Norwegian Cruise Line has announced that for the first time in many years, it will be offering a season of voyages from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. The announcement comes as the line announces its spring and summer 2026 schedule for the Caribbean, Bahamas, Bermuda, Alaska, and Canada/New England.

On April 16, 2026, Norwegian Jewel will commence seven to nine-day voyages to Bermuda, launching Philadelphia as a new cruise destination. Departing from the SouthPort Marine Terminal Complex, where plans are currently underway with the local government to develop a facility for cruisers, Jewel‘s Bermuda cruises will feature overnight calls to the Royal Naval Dockyard.

This new homeport for Norwegian Cruise Line will provide residents in the Mid-Atlantic region more access to cruising, as it will be the only cruise line sailing from Philadelphia through October 17, 2026.

“The Port of Philadelphia is extremely excited to partner with Norwegian Cruise Line, one of the world’s premier cruise lines,” said Jeff Theobald, executive director and CEO of PhilaPort.  “Philadelphia has so much to offer, as the birthplace of freedom and the home to much of our nation’s history, we look forward to connecting cruisers with our world class city.  This new service rounds out the portfolio of services offered at PhilaPort, and we look forward to this next phase of growth.”

NCL’s new 2026 spring/summer season includes nearly 250 itineraries for nine of its ships. Embarking from U.S. and Canadian ports between April and November 2026, these voyages will call to 30 different destinations across the Caribbean, Bermuda, Bahamas, Canada and New England, and Alaska.

Itinerary highlights include:

New Bermuda, Canada, and New England Homeports and Itineraries

Following Norwegian Jewel‘s first season of Bermuda sailings from Philadelphia from April 16 to August 27, 2026, it will sail immersive 10 and 11-day Canada and New England itineraries, alternating embarkation ports between Philadelphia and Québec City. Guests will enjoy ports including Saguenay, Charlottetown, Halifax, Bar Harbor, and Boston.

On April 19th, Norwegian Breakaway will become the largest NCL vessel to offer regular turnarounds in Boston with seven-day Bermuda voyages through November. Throughout the summer, sailings will feature an overnight stay at the Royal Naval Dockyard and a day in Halifax. From late August through mid-October, the ship will embark on seven-day Canada and New England itineraries calling to picturesque ports like Bar Harbor, Maine; Saint John, New Brunswick; and Halifax, Nova Scotia.

Norwegian Aqua will return to New York City for her second Bermuda season, offering a selection of five and seven-day itineraries with overnight stays at the Royal Naval Dockyard.

Longer Continuous Bahamas Season

Due to popular guest demand, Norwegian Cruise Line is expanding its short-cruise offering with nearly 40 voyages to the Bahamas from Miami in spring/summer 2026 aboard Norwegian Getaway for a continuous season of cruises to the nation. The three and four-night sailings will visit Nassau and Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island Great Stirrup Cay. As of late 2025, the island will have a new multi-ship pier.

Caribbean Cruises on One of NCL’s Newest Ships

Norwegian Prima‘s sprawling outdoor space allows for some of the best island-hopping itineraries in the Caribbean. The ship will extend its season in Port Canaveral, Florida, offering seven-day cruises to the eastern and western Caribbean. Port calls will include Montego Bay, Grand Cayman, and Puerto Plata. For an extended vacation, guests can combine back-to-back sailings for a 14-day adventure.

The Youngest Fleet in Alaska

Alaska remains a bucket-list destination for travelers with its rugged coastal landscapes, majestic glaciers, and local marine wildlife. The 2026 season will commence in late April and offer voyages through October from Seattle, Whittier, and Vancouver.

Guests will be able to enjoy a variety of experiences on some of the newest ships in the region: Norwegian Encore, Joy, and Bliss. Embarking from Pier 66 in Seattle, Norwegian Encore and Bliss will offer seven-day voyages, while Norwegian Joy will offer longer nine and 10-day itineraries.

Norwegian Jade will cruise a series of seven-day open-jaw sailings between Vancouver and Whittier with no days at sea. Guests aiming to immerse themselves even more in Alaska can add a Cruisetour to their booking and explore the interior of Alaska, take a ride on the Alaska Railroad, or fish halibut and salmon in the cold waters of Kachemak Bay.

It’s the first time a cruise ship will homeport in Philadelphia in nearly 20 years, as the last time a ship homeported in the Pennsylvania city was in 2008.

Comments

Are you excited about the addition of Philadelphia to the available cruise homeports in the northeast? Do you think you might take a sailing to Bermuda from Philly in 2026? Drop us an anchor below and share your thoughts!

Stay up to date with the latest cruise news and travel updates!

The post Norwegian Cruise Line Announces It Will Be Sailing From Philadelphia in 2026 appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

It certainly pays to be loyal to one particular cruise line. Most cruise lines offer incentives for repeat customers with loyalty programs. In addition, these tiered programs offer cruisers more and more perks as they work their way up the ranks. In this Complete Guide to the NCL Latitudes program, we provide all the details on each tier including the associated benefits.

Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latitudes Rewards Program (2024)

How to Sign Up for the NCL Latitudes Program

Becoming a member of Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latitudes Rewards Program is easy. All you need to do is take a cruise with NCL! Guests who are 18 years or older are automatically enrolled in the Latitudes Rewards program.

Minors will receive all points earned on their first cruise taken after they turn 18 years of age.

Cruisers then receive loyalty points equal to every cruise night. For instance, a seven-day cruise will earn you seven points. In addition, guests who book suites or The Haven will earn double points. Of note, Club Balcony Suites are not included in this offer. This point structure applies to all cruise destinations.

Further, NCL will occasionally have Latitudes Rewards Insider Offers which qualify for double points when booking.

Related Post: Beginner’s Guide to Cruise Planning

How to Earn Points in Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program

As mentioned above, you will accrue Latitudes points for each night you spend on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. Cruisers will receive these points after completing their cruise. Therefore, if a current sailing bumps you into the next level, you will not recognize the new benefits until your next sailing.

Further, you earn Latitudes points based on the cabin category for which you paid during the initial reservation. It does not apply to upgrades. If you receive a free or discounted upgrade to a Suite or The Haven you will not receive Suite points. Also, cruisetour nights do not accrue points either.

However, guests sailing with Friends & Family rates and/or Casino cruises will still earn points.

Chartered cruises (with the exception of Sixthman charters), inaugural events, and cruises taken via cruise certificates or travel agent rates do not qualify for rewards points. However, if you are already a Latitudes member, you will still receive your benefits on these sailings.

Using the Benefits of NCL Latitudes

Benefits from Norwegian’s Latitudes program are based on your tier status in this loyalty program. The more you cruise with NCL, the more perks you receive. The onboard discounts are available on all sailings. However, the other perks are only available on sailings that are 5 days or longer.

If you are cruising in the same stateroom with a Latitudes member with a different tier status, both guests will receive the benefit of the higher tier for rewards delivered on a stateroom level.

Though, each member will receive the benefit that corresponds to their respective tier for rewards delivered on an individual level.

Related Post: Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line’s Drink Packages

The amount of points cruisers need to achieve each tier in Norwegian’s Latitudes Program is as follows:

• Bronze: 1-19
• Silver: 20-44
• Gold: 45-74
• Platinum: 75-149
• Sapphire: 150-349
• Diamond: 350-699
• Ambassador: 700+

Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program Levels

Bronze: 1-19 points

After taking one cruise with NCL, you will receive Bronze status. Bronze level cruisers receive a 10% discount in duty-free shops and a 30% discount on the Unlimited Open Bar Package. They also get a signature tier pin and free artwork for attending an art auction. Other benefits include access to member cruises and the Latitudes Digital Magazine and members-only offers.

Silver: 20-44 points

The second of the NCL Latitudes levels is Silver. These members receive all benefits of the bronze level as well as additional perks. These additional perks include an exclusive cocktail party.

Also, they receive a drink package discount increase to 40%, a 10% discount on shore excursions, a 20% discount on photos, and a 15% discount in duty-free shops on logo merchandise. Additionally, cruisers receive 15% off signature spa treatments on port days.

Gold: 45-74 points

The next tier in Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program is Gold. This level entitles guests to all the Silver tier perks as well as additional perks.

The additional perks include photo discount increased to 25% and spa discount increased to 20%. Gold guests also receive one free carton of water, 50% off one bag of laundry, priority tender tickets, and priority disembarkation.

Platinum: 75-149 points

If you are an NCL cruiser with 75-149 points, you have Platinum status. This status has all the benefits of Gold with an increased photo discount to 30%, spa discount to 25%, and drink package discount to 45%. There’s also a free bag of laundry.

Platinum guests also receive a 15% internet package discount, priority check-in and embarkation, chocolate covered strawberries, a Behind the Scenes ship tour, dinner for two in a specialty restaurant with a bottle of wine, dinner for two in a specialty restaurant, a Wines Around the World tasting, and early pre-booking for entertainment and dining at 125 days prior to sailing.

Platinum members also enjoy a dedicated pre-cruise Service Desk and concierge service onboard.

Related Post: Guide to NCL’s Specialty Dining Packages

Sapphire: 150-349 points

Sapphire is the next tier in the NCL Latitudes program. In addition to all the other benefits of Platinum, these guests also receive a dinner with Officers and priority restaurant and entertainment seating.

Additionally, the internet discount increases from 15% to 20% and the shore excursion discount from 10% to 15%. Cruisers also get 2 cartons of water instead of one.

Diamond: 350-699 points

Diamond is the second-highest tier in the NCL Latitudes program. In addition to all the other benefits of Sapphire, these guests also receive an increased internet discount from 20% to 25%, an increased drink package discount from 45% to 50%, an exclusive Sail & Sustain Mixology Experience, and a one-time free cabin upgrade.

Ambassador: 700+ points

Every Norwegian Cruise Line loyalist’s dream is to become Ambassador one day. To attain this NCL Latitudes rewards program level, you will need a whopping 700 points. This is about two full years at sea!

Of course, your rewards for being the most loyal cruisers are many extra perks. This includes milestone FREE CRUISES and a special ambassador gift! Other added perks include an increase to 20% off shore excursions and pre-booking entertainment, dining, and activities as early as 130 days before sailing.

Additional Perks of Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program

All Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program members receive additional on land perks. These include a monthly Latitudes Rewards Insider Offers email. This entitles cruisers to exclusive booking bonuses for select sailings. Members also receive exclusive offers from Caesar’s Entertainment.

Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program Benefits Fine Print

To receive onboard discounts, guests only need to present their keycards at the appropriate location. These locations include the gift shop, shore excursions desk, spa, photo gallery, internet cafe, and art auction.

Shore Excursions:

Cruisers can use shore excursion discounts online pre-cruise in their My NCL account or onboard the ship.

If booking shore excursions onboard the ship, you will need to visit the shore excursions desk. If a guest pre-pays for a shore excursion before embarking on the cruise, the applicable discount will be applied at the time of booking/payment. 

Luckily, the shore excursion discount is combinable with the Free at Sea promotion.

Related Post: Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Ship Classes

Internet Discounts:

Internet package discounts can be used for the Unlimited 1 device and Unlimited Premium 1 device WiFi packages. This discount is not valid on Free at Sea WiFi upgrades. Discount may be applied online if an internet package is purchased pre-cruise or once onboard the ship.

Pre-Bookings:

Platinum, Sapphire, and Diamond members that are booked in standard or Club Balcony staterooms are eligible to pre-book dining, onboard activities, and entertainment beginning at 125 days prior to embarkation day. If these members are booked in suites or the Haven, they may pre-book 130 days prior to embarkation day.

Ambassadors booked in any stateroom category are eligible for early pre-booking at 130 days prior to embarkation.

Specialty Dinners:

The free specialty dinner benefit is per stateroom, available on voyages five days or longer. It entitles the first two guests in the stateroom to an appetizer, one entrée, and a dessert of choice. Upcharges apply to certain premium menu items. The free bottle of wine is offered in all venues that have a complimentary wine list, Palomar not included.

In à la carte restaurants, the coupon can be redeemed for four menu items per person (Sushi, Wasabi, Nama, Teppanyaki, Hasuki, Food Republic, Pincho Tapas Bar, or Raw Bar).

Coupons can’t be used for the same venue twice.

Diamond Cabin Upgrade:

Diamond members will be offered a one-time complimentary cabin upgrade. The cabin upgrade is valid for one category increase from the category booked. The highest cabin category that a member may be upgraded to is Club Balcony; Suites and The Haven are not eligible.

Further, guests will have one year to take the complimentary cabin upgrade after graduating to the Diamond tier.

Ambassador Free Cruise:

For the Ambassador level free cruise, guests receive a complimentary seven-day cruise in a balcony stateroom on any ship.

Surprisingly, there are no destination restrictions. Though, holiday sailings are not eligible (Christmas and New Year’s). In addition, the cruise is for two people, so 3rd and 4th guests need to pay prevailing rates (if applicable). Taxes, fees and service charges still apply.

Eligible Ambassador members will have one year to take the complimentary cruise.

Do NCL Latitudes rewards points expire?

