what is the new norwegian cruise ship

• Port Overview
• Transportation to the Port
• Uber & Lyft to the Port
• Dropping Off at the Port
• Cruise Parking
• Cruise Hotels
• Hotels with Parking Deals
• Uber & Lyft to the Ports
• Things to Do
• Cozumel Taxi Rates
• Free Things to Do
• Restaurants Near the Cruise Port
• Hotels & Resorts With Day Passes
• Closest Beaches to the Cruise Port
• Tips For Visiting
• Shore Excursions
• Cruise Parking Discounts
• Hotels with Shuttles
• Which Airport Should I Use?
• Transportation to the Ports
• Dropping Off at the Ports
• Fort Lauderdale Airport to Miami
• Inexpensive Hotels
• Hotels near the Port
• Hotels With Shuttles
• Budget Hotels
• Carnival Tips
• Drink Packages
• Specialty Restaurants
• Faster to the Fun
• More Articles
• CocoCay Tips
• Norwegian Tips
• Great Stirrup Cay
• Harvest Caye
• How to Get the Best Cruise Deal
• Best Time to Book a Cruise
• Best Websites to Book a Cruise
• Cruises Under $300
• Cruises Under $500
• Spring Break Cruise Deals
• Summer Cruise Deals
• Alaskan Cruise Deals
• 107 Cruise Secrets & Tips
• Tips for First-Time Cruisers
• What to Pack for a Cruise
• What to Pack (Alaska)
• Packing Checklist
• Cruising with Kids
• Passports & Birth Certificates
• Bringing Alcohol
• Cruising with a Disability
• Duty-Free Shopping
• Cruise Travel Insurance
• Things to Do on a Cruise Ship
• What Not to Do on a Ship
• News & Articles

Norwegian Prima: 9 Must-Know Things About the New Ship

Looking for a reason to get excited about sailing again? How about the introduction of a major new cruise ship from one of the biggest lines in the world… that’s wholly different than anything else in its fleet? That’s what we’re getting with Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship — Norwegian Prima.

While cruise lines often roll out new ships that are essentially carbon copies of past ships, with entirely new classes of vessels the lines get the chance to completely redefine what’s possible at sea.

That’s exactly what NCL is doing with Prima. From changing the entire design of the ship from anything else in the fleet, to the amenities offered onboard (infinity pools?!), Prima promises to be a dramatic departure from anything else.

Here’s what to know about this brand-new cruise ship.

Prima Is The First of SIX New Ships in its Class

Norwegian Prima is the first ship of the brand-new Prima class — the cruise line’s first new class of ships in nearly a decade. In total, the cruise line plans for five more Prima-class vessels, meaning that relatively soon there will likely be one of these ships sailing from your favorite cruise port.

With six ships, that would make the Prima class the largest group of ships within Norwegian’s fleet — overtaking the four ships in the Breakaway-Plus class. The current schedule is for one new ship to roll out yearly from 2022-2027, built by Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri.

Prima Is the Line’s First New Ship Since Encore

Norwegian Encore made massive headlines and saw lots of fanfare when it first sailed in 2019. Then, the health crisis hit. The steady stream of new ships that the industry had seen for years dried up. By the time Prima is launched in 2022, it will be the first ship added to Norwegian’s fleet since Encore — a span of three years.

From 2013 through 2019, Norwegian Cruise Line had introduced a new ship each year and plans to return to that schedule again starting in 2022 for the foreseeable future, helping to make up for lost time.

Prima Will Be Smaller Than Previous Ships

It’s rare — though not unheard of — for cruise lines to downsize their ships. Over the past 10-15 years, the trend has definitely been that new ships continue to increase in size . For instance, Carnival’s new Mardi Gras is by far the largest ship in that cruise line’s fleet.

That makes it interesting that after years of increasing ship size, NCL is going smaller with Prima. The ship will be “just” 965 feet long, carry 3,215 passengers, and weigh 142,500 gross tons.

By comparison, Norwegian Encore is nearly 1,100 feet, holds 4,000 passengers and weighs 169,000 gross tons. In other words, Encore is about 20% larger (based on tonnage) compared to Prima.

There are some concerns with ever-increasing ship size and the ability to dock in certain ports. However, the smaller size also seems to fit in with a new focus on luxury in the Prima class.

Prima Puts Luxury at the Top of the List

In general the mass-market cruise lines like Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian have a goal to appeal to everyone. There are tons of things for families and adults to do (several NCL ships even have go-kart tracks), and the feel is nice without being stuffy.

With Norwegian Prima, it appears that the cruise line is putting new emphasis on luxury. In fact, the first images of the ship are much more in line with luxury brands like Celebrity than the mass-market brands like Carnival and Royal Caribbean.

For one, the ship will have 13 different suite categories, along with the largest-ever standard cabins from the line. There also is a renewed focus on The Haven, which is the “resort within a resort” that offers exclusive access to certain areas for passengers paying up for these rooms.

Then there is simply the design. Renderings show high-end design with modern style. Go-karts and waterslides don’t appear, although it’s not clear if these or other kid-friendly features are axed completely. The result is a ship that looks much more luxurious and focused on adults than rivals in the mass-market space.

