I recently had the opportunity to experience the Norwegian Encore, a cruise ship that promises an exhilarating journey for families and young couples. This ship is not for the faint of heart; it boasts adrenaline-pumping activities like multi-storey water slides and a race track that spans the length of the ship. As someone who craves adventure and excitement, I was eager to see what the Norwegian Encore had in store for me.
From the moment I stepped on board, I was struck by the ship’s vibrant energy and unique design. The Norwegian Encore offers an abundance of dining options, cabin types, and activities that cater to a diverse range of interests. Whether you’re looking to relax by the pool or participate in heart-pumping activities, the Norwegian Encore has something for everyone.
In this article, I will share my experience on the ship, detailing the dining options, cabin types, and target audience. I will also discuss the promotions offered by Norwegian Cruise Line and provide a list of pros and cons for those considering a trip on the Norwegian Encore.
- Norwegian Encore offers a lot of thrilling activities on board, such as two multi-storey water slides, the longest race track at sea, the largest open-air laser tag course at sea, and a 10,000 square foot virtual reality playground.
- The ship is not ideal for those looking for a relaxing cruise as there are numerous activities and extras like laser tag, go-karts, and virtual reality arcade that are chargeable.
- Norwegian Encore has a range of dining options, including six complimentary restaurants and nine specialty restaurants for an extra charge, catering to different tastes and preferences.
- The ship is ideally suited to young couples and families with older children, and Norwegian Cruise Line regularly runs promotions like the Free at Sea promo to help pay for added extras on board.
Overview
Wow, the Norwegian Encore is packed with so many activities that it’s impossible to be bored on board. Ship amenities like two multi-storey water slides, a kids’ water park, and pools and hot tubs are just the beginning.
Onboard entertainment includes the longest race track at sea – the Norwegian Encore Speedway – where you can go for a thrilling ride. You need to be at least 55 inches tall and wear fully closed shoes.
There’s also the largest open-air laser tag course at sea, Galaxy Pavilion – a 10,000 square foot virtual reality playground – and a traditional arcade with games like basketball and air-hockey.
But that’s not all. The ship has countless bars and lounges with outdoor seating and sea views, a Mandara spa with treatments and amenities like heated beds with sea views, and three different shows, a comedy club, and a Beatles tribute band.
The casino is the biggest I’ve ever seen, and the Social Club becomes a silent disco each night. Whether you’re looking for an adrenaline rush or a more laid-back experience, the Norwegian Encore has something for everyone.
Activities
I really enjoyed the variety of activities on board the Norwegian Encore, especially the water slides and the race track. The Ocean Loops water slide was a highlight for me, with its drop-away floor, two loops, and clear section over the side of the ship. It was definitely a thrilling experience! The Norwegian Encore Speedway was also a lot of fun, with its winding track and speedy go-karts.
However, it’s important to note that there are height and shoe requirements for both activities, so make sure to check before booking.
Another activity that stood out to me was the Galaxy Pavilion, a 10,000 square foot virtual reality playground. It was really cool to try out the different VR games and experiences, and it was a great way to escape the heat and crowds for a bit. Additionally, the traditional arcade had some classic games like basketball and air-hockey, which were fun to play with friends and family.
Overall, there were so many activities to choose from on the Norwegian Encore, and I think there’s something for everyone, whether you’re looking for excitement or relaxation.
Dining Options
The dining options on board were diverse, with six complimentary restaurants and nine specialty restaurants for an extra charge, allowing guests to choose from a wide variety of cuisines and experiences.
The Garden Cafe offered an array of culinary delights from around the world, including breakfast curries, stir-fries, and a carving station. The Manhattan Room, on the other hand, was a luxurious dining room with a daily-changing menu that featured dishes like slow-roasted prime rib, seared sea bass, and vanilla creme brulee for dessert.
The specialty restaurants were also worth a try, with each offering unique menu varieties and dining experiences. The Teppanyaki restaurant not only served delicious food but also provided a culinary show as chefs cooked right in front of diners. Local Bar & Grill, meanwhile, served classic pub food at no extra cost, making it a great option for those looking for a laid-back dining experience.
Overall, the dining options on Norwegian Encore were impressive, ensuring that guests never ran out of delectable dishes to try throughout their cruise.
Cabin Types
When looking for a cabin on board the Norwegian Encore, there are plenty of options to suit every budget and preference. The studio cabins are perfect for solo travelers, with full-sized beds and no single supplement.
Inside staterooms can accommodate up to four guests with a queen-size bed and two Pullman beds, while oceanview cabins offer large picture windows and can sleep up to five people.
Balcony cabins are spacious and can accommodate up to four people, with a huge balcony to enjoy the stunning sea views. Mini suites are slightly larger than balcony cabins and come with extra features.
The Haven offers the most luxurious accommodations, including suites and villas with separate living and sleeping areas, multiple bathrooms, and a private complex of suites. Guests of The Haven also have access to The Haven Courtyard, The Haven Restaurant, and The Haven Lounge and Bar.
When it comes to pricing options, the Norwegian Cruise Line regularly offers promotions to help make the cruise more affordable. The Free at Sea promo is a great way to get added extras on board, such as free drinks or dining packages.
It’s important to compare the features and prices of each cabin type to find the best fit for your needs and budget. Whether you’re traveling solo or with a group, the Norwegian Encore has a cabin type to suit your needs, with plenty of opportunities to experience all the thrilling activities and entertainment on board.