No, the points you’ve earned through the NCL Latitudes program never expire. Members of the Latitudes program keep all of their points at the end of each year and accrue them indefinitely. This means that — at least at the present time — those who hit the Ambassador tier get to keep that status forever.

Do other cruise lines within Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings status match to NCL?

No, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings does not do status matching nor points pooling between its cruise brands (Norwegian Cruise Line, Oceania Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises). The loyalty programs between all three lines are completely separate.

Comments

To which of the Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program levels do you belong? Do you take advantage of all the perks associated with this loyalty program? Drop us an anchor below to let us know if you prefer to stay loyal to one brand or cruise with a variety of brands.

The post Guide to Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards Program appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line has announced a total of 85 new voyages across Asia Pacific, Australia, and New Zealand. They’ll take place aboard Norwegian Spirit, Sun, and Sky from September 2024 through March 2026.

For the first time in its history, NCL will deploy the most ships in this part of the world for an extended season of voyages from 15 departure ports including Auckland, New Zealand; Bali (Benoa) Indonesia; Bangkok (Laem Chabang); Manila, Phillippines; Papeete (Tahiti), French Polynesia; Seoul (Incheon), South Korea; Singapore; Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan; Tokyo and Yokohama, Japan; Vancouver, Canada; Sydney, Melbourne, and for the first time, Cairns, Australia; and Lautoka, Fiji. This will also mark Norwegian Cruise Line’s first summer cruises in Asia.

The nine to 19-day voyages offer guests an average of 10 hours in port to over 60 locations, including NCL-first calls to Albany, Busselton, Fremantle, Port Douglas and Townsville, Australia; Matsuyama and Niigata, Japan; Aitutaki in the Cook Islands; and Suva, Fiji.

Spanning 18 months, the season will also feature 36 overnight port stays in Asia Pacific to 11 unique places. Some of the highlights include Osaka, Japan, where guests can explore over 1,600 temples and fascinating heritage; Himeji, Japan, home to Himeji Castle, the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site; and Tokushima, Japan, where guests can savor a wide variety of culinary specialties, as well learn about the town’s deep history and culture, and even visit the Tatsue-ji Temple.

Other overnight calls include Hong Kong, Bangkok (Laem Chabang), and Melbourne. Additionally, for the first time, NCL will overnight in Bali and Lembar (Lombok), Indonesia.

Norwegian Spirit

Norwegian Spirit will debut in Asia on May 26, 2024 for a 10-day Japan cruise departing from Tokyo. In the fall, she will return for a season of nine to 15-day voyages to Japan and southeast Asia from September 22, 2024 through November 17, 2025. From December 2025 to March 2026, she will return to offer a series of 11 to 14-day journeys to-and-between Australia and New Zealand.

Norwegian Sun

This December, Norwegian Sun will make her Australian debut, arriving in Brisbane and Melbourne on December 18 and 21, 2024 following a leisurely 18-day French Polynesia and South Pacific sailing that will depart Papeete on December 3rd.

She will operate a section of 12 to 15-day voyages between Australia and New Zealand, including a new collection of brand-first itineraries to the Great Barrier Reef and South Pacific between Cairns and Lautoka, Australia — also NCL’s first turnaround in both ports.

Sun will also sail six island-hopping French Polynesia cruises between Fiji and Tahiti and two Asia cruises through May 21, 2025. From November 2025 to March 2026, the vessel will sail a selection of 11 to 15-day itineraries exploring Japan, Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, and other highly sought out destinations in Southeast Asia.

Norwegian Sky

Norwegian Sky will debut in Asia in January 2025, offering select Japan and southeast Asia cruises ranging from 10 to 17 days through March 2025.

Comments

Have you ever taken a cruise in Australia, New Zealand, or Asia? Are you interested in Norwegian Cruise Line’s new schedule in the region? Drop us an anchor below and share your thoughts!

Stay up to date with the latest cruise news and travel updates!

The post Norwegian Cruise Line to Deploy Three Ships in Asia and Australia appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the mainstream family-friendly cruise lines offering a variety of vacations to destinations across the globe. NCL’s fleet currently includes 19 ships which vary in terms of age, size, and amenities.

If you are considering a cruise with the brand, we have put together this comprehensive guide to Norwegian Cruise Line ships by age to help you decide which ship is the right fit for your next family vacation.

Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Ships by Age (2024)

Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator of the freestyle approach to cruising. This means that you can feel free do whatever you want, whenever you want. Cruisers can choose from a variety of complimentary and specialty restaurants that offer diverse menus.

They can also enjoy signature entertainment, several bars and lounges, and some of the newest onboard amenities. Of course, there are also other standard cruise amenities like a pool deck, gym, spa, onboard shopping, and a casino.

Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a standard level of service and predictable stateroom categories across all cruise ship classes. The brand also features its exclusive “ship within a ship” concept, The Haven, and the Studio for solo cruisers.

Related Post: What You Need to Know About NCL’s Free at Sea in 2024

For those looking for the ultimate flexibility, look no further than Norwegian Cruise Line.

Which is the newest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The newest ship in the NCL fleet at the time of publication is Norwegian Viva, which is the second ship in the Prima class. Viva debuted in August 2023. The first ship in the Prima class, Norwegian Prima, entered service in August 2022.

A third ship in the class, Norwegian Aqua, is scheduled to debut in 2025.

What is the oldest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

When we’re looking at Norwegian Cruise Line ships by age, Norwegian Spirit is the oldest ship currently sailing in the NCL fleet. It first debuted in 1998 as SuperStar Leo for Star Cruises, and was transferred to Norwegian Cruise Line in 2004. The vessel is just under 76,000 gross tons and can hold just over 2,000 guests.

Norwegian Sky follows closely behind in age, having debuted in 1999.

What is the average age of a Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships range in age from under a year old to 25 years old. The average age of an NCL ship is currently 14.4 years old. Five ships are over 20 years old, and eight are 10-19 years old. Six members of the fleet debuted in the past decade.

Despite many ships being a decade old or more, they do get refurbishments. For example, Norwegian Spirit underwent a major renovation in 2020 and Norwegian Sky got updates in 2019. Even one of the line’s newer ships, Norwegian Joy (2017), just underwent a large renovation earlier this year.

How many NCL ships are there?

There are currently 19 cruise ships in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. There are also a number of upcoming ships currently on order, including the third Prima class vessel, Norwegian Aqua, which is slated for a 2025 debut.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships By Age (Newest to Oldest)

• Norwegian Aqua — 2025 (156,300 gross tons, 3,571 guests)
• Norwegian Viva — 2023 (142,500 gross tons, 3,195 guests)
• Norwegian Prima — 2022 (143,535 gross tons, 3,099 guests)
• Norwegian Encore — 2019 (169,116 gross tons, 3,998 guests)
• Norwegian Bliss — 2018 (168,028 gross tons, 4,004 guests)
• Norwegian Joy — 2017 (167,725 gross tons, 3,804 guests)
• Norwegian Escape — 2015 (164,998 gross tons, 4,266 guests)
• Norwegian Getaway — 2014 (145,655 gross tons, 3,963 guests)
• Norwegian Breakaway — 2013 (145,655 gross tons, 3,963 guests)
• Norwegian Epic — 2010 (155,873 gross tons, 4,100 guests)
• Norwegian Gem — 2007 (93,530 gross tons, 2,394 guests)
• Norwegian Pearl — 2006 (93,530 gross tons, 2,394 guests)
• Norwegian Jade — 2006 (93,558 gross tons, 2,402 guests)
• Norwegian Jewel — 2005 (93,502 gross tons, 2,376 guests)
• Pride of America — 2005 (80,439 gross tons, 2,186 guests)
• Norwegian Dawn — 2002 (92,250 gross tons, 2,340 guests)
• Norwegian Star — 2001 (91,740 gross tons, 2,348 guests)
• Norwegian Sun — 2001 (78,309 gross tons, 1,936 guests)
• Norwegian Sky — 1999 (77,104 gross tons, 2,004 guests)
• Norwegian Spirit — 1998 (75,904 gross tons, 2,032 guests)

Understanding Cruise Ship Classes

Cruise lines are large companies that manage a fleet of ships. Some of the world’s largest cruise lines have dozens of ships. Each cruise line has its own “style”. However, even within a brand, there are different dining options, entertainment options, and onboard amenities between ships.

It would take you hours to research each ship individually. Not to mention, Norwegian Cruise Line is just one of many cruise lines.

Hence, it’s important to note that each cruise line offers different groups of ships. These “classes” of cruise ships are of similar size and design. Further, they often feature similar amenities and venues.

While there might be slight differences between ships within a class, these sister ships are largely identical.

How many ship classes does Norwegian Cruise Line have?

Norwegian Cruise Line’s 19 ships are divided into a whopping nine classes. They are the Prima class, Breakaway class, Breakaway Plus class, Epic class, Jewel class, Dawn class, Sun class, Leo class, and the Pride of America class.

Prima Class

The Prima class is currently in progress, with multiple ships still on order and two that have already debuted — Norwegian Prima (2022) and Norwegian Viva (2023). A third vessel in the class, Norwegian Aqua, is set to begin sailing in 2025.

When Norwegian Cruise Line first announced the Prima class, many were surprised that — unlike most new mainstream cruise ships debuting — they would actually be smaller than the previous class of ships. Indeed, the two existing Prima class ships are around 143,000 gross tons each, which is over 20,000 gross tons smaller than the two ships before them, Norwegian Encore and Bliss. Norwegian Aqua will be a bit larger than her sisters though, coming in at 156,300 gross tons.

The Prima class represents many new concepts for Norwegian Cruise Line. One of the most obvious before you even step onboard are the dry slides, which are affixed to the side of the ship. The Drop is a 10-story dry slide — the first dry drop slide in the world. The Rush is a set of dueling slides. Both offer a corkscrew-style slide experience that’s fun for all ages.

The Norwegian Speedway is continued on the Prima class following success on the Breakaway Plus ships. On the Prima ships, it’s the longest go-kart track on board to date and spans three decks. The Prima-class ships also include the Galaxy Pavilion, a space full of modern arcade-type games and virtual reality experiences. New to Prima class is a darts lounge and an interactive mini golf course.

The Prima class ships also feature a new dining venue called Indulge Food Hall. There, guests order from tablets at their table and can choose from a variety of cuisines that each have their own little station within the space. The ships also include a classic cruise ship buffet and main dining room, as well as specialty restaurants such as Cagney’s Steakhouse, Hasuki teppanyaki, Los Lobos, and the all-new Mediterranean restaurant Palomar.

There’s also the cruise industry’s first sustainable cocktail bar, Metropolitan Bar. There, bartenders create unique cocktails with ingredients made from food scraps that would otherwise be discarded, such as day-old croissants, banana peels, and pineapple peels.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s classic Observation Lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows can also be found on the Prima ships, as is the adults-only Vibe Beach Club and The Haven, a ship-within-a-ship complex which allows Haven guests to enjoy their own restaurant, sundeck, and lounge.

The Mandara Spa includes a revamped thermal suite area, featuring a brand-new two-story waterfall wall alongside the vitality pool with jets and the thalassotherapy saltwater pool.

Breakaway Plus Class

The second-newest of the Norwegian Cruise Line ship classes is the Breakaway Plus Class. This sub-class of the previous Breakaway Class offers many of the same features of its predecessors. It also has some new additions all of her own.

The Breakaway Plus Class debuted with Norwegian Escape in 2015. Additional ships in this class include Norwegian Joy (2017), Norwegian Bliss (2018), and Norwegian Encore (2019).

The Breakaway Plus is the largest class of ships for Norwegian Cruise Line weighing in at 165,000 to 169,000 gross tons and carrying between 3,800 and 4,200 passengers.

Norwegian Escape bears many similarities to the Breakaway Class, while the remaining three ships are all very similar. Of note, Norwegian Joy was originally designed for the Chinese market but refurbished and transferred to the American market in 2019. The ship was renovated again in early 2024.

One of our favorite features of this class of ship is The Waterfront. This mid-level promenade deck features a variety of restaurants, bars and lounges, and other shopping and entertainment venues.

Some of our favorite bars include the District Brewhouse and the Sugarcane Mojito Bar. Newer specialty restaurant offerings on these ships include Q Texas Smokehouse, Food Republic, and the Italian Onda by Scarpetta on Norwegian Encore.

The Breakaway-Plus class of ships also has some of the most thrilling attractions at sea. Among them are go-kart courses, a state-of-the-art laser tag arena (on Bliss and Encore), and some of the fastest waterslides at sea.

Norwegian Encore features the Galaxy Pavilion too. This digitally enhanced area is home to interactive attractions, ride simulators, and games that everyone in the family will enjoy.

Some of these ships also feature Spice H2O, an adults-only area with water features, a bar, and private space for those that are 18+. Similarly, some ships feature the relaxing Observation Lounge. This forward facing venue offers stunning views with wall to wall glass, making it the perfect place to watch the ship sail into port.

There’s also the Cavern Club with a resident Beatles tribute band.