An Even Greater Emphasis on the Outdoors

One of the features of newer Norwegian ships has been the emphasis on the outdoors. Every ship you’ll ever sail has a pool deck where people can get out and soak up the sun. But for many ships, that’s the extent of the outdoor area.

For many ships in the fleet, NCL has put a renewed emphasis on being outside. This includes outdoor dining and promenades set out from the body of the ship to give both nice views and sunshine.

Prima looks to do even more. First is Ocean Boulevard. Wrapping around deck 8, this outdoor area measures 44,000 square feet. It allows passengers to walk around the entire ship while still being close to the sea. There is also Infinity Beach, which puts infinity pools on lower decks on each side of the ship, two glass bridges, an outdoor sculpture garden (with $2 million worth of sculptures) and an outdoor open-air lounge at the front of the ship called La Terraza.

A New Concept With The Indulge Food Hall

It’s normal for a ship to have a number of restaurants all around the ship. What’s unusual is that Prima will introduce a new dining option known as the Indulge Food Hall. Here, the ship has 11 different places to eat (ranging from BBQ to rotisserie to salads and desserts), along with a mix of both indoor and outdoor seating.

This hall now serves as a hub for grabbing a bite to eat, but is far from the only place to dine. A number of other options are also available including The Local, Onda by Scarpetta, and Los Lobos.

On previous ships NCL did a great job in managing outdoor dining and the challenges such as the sun and wind. Prima looks to take that one step further with the new food hall, while also offering lots of options.

Infinity Pools Come to Prima

Frankly, most pools on cruise ships aren’t that memorable. Given the weight of water high-up on the ship, pools are relatively small and shallow, plopped in the middle of the deck.

Norwegian Prima is changing that. It will feature several infinity pools around the ship with clear edges offering a spot to take a dip that’s unlike anything else at sea. True, the pools still will be modest in size, but they will offer an unforgettable experience, especially with the pools being on lower decks, closer to the ocean.

Perhaps the most interesting location to take a swim is in The Haven. The exclusive pool for guests in these rooms is at the top of the ship at the very back, giving you an uninterrupted view as the ship is in port or at sea.

Prima Starts Sailing in Summer 2022

The current plan is for Prima to make her debut in the summer, with cruises beginning in Europe and the United Kingdom. The first public cruise sails from Amsterdam, on August 17, 2022. It will take passengers around Northern Europe, including stops in Belgium, Norway, and Iceland. The 8-day trip currently starts at $1,539 per person for an interior cabin.

As mentioned earlier, this will mark the first new ship from NCL in approximately three years, putting a premium on the chance to sail.

Prima Will Sail From a Number of Ports Before Settling Home in Port Canaveral

If you want a chance to sail on Prima, then you just might find a departure nearby. That’s because the ship has an odd schedule starting out, departing from several different ports around the world.

As mentioned earlier, it will sail from Amsterdam, but also depart from England to New York. From there, it will sail a trip to Galveston. Departing Galveston, Prima sails to Miami before sailing a handful of cruises and then homeporting in Port Canaveral until 2023.

Even then, Prima will be on the move in 2023. She will leave Port Canaveral, offering several trips from New York before moving back across the Atlantic.

Bottom Line About Prima

Put simply, Prima is not just another Norwegian Cruise Line ship. The ship and the entire class take a turn from the rest of the fleet, with an experience that definitely seems more upscale and adult-oriented. Instead of putting NCL in competition with Royal Caribbean and Carnival, it seems more in line with what you’d see from Celebrity or Princess.

Furthermore, the ship offers more in the way of outdoor experiences, with a number of new design features not seen in the Norwegian fleet or industry as a whole. When she sets sail, there’s going to be a lot for cruise fans to be excited about.

Popular: 39 Useful Things to Pack (17 You Wouldn't Think Of)

Read next: park & cruise hotels for every port in america, popular: 107 best cruise tips, secrets, tricks, and freebies, related articles more from author, worth it complete norwegian cruise line (ncl) drink package guide, 10 major differences between royal caribbean and norwegian cruise line (ncl), ‘be on time’: cruisers show little sympathy for ncl passengers who missed ship, norwegian cruise line gratuities (tips): full guide to cost & how they work, good deal everything to know about norwegian’s “free at sea” sale, 20+ norwegian cruise tips, tricks, and things to know, leave a reply cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Hurricane Beryl Slams Port of Galveston, Causing Cruise Delays

47 best carnival cruise line tips & tricks for your next cruise, cruise etiquette that you have to know (read before sailing), hotels with cruise shuttles for every major port in america, 107 best cruise tips, tricks, secrets, and freebies, 39 useful things to pack for your cruise (including 17 you’d never think of).

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions

• CruiseMapper
• Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Prima

Former name: fincantieri venice 6298.

Cruise line Norwegian Cruise Line

• Galveston (Texas)
• Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)
• Southampton (England)
• Reykjavik (Iceland)
• New York (NYC Manhattan-Brooklyn)

Norwegian Prima current position

Norwegian Prima current location is at North East Atlantic Ocean (coordinates 61.66691 N / 4.00794 E) cruising at speed of 14.1 kn (26 km/h | 16 mph) en route to BERGEN, NORWAY. The AIS position was reported 4 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima current cruise is 10 days, one-way from Reykjavik to Southampton . Prices start from USD 1479 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 04 Jul, 2024 and ends on 14 Jul, 2024 .

