like an endless horizon, and the warm sun beamed down on my face.
I was about to embark on a journey that promised to be everything I had ever dreamed of – a luxurious escape from the mundane, a chance to explore the world, and an opportunity to let go of all my worries.
But with so many NCL ships to choose from, how was I to know which one would be the best fit for me? That’s where this article comes in.
Based on customer reviews from popular travel websites, we’ve ranked the NCL ships from best to worst and provided an overview of each ship’s features and entertainment.
So join me as we set sail on a journey through the NCL fleet, and discover which ship is the perfect fit for your next cruise vacation.
- Norwegian Bliss is the highest-ranked NCL ship according to customer reviews.
- Norwegian Prima is the newest and most luxurious ship in the fleet.
- Norwegian Sky is the best ship for adults who enjoy partying, while Pride of America is ideal for exploring Hawaii.
- Choosing the best NCL ship depends on personal preference and who you’re sailing with, as newer ships offer more onboard activities while older ships are smaller and more relaxed.
Top NCL Ships
I personally found it interesting to learn that the Norwegian Bliss is the best NCL ship according to customer reviews. It’s closely followed by the Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Jewel, making them top choices for couples and families alike.
The Norwegian Bliss offers a range of family-friendly options, including a water park and go-kart track. Meanwhile, Norwegian Escape excels in providing a premium ship experience with its upscale dining options and elegant design.
For couples looking for a romantic getaway, the Norwegian Jewel aims to be a couples ship, with its intimate spaces and luxurious amenities. And if you’re looking for something even more premium, the Norwegian Prima is the first in the Prima Class and offers a truly premium ship experience.
Overall, NCL’s top ships offer something for everyone, whether you’re looking for family fun or a romantic escape.
Overview of NCL Fleet
Embarking on a Norwegian Cruise Line adventure means choosing from a fleet of ships, ranging from smaller, more intimate vessels to larger, more modern ships like the newest and nicest Norwegian Prima. The ships are divided into different classes, each with its own unique features and amenities.
Here’s a quick overview of the NCL fleet:
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Breakaway Class: this class includes Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, and Norwegian Encore. These ships offer a variety of entertainment and dining options, as well as a great kids and teens club.
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Gem Class: Norwegian Gem and Norwegian Jade belong to this class. These ships offer more dining choices and a good mid-size cruising experience.
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Jewel Class: Norwegian Jewel is the only ship in this class, and it aims to be a couples ship.
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Prima Class: Norwegian Prima is the first in this new class and offers a premium ship experience.
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Other notable ships include Norwegian Bliss, known for its exceptional customer reviews, and Norwegian Sky, which is the best ship for adults who like to party.
All of the ships have something unique to offer, making it important to choose based on personal preference and who you’re sailing with.
Each ship in the fleet offers a variety of amenities, including a go-kart track on some of the newer ships, a great casino on Norwegian Escape, and live entertainment on Norwegian Joy.
Whether you’re looking for a more intimate experience or a larger, more modern ship, Norwegian Cruise Line has something for everyone.
Ship Features and Entertainment
Exploring the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet means discovering a variety of ship features and entertainment options to suit any traveler’s preferences.
The ships offer a range of activities diversity, from go-kart racing on the Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore to Broadway-style shows on the Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Epic.
Guests can also enjoy a variety of dining options, including specialty restaurants like Teppanyaki and Cagney’s Steakhouse, as well as buffets and casual eateries.
For those looking for a more relaxed cruise experience, the smaller and older ships like the Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Star offer a quieter atmosphere with fewer crowds.
However, the newer ships like the Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Encore offer more modern amenities and features, such as virtual reality experiences and laser tag.
With so many options available, guests can tailor their cruise experience to their individual preferences and interests.
Choosing the Best Ship
When selecting a Norwegian Cruise Line ship, it’s important to consider personal preferences and the needs of fellow travelers. Here are three factors to keep in mind when making your choice:
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Ship Size: If you prefer a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere, consider sailing on one of the smaller ships like Norwegian Jewel or Norwegian Sky. On the other hand, if you’re traveling with family or friends and want more options for entertainment and activities, go for one of the larger ships like Norwegian Encore or Norwegian Prima.
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Itinerary: Think about the destinations you want to visit and choose a ship that offers the itinerary you’re looking for. For example, if you want to explore the islands of Hawaii, Pride of America is the best option. If you’re interested in cruising the Caribbean, any of the NCL ships will do, but Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Getaway are particularly popular for this region.
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Onboard Amenities: Consider what you and your fellow travelers enjoy doing when at sea. If you’re a fan of go-karting, Norwegian Joy or Norwegian Prima are your best options. If you love a good casino, Norwegian Escape is the ship for you. And if you want a ship with exceptional live entertainment, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Breakaway are your top choices.
Ultimately, the best NCL ship for you will depend on your personal preferences and who you’re sailing with.
What is the average cost of a Norwegian Cruise Line ship?
I’ve found that the cost of a Norwegian Cruise Line ship varies depending on factors such as the length of the cruise, destination, and stateroom type. However, NCL offers affordability options such as early booking discounts and promotions.
Are there any all-inclusive options available on Norwegian Cruise Line ships?
Oh, all-inclusive options on Norwegian Cruise Line ships? Sure, just pay for a deluxe beverage package, unlimited dining package, and internet package to enjoy the benefits of an all-inclusive experience. Packages, deals, and discounts available. Availability varies.
What is the average length of a Norwegian Cruise Line itinerary?
I’ve found that the average length of a Norwegian Cruise Line itinerary varies based on popular destinations, with most ranging from 7-14 days. Itinerary customization is available for those seeking a more personalized experience.
What is the dress code for Norwegian Cruise Line ships?
Oh, the joy of packing for a cruise! Dress code tips? Don’t worry, NCL’s "Freestyle Cruising"means no formal attire required. But bring some nice outfits for specialty restaurants and shows.
Are there any age restrictions or requirements for certain activities on Norwegian Cruise Line ships?
I have found that Norwegian Cruise Line ships do have age restrictions and activity requirements for certain activities. It’s important to check with the specific ship and activity to ensure compliance.