Breakaway Class

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway Class ushered in a new era of cruising when its first ship, Norwegian Breakaway, debuted in 2013. The Breakaway Class includes only two ships, Norwegian Breakaway (2013) and Norwegian Getaway (2014).

Though, as mentioned previously, Norwegian Escape closely resembles these sister ships. These ships are 145,655 gross tons and carry around 4,000 passengers.

Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway appeal to families as they actually have more outdoor activities that are included in the cruise fare. These complimentary amenities include a waterpark featuring drop slides and an aqua park for the little ones. Both ships also have a full-fledged ropes course complete with zip lines and a plank that extends off the side of the ship, as well as mini-golf courses.

In addition to a main theater, this class has some unique entertainment venues of its own as well such as the lively dueling pianos bar Howl at the Moon. Guests can also participate in game shows Deal or No Deal and Wheel of Fortune.

Cruisers will find the Waterfront and many of the same restaurants and bars as the Breakaway Plus Class; however, there are some differences. The Breakaway Class is home to Shanghai’s Noodle Bar, Moderno Churrascaria specialty restaurant, an Ice Bar, and Syd Norman’s Pour House.

Norwegian Epic

In a Norwegian Cruise Line ship class of her own, Norwegian Epic debuted in 2010. Norwegian Epic is undoubtedly one of a kind. With a unique design that blends elements of some of NCL’s smaller ships as well as forward-looking features that would become part of the more recent Breakaway Class, NCL Epic was an experimental ship.

With so many new dining and entertainment options, the ship truly ushered in the brand’s Freestyle approach. While some concepts were hits, others were misses. Thus, there were no further ships in this class ever built. Instead, Norwegian Cruise Line evolved its next generation ships into the Breakaway Class.

Norwegian Epic is a 155,873 gross ton ship able to carry 4,100 passengers, weighing in at larger than the Breakaway Class.

Norwegian Epic includes the line’s first Spice H2O sundeck, the Haven, and several signature entertainment options including Howl at the Moon, Headliners Comedy Club, and an exclusive Beatles cover band.

The ship also features the Burn the Floor show as well as Deal or No Deal and Wheel of Fortune. Not to mention, there is bowling, an Ice Bar, and the first bowl slide at sea.

From the complimentary O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill and Shanghai Chinese Restaurant to the plethora of specialty dining, you can sample cuisine from around the world on Norwegian Epic.

Among the specialty dining options are the line’s signature steakhouse Cagney’s, the Italian restaurant La Cucina, the Brazilian Churrascaria Moderno, the French inspired Le Bistro, the hibachi experience at Teppanyaki, and the Wasabi sushi bar.

One of the biggest design elements that was unpopular among cruisers on Norwegian Epic is the stateroom design. Thus, no subsequent ships feature this unique layout.

Jewel Class

NCL’s Jewel Class debuted in 2006. At just over 93,000 gross tons, these ships carry around 2,400 passengers. Ships in this Norwegian Cruise Line ship class include Norwegian Jewel (2005), Norwegian Jade (2006), Norwegian Pearl (2006), and Norwegian Gem (2007).

The Jewel Class is quite similar to the previous Dawn Class, just larger in size.

In terms of entertainment, you will still find nightly entertainment in the main theater. Yet, cruisers shouldn’t expect the Broadway hits found on newer mega-ships in the fleet. Still, there is plenty of fun to be had on the large pool deck and sports court by day, as well as the bars, lounges, and dance parties at night.

You will still find plenty of Norwegian Cruise Line’s staple specialty dining venues too, like Cagney’s Steakhouse, the French Le Bistro, the Italian La Cucina, and the hibachi style Teppanyaki.

Of course, there is also the complimentary main dining rooms, the popular O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill, and the Garden Cafe buffet. The Jewel Class also offers a complimentary Asian restaurant.

Related Post: Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages

If you don’t need all the bells and whistles of the larger mega-ships, the Jewel Class might be perfect for you. These ships still offer a classic NCL experience but with less crowds and fewer up-charges. They also visit various parts of the world and more unique ports of call.

Dawn Class

The Dawn class contains a pair of ships: Norwegian Star (2001) and Norwegian Dawn (2002).

As mentioned above, the Dawn Class is similar in size and design to the Jewel Class. These ships carry around 2,300 passengers and weigh in at around 92,000 gross tons. Norwegian Dawn and Star were both last refurbished in 2021.

Given their smaller size, these ships can visit less frequented ports of call, all while offering typical cruise amenities and NCL signature features. They even offer the Garden Villa, a suite category that has three bedrooms and can hold up to seven guests.

These ships have plenty of typical offerings including a casino, a main theater with nightly entertainment, and the Bliss Ultra Lounge. Additionally, there is a good-sized pool deck with whirlpools, a golf driving range, a sports court, and even Splash Academy for the little ones. Norwegian Star even has the Spice H2O adults-only area.

For dining, the Dawn Class has the typical main dining rooms, as well as NCL signature specialty restaurants Le Bistro, La Cucina, Teppanyaki, and Cagney’s Steakhouse. The ships also offer a complimentary Asian restaurant, O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill, and a traditional cruise buffet. Norwegian Dawn features The Cellars Wine Bar and Los Lobos Cantina sprucing up the already enjoyable restaurant and bar line-up.

Sun Class

Among the smallest of the Norwegian Cruise Line ship classes is the Sun Class. At 77,000 to 78,000 gross tons, Norwegian Sky (1999) and Norwegian Sun (2001) carry 1,900 to 2,000 passengers each. Both ships were refurbished just a few years ago.

The ships’ renovations included updates to the staterooms, dining venues, and bars and lounges. Among the new additions to Norwegian Sky were the Pinnacle Lounge and Sushi Bar, the Bliss Ultra Lounge, the Local Bar and Grill, and a Starbucks. Norwegian Sun received the Bliss Ultra Lounge, Los Lobos Cantina, and more.

The specialty restaurant offerings do differ slightly by ship. Norwegian Sky is home to Le Bistro, La Cucina, and Cagney’s Steakhouse. While Norwegian Sun has Teppanyaki, Moderno, and Los Lobos Cantina in addition.

Both ships offer plenty of typical cruise ship amenities including pools, hot tubs, a gym, a spa, a sports court, and golf driving nets. They also feature your typical main theater for nightly entertainment and the Spinnaker Lounge.

Norwegian Spirit (Leo Class)

Norwegian Spirit launched in 1998 but recently underwent an extensive refurbishment in early 2020. This 75,904 gross ton ship received a $100 million revitalization as part of the Norwegian Edge program. It was the most extensive bow to stern makeover in the company’s history.

Norwegian Spirit emerged from the 43-day dry dock with renovations to all dining venues, staterooms, and public areas, as well as new hull art.

Some of Norwegian Spirit’s enhancements include a larger Mandara Spa, complete with a new thermal suite and relaxation area. The ship also features the second Onda by Scarpetta restaurant. This restaurant which debuted on Norwegian Encore gets two thumbs up from us!

New complimentary dining venues on Norwegian Spirit include an extra main dining room and the 24-hour The Local Bar & Grill. In addition, the ship offers the buffet-style Garden Café, the Great Outdoors Bar, and Waves Pool Bar.

Making their debut on Norwegian Spirit are also the popular Bliss Ultra Lounge and the adults-only retreat Spice H2O.

Norwegian Spirit will continue to offer NCL’s signature Freestyle approach to dining; it will also offer familiar favorites when it comes to specialty dining, like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Le Bistro. Additionally, guests can enjoy nightly entertainment in the Stardust Theater or drinks in one of the many bars and lounges after a long day ashore exploring the ports of call.

Pride of America

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America is the only U.S. flagged cruise ship in the world. Built in 2005, Pride of America exclusively sails year-round in Hawaii. This 80,439 gross ton ship carries approximately 2,200 passengers.

Pride of America last underwent major renovations in 2015, and was most recently refurbished in 2022.

This Americana-themed ship sails a 7-night round-trip itinerary from Honolulu offering a comprehensive Polynesian experience. The ship visits four Hawaiian Islands and five ports of call in seven days.

Featuring some familiar favorites like Cagney’s Steakhouse, La Cucina, and Teppanyaki, in addition to some unique Hawaiian themed venues, Pride of America serves as a great backdrop to long island days ashore.

Pride of America does offer other cruise amenities like a main theater spotlighting Polynesian culture, a pool deck, a spa, a fitness center, and Splash Academy for the kids. There is also a cabaret lounge and nightclub and plenty of American-themed bars; however, you will not find a casino on this ship as it never leaves U.S. waters.

Comments

Which Norwegian Cruise Line ship is your favorite? On how many of these vessels have you sailed? Drop us an anchor below to share your favorite NCL ships.

The post Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Ships By Age (2024) appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

We have sailed to Alaska six times, twice with Norwegian Cruise Line. While we’ve enjoyed our cruises with the brand, an Alaska cruise on Norwegian Cruise Line isn’t right for everyone. So, before you put down that deposit, you need to know the pros and cons of Alaska cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line. Armed with all the details, you can pick the correct ship, and your Alaska cruise will be smooth sailing.

The Pros and Cons of Alaska Cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line

Freestyle Approach

Norwegian Cruise Line is the pioneer of flexible dining on a cruise ship. The brand’s freestyle approach to cruising means there are no set dinner times. Cruisers are free to dine whenever and with whomever they want during the cruise.

In Alaska, this freestyle approach offers more options than the traditional main dining on other cruise lines. Given that port of call times can vary daily, this flexibility becomes invaluable. For instance, one morning, you might be up for a 6 AM shore excursion, while the next day, the ship could be docking in the afternoon until 9 or 10 PM.

During our voyage on Norwegian Bliss back in 2018, we had the pleasure of cruising with friends. Throughout the week, we shared some dining experiences as a group of six, others as a table of four, and some nights it was just the two of us. Freestyle dining makes switching up the table arrangements in situations like this very simple.

Yet, for those of us who like to plan ahead, there’s no need to fret. You still have the option to pre-reserve dining times. This means you won’t miss out on that coveted dinner at Cagney’s Steakhouse, or you won’t have to wait for a table when you return from a long day ashore in Skagway. During our voyage on Norwegian Encore last year, we had most of our dinners reserved before boarding the ship. But we still had the flexibility to adjust a couple of those times when our plans changed.

Onboard Viewing Areas

We always suggest cruisers opt for a balcony when sailing in Alaska. On all six of our Alaska cruises, we went with this upgrade. This was true on both of our Alaska cruises with Norwegian Cruise Line. But even if you don’t want to splurge, you won’t miss out on the scenic cruising and Alaskan landscapes when sailing with NCL.

Several Norwegian Cruise Line ships in the region offer a variety of viewing areas scattered throughout the ship. Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore offer indoor and outdoor viewing areas for all types of weather.

The Observation Lounge at the front and top of the ship provides excellent 270-degree views. There is plenty of comfy furniture to unwind, not to mention snacks and complimentary drinks throughout the day. There is also a bar for those premium beverages.

Outside, the multi-level pool deck offers plenty of space for sightseeing, but there is also the Waterfront which we think is even better. This outdoor promenade, which is closer to water level, wraps around most of the deck and has various seating options. Not to mention, there are several bars and dining venues just a short walk away.

Further, the Vibe Beach Club offers an exclusive outdoor deck if you want to upgrade your Alaskan experience. With limited capacity, you are all but guaranteed a spot in the hot tub with a glacier view and a private bar. We think this upcharge deck is a hidden gem when sailing in Alaska. We had access to this spot on our Norwegian Encore cruise last year and loved it.

While smaller, Norwegian Jewel also offers several viewing spots throughout the ship, including indoor and outdoor venues on different decks. This helps to disperse the crowds and offer various vantage points.

Visits Glacier Bay National Park

While the various cruise lines offer different onboard experiences in Alaska, these trips are really about the destination. For us, picking the right itinerary is more important than what is on the cruise ship. So, we are happy to report that many of Norwegian Cruise Line’s sailings offer scenic cruising to Glacier Bay National Park.

For first-time cruisers in Alaska, Glacier Bay National Park is a must.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers itineraries visiting Glacier Bay National Park on mega-ships and medium-sized ships. Regardless of the size of the ship, the programming is the same. This includes park rangers coming on board for the entire time in the park. Along with lectures in the theater, other rangers provide narration as the ship glides down to the main attraction, the Marjorie Glacier.

Other informative sessions occur inside the ship with exhibits and literature about the park. Additional Q&A opportunities exist with rangers as they walk the outdoor decks in search of wildlife. This several hour-visit is something you don’t want to miss. So, grab your gear and head outside for these spectacular sights!

Each visit is unique, given the weather conditions and tides. During our last visit on Norwegian Encore, we were able to sail down the John Hopkins Inlet to get some fantastic views of the John Hopkins Glacier, which is not always visible or allowed.

Free at Sea

Norwegian Cruise Line is often also a better value when cruising to Alaska. The brand’s popular Free at Sea promotion includes several add-ons that are usually an upcharge on other cruise lines.

While the promotion can change, typically, it includes a free drink package, WiFi credits, shore excursion credits, and specialty dinner credits. Depending on when you book, this promotion can include 3^rd and 4^th guests sail free and reduced airfare as well.