Specifications of Norwegian Prima

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Norwegian Prima Itineraries

Norwegian prima review, review of norwegian prima.

The 2022-built Norwegian Prima cruise ship is the first of all six PRIMA-Class NCL liners constructed in Italy by Fincantieri (Marghera Yard/ Venice ). By volume (142500 GT-tons) Prima's sistership is Viva (2023). From the PRIMA PLUS series are the 10% larger (158000 GT-tons) sisterships Aqua (2025) and TBN4 (2026), as well as the 20% larger (172000 GT-tons) sisterships TBN5 (2027) and TBN6 (2028).

The vessel (IMO number 9823986) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311001059) and registered in Nassau .

NCL PRIMA class unit's building cost is EUR 730 million (USD 850M).

NCL's previous BREAKAWAY PLUS-Class boats were all built by Meyer Werft Germany (in Papenburg ).

The design is based on 20 decks, 1646 staterooms, gross-tonnage/volume 142500 GT-tons, passenger capacity 3215 (double occupancy), 16 elevators (passenger lifts, including 2 dedicated to The Haven complex). The Haven complex (public areas and all the 107 staterooms) were designed by the Italian interior design company Lissoni & Partners (Piero Lissoni).

NCL Prima's hull artwork was designed by Manuel Di Rita (aka Peeta/Italian graffiti artist).

History - construction and ownership

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a subsidiary company of the shipping corporation Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH). NCL was founded in 1966, headquartered in Miami (Florida USA) and publicly traded (NASDAQ) company listed on NYSE ( NYC ). NCLH's major shareholders are the corporations Apollo Global Management (American), Genting Group (Malaysian) and TPG Capital (American).

In 2017, the brand NCL had a worldwide cruise market share 8,7% (passengers) and 8,4% (revenue).

NCLH (shipowner) owns the brands NCL , Oceania , and RSSC-Regent .

Decks and Cabins

Norwegian Prima staterooms (1646 total) are in 35 grades and 7 types - The Haven Suites (107x total), Suites, Club Balcony Suites (Mini-Suites), Balcony-Oceanview- Interior staterooms, and Studios (single-occupancy Interior cabins / no single supplement is required). The NCL PRIMA design boasts 18x Suite categories (including the fleet's first 3-bedroom suites) and the NCL's biggest-ever Inside-, Oceanview- and Balcony staterooms.

The ship has a total of 41 handicap staterooms (ADA-certified, wheelchair-accessible cabins) in the following categories/types: HB-Haven Aft Penthouse (1), BA-BB-BF-Balcony (16), O4-Oceanview (7), IA-IB-IF-Inside (17). "Guaranteed" cabin categories are MX-Club Balcony Suite, BX-Balcony, OX-Oceanview, IX-Inside.

The smallest category is T1-Studio (95 ft2 / 9 m2). Inside cabins are sized 160-255 ft2 (15-24 m2). Oceanview cabins are with a Large Round Window and in types Standard (185 ft2 / 17 m2), Large (235 ft2 / 22 m2) and Family (235-370 ft2 / 22-34 m2). Balcony cabins vary in sizes between 230-270-360 ft2 (21-25-34 m2), with step-out balconies sized between 45-70-100 ft2 (4-7-9 m2). The largest accommodation is The Haven Premier Owner's Suite (capacity 8 passengers) sized 2100 ft2 (195 m2) and with a wraparound terrace sized 830 ft2 (77 m2).

The boat has 20 decks , of which 16 are passenger-accessible and 9 with cabins.

Staff/crew cabins are 912.

Shipboard facilities and amenities

NCL's PRIMA-class ship design features more and larger public spaces (both indoor and outdoor), smaller passenger capacity (in comparison to the preceding designs/BREAKAWAY and BREAKAWAY PLUS), new dining and entertainment options, a total of 35x dining venues and bars/lounges (including 7x fleet-first food venues), higher service levels.

The Waterfront (outdoor Promenade deck space found on other NCL vessels) was reimagined by doubling the space on Ocean Boulevard. The 360-degree Promenade complex (sized 44000 ft2 / 4090 m2) completely wraps around the entire deck 8 , offering unobstructed seaviews and housing multiple spaces. The Ocean Boulevard features two large infinity pools, Oceanwalk (glass-bottomed bridges), Indulge Food Hall (NCL's first open-air marketplace), The Concourse (outdoor sculpture garden with "selfie" installations/metal sculptures by Alexander Krivosheiw and David Harber.

Penrose Atrium is NCL's first 3-level atrium (spanning decks 6-7-8). The glass-walled Atrium is marked by scenic sea views, futuristic architecture, a 3-ton crystal chandelier (custom-built by Lasvit / Czechia, constellations-themed), a full-height wall artwork (resembling a topographic map), retail shops and bars on each level (including Starbucks Coffee Shop, Whiskey Bar, Penrose Bar, Prima Casino).

Follows the complete list of Norwegian Prima restaurants and food bars.