Target Audience
Younger youth and young adults yearning for youthful activities and entertainment would find the Norwegian Encore to be an exciting and engaging experience. As someone who’s been on over 20 cruises, I can confidently say that this ship has a lot to offer for those seeking adventure and fun.
Here are four reasons why the Norwegian Encore is ideal for families and couples looking for a thrilling vacation:
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Family friendly features: With a kids’ water park, a race track, and a laser tag course, the Norwegian Encore offers endless fun for families with older children. The Splash Academy and Entourage teen lounge also provide organized activities and parties for young cruisers.
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Couples’ activities: For couples looking for a romantic getaway, the Mandara spa and the numerous dining options on board offer a luxurious and intimate experience. The Haven suites also provide a private complex of suites for couples to relax and unwind.
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Variety of activities: From water slides to virtual reality arcades, the Norwegian Encore has something for everyone. With a wide range of activities, the ship caters to different interests and preferences.
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Promotions: For those looking to save money, Norwegian Cruise Line regularly runs promotions, such as the Free at Sea promo, which can help pay for added extras on board.
Promotions
As someone who’s been on multiple cruises and is always looking to save money, I highly recommend taking advantage of Norwegian Cruise Line’s promotions. One great option is the Free at Sea promo. This allows you to choose up to five free offers, providing additional value for your vacation.
Depending on the length of your cruise, you can choose from options such as free specialty dining, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and beverages. However, it’s important to note that there are restrictions and limitations to this promotion. Some offers may not be available on all sailings, and some options may have additional fees or gratuities.
Additionally, not all stateroom categories are eligible for the promotion. But with some research and planning, the Free at Sea promo can offer significant benefits and help you save money on your Norwegian Encore cruise.
Author’s Experience
I was blown away by the variety and quality of dining options available on board during the Norwegian Encore’s inaugural cruise. The complimentary restaurants, such as the Manhattan Room and Garden Cafe, offered a great selection of dishes that catered to different tastes. The specialty restaurants were also worth the additional cost, especially the Teppanyaki restaurant. It not only offered delicious Japanese cuisine but also a culinary show that entertained guests.
Aside from the dining options, the onboard entertainment was also impressive. The Galaxy Pavilion, a 10,000 square foot virtual reality playground, was a highlight for me. It was amazing to experience different virtual reality games and simulations that transported me to different worlds. The shows, comedy club, and Beatles tribute band were also enjoyable, and the casino was the biggest I’ve ever seen.
Overall, the Norwegian Encore’s inaugural cruise provided a thrilling experience with its range of onboard activities and entertainment.
Pros and Cons
One thing to consider when deciding whether to book the inaugural cruise on the Norwegian Encore is weighing the pros and cons. While the ship offers a plethora of activities and dining options, there are also some drawbacks to keep in mind.
On the one hand, the Norwegian Encore is perfect for anyone looking for an action-packed vacation. With two multi-storey water slides, a race track, laser tag course, and virtual reality arcade, there’s never a dull moment on board. The ship also offers a variety of dining options, including six complimentary restaurants and nine specialty restaurants for an extra charge. However, it should be noted that some of these activities and dining options come with an additional cost. The ship is also not ideal for those looking for a relaxing cruise, as there’s always something going on and the atmosphere can be quite lively. Additionally, while the cabins are comfortable and well-appointed, they may not be suitable for everyone’s needs or budget.
To help you decide whether the Norwegian Encore is right for you, we’ve put together a table outlining some of the advantages and drawbacks of the ship:
| Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|
| Plenty of activities for all ages | Some activities and dining options require an additional fee |
| Wide variety of dining options | The ship may not be ideal for those seeking a relaxing cruise |
| Cabins to suit all budgets and needs | Some cabins may be too small for larger groups |
| The ship regularly runs promotions | Some activities may have age, height, or weight restrictions |
By weighing these factors, you can make an informed decision about whether the Norwegian Encore is the right cruise for you and your travel companions.
What is the cost of the chargeable activities on Norwegian Encore?
I was surprised by the cost of chargeable activities on Norwegian Encore. The go-karts and laser tag were fun but pricey. I recommend opting for family friendly excursions instead. Prices for activities vary, so check before booking.
Are there any restrictions for children on the Ocean Loops water slide?
For the Ocean Loops water slide, there are height requirements of at least 48 inches, but no specific restrictions for children. Safety measures are in place, including a drop-away floor and clear section over the side of the ship.
What types of shows are available on Norwegian Encore?
Did you know that Norwegian Encore offers live entertainment every night? From three different shows to a comedy club and even a Beatles tribute band, there’s something for everyone. Plus, with six complimentary restaurants and nine specialty dining options, you won’t go hungry. Age appropriate activities, like Splash Academy and Entourage teen lounge, ensure that the whole family can have fun.
What is the size range of the cabins available on the ship?
The cabin size range on Norwegian Encore includes studio, inside, oceanview, balcony, mini suites, and The Haven suites. Room amenities vary depending on the cabin type, with The Haven offering the most luxurious accommodations.
Is there a dress code for the complimentary and specialty restaurants on Norwegian Encore?
Dining on Norwegian Encore varies from casual to upscale, with dress code guidelines in place for the complimentary and specialty restaurants. Formal attire is not required, but guests can dress up if they choose. Think business casual, not black tie.