While cruisers still need to pay the service charges on some of these items, we think this promotion is of great value. It is an easy way to make your cruise more inclusive. Plus, the cruise line lets you upgrade to Free at Sea Plus, offering even more onboard perks, like unlimited WiFi, Starbucks beverages, and additional specialty dining.

Another benefit of the Free at Sea promotion is it is combinable with travel advisor perks. So, you can get even more savings and value when you take advantage of promotions run by your preferred travel advisor. These can include additional onboard credit, free gratuities, and more.

Solo Travelers

Most cruise fares are based on double occupancy for each stateroom. Since Heidi and I usually travel as a couple, this is fine for us. However, it isn’t so great for those traveling solo, as it means these individuals have to pay double to cruise.

Luckily, Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the cruise lines that has devised a way around the “single supplement.” On its mega-ships, it offers studio cabins designed specifically for parties of 1.

So, those traveling by themselves have dedicated cabins that are more reasonably priced. While smaller than a typical cabin, these studios are thoughtfully designed and feature everything travelers need to feel at home on the ship.

Plus, on NCL’s larger vessels, these studio cabins are clustered in sections of the ship. With a separate entrance and lounge, solo travelers can meet and mingle with others traveling by themselves. There is even a dedicated cruise staff manager for solo cruisers who hosts events and activities.

Of course, cruisers still have access to all the bars, restaurants, and other areas of the ship. But, having this solo area and dedicated space makes it easier and more affordable for solo cruisers to see all that Alaska offers in style and sophistication.

Specialty Restaurants

As the first cruise line to eschew traditional dining times on cruise ships, NCL is also known for its specialty dining. Across its ships, there are a variety of restaurants featuring global-inspired cuisine.

Signature restaurants include Cagney’s Steakhouse, a classic American-style steakhouse with various chops and cuts on the menu. There is also the French Le Bistro and the Italian La Cucina (or Onda by Scarpetta).

Other restaurants can include the lively Teppanyaki Japanese-style steakhouse, which includes dinner and a show at this hibachi restaurant. There is also Q-Texas Smokehouse, serving comfort food with live music and some of the best desserts on the ship. Not to mention, cruisers can enjoy freshly crafted Mexican specialties and margaritas at Los Lobos depending which NCL ship they choose.

Additionally, one of our favorite restaurants on any cruise ship is Food Republic. This fusion restaurant serves small plates, tapas, and international cuisine, combining various cooking styles, ingredients, and signature cocktails.

With the Free at Sea, most guests can dine at two specialty restaurants for free. Additional dining packages are available, or guests can pay a la carte for additional meals. However, getting an add-on dining package is a much better and cost-effective option.

Lively Onboard Atmosphere

While other cruise lines might offer more Alaska-focused onboard activities than NCL, Norwegians know how to party. Norwegian Cruise Line ships offer lively and fun activities day and night. The ships have several well-themed bars and lounges offering live music.

We are fans of the drinks at the Sugarcane Mojito bar, especially its signature drinks, like the Jalapeno Cucumber and Raspberry-Guava Mojitos. The District Brewhouse has one of the best beer selections of any ship, with dozens on tap and more in bottles and cans. Not to mention, it features live piano music on most nights of the cruise.

The A-List Bar offers upscale cocktails, and the Maltings Whiskey Bar offers classic drinks. While sipping their favorite adult beverages, cruisers can listen to live music or other cruise director staff events in the Atrium. Further, the Local offers a standard cocktail menu and a complimentary pub menu featuring some of the best chicken wings at sea.  

The cruise line also has several parties and nighttime events. There are silent discos in the club, comedy shows, game shows, and more. In the main theater, NCL features production shows and headliner acts each night of the cruise. One of our favorite shows on any ship, Choir of Man, is a must see on Norwegian Encore.

Undoubtedly, the nighttime atmosphere is more upbeat, fun, and lively than many of the other cruise lines sailing the region.

Great for Families

One complaint some cruisers have about mega-ships is that they have too many distractions. However, we argue that there are definitely advantages to having a large ship with a variety of onboard attractions. For one, they can appeal to a wide range of travelers and multi-generational families.

Ships like Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss are ideal for large groups traveling to Alaska. The kids will enjoy the onboard attractions, like the virtual reality games in the Galaxy Pavilion, the go-kart track, and the laser tag. Although, as big kids, we think these amenities are a lot of fun as well.

With various dining options, including casual venues and sit-down restaurants, it is easy to make everyone happy. The parents and grandparents will enjoy venues like the Observation Lounge as well as the adult-focused entertainment and late-night comedy. While the kids can hang out with friends in Splash Academy or Entourage.

Thermal Suites

Alaska cruises are filled with long days and nights. With early morning scenic cruising and long days ashore at all hours of the day, you will want some rest and relaxation. Luckily, Norwegian Cruise Line ships feature fantastic spas and thermal suites. In fact, the thermal suite on Norwegian Encore is one of the best on any cruise ship.

The thermal suite boasts several rejuvenating experiences. It has a hydrotherapy pool, steam rooms, a sauna, a salt room, and even a snow room. The best part is that the thermal suite is all the way forward, offering some of the best views on the ship. So, cruisers can even relax on a heated stone lounger while admiring glaciers.

There are a limited number of passes to the thermal suite. So, you know it will never be overcrowded. While the cruise line does offer week passes, you might be able to score a day pass on a port day too. So, if you need a break from all the adventures ashore, a morning or afternoon in the spa might do the trick.

Not to mention, the spa offers a variety of other services as well. There are massages, facials, pedicures, manicures, and more. So, you can return from your Alaska cruise well-rested and ready to tackle being back on land.

The Cons of Sailing to Alaska on Norwegian Cruise Line

Not As Many Choices As Other Cruise Lines

While some cruise lines offer six or seven ships in the region, Norwegian Cruise Line only offers four ships. Most of these ships sail from Seattle, WA on round-trip itineraries. So, compared to the competition, there are fewer options for sailing to Alaska with Norwegian Cruise Line.

Whille we are fans of mega-ships and think the roundtrip route is excellent for first-timers to the region, it does mean that most ships offer similar ports of call. However, NCL Bliss and Norwegian Encore offer different glacier viewing spots, which means cruisers must choose between scenic cruising of Dawes Glacier or Glacier Bay National Park.

If you are not a fan of mega-ships, Norwegian Sun offers nine-night sailings. This smaller ship sails Glacier Bay and many popular ports. But, given the extra days, this might be difficult and expensive for families wanting to cruise to Alaska.

Or, cruisers can opt for a one-way cruise on Norwegian Jewel. These southbound or northbound routes begin or end in Seward, Alaska, or Vancouver, British Columbia.

Lack of Alaska Focused Onboard Experiences

Many cruise lines sailing in the region promote their onboard programming. Princess Cruises has a North to Alaska series of lectures, themed events, and special dining and drink offerings. These events occur throughout the trip and offer a more immersive way to learn about and experience the region.

Similarly, Holland America Line has its We Love Alaska series of talks, presentations, and region-focused enrichment. Whether it is learning about the history of Alaska or more about the famous Iditarod race, these talks are well-produced and informative. This cruise line offers several dining options and locally sourced food and beverages during its sailing as well.

On the other hand, Norwegian Cruise Line offers very little enrichment. In fact, besides the typical Glacier Bay National Park ranger experience, our last Norwegian Encore trip had no Alaska-specific programming. We were surprised that there were no regional guests, nighttime talks, or Alaska-themed activities.

Even the food and drink menus were pretty standard. We have sailed on the cruise line’s mega-ships in the Caribbean and the onboard daytime and nighttime lineup felt exactly the same when in Alaska. We would have liked NCL to offer some onboard edutainment coupled with the ashore tours and excursions.

Time Spent Ashore

For us, perhaps the biggest drawback of cruising to Alaska with Norwegian Cruise Line has to do with its itineraries. While some NCL ships do get to cruise through Glacier Bay National Park, most 7-day itineraries offer less time ashore in other ports when compared to competitor cruise lines in the region.

While several cruise lines offer full day stops at many ports of call, NCL’s stops are often shorter or the timing is not ideal. Depending on the itinerary, you will likely have an early morning stop in places like Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, or Juneau. Some routes include the afternoon in Juneau, with the ship docked until later in the evening.

Also, Norwegian Cruise Line does not have preferential berthing in many ports. This means the ship docks further away from the city center. For instance, the Ward Cove dock in Ketchikan is a bus ride away from town. Thus, you can’t get off the ship and walk to the nearby attractions like most cruise lines. So, getting to and from the ship, if not on an excursion, can be a headache.

Likewise, depending on the time of year and the number of ships in port, the ship might not always dock in Juneau. So, there is the potential to become a tender port, which is never fun.

Who Should Take Alaska Cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line?

While there are a few cons, we had a fantastic time on both our Alaska cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line.

The cruise line is great for those cruising with a large group. The six of us on Norwegian Bliss took advantage of the freestyle approach to customize our trip. We were able to do things as a large group as well as smaller groups throughout the week. Our tours of the Mendenhall Glacier and a float plane in the Misty Fjords were some of our best excursions in the region.

Likewise, our trip last year on Norwegian Encore was equally memorable. Our day in Glacier Bay was gorgeous. We were able to get much closer to several glaciers in the park than ever before, including clearly seeing the John Hopkins Glacier from a private sundeck. We took advantage of the cruise ship’s upgrades, like the Vibe Beach Club and thermal suite. Not to mention, we dined at essentially all of the specialty restaurants, took advantage of our upgraded drink package, and enjoyed the onboard attractions throughout the week!

If you’re cruising as a family, NCL’s larger ships in the region offer plenty to keep the kids entertained between ports of call. And there’s still plenty of nighttime entertainment for mom and dad too.

Although, NCL probably won’t appeal to travelers looking for a more enriching experience. If you are looking for a more culturally immersive experience or more authentic Alaska onboard programming, Norwegian might let you down.

Further, if there are specific routes or ports that you want to visit, then this cruise line might not offer the exact schedule that interests you.

But for those looking to make this vacation a mix of fun and facts, Norwegian Cruise Line is a great choice. After all, it is a vacation, not a college tour!

Comments

Have you taken Alaska cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line? What is your favorite cruise line in the region? Drop us an anchor below with your Alaska cruise tips.

The post We Have Sailed on Two Alaska Cruises on Norwegian Cruise Line – Here’s Who Will Love It! appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line is celebrating Teacher Appreciation Week, which is May 6-10, with the launch of its all-new Teacher Cruise Discount. The discount offers educators and staff across the U.S. and Canada with a year-round cruise fare discount and onboard credit. The line is also celebrating the return of its Norwegian’s Giving Joy recognition program for the fifth year, awarding teachers with a free vacation.

Norwegian Cruise Teacher Cruise Discount

All education professionals including active classroom teachers, principals and assistant principals, school employees, and college/university professors can enjoy a five percent discount off any NCL voyage from anywhere in the world. They also receive a $50 onboard credit.

To participate in the new Teacher Cruise Discount, educators must be validated through ID.me, a secure digital identity network that allows members of the education community to verify their identity once and never have to verify it again across any organization where ID.me is accepted. Additional information can be found at ncl.com/teachers.

Giving Joy Campaign

From May 6th to June 7th, Norwegian’s Giving Joy campaign is open and accepting nominations for teachers making a difference in their classrooms and communities. This year, the top 20 educators across the U.S. and Canada that receive the most votes will be invited to attend an exclusive two-night inaugural event in Boston from April 4-6, 2025 aboard the line’s newest Prima Plus Class ship, Norwegian Aqua, as she makes her U.S. debut.

The top five Grand Prize winners will also have the opportunity to attend Aqua‘s christening celebration followed by a three-night inaugural sailing from Miami from April 13-16, 2025.

Since 2019, NCL’s Giving Joy campaign has received nearly 60,000 teacher nominations; more than 1.8 million votes; awarded over 250 educators with a cruise vacation; and donated upwards of $445,000 to teachers and their schools with the support from NCL’s partners.

Now through June 7th, the public can nominate certified or accredited educators in the U.S. and Canada who have made an impact in their life and inspire students every day by visiting nclgivingjoy.com.

Ryan Price, 2023 Giving Joy winner and educator at Buckingham Collegiate Charter Academy in Vacaville, CA said, “The best part of traveling is the opportunity to meet new people, which was one of the greatest rewards I received from Norwegian’s Giving Joy contest. The donation my school received from Norwegian and their generous partners has allowed us to take our students on field trips that would not have been possible otherwise, and I can’t wait to provide more learning experiences outside of the classroom for my students!”

“There’s only so much you can learn in a static, unchanging classroom; however, travel is constantly stimulating, engaging, and presenting the learner with something they’ve never experienced before. And now, with Norwegian’s Teacher Cruise Discount, NCL is making it easier for teachers to explore the world.”

Comments

If you are an educator, do you plan to take advantage of NCL’s new teacher discount? Drop us an anchor below and let us know!

Stay up to date with the latest cruise news and travel updates!