• The aft-located "Indulge Food Hall" (with a Firepit) is an open-air Marketplace that houses total 11x eateries (with indoor-outdoor seating, 120 items in 3x different menus/breakfast, lunch, dinner), Luna Bar, Indulge Outdoor Lounge, Soleil Bar, Waves Pool Bar, Prima Speedway Bar, a seating area serving Starbucks coffee.
• "Los Lobos Cantina" is new for NCL dining concept. Los Lobos is a la carte-priced restaurant that has both indoor and outdoor seating and offers traditional Mexican cuisine specialties. The menu includes tableside-made guacamole, fresh-baked corn tortillas, Tacos Al Pastor (with marinated pork, similar to doner kebabs/gyros), Chicken Enchiladas de Mole, handcrafted cocktails.
• "Onda by Scarpetta" is an Italian specialty restaurant (reservations-only, cover charge, kids charged a full cover) with both indoor and outdoor seating. The Onda restaurant is open between 5:30-9:30 pm and has large tables. The liner's Italian dining experience is marked by a casual atmosphere and large portions (perfect for family dinners) and traditional fine Italian wines and gourmet cuisine specialties - including oven-baked pizzas, homemade daily pasta, top-quality seafood, classic salads, freshly-baked bread, gourmet desserts (including gelato ice cream). Onda by Scarpetta features an outdoor terrace (Waterfront seating area).
• "Coco's" (patisserie shop) serves artisan sweet treats.
• "Seaside Rotisserie" offers a variety of grilled and spit-roasted meat dishes.
• "Nudls" is a food bar offering noodle dishes and global street food.
• "Tamara" serves classic Indian dishes along with multiple vegetarian options.
• "Tapas Food Truck" offers Spanish-inspired street food.
• "Q Texas Smokehouse" offers Southern USA comfort food and barbecue dishes.
• "The Local Bar & Grill" provides a beach club experience and serves classic American cuisine and premium cocktails.
• "Garden Kitchen" offers customized salads with 12+ ingredients to choose from.
• "The Concourse" is an outdoor sculpture garden (located midship-starboard) featuring an art wall designed by David Harber (who specializes in outdoor sculptures, sundials and water features) and 6x "Instagrammable/selfie" installations by Alexander Krivosheiw and David Harber, both specializing in bronze and aluminum sculptures. The cruise ship's 7x sculptures are valued at USD 2+ million (~EUR 1,7M).
• "La Terraza" is an open-air Promenade lounge featuring a quaint retreat with forward-facing sea views.
• "Infinity Beach" (sundeck) has 2 infinity swimming pools (at the edge of the deck / aft-midship) and two Oceanwalks (glass-bottom bridges / midship) - a first feature for the NCL brand.
• Palomar (specialty Mediterranean seafood restaurant)
• Hasuki (specialty Japanese hibachi restaurant, decorated with original Japanese artworks and handcrafted pottery)
• Nama (specialty Japanese sashimi and sushi bar house)
• Le Bistro (specialty French restaurant)
• Cagney's Steakhouse is a specialty dinner restaurant (open 5:30-10:30 pm) for prime steaks (Certified Angus Beef) and gourmet seafood specialties. The Cagney's restaurant is reservations-only, with a cover charge of US$30 per person and a free Kids Menu. At Cagney's, kids are charged a full cover. Additionally, the steakhouse is open for suite guests only serving Breakfast (7:30-9:30 am) and Lunch (12-1:30 pm).
• Food Republic (Asian-fusion restaurant) is an exclusive dining concept (via a partnership with the Pubbelly Restaurant Group). This specialty restaurant is open lunch through dinner, and offers international cuisine with a la carte menu and an iPad ordering system.
• Observation Lounge & Bar (also has telescopes)
• Humidor Cigar Lounge (cigar shop and bar)
• The Belvedere Bar (cocktail lounge)
• Metropolitan Bar is NCL's first "sustainable bar" serving zero-waste cocktails, "green spirits" (produced with renewable energy), 20+ biodynamic wines (organically farmed).
• Surfside Cafe and Surfside Grill offer self-serve casual food and a-la-minute items (upon request).

Both MDRs/Main Dining Rooms are aft-positioned (The Commodore Room/deck 6, and Hudson's Room/deck 7) and with revamped fixed menus that offer a sampling of various international dishes, fully vegetarian and vegan options, as well as build-your-own-pasta (24 combinations/custom-made dishes can be requested by selecting the Italian pasta, sauce, topping) plus Specialties menu (you can select/sample a dish from one of the specialty restaurants).

Other onboard culinary choices include "The Latin Quarter" (classic Latin food with a twist), "Just Desserts" (including pies and cakes), "Just Ice Cream".

"The Haven by Norwegian" on PRIMA-class NCL ships (designed by Piero Lissoni & Partners) spans 8 decks and groups suites, public areas, and exclusive venues, all positioned in the aft/stern section.

NCL's luxury "ship-within-a-ship" ( exclusive/keycard-access-only) complex has 107x Haven Suites (aft-positioned) and 2x private elevators - exclusively for Haven passengers. The aft lifts rise into The Haven's public areas and interconnect decks 6 through 18. For the first time, every public area offers sea views from floor-ceiling windows. The Haven Sundeck is an exclusive sunbathing area with plenty of padded sun loungers and deckchairs and is located aft on decks 16-17.

• Deck 16's Sundeck has an infinity pool at the stern (swimming pool overlooking the ship's wake), an outdoor Spa (featuring a glass-walled Sauna Room and Cold Room), Concierge Desk, Haven Outdoor Restaurant, Haven Outdoor Lounge & Bar (offering a limited buffet for breakfast and lunch, with traditional Chinese and Western cuisine specialties).
• Deck 17's Haven Sundeck has two Jacuzzis (outdoor whirlpool hot tubs) and outdoor Showers.
• Deck 18's Haven Sundeck has an infinity pool (with a stern-facing glass wall) and a large sunbathing area with padded loungers and Showers.

The 24-hour butler service is provided complimentary.

The ship's wellness complex groups the facilities of the Mandara Spa and the Pulse Fitness Center.

• The Gym is fitted with ultra-modern equipment (treadmills, ellipticals, steppers, free weights) and features a separate Aerobics Studio (for classes/spinning, yoga, pilates, dance, cardio, fitness and strength training, TRX workouts) and a Performance Recovery Room (for group fitness classes and gym workshops using Hyperice products).
• The indoor Spa features a charcoal Sauna Room and a 2-story/2-deck cascading waterfall, as well as Salt Room, Steam Room, Ice Room, Infrared Sauna, Finnish Sauna, Experiential Showers, Vitality Pool, Flotation Salt Pool, Relaxation Lounge (fitted with 22x hot-stone loungers), 20x Treatment Rooms (for massages), Changing/Locker Rooms.

With the PRIMA-class ships, NCL also introduced new spa services, including computer-controlled acoustic and vibrational therapies (via 2x Gharieni massage beds - Welnamis, and Wellmassage5D), as well as "Ocean Spa Wave Massage" (therapeutic warm wrap using sea plants and marine algae, based on seaweed masks, aromatherapy essential oils, massages/scalp and feet), "Zero Gravity Wellness Massage" (8x tables/the body is suspended on the treatment table) and ELEMIS' "Musclease Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap" (beneficial for rheumatism, arthritis, muscle spasms, fatigue, based on essential oils/pine and rosemary) and "Cellutox Aroma Spa Ocean Wrap" (reducing cellulite and fluid retention, based on detoxifying essential oils/juniper and lemon).

The Aqua Park (3-decks high) has 2x swimming pools, 5x multi-level waterslides (Ocean Loop), 2x racing slides (The Rush), 1x freefall dry slide (The Drop), "Tidal Wave" waterslide (fleet's first to allow innertube surfing), 4x Jacuzzies (2x infinity pools/hot tubs), poolside bar, sundeck/sunbathing area.

Vibe Beach Club is an adults-only relaxation area (surcharges per day apply) with cantilevered whirlpools (2x infinity spa pools/hot tubs), an outdoor pool bar, sunbathing area (with loungers and luxury chaise lounge chairs), private cabanas.

Syd Norman's Pour House (debuted on Norwegian Breakaway in 2018) is a rock-and-roll-themed bar lounge with live band music (all-time-greatest songs).

At the Headliners Comedy Club Lounge are presented the shows "The Second City" (comedy), "Howl At The Moon" (piano), "The Improv at Sea" (standup performances), "Science of Comedy" (intellectual).

The Sensoria Theatre Lounge (aka Prima Theater & Club Bar) spans 3 decks (6-7-8) and features a large stage (for live performances), a huge dance floor, customizable seating, a large LED moving screen lowering down from the ceiling (sized nearly half the venue's size), UHD media, surround sound, special visual effects. In the evenings, Sensoria transforms into a Vegas-style disco nightclub with live DJ programming and high-energy music.

Daily at Sensoria Theatre are held enrichment lectures, bingo, trivia games with prizes.

• Exclusively for NCL Prima was developed the interactive "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical" themed on the American singer and actress Donna Summer (born as LaDonna Adrian Gaines/1948-2012). The 75-minute show features 20+ of her hits including "Heaven Knows" (1978), "Last Dance" (1978, from the "Thank God It's Friday" film's soundtrack), "Hot Stuff" (1979), "Bad Girls" (1979), "Dim All the Lights" (1979).
• Sensoria Theatre also houses the NCL's series of interactive game shows "LIVE on NCL", featuring grand prizes and themed "The Price is Right", "Supermarket Sweep", "Press Your Luck", "Beat the Clock".

Norwegian Prima's interactive show productions are the first at sea when the Prima Theater transforms into a nightclub and all guests participate in the show. The shows were developed via partnership with Fremantle (fka FremantleMedia, British/London-based TV production and distribution company, subsidiary of the RTL Group/Luxembourg-based media broadcasting corporation). The theater lounge also hosts the 2022-debuted game show "The Price is Right LIVE".

Like all boats from the BREAKAWAY and BREAKAWAY PLUS series, NCL's Prima has the "Prima Speedway" (fleet's largest racetrack), "The Rush" (2-tube/dueling dry slides) and "The Drop" (world's first freefall dry slide/10-deck high).