The post Norwegian Cruise Line Launches New Year-Round Teacher Discount, Brings Back ‘Giving Joy’ Contest appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

A cruise is an ideal vacation for families. With hundreds of ships visiting all corners of the globe, you can certainly find a vessel and destination that is perfect for your next family trip. Of course, with all of the various cruise ships and brands, it might be a bit overwhelming. If you have never cruised before, you might not know where to start. To help with your cruise planning process, we have put together this comprehensive list of the best cruise lines for families.

Best Cruise Lines for Families

Understanding Cruise Line Ship Classes

Broadly speaking, cruise lines are large companies that manage a fleet of ships. Some of the world’s largest cruise lines have dozens of ships.

Each cruise line has its own standard venues, entertainment offerings, and “style”. So, by investigating each cruise line’s general approach to cruising, you can decide whether it is a good fit for your family’s next cruise vacation.

Within a brand, there are also different offerings between ships. For instance, Royal Caribbean International has 28 cruise ships available to book through 2022. It would take you hours to research each ship individually just for that one cruise line. Not to mention, Royal Caribbean is just one of over 60 international cruise lines.

Hence, it’s important to note that each cruise line offers different groups of ships. These “classes” of cruise ships often feature specific amenities or venues found only on those vessels. While there might be slight differences between ships within a class, they are largely identical.

So, when comparing cruise vacations, you can focus on which classes of ships best appeal to families.

In this guide to the best cruise lines for families, we attempt to highlight the cruise lines and the cruise ship classes within the brand that we would recommend for multi-generational travel parties.

Related Post: Best Cruise Ships for 2021

Best Cruise Lines for Families: Disney Cruise Line

When it comes to offering a classic cruise experience with a bit of magic, families can’t go wrong with Disney Cruise Line.

The cruise line has a total of 4 ships. These vessels have very similar design and aesthetic, reminiscent of classic ocean liners. The two original vessels, Disney Wonder and Disney Magic, are considerably smaller than the line’s newer vessels.

The two newer ships, Disney Fantasy and Disney Dream, are bigger and boast new additions including the Aqua Duck, a waterslide roller coaster.

Across the four ships, you will find award-winning service. All ships have typical amenities including dedicated youth activities organized by age groups and a gym. All ships also have a sports deck, with the larger ships even offering mini-golf.

When it comes to dining, the cruise line offers “traditional dining”. This means that there are set meal times for dinner at the main dining rooms. However, unique to Disney is rotational dining. So, cruisers remain with their waitstaff and dining mates throughout the cruise but rotate through different themed venues on the ship. Each of the dining rooms offers a unique theme.

When you want to escape from the little ones, all ships offer the adult only restaurant, Palo, which is an American steakhouse. The newer vessels have a second adults only restaurant, the French Remy. Both are specialty venues with up-charges.

A limited number of bars and lounges can also be found on Disney ships.

Entertainment venues consist of two theaters on all ships. The Buena Vista Theater is home to Disney classics and modern blockbuster movies playing all day long.

In the Walt Disney Theater, live entertainment occurs nightly. Ships offer a variety of Disney themed entertainment, from revue shows featuring your favorite Disney music to complete production shows. From Frozen, to Tangled, to Beauty and the Beast, these live stage adaptions are geared towards Disney enthusiasts.

Other events and nightlife include themed deck parties, character meet and greets, and Disney themed activities for the entire family.

Evaluating Disney Cruise Line

Pros: Popular Disney characters and experiences are found on all ships. Kids areas are well-themed and offer a variety of indoor and outdoor activities. Disney offers a variety of short cruises that you can bundle with a trip to Walt Disney World. There is no casino and limited smoking in designated areas at night. Food, shore excursions, and other offerings are similar to other cruise lines. However, service is often rated better than other similar cruise lines.

Cons: DCL is expensive when compared to other contemporary cruise lines. There is limited dining, and the brand does not offer flexible main dining room options. A small fleet means limited cruises to destinations outside of the Bahamas/Caribbean. The main focus on Disney Cruise Line is younger children, with limited adult venues. EVERYTHING is Disney, so just make sure you are a fan of the brand’s characters and movies.

Related Post: Reasons to Love Disney Cruise Line

Best Cruise Lines for Families: Royal Caribbean International

Another one of our top picks for the best cruise lines for families is Royal Caribbean. Across all of the line’s vessels, the company offers a mix of casual dining options, a traditional main dining room, and several lounges and bars for nightlife and entertainment. Many of the family friendly activities, dining, and entertainment are included in the Royal Caribbean cruise fare.

All ships have a main theater, which offers nightly entertainment. There are also other standard cruise amenities like a gym, spa, onboard shopping, and a casino.

Standard service and predictable cabin categories are found on most of the line’s newer, larger ships. With an appropriate mix of adult-focused and family-friendly themed parties, activities, and events, there is plenty to keep your multi-generational family busy.

Perhaps one of the best benefits of a family cruise on Royal Caribbean is the opportunity to visit Perfect Day at CocoCay. This cruise line private island is home to several beaches, a lagoon-style pool, a kid’s aqua park, and the Thrill Waterpark, among other attractions.

It certainly ranks as one of the top cruise line private islands anywhere in the world. We have visited Perfect Day at CocoCay twice since it has been re-imagined and loved it! The island offers a variety of dining, activities, and shore excursions for a day of fun in the sun for the entire family.

Royal Caribbean Oasis-Class

Royal Caribbean features the world’s largest class of ship, the Oasis-class. These mega-ships are home to a variety of family friendly amenities that are mostly part of the standard cruise fare.

These include an onboard water park, a surf simulator, a zip line, sports decks, a skating rink, laser tag, and more. There is a youth program that is also complimentary and organized by junior cruisers’ ages.

For dining, the main dining room offers both a flexible dining option for dinner or a traditional dining experience. Other casual options include the cruise line’s well regarded buffet, the Windjammer, and other spots such as Sorrento’s Pizza, Park Cafe (think Panera Bread at sea), the Boardwalk Dog House, and other snack venues. Not to mention, there are several up-charge specialty restaurants for those special occasions.

For entertainment, the ships in this class all have signature Broadway caliber shows, including some of our favorites like Flight and Hairspray on Symphony of the Seas. All Oasis-class ships also feature an outdoor venue known as the Aqua Theater. Here, diving performances showcase talented acrobats and synchronized swimmers.

During the day, guests of all ages can partake in trivia contests, scavenger hunts, game shows, and poolside activities. Or, you can just relax at one of the many bars and lounges.

For nightlife, the ships offer a number of themed bars with live music. The Schooner Bar is your piano bar, there is the Latin-inspired Boleros, the Bionic Bar with robotic bartenders, an English pub, and more.

Additional Royal Caribbean Cruise Ships

If you are concerned about the size of these massive vessels, the Freedom-class of ships offer many of the same restaurants, bars, and nightlife as its bigger sisters but are 40% smaller.

These vessels can also offer more unique itineraries, as they can dock at smaller ports. There are three ships in this class, including the newly amplified Freedom of the Seas. This ship has been enhanced with new dining and onboard activities.

For shorter cruises, the cruise line offers 3 and 4-night cruises on two recently amplified ships, Navigator of the Seas and Mariner of the Seas. These vessels are perfect for a quick weekend getaway cruise. All cruises on both ships visit Perfect Day at CocoCay in the Bahamas.

Finally, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships are also ideal for a family cruise vacation, possibly in a cold weather destination. These ships feature an abundance of one of a kind attractions to keep cruisers of all ages entertained. The Seaplex is home to bumper cars and roller skating, as well as gaming areas. There is also the high-flying North Star and the skydiving simulator, RipCord by iFLY.

In addition to the main theater, Quantum-class ships are also home to the dynamic Two70. This entertainment venue includes original production shows enhanced with digital screens and robotics. This class of ships also contains the Music Hall, with tribute bands and live performances most nights of the cruise.

Odyssey of the Seas will be the first Quantum Ultra-class ship when she debuts in 2021.

Evaluating Royal Caribbean International

Pros: Royal Caribbean offers a variety of casual dining throughout the ship. Both traditional and flexible dining options are available in the main dining room. There are also a variety of activities for kids of all ages. Further, most onboard activities are included in the cruise fare, with the entertainment options being among the best at sea. Royal Caribbean’s private destinations also offer some of best fun ashore.

Cons: Some of the cruise line’s ships are very large. So, the demand for onboard activities often means queues form, especially on sea days. The main theater and nightly entertainment options require reservations, which means more planning. Cruises on these mega-ships are moderately priced with limited promotions compared to some other competitor brands.

Related Post: Things You Can Only Find on Royal Caribbean

Best Cruise Lines for Families: Carnival Cruise Line

For those with younger children, Carnival Cruise Line is a great family cruise option at a cheaper price point than Disney. So, it makes our list of the best cruise lines for families.

Currently, Carnival Cruise Line is in the midst of a restructuring. Four vessels from the fleet have been scrapped this year. Further, some of the remaining older ships are now going through extensive updates to receive the brand’s Fun Ship 2.0 updates.

This means that most of the Carnival Cruise Line ships now offer many of the same dining, onboard activities, and amenities regardless of class.

For families, Carnival Cruise Line offers some of the best casual and complimentary dining options. Like other cruise lines, it also offers a traditional main dining room, with both set dining times as well as the flexible Anytime Dining on its vessels.

All ships feature standard amenities like a fitness center, onboard shopping, as well as a casino. Newer vessels feature the Cloud 9 Spa, which also boasts a thermal suite.

The company’s Playlist Productions are family-friendly night time shows that are shorter in length than typical cruise ship entertainment. Other entertainment options include shows, like Hasbro Game Night and Lip Sync Battle, that will appeal to both adults and kids.

A variety of other activities and nightlife can be found fleet wide. However, we recommend Carnival’s Vista-class vessels, as well as the three Dream-class ships. New for 2021 will also be the first ship in the Excel-class, Carnival Mardi Gras.

Carnival Cruise Line Vista-Class

We sailed on the newest member of Carnival’s fleet earlier this year. We had a great time on our Carnival Panorama cruise to the Mexican Riviera. So, we can attest firsthand that these ships would be a great option for families with kids of all ages.

The sports deck on this class features something for everyone. Thrill seekers will like the ropes course, as well as the Sky Ride. This self-propelled attraction has you pedaling high above sea level. There is also mini-golf, a basketball court, as well as other larger than life games like pool tables, foosball, and corn hole.

Again, all of these activities are included in the price of your cruise fare. For younger cruisers, the company partners with Cat in Hat to offer themed activities including a Green Eggs and Ham breakfast (additional fee applies). Carnival is not just for the little ones though, as there is also a separate area for teens with plenty of complimentary entertainment.

With a main pool, an aft pool, and an adults only Serenity area, there is plenty of outdoor spaces to relax and find your happy place in the sun. There is also the cruise line’s water park with slides open to cruisers of all ages.

The best part is that there are plenty of food and drink options that are not far from any of these points. Cruisers can enjoy a custom made burrito at the Blue Iguana Cantina or a Guy’s Burger piled high with all the fixings. Not to mention, the 24-hour pizza spot is perhaps the best at sea.

Both a tequila bar and rum bar are also conveniently located near the pool deck for some adult fun.

While there are plenty of delicious specialty restaurants on the Vista-class of ships, we found the complimentary food in the main dining room to be far better than expected. The cruise line features two evenings with upgraded menus, including lobster and other seafood dishes.

These ships are also home to several themed lounges that feature live music and great cocktails. Our favorite spot to grab some drinks was the Alchemy Bar. There is even a comedy club, featuring both adult only and family friendly shows during the trip. Not to mention, there is a piano bar, a Latin-bar, and the lively Atrium Bar hosting live entertainment and parties throughout the voyage.

Related Post: Things You Can Only Find on Carnival Cruise Line

Additional Carnival Cruise Line Ships

The Dream-class is the next largest class of ships in the Carnival Cruise Line fleet. These three ships feature many of the same bars, restaurants, and amenities that Carnival cruisers love. The variety of onboard offerings make these ships highly appealing to families as well.

Further, Carnival Radiance (formerly Carnival Victory), has undergone an extensive $200 million refurbishment. Carnival Radiance will now debut in Spring of 2021 from Long Beach, California. This “new” ship will sail 3 and 4-day cruises to Baja Mexico visiting Catalina Island and Ensenada.

Among Carnival Radiance’s many offerings will be the first-ever Big Chicken at sea restaurant, created by the line’s Chief Fun Officer, Shaquille O’Neal.

Let’s not forget the brand new Carnival Mardi Gras that is also set to debut in 2021. This first ship in the new Excel-class will feature some of the latest and greatest onboard attractions and restaurants.

This ship will be home to the new Emeril’s Bistro 1396, in partnership with celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse. Carnival Mardi Gras will also debut the first rollercoaster at sea, as well as the new and improved RedFrog Tiki Bar, a two-story poolside watering hole.

Evaluating Carnival Cruise Line

Pros: Carnival Cruise Line is reasonably priced when compared to its competitors. The cruise line offers a variety of cabin options, with specific family friendly staterooms. There are several youth oriented activities throughout the ship for kids and teens. Further, the dining is excellent, especially the casual options included with the cruise fare.

Cons: Many of the youth programs are geared to younger children with its Dr. Seuss partnership. In our opinion, entertainment is subpar when compared to other brands like Royal Caribbean and NCL. There will be many kids onboard these ships. So, areas can become quickly crowded with limited spaces to enjoy a little rest and relaxation.

Best Cruise Lines for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line is the innovator of the freestyle approach to cruising. This mean that there are no set dinner times or table assignments. On all Norwegian Cruise Line ships, cruisers can choose where they want to eat, when they want to eat. These vessels have a variety of complimentary and specialty restaurants that offer diverse menus.

For those looking for flexibility and some of the newest onboard activities, Norwegian Cruise Line is one of the best cruise lines for families.

The line’s newest class of ships is the Breakaway-Plus class. These innovative vessels boast a number of features that make them the perfect option for families with kids of all ages.

We have sailed on several ships in this class, as well as the slightly smaller Breakaway-class, and highly recommend them. These ships offer cruises in several regions of the world, making them a great option if you are looking for an itinerary outside of the typical Caribbean cruises.

Norwegian Cruise Line Breakaway-Plus Class

This class of ship has four vessels. The newest of them is Norwegian Encore, followed by its sister ships, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss, and Norwegian Escape.

One of our favorite features of this class of ship is the Waterfront. This mid-level promenade deck features a variety of restaurants, bars and lounges, and other amenities including shopping and entertainment venues. Among some of the newer additions to this area is the specialty restaurant turned country music venue Q Texas Smokehouse. This area also features many of the other restaurants, such as the line’s signature steak house Cagney’s.

There is also the Princess’ favorite, the Sugarcane Mojito Bar. One of the best parts of the Waterfront is that most venues include both indoor and outdoor areas.

The Breakaway-Plus class of ships has some of the most thrilling attractions at sea. Among them are go-kart courses, state of the art laser tag, ropes courses, as well as some of the fastest waterslides. Some of these ships also feature Spice H20, an adults only area with water features, a bar, and private space for those that are 18+.

On Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore, there is the Galaxy Pavilion too. This digitally enhanced area is home to interactive attractions, ride simulators, and games that everyone in the family will enjoy.

The main theater is home to Broadway-caliber shows, such as Jersey Boys and Kinky Boots. Another exclusive entertainment option on many ships is Choir of Man, a lively cruiser favorite. Nightlife includes comedy shows, live music in several venues like the Cavern Club featuring Beatles tribute bands, and typical cruise line game shows and parties.

Related Post: Things You Can Only Find on NCL Ships

Additional Norwegian Cruise Line Ships

As mentioned above, the cruise line’s Breakaway-class features many of the same amenities as the brand’s larger Breakaway-Plus class of ships. These include the Waterfront with bars and lounges, as well as their own signature entertainment in the main theater along with Howl at the Moon, a dueling pianos bar.

Both Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway actually have more outdoor activities that are included in the cruise fare, such as a waterpark featuring drop slides and an aqua park for the little ones. Both ships also have a full-fledged ropes course complete with zip lines and a plank that extends off the side of the ship, as well as mini-golf courses.

Many of the same restaurants exist on these ships too, offering a mix of up-charge and complimentary dining venues with over 15 different options to choose.

For those looking to go big, both classes of ships have the Haven. This exclusive area of the ship features its own private pool, restaurant, bar, and other perks available to only guests with staterooms in this category. The Haven’s larger rooms offer more comfort and luxuries than your typical stateroom cabin. Of course, rooms in this secluded part of the ship do come at a premium!

Evaluating Norwegian Cruise Line

Pros: Norwegian Cruise Line often has some of the cheapest cruise fares of the contemporary cruise lines. Also, NCL regularly runs promotions including Kids Sail Free and free Adult Beverage Packages. The brand’s ships offer a variety of activities appealing to adults and older kids, as well as top-night entertainment. The freestyle approach to cruising allows for flexibility for those who want to go with the flow. However, for those who like to plan, you can still make reservations ahead of time.

Cons: Some ships lack kid friendly options for the little ones. There are many great specialty restaurants but they do come at an up-charge. Likewise, several of the onboard activities have additional fees as well. Like Royal Caribbean, reservations are required for some entertainment options, and they can hit capacity quickly.

Related Post: Guide to Norwegian Cruise Line Drink Packages

Best Cruise Lines for Families: MSC Cruises

Almost all brands offer voyages in Europe and the Mediterranean. Still, MSC Cruises is one of the largest cruise lines in the region. This family-owned cruise line offers a variety of larger vessels that are a perfect fit for families of all ages. So, MSC Cruises rounds out our list of the best cruise lines for families.

It was just a few years ago that the cruise line announced an ambitious expansion plan of launching 11 ships in 10 years. This plan includes a number of new ship classes and vessels. Among the new ships that have successfully set sail (or will debut soon) are the Seaside-class (3 ships), the Meraviglia-class (2 ships), and the Meraviglia-Plus class (2 ships).

Although they are different classes of ships, many of these modern cruise ships do have several of the same features. So, when examining cruise ships on MSC Cruises, we would recommend you focus on these newer, more modern vessels.

MSC Cruises Newest Ships

MSC Cruises’ newest ships boast some of the most outdoor space at sea. These public decks included several features that will appeal to multi-generational families.

Most of the larger MSC ships offer several pools each with its own theme. These include family friendly pools, as well as adult only pools. After all, parents deserve a little rest and relaxation on vacation too.

On MSC Seaside, which sails in the U.S., you will find waterslides and plenty of other outdoor entertainment. These include sports courts, ropes courses, and zip lines. The children’s areas on MSC Cruises are quite large as well, offering a diversity of activities for kids from 3 to 17 years old.

Other activities on MSC Cruises that will appeal to families include interactive experiences. Among these are 4D ride simulators, F1 car simulators, and other digitally enhanced games.

Regardless of the class of ship, all of these vessels include the MSC Aurea Spa as well. With a mix of different spa treatments, as well as a thermal suite, you can unwind in style. These ships also feature state of the art fitness centers with new equipment and group classes.

All of the brand’s mega-ships offer a main dining room with both traditional and flexible dining options. In addition, the ships boast a number of casual dining options, including a massive buffet with food from around the world. Did we mention that MSC Cruises also has some of the best pizza at sea? Perfect for the kids!

When it comes to specialty dining, there are several themed restaurants featuring French, Italian, seafood, and Spanish cuisine. Not to mention, there are signature steakhouses, Asian and sushi, and upscale dessert and chocolatier options to indulge on during your vacation. The cruise line does offer both adult beverage packages and specialty dining packages for ease and cost savings.

On the Seaside-class, you can enjoy the Waterfront Boardwalk. This mid-ship promenade deck offers amazing outdoor views, al fresco dining and drinks, as well as shopping and an exclusive pool area. On the Meraviglia and Meraviglia-Plus class, the Galleria is an indoor promenade with shops, dining, and other experiences. To top things off, the roof of this deck includes an LED screen for interactive scenery throughout the day.

In the main theater, these ships offer production show featuring the ship’s singers and dancers nightly. MSC Cruises also has an exclusive partnership with Cirque Du Soleil. For the most part, these mega-ships offer two different shows during the cruise which occur in their own signature theater. These Cirque shows are an up-charge but well worth the costs.

Similar to Norwegian Cruise Line’s Haven, MSC Cruises offers the Yacht Club. This “ship within a ship” concept has a private restaurant, lounge, and pool area for individuals staying in a stateroom in the Yacht Club. Upgrading to this area provides you with additional privileges throughout the ship as well. These include select beverages at bars and lounges, butler service, upgraded internet, and priority boarding.

Related Post: Where Should I Go on My First Cruise?

Evaluating MSC Cruises

Pros: MSC Cruises offers a plethora of new ships with a variety of amenities. These ships also sail to various regions of the world. The brand’s ships offer some of the largest guest to space ratios of contemporary cruise ships. Onboard amenities appeal to all ages, with specific areas for kids, teens, and adults. MSC has several dining options and first-class entertainment with exclusive partnerships. Further, MSC offers a generous matching status for its loyalty program.

Cons: There are a limited number of ships that sail from the United States. Like NCL, several onboard amenities are an up-charge. Youth programs lack theming and popular brands familiar to U.S. based cruisers. Included dining options are often rated subpar by cruisers when compared to other cruise lines. The multi-cultural clientele and European influence on the ships might not appeal to all travelers.

Comments

Did we leave any of your favorite cruise lines off this list? Do you have a recommendation for the best cruise lines for families? Drop us an anchor below to share your family cruise experiences.

The post Best Cruise Lines for Families appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

There is no better time than the present to start planning the ultimate Alaska cruise. If you are looking to book that bucket list cruise, we have put together our list of the Best Alaska Cruises 2024.

Even if you are not planning to book your trip of a lifetime this year, our list will give you a good starting point to begin researching your vacation.

Table of Contents

• Considerations for Picking an Alaska Cruise
• Best Alaska Cruises from Seattle
• Best Alaska Cruises from Vancouver
• One-Way Alaska Cruises
• Unique Alaskan Cruises

Considerations for Best Alaska Cruises 2024

When picking your Alaska cruise, there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

• Your Alaska cruise budget
• Your preferred Alaska cruise departure point
• Your preferred Alaska cruise itinerary
• The demographics of your travel party

OUR PICKS FOR TOP ALASKA CRUISES VIDEO

Alaska Cruise Budget

Your cruise budget will be one of the primary factors in determining which of the best Alaska Cruises 2024 you pick. The list ranges from family-friendly cruise lines to more all-inclusive, luxury cruise lines. Of course, even within a cruise line, the price can vary considerably based on time of year you travel, the type of cruise cabin you pick, and other factors.

We have more information on Alaska cruise costs and the best time of year to visit Alaska based on several factors like weather, crowds, and price on our blog. These articles can help you determine the best time for your family to plan a cruise to Alaska and what you should budget for the entire trip.

Travel Party Demographics

Along the same lines, you will want to consider your travel party. The age, activity levels, and interests will be another big deciding factor in which ship you choose for your Alaska cruise. The selections for best Alaska cruises 2024 vary in terms of ship size and amenities. If you are cruising with kids or a multi-generational family, you will want to ensure the ship has activities that will interest everyone. Yes, Alaska cruises are a great vacation for the whole family!

However, if you are looking for less kids onboard, a more enriching experience, or a more all-inclusive vacation, you may want to avoid the more mainstream family cruise lines.

Cruise Departure Port and Itinerary

With that being said though, we always say that Alaska cruises are more about the destination than the ship itself. There will be long days of sightseeing and Alaskan adventures. So, you may not even have time (or be too tired) to enjoy all the amenities. If you don’t want the distractions or the FOMO, you may want a ship with less bells and whistles.

Most major cruise lines have a variety of ships sailing to Alaska, so there will be plenty of choices. Thus, you’ll want to examine the itineraries closely before booking your cruise. Some key elements are the departure point, the ports of call you’ll visit, and the glaciers you’ll get to see.

Are you looking for a roundtrip itinerary or a one-way itinerary? Most roundtrip itineraries depart from either Seattle, Washington or Vancouver, British Columbia. While one-way cruises are usually Northbound routes from Vancouver or Southbound routes from Seward or Whittier, Alaska. Of course, travel expenses related to your departure port will also impact cruise budget. Think airfare and pre-cruise hotel stays.

Finally, you should consider the ports of call and glacier viewings. Popular ports of call include the southeastern Alaska ports of Juneau, Ketchikan, and Skagway. Some visit Icy Strait Point, Sitka, or Victoria, BC as well. Not all port visits are created equal though, as some may provide you more time to explore than others.

Further, not all cruise ships have the privilege to cruise through Glacier Bay National Park. Is this a must on your Alaska cruise? We think it should be! Hubbard Glacier is another “must-see” on many guests’ lists. So, familiarize yourself with the differences, so you pick the right one.

Finally, are you looking for a typical 7-day Alaska cruise or do you want something a bit longer? Would you consider booking a land and sea option which combines a cruise with an additional land tour?

Now that you’re better equipped to decide which of these Alaska Cruises 2024 is right for you, let’s dive into our picks.

Best Alaska Cruises 2024 – From Seattle

Celebrity Edge

Celebrity Edge ushered in a brand new style of cruising for Celebrity Cruises when she debuted in 2018. This 130K gross ton ship, with a capacity just over 2,900 guests at double occupancy, launched with several new amenities and features, as well as some “firsts at sea”. Among the stand-out features is the multi-purpose Magic Carpet.

Celebrity Edge is also home to the dynamic space Eden, four unique main dining rooms, a state-of-the-art main theater, a reimagined pool deck, the tranquil Rooftop Garden, and the lively Grand Plaza with the Martini Bar. This premium cruise ship offers the elegance, style, and service that you would expect to find on a luxury cruise line along with a variety of activities and events found on mainstream mega-ships.

In 2024, Celebrity Edge is ushering in a new era of cruising for the brand once again, this time in Alaska. As the first Edge Class ship to cruise the region, Celebrity Edge is sailing roundtrip from Seattle. This 7-day itinerary features stops in Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria, along with cruising Endicott Arm.