"Prima Speedway" is NCL fleet's first racetrack on 3 levels/decks (the old racetracks are 2-level), with a longer straightaway/straight section, 14 turns and total length 420 m (1378 ft), which is ~1/5th larger than the racetrack on Norwegian Encore (fleet's previous largest). The racetrack goes around and through the funnel/smokestack, max capacity 15 cars (racing simultaneously) and allows max speeds 50+ kph (30+ mph). The unique sports facility is served by the Speedway Bar (located beneath the racetrack).

The "Galaxy Pavilion" is an indoor complex for virtual-world and multi-player gaming, equipped with interactive video walls and virtual reality technology.

• On NCL Prima ship, the complex has 14 total attractions, including 4x new simulators and 2x Escape Rooms.
• Also new is the Topgolf Swing Suite (fleet's first golfing venue to deliver "social experiences") fitted with Topgolf's games (virtual golf courses, multi-player gaming) and powered by Full Swing Golf (the same simulation technology used by PGA Tour professionals).
• "The Bull's Eye" is a new competitive gaming experience (based on the classic darts game) featuring a video tracking system that automatically calculates each gamer's score and offers instant replays.

On Prima, NCL offers "Tee Time" (interactive mini-golfing) where gamers can play on a 9-hole Mini-Golf Course.

NCL debuted on Prima its own gin brand "'66 by Norwegian" (sustainably sourced, distilled and bottled in Nicaragua) named after NCL's founding year (1966). The new '66 Gin was first offered at Prima's Metropolitan Bar (aft-starboard on Deck 7). A new draft beer ('66 by Norwegian) was also introduced on Prima and first served at the Soleil Bar (aft of Deck 8). The new '66 beer (brewed by the 2002-founded, Athens GA USA-based Terrapin Beer Company) is with a citrus flavor.

The list of the rest of Norwegian Prima lounges, clubs, and other entertainment venues for kids, teens, and adults include the following:

• Viva Theater & Club (Bar/Disco Nightclub) fka Sensoria Theatre Lounge
• Penrose Atrium
• Penrose Bar (a morning and late-night venue serving wine, beer, cocktails, and more)
• Cruise Next, Sales Office, Shore Excursions & Guest Services Desk
• Casino (VIP & Smoking)
• Belvedere Bar is a contemporary bar & cocktail lounge serving crafted bottled cocktails
• Splash Academy (kids 3-12 yo, is a 2-story facility with Nickelodeon-themed activities, a light-up floor (interactive dancing), a resident clown at the circus school, Nintendo and PS3 consoles, kids cinema, crafts-arts activities, pirate parades), Guppies Nursery (for kids 6 months to 2 yo), Kid's Aqua Park (with a splash pool, Nickelodeon characters entertainment).
• I-Connect Internet Cafe (24-hour), Art Gallery
• Whiskey Bar
• The Gateway mini mall offers various brands and items.
• Beauty by Design & Aficionados (shop) sells top-brand cosmetics/fragrances, including IT Cosmetics, NYX, Clinique, Chanel, Lancome, and more. Guests can save up to 50% on spirits, including Prima exclusives.

The ship's other shops include Roberto Coin (jewelry), Effy Jewelry, Timeless Luxury & Fine Watches, Pandora Jewelry & Lifestyles, The Zone & Eye Style, Tech @ Sea, Perspectives Photo Studio & Gallery.

Itineraries

Norwegian Prima itinerary program is based on European and Caribbean seasonal deployments with seasonal Transatlantic voyages (RepositionCruises.com) and three USA homeports - two in Florida ( Port Canaveral , Miami ) and one in Texas ( Galveston /since 2023 December). Bookings opened on May 12, 2021. On May 17, NCL bragged that (by first-day bookings and week of sales) Prima has become the brand's most popular ship ever.

NCL Prima ship's Maiden Voyage was initially scheduled to start on August 17, 2022. The inaugural season included 10-day Baltic itineraries leaving from Amsterdam Holland and Copenhagen Denmark and visiting ports in Northern Europe (including Norway's Fjords).

• On September 22, 2022, departed the 12-day Transatlantic crossing from Southampton to NYC New York , with call ports in Scotland (Lerwick), Iceland (Reykjavik), and Nova Scotia Canada (Halifax).
• On October 10th started the inaugural ex-USA voyage (5-day to Bermuda) out of NYC.
• On October 15th started the 12-day relocation from NYC to Galveston Texas (first-ever time for NCL), visiting in the Caribbean Dominicana (Puerto Plata), The Netherlands' ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao) and Mexico (Cozumel).
• On October 31st started the 11-day relocation from Galveston to PortMiami , visiting Cozumel, the ABC islands, and The Bahamas ( Great Stirrup Cay, NCL's private island ).

Between December 11, 2022, and March 19, 2023, the liner was based in Port Canaveral for 5-7-9-day roundtrips to Western Caribbean ports (Cozumel Mexico, Ocho Rios Jamaica, Grand Cayman Island, Great Stirrup Cay). Then the ship was shortly homeported in NYC (March through May 2023) for 5-7-day Bermuda cruises.