And while controversial, we think the infinite verandah staterooms on this ship will be a big hit in Alaska.

Norwegian Encore (or Bliss)

Norwegian Encore is a 169K gross ton ship carrying close to 4,000 guests at double occupancy. NCL Encore includes attractions like waterslides, two pools, a Waterfront promenade, a racetrack, laser tag, and the virtual reality complex Galaxy Pavilion. We love that this class of ship has plenty to offer all types of travelers, making it a great option for multi-generational families.

Additionally, the ship boasts an indoor Observation Lounge, a wonderful thermal suite, and the up-charge Vibe Beach Club which are all perfect for glacier viewing. Norwegian Encore also features NCL favorite bars and restaurants, as well as the brand’s signature Freestyle approach to dining while cruising way up north.

Norwegian Encore is sailing the popular 7-day roundtrip itinerary from Seattle in 2024. The itinerary features stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria, BC, along with scenic cruising in the spectacular Glacier Bay National Park.

Sister ship, Norwegian Bliss, is joining Encore in Seattle again this year. Norwegian Bliss will offer similar 7-day cruises to Alaska. This ship’s itinerary features stops in Sitka, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Ketchikan, and Victoria, with scenic cruising of Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier.

Ovation of the Seas (or Quantum)

As another one of the largest ships to cruise in Alaska, Royal Caribbean’s Ovation of the Seas also offers some of the most innovative features at sea. Making it easily one of our picks for best Alaska cruises 2024! Ovation of the Seas is nearly 169K gross tons and features several thrills for all ages along with a variety of dining and entertainment options. This ship carries over 4,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Built for cold water cruising, the ship’s SeaPlex is a massive indoor complex featuring bumper cars and roller skating. There is also the innovative North Star. This aerial gondola extends 300 feet above sea level for one of a kind views of the Alaskan landscape. The ship also has a sky diving simulator and distinct entertainment in several venues including Two70 and the Music Hall.

Loyal to Royal cruisers will find signature bars and restaurants on Ovation of the Seas as well. Not to mention, there’s the indoor Solarium, plenty of whirlpools, and an outdoor pool to enjoy while soaking in the views.

Ovation of the Seas is sailing roundtrip from Seattle in 2024. Most of the ship’s itineraries will feature stops in Sitka, Skagway, Juneau, and Victoria, with some offering scenic cruising in Endicott Arm. Sister ship Quantum of the Seas will cruise Alaska in 2024 as well with a similar itinerary.

Discovery Princess

It is tough to pick the best Alaska cruise for 2024 among the 7 Princess Cruises’ ships sailing in the region this year. Given that we are partial to mega-ships, and really enjoy the scenic cruising through Glacier Bay National Park, our pick goes to Discovery Princess.

Discovery Princess is Princess Cruises 6th and final Royal Class ship. This 145K gross ton ship carries 3,660 guests and shares all of the style and luxury of her predecessors. This ship features a large inviting Piazza, a variety of dining options, and signature entertainment. There are also plenty of places to enjoy the scenery like the enhanced Sanctuary or maybe even the Wake View infinity pool.

And we have to say the cruise line offers some of the best enrichment in the region with its North to Alaska programming. From meeting Libby Riddles, an iditarod dog musher, to puppies in the Piazza, exclusive Alaska food and beverage offerings, and more.

Discovery Princess is sailing the Inside Passage roundtrip from Seattle in 2024. The itinerary visits all the popular stops– Juneau, Ketchikan, Skagway, and Victoria as well as a cruise through Glacier Bay.

Eurodam

Much like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line has a large presence in Alaska. The cruise line has been sailing the region for over 75 years and has 6 ships here in 2024. Our pick for Holland America’s best ship sailing from Seattle is Eurodam. This Signature Class ship is the perfect mid-sized vessel at 86K gross tons and carrying just over 2,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Holland America is also well-known for its Alaska enrichment program. As part of its We Love Alaska programming, the cruise line will feature Glacier Day, Alaska Up Close presentations, new culinary and beverage experiences including its Fresh Fish program, and more.

In between all the sightseeing and enrichment opportunities, Eurodam features nightly entertainment on the World Stage, live music in the Rolling Stone Lounge and Billboard Onboard, a pickleball court, and top-notch specialty dining.

Eurodam’s 7-day roundtrip itinerary from Seattle features visits to Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Ketchikan, and Victoria, along with scenic cruising in Glacier Bay.

Carnival Luminosa

Carnival Luminosa is a nearly 93K gross ton ship carrying just over 2,800 guests (double occupancy). This ship sailed as part of the Costa Cruises’ fleet since 2009. Combining elements of the Spirit Class and Vista Class ships, Luminosa transferred and began cruising Australia as part of the Carnival fleet in November 2022.

Carnival Luminosa features many FUN ship favorites, with Carnival favorite bars, restaurants, the Cloud 9 Spa, the Serenity adult-only area, and several family-friendly activities. Some of these include the Alchemy Bar, Fahrenheit 555 Steakhouse, RedFrog Rum Bar, Piano Bar 88, and The Punchliner Comedy Club. Guests will also be treated to a few unique features on the ship, like a sliding sky dome over the pool deck allowing the area to be used in Alaska.

Carnival Luminosa is sailing roundtrip from Seattle in 2024. The itinerary features stops in Juneau, Skagway, Ketchikan, and Victoria with scenic cruising through Tracy Arm Fjord.

Best Alaska Cruises 2024 – From Vancouver

Koningsdam

Holland America’s Koningsdam debuted in 2016 and weighs in at slightly under 100K gross tons. With 2,650 passengers, Koningsdam is the perfect mid-sized ship for your Alaska cruise from Vancouver. This ship, along with all HAL ships sailing the region, feature a robust We Are Alaska program with plenty of unique enrichment and culinary opportunities.

When you are not exploring the Last Frontier, Koningsdam offers top-notch amenities, entertainment, and dining onboard the ship. There’s theater performances on the World Stage, BB King’s Blues Club, Billboard Onboard, and the Rolling Stone Lounge showcasing amazing musicians.

In addition to the Pacific Northwest cuisine in the main dining room, cruisers can also indulge in specialty dining at Pinnacle Grill, Tamarind, Rudi’s Sel de Mer, Canaletto, Nami Sushi, and even a Morimoto by Sea pop-up experience.

This Pinnacle Class ship is sailing 7-day roundtrip cruises from Vancouver, British Columbia in 2024. The itinerary visits Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, as well as cruising through Glacier Bay National Park.

Celebrity Solstice

Celebrity Solstice is a 122K gross ton vessel that is part of Celebrity Cruises’ beloved Solstice Class of ships. This ship carries just over 2,850 passengers at double occupancy.

On Celebrity Solstice, you can play some bocce ball at the Lawn Club or partake in a Hot Glass Class. You can also enjoy some amazing views in the Sky Observation Lounge or sip a cocktail at the aft-located Sunset Bar if the weather permits.

After a long day exploring the Alaskan wilderness, you can relax in the Solarium or the Spa, join in on the fun at the Martini Bar, indulge in some fine dining at Murano or Tuscan Grille, or take in a show at the theater. Not to mention, there’s other favorites like Cafe al Bacio for morning coffee or afternoon snacks and the World Class Bar for one of a kind cocktails.

Cruising roundtrip from Vancouver, there are two different 7-day itineraries. One sails to Icy Strait Point, Juneau, and Ketchikan along with cruising the Hubbard Glacier, the longest tidewater glacier in North America. The other visits Icy Strait Point, Skagway, and Ketchikan, along with the Dawes Glacier.

Disney Wonder

If you are looking for an Alaska cruise in 2024 with a little bit of extra magic, look no further than Disney Wonder. That’s right, even Disney Cruise Line cruises way up north to Alaska! Disney Wonder weighs in at 83K gross tons and carries 2,400 passengers at double occupancy.

Disney Wonder features plenty of Disney touches in its décor, dining, and entertainment. With character meet and greets, the only cruise line with fireworks at sea, and first-run Disney movies, there will be plenty to keep the whole family busy between ports of call. There’s also Disney staples like its rotational dining with three main dining rooms, including Triton’s, Animator’s Palate, and Tiana’s Place, as well as the adult-only Palo specialty restaurant.

As the only Disney cruise ship sailing the region, this is a must for all the Disney fans out there. However, Disney cruises do come with a higher price tag than some of the other contemporary cruise lines though.

Disney Wonder is sailing 7-day roundtrip cruises from Vancouver this year. The ship will visit popular ports in southeast Alaska including Juneau, Skagway (or Icy Strait Point), and Ketchikan, as well as cruising Stikine Icefield for glacier viewing.

Brilliance of the Seas

Brilliance of the Seas is part of Royal Caribbean’s Radiance Class of ships. At 90K gross tons, the Radiance Class ships do not feature the large indoor Royal Promenade found on newer megaships in the fleet but rather a more intimate Centrum. Brilliance of the Seas also only holds just over 2,100 guests at double occupancy.

Still, multi-generational families will find plenty to keep themselves busy between ports of call. Brilliance has Royal Caribbean staples like a rock-climbing wall, mini-golf, a sports court, casino, spa, a Solarium, and more. There’s also favorites like the Windjammer buffet, Chops Grille and Izumi specialty restaurants, the Schooner Bar, and nightly productions in the main theater.

In 2024, Brilliance of the Seas is sailing 7-day roundtrip cruises from Vancouver. There are a few different itineraries but most feature a combination of 3 stops in either Sitka, Icy Strait Point, Haines, Skagway, Ketchikan, or Juneau. While most include scenic cruising in the Tracy Arm Fjord, a few cruises do feature Hubbard Glacier instead.

Ruby Princess

Another Alaska staple sailing the region from Vancouver for the 2024 season is Ruby Princess. Ruby Princess is a 113K gross ton ship and carries just over 3,000 guests.

Onboard Ruby Princess, guests will find familiar favorites for the cruise line. Sabatini’s Italian Trattoria and the Crown Grill specialty restaurants will tempt your palette. While Movies Under the Stars, live music, and nightly theater productions will keep you entertained. There’s also the popular Good Spirits Bar showcasing local ingredients and one of a kind cocktails.

Further, you can relax in the adults only Sanctuary and rejuvenate on the Princess Luxury Bed before another full day exploring all that Alaska has to offer. Not to mention, Ruby Princess also offers the latest MedallionClass technology to help make your vacation more personalized and effortless.

Ruby Princess is sailing two different 7-day itineraries this year. One features stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Ketchikan, with cruising Endicott Arm and the Dawes Glacier. The other includes the same ports of call but visits Glacier Bay National Park instead.

Best Alaska Cruises 2024 – One-Way Routes

Royal Princess

Royal Princess is a sister ship to Discovery Princess. As the first member in the Royal Class of ships for Princess Cruises, this 142K gross ton ship carries just over 3,500 guests at double occupancy.

Those loyal to the Princess brand will find all the staples on Royal Princess. From the inviting Piazza, to the innovative MedallionClass technology, to the “best pizza at sea”, guests sailing to Alaska on Royal Princess will feel right at home. There’s also the Crown Grill, the line’s signature steakhouse, nightly entertainment in the main theater and Princess Live, as well as the popular Good Spirits at Sea and Crooners bars.

You also won’t want to miss the views from the SeaWalk, the signature glass walkway extending off the side of the ship, or Movies Under the Stars. Of course, Royal Princess features all the same North to Alaska enrichment programming as well.

In 2024, Royal Princess is sailing the popular 7-day Voyages of the Glaciers itinerary on Northbound and Southbound routes. Departing from either Vancouver or Anchorage (Whittier), the itinerary visits Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway (or Icy Strait Point), Glacier Bay National Park, and scenic cruising of either College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier.

Nieuw Amsterdam

If you are looking for other options to cruise Alaska with Holland America in 2024, Nieuw Amsterdam is another great pick that is featuring a one-way itinerary. Nieuw Amsterdam is a nearly 87K gross ton vessel with just over 2,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Nieuw Amsterdam boasts several complimentary dining venues. Among them are the poolside Dive-In Burger, a pizza window, the Lido Market buffet, and the main dining room. Not to mention, Holland America Line offers 24-hour room service and some of the best specialty restaurants at sea.

When it comes to onboard activities, the cruise line offers a traditional series of cruise activities and enrichment, nighttime entertainment, live music, and more. The ship will also feature the same We Are Alaska programming as the other HAL ships in the region. With personal service and well-executed dining, Holland America Line’s Nieuw Amsterdam is an ideal backdrop to the amazing vistas of the Alaskan wilderness.

This ship will sail one-way itineraries in 2024 to/from Vancouver and Whittier, AK. During these Northbound and Southbound journeys, cruisers will enjoy stops at the usual ports of Ketchikan, Juneau, and Skagway. The ship will also cruise Glacier Bay National Park and College Fjord or Hubbard Glacier for some amazing scenic vistas.