In summer 2023 (May 25-Nov 20), Norwegian Prima was deployed in Northern Europe (10-11-day "Norway and Iceland" itineraries leaving out of Reykjavik Iceland and Southampton England UK) and also in the Mediterranean (9-10-day voyages from Civitavecchia-Rome to Barcelona).

From November 19 through December 3, 2023, Norwegian Prima cruises from PortMiami offering three 7-day Western Caribbean voyages to Harvest Caye Belize (NCL's private island) , Cozumel Mexico , Roatan Island Honduras .

In September 2021 NCL announced that for season 2023-2024 Prima will be homeported in Galveston Texas . The 7-day Western Caribbean roundtrips visit Mexico (Cozumel, Costa Maya ), Belize (Harvest Caye) and Honduras ( Isla Roatan/Mahogany Bay ), with call port stays between 8-9 hours.

Photos of Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima ship related cruise news

NCL's ship Norwegian Prima mooring incident in Galveston TX amid high winds

In Galveston, Texas, on Friday (January 5), NCL's Norwegian Prima cruise ship broke mooring lines as high wind gusts led one of her moorings to...

Port Galveston TX charts course for continued growth as new cruise ships set sail in 2024

As the 4th-busiest cruise port in the United States, the Port of Galveston, Texas, is gearing up for another year of expansion. Coming off a record...

NCL's Norwegian Prima started the inaugural cruise from Galveston Texas

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line announced the commencement of Norwegian Prima ship's inaugural season from Port Galveston Texas USA. This marks the...

CLIA UK partners with Japan's largest 5-star airline ANA

Cruise Lines International Association/CLIA UK & Ireland has officially announced a strategic collaboration with All Nippon Airways (ANA) in a...

VIDEO: NCL Norwegian Prima cruise ship breaks off moorings at Zeebrugge (Belgium)

NCL's ship Norwegian Prima broke off her moorings in the afternoon of July 15th at Zeebrugge (Bruges, Belgium), due to strong winds. Gangways...

VIDEO: Luis Fonsi to serve as godfather of NCL's newest ship Norwegian Viva

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line announced that Luis Fonsi, a highly acclaimed singer, songwriter, musician, and producer, will be the godfather of their...

Belfast (Northern Ireland) expects GBP 20M boost in 2023 from 170 cruise ship calls (a record year)

Belfast (Northern Ireland UK) can expect a  GBP 20 million boost to its economy in 2023 as it pulls in a total of 170 cruise ship calls over a...

NCL Norwegian Prima cruise ship starts full Caribbean season from Port Canaveral (Florida USA)

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line announced the arrival of the new Norwegian Prima ship to Port Canaveral FL which will sail roundtrip Caribbean voyages...

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line unveils winter 2024-2025 and summer 2025 voyages

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line unveiled its winter 2024-2025 and summer 2025 voyages sailing to bucket-list destinations in Europe, Alaska, and the...

Norwegian Prima ship debuts at NCL’s cruise terminal in Miami Florida

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line announced the arrival of the new Norwegian Prima ship to her hometown of Miami Florida, where she is embarking on a couple...

•   show more news

Other Norwegian Cruise Line cruise ships

• Norwegian Aqua
• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Dawn
• Norwegian Encore
• Norwegian Epic
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Gem
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Jade
• Norwegian Jewel
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Pearl
• Norwegian Sky
• Norwegian Spirit
• Norwegian Star
• Norwegian Sun
• Norwegian Viva
• Pride of America

Norwegian Prima Wiki

On February 16, 2017, the shipowner NCLH (Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd) signed with Fincantieri an order for 4x NCL LEONARDO Class (renamed to "NCL PRIMA" in 2021) units for the NCL brand.

• The newbuilds were scheduled for deliveries in 2022 through 2025 (one ship per year), with an option for two more units to be added to the order in the future. On July 12, 2018, NCLH ordered two more units (PRIMA PLUS series) currently scheduled for deliveries in 2027 and 2028.
• The NCLH-Fincantieri deal was backed by CDP (Cassa Depositi e Prestiti SpA/1850-founded, Turino-based Italian investment bank) and SACE SpA (Servizi Assicurativi del Commercio Estero/1977-founded Italian Export Credit Agency).
• All shipbuilding orders were signed by Frank Del Rio (NCLH's President and CEO) and Giuseppe Bono (Fincantieri SpA's CEO).

Next YouTube video is NCL's official release with renderings of the new-class cruiser.

The ship was launched (floated out from drydock at Marghera yard/near Venice Italy ) on August 13, 2021. The float-out ceremony was attended by Harry Sommer (NCL's President and CEO) and Luigi Matarazzo (Fincantieri's Merchant Ships Division's General Manager).

The Norwegian Prima vessel was initially scheduled for delivery to NCLH (shipowner) on June 30, 2022, but was delayed to July 29th. The ceremony was held at the Marghera yard and attended by Harry Sommer (NCL), Pierroberto Folgiero (Fincantieri's CEO and Managing Director), Captain Roger Gustavsen (the ship's first Master), as well as by Frank Del Rio (NCLH's President and CEO).

Prima is the first of all six PRIMA-class (fka LEONARDO) units ordered by NCLH for its subsidiary NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line . The deliveries of all PRIMA-class units were originally planned for 2022 through 2027 (one vessel per year).