Celebrity Summit

If you are looking to cruise to Alaska with Celebrity Cruises, Celebrity Summit is another great option for best Alaska cruises in 2024. This 91K gross ton ship, carrying just over 2,200 guests at double occupancy, received a complete revitalization in 2019 with more than $500 million of upgrades.

Celebrity Summit features over 50% verandah staterooms for enjoying the Alaska scenery, along with the exclusive Retreat for those in the most luxurious accommodations. The ship is also home to the popular Martini Bar and Sunset Bar, Cafe al Bacio for some coffee and sweet treats, and the popular specialty dining experience Le Petit Chef.

Of course, guests can also enjoy nightly entertainment, a spa, casino, two pools, and pickleball at sea. The Sky Lounge perched at the top of the ship provides great forward-facing views of the scenery, and there’s also the outdoor Rooftop Terrace at the aft of the ship for admiring the glaciers. Celebrity also offers its Beyond the Podium series which provides plenty of enrichment during an Alaskan cruise.

Celebrity Summit is sailing one-way routes from either Vancouver or Seward, Alaska. These itineraries visit Ketchikan, Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka (or Skagway), and the Hubbard Glacier.

Radiance of the Seas

As one of the top Alaska cruises year after year, Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas will sail the region once again in 2024. Radiance of the Seas is a sister ship to Brilliance of the Seas and features a very similar layout and list of amenities. At 90K gross tons, this small ship (by Royal Caribbean standards) carries just under 2,150 passengers at double occupancy.

On Radiance of the Seas, you might not even need a balcony. This ship offers some of the greatest views of Alaska from the nine-story central atrium and outward facing elevators. While you cruise Alaska on this ship, you can also enjoy favorites like the Schooner Bar and Chops Grille, along with the nostalgic Viking Crown Lounge perched at the top of the ship. There’s also a Solarium and an indoor movie theater.

Radiance of the Seas is sailing 7-day, one-way routes from either Vancouver or Seward. These itineraries are more port intensive than some of the other Royal Caribbean offerings. They feature stops in Juneau, Icy Strait Point, Sitka (or Ketchikan), Skagway, and cruising the Hubbard Glacier.

Norwegian Jewel

NCL’s Norwegian Jewel is also heading to Alaska for the 2024 season. Norwegian Jewel is 93.5K GT and carries just over 2,300 guests at double occupancy.

If you don’t need all the bells and whistles of the larger mega-ships, Norwegian Jewel might be perfect for you. The ship still offers a classic Freestyle NCL experience but with less crowds and less up-charges.

There are still plenty of nightly entertainment and dining options onboard to help you unwind after a long day ashore. You will find the specialty restaurants Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, La Cucina, and the hibachi style Teppanyaki. There is also the complimentary O’Sheehan’s Pub, plenty of bars like the popular Sugarcane Mojito Bar, the Bliss Ultra Lounge, and unique production shows in the main theater.

Norwegian Jewel is sailing one-way itineraries from either Vancouver, B.C. or Seward, Alaska. Again, these itineraries include classic Alaskan ports of call like Juneau, Ketchikan, Icy Strait Point, and Skagway. They also feature scenic cruising at the Hubbard Glacier.

Viking Orion

Offering a small ship, more all-inclusive experience in Alaska, Viking also features an ocean ship sailing in the region this season. Viking Orion is a 930-passenger, 47.8K vessel that boasts all veranda staterooms and an elegant yet simplistic Scandinavian design.

On a Viking Ocean cruise, you receive a free tour in each port of call, WiFi, no up-charges for specialty dining, and complimentary room service. Guests can also enjoy beer, wine, and soft drinks at meals, specialty coffees and bottled water, access to the thermal suite, and more without any nickel and diming.

Of course, the ship also offers upscale dining that is all included in the cruise fare, bars and lounges with live music in the evenings, and enrichment opportunities to fill your time between ports of call. You can even warm up with afternoon tea in the Wintergarden after a long day ashore.

Viking Orion is sailing an 11-day Alaska and Inside Passage Cruise in 2024. This itinerary will sail from either Vancouver, British Columbia or Seward, Alaska. This itinerary visits Ketchikan, Juneau, Skagway, Sitka, Icy Strait Point, and Valdez. It also includes scenic cruising of the Inside Passage and Yakutat Bay.

Best Alaska Cruises 2024 – Other

Crown Princess

Crown Princess is another one of Princess Cruises’ ships sailing Alaska in 2024. However, this ship offers a unique itinerary. This 113.5K gross ton ship, carrying just over 3,000 guests at double occupancy, is sailing an 11-day route roundtrip from San Francisco.

The itinerary features stops in Juneau, Skagway, Sitka (or Ketchikan), and Prince Rupert, BC along with scenic cruising in either Glacier Bay or Tracy Arm Fjord. There are also 5 sea days to enjoy all the ship has to offer.

As part of the Grand Class, Crown Princess features a similar layout and amenities to Ruby Princess to keep you entertained during your time on the ship.

Carnival Miracle

Carnival Miracle is another ship sailing to Alaska from San Francisco in 2024. As part of Carnival’s Spirit Class, this ship is 88.5K GT and carries just over 2,100 guests at double occupancy.

In June, July, and September of 2024, Carnival Miracle will sail a series of mostly 10-day cruises roundtrip from CA. Ports of call include Ketchikan, Haines, Juneau, Prince Rupert, and scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord. On select itineraries, Ketchikan and/or Haines are swapped out for Skagway and/or Sitka.

There are also four sea days to enjoy the ship’s amenities. Guests can grab some casual eats at Guy’s Burger Joint or BlueIguana Cantina, along with some drinks at the RedFrog Rum Bar or the Alchemy Bar. There’s plenty of time for entertainment and relaxation onboard too. Past guests will find familiar favorites like comedy shows in Punchliner, Playlist Productions in the theater, a Cloud9 Spa, the Serenity Adult-Only Retreat if the weather allows, and Camp Ocean for the little ones.

Oceania Regatta

For another unique Alaska cruise in 2024, Oceania Regatta is sailing from Los Angeles, Seward, Vancouver, and Seattle on a variety of itineraries throughout the season. This upscale, small cruise ship is just over 30K gross tons. And it has a capacity of only 670 guests at double occupancy.

Despite its size, Oceania Cruises’ Regatta still features four open-seating restaurants, a spa, eight lounges and bars, and a casino. And nearly 70% of the staterooms feature private verandas – perfect for viewing Alaska’s stunning landscapes. The ship’s intimate size allows for visits to ports where larger ships can’t dock. It also allows for more immersive experiences in port, connecting to the local people, culture, and cuisine. 

While each itinerary varies, popular port stops in Alaska include Icy Strait Point, Sitka, Juneau, Ketchikan, Haines, Skagway, Klawock, Wrangell, and the Hubbard Glacier. Additional ports of call may include San Francisco; Astoria, Oregon; Prince Rupert, BC; or Victoria, BC. Most range in length from 7 to 12 days, with one 19-day itinerary.

Additional Alaska Experiences

Of course, these are just our picks for the best Alaska cruises for 2024. There are plenty of other sailings in the region that may appeal to different types of travelers. While we have never sailed with any of these brands, Regent, Silversea, and Seabourn do offer luxury and ultra-luxury experiences in the region.

If you aren’t really “a cruiser”, a cruise is still one of the best ways to visit Alaska. So, there are sailings out there for you too. Lindblad Expeditions, UnCruise Adventures, Alaskan Dream Cruises, and HX (Hurtigruten Expeditions), to name a few, provide a more off-the-beaten-path experience.

These expedition ships carry much fewer passengers and are a more active way of exploring. The accommodations will likely be less luxurious, and there will be far fewer amenities onboard. But, you will venture to more remote locales for a very different Alaska cruise experience than the mainstream cruise lines.

Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed. There is so much natural beauty, rugged landscapes, and wildlife waiting for you in Alaska.

You might also want to review some of our top Alaska Tips and our Complete Alaska Cruise Packing Guide to ensure you are fully prepared for your bucket list trip to this magnificent destination.

Comments

Have we convinced you to book a cruise to Alaska? Have you sailed on any of these great ships? Drop us an anchor below to share your picks for the best Alaska cruises 2024.

The post We Have Been on 6 Alaska Cruises and Here’s Our Picks For the Best Ships and Itineraries of 2024 appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line and shipbuilder Fincantieri celebrated a major construction milestone for Norwegian Aqua today, as the ship was floated out from its dry dock at the shipyard in Marghera, Italy. The occasion marks the first time the vessel touched the water.

The first in the Prima Plus class, today’s float out signifies the completion of the external work on the ship ahead of its April 2025 debut. To celebrate the milestone, two ceremonial coins were welded into Norwegian Aqua, a maritime tradition for good luck and safe passage for the ship. The ceremony was followed by a blessing by a local chaplain and a champagne bottle breaking across the hull.

“We are excited to celebrate another milestone with our partners at Fincantieri, who are integral to the Prima Class journey and supporting us in evolving the amazing experience we design and deliver for our guests,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Building upon the guest-favorite features of the award-winning vessels of this class, the 10% increase in space provides us with more flexibility to deliver more offerings and more beautifully designed venues for our guests to relax and explore on board Norwegian Aqua.”

Norwegian Aqua will be 10 percent larger than the first two Prima class ships (Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva) at 156,300 gross tons. It will feature the world’s first-ever hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster. It will also include a new digital sports complex with an interactive LED floor and NCL’s most expansive 360-degree outdoor promenade to date. In The Haven ship-within-a-ship complex, Aqua will offer NCL’s first-ever three-bedroom Duplex Haven Suites.

Norwegian Aqua Itineraries

Construction now continues on Norwegian Aqua until her debut in April 2025. The vessel will operate seven-day Caribbean cruises from Port Canaveral. Port calls will include Puerto Plata, Tortola, and St. Thomas. The voyages will also stop at NCL’s private Bahamian island Great Stirrup Cay.

Following her inaugural Caribbean season, Aqua will offer five and seven-day cruises to Bermuda from NYC from August 2025 through October 2025. From October 2025 to April 2026, the ship will sail five and seven-day eastern Caribbean itineraries from Miami.

Comments

Are you excited about the upcoming debut of Norwegian Aqua? Have you sailed either of the Prima class ships yet? Drop us an anchor below and let us know!

Stay up to date with the latest cruise news and travel updates!

The post Norwegian Cruise Line Marks Major Construction Milestone For Norwegian Aqua appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.

Norwegian Cruise Line kicked off its 2024 Europe season on April 19th, as Norwegian Epic arrived to Civitavecchia, Italy before embarking on a 10-day Greek Isles and Italy voyage.

This summer, guests will have 101 itineraries to choose from in Europe, with 38 roundtrips and 63 open-jaw sailings calling in 140 different ports. Select itineraries include overnight calls in ports including Istanbul, Livorno, and Reykjavik.

European cruises sail from 13 homeports this year, with New York City, Le Havre (Paris), and Oslo being three new homeport options for Norwegian Cruise Line guests. The line will have nine ships in the region, including its newest vessels Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva.

“As we return to Europe for this season, our goal remains consistent—curating unmatched and captivating experiences for guests to immerse in Europe’s most iconic and sought-after destinations, while delivering value for them to maximize their journey with us,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line.

“In fact, we have found that cruising to Europe with NCL offers up to 40% more value than a similar land-based vacation, making it not just a memorable experience, but a cost-effective one. There is still time for guests to book that last-minute trip to Europe with NCL and enjoy the beauty of waking up in a new destination nearly every day.”

European Itinerary Highlights

Norwegian Star Sails a Series of Cruises to Iceland, Greenland, and Canada

Norwegian Star, the only ship in the NCL fleet equipped for polar navigation, will be the first in the fleet to offer a new summer series of 12 to 14-day open-jaw sailings between New York City and Reykjavik, Iceland. These sailings will depart in July and August.

Norwegian Getaway Explores the Greek Isles

Norwegian Getaway will homeport in Piraeus (Athens), Greece on June 25th, embarking on seven to 10-day Greek Isles roundtrip itineraries. Each day, the ship will arrive at a new port including destinations like Istanbul, Iraklion, Santorini, and Mykonos, Greece as well as hidden gem Izmir (Ephesus), Turkey. Select departures include overnight stays in Istanbul.

Norwegian Viva in the Mediterranean

Between May and November 2024, Norwegian Viva will offer nine to 11-day open-jaw voyages in the Mediterranean. These unique itineraries will feature a different embarkation and disembarkation port in destinations such as Athens, Lisbon, Venice, and Rome.

Almost No Sea Days on Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape will be NCL’s largest vessel in Europe this season, offering eight to 10-day roundtrip sailings from Barcelona, Civitavecchia, and Trieste. Escape will also offer seven to 11-day open-jaw sailings with stints in Italy, Greece, and France with only one day at sea.

Those interested in a European cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line can currently book one through December 2025.

Comments

Are you taking a cruise in Europe this year? If so, what cruise line are you sailing and region will you be visiting? Drop us an anchor below, we’d love to know!

Stay up to date with the latest cruise news and travel updates!

The post Norwegian Cruise Line Kicks Off 2024 European Season appeared first on EatSleepCruise.com.