The NCL ship's namesakes are the AmaWaterways ' riverboat AmaPrima (2013-built) and the AIDA 's liner AIDAprima (2016-built).

The vessel (Fincantieri Marghera yard/hull number 6298) has a powerplant based on 5x main Wartisla diesel engines - 3x model 8L46 (8-cylinder) and 2x model 12V46 (12-cylinder), plus 1x Caterpillar diesel generator (model 3516C HD) and 6x Alfa Laval auxiliary boilers (1x oil/gas fired plus 5x exhaust gas heated).

The propulsion system is diesel-electric and based on 3x bow thrusters (model Brunvoll FU115) and 2x aft thrusters (model ABB Azipod XO).

The registered shipowner is Leonardo One Ltd (subsidiary of NCLH) while as ship manager is listed NCL Bahamas Ltd.

Ship christening 2022

On March 17, 2022, NCL announced the name of the ship's godmother - Katheryn Elizabeth Hudson (Katy Perry, 1984-born American singer, songwriter, "American Idol" judge).

• Having sold 143+ million records (as of 2022), Katy Perry is listed among the "best-selling artists of all time" (those with 75+ million record sales). She has 9x US No1 singles, 3x US No1 albums, 5x Billboard Music Awards, 5x American Music Awards, 1x Brit Award, 1x Juno Award.
• She also has 4x Guinness World Records - 2010 ("Best Start on the US Digital Chart by a Female Artist"/2+ million digital single copies sold), 2013 (female artist with five No1 "Billboard Hot 100" songs), 2014 (the most-watched show in history/Super Bowl XLIX halftime show, 118,5 million viewers in the USA), 2015 (for most Twitter followers).
• As of 2022, she has the most Twitter followers (100+ million).
• Since 2018, Katy Perry is among the judges on "American Idol" (2022-launched singing competition TV series, since 2018 aired on ABC).

NCL Prima's christening ceremony was initially scheduled for September 3, 2022 (to be held in Amsterdam Netherlands , right before the Maiden Voyage) but actually happened on August 27th, in Reykjavik Iceland . The "naming party" was attended by 2500+ guests.

The naming was in Reykjavik's Harpa Concert Hall (where are regularly scheduled live performances by the Iceland Symphony Orchestra, Icelandic Opera and Reykjavik Big Band). The special event was attended by Frank Del Rio (NCLH's President and CEO), Katy Perry (godmother) and Richard Ambrose (NCL's Senior VP of Entertainment and Cruise Programs). Performances were made by IDC-Iceland Dance Company (1973-established), Briet Isis Elfar (1999-born Icelandic singer), and the Iceland Symphony Orchestra's 8-person Cello Ensemble.

The ceremony was opened with a LED light show designed by the Icelandic-Danish artist Olafur Eliasson (1967-born).

Inaugural itineraries 2022

Next tables show the liner's Maiden Voyage and the first cruises by destination/homeport) with lowest prices per person with double occupancy.

( MAIDEN VOYAGE ) 10-day from Amsterdam to Copenhagen (US$2250 pp)

(inaugural Transatlantic crossing) 12-day from the UK to USA (US $3730 pp)

(inaugural Bermuda) 5-day roundtrip out of NYC (US$985 pp)

(East Coast USA relocation) 12-day from New York to Texas (US$2045 pp)

(repositioning) 11-day from Texas to Florida (US$2085 pp)

(inaugural Caribbean from Miami) 7-day (US$1330 pp)

(inaugural Caribbean from Port Canaveral) 5-day (US$980 pp)

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

Norwegian Cruise Line's Newest Ship Is Its Most Luxurious Yet — and We Got a Peek Inside

The new ship will set sail around Europe in September before heading to the United States.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Katy Perry christened a cruise, and she liked it. 

Over the weekend, the pop star fulfilled her role as godmother of the new cruise ship Norwegian Prima , christening it in Reykjavik, Iceland .  The ship is the first in Norwegian's new Prima category, the cruise line's new vessel class in nearly a decade, designed to bring new levels of entertainment, dining, and luxury to the brand.

At just 965 feet long with a passenger count of 3,100, Norwegian Prima won't be the largest ship in Norwegian's fleet, but in this case, that's a good thing — smaller ships can access more ports than bigger ones. But she's still large enough to pack some pretty over-the-top amenities.

"With her stunning design and unique offerings, Norwegian Prima is in a league of her own," Frank Del Rio, president and chief executive officer of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., said in a statement. "As the industry’s most spacious new cruise ship featuring 'only-available-on- Prima -experiences,' she is continuing NCL's legacy of industry firsts."

Some of those firsts include the ocean's first three-level racetrack, the world's fastest waterslides at sea, and most suite categories of any cruise ship afloat: 13. There are also a number of Norwegian-specific superlatives, including the first open-air food hall; the largest interior, ocean-view, and balcony cabins; and the most pool deck space of any ship in the fleet.

Beyond that, Norwegian Prima will also feature high-design public spaces like the Mandara Spa with a two-story waterfall, as well as high-tech ones like Galaxy Pavilion, where you'll find virtual reality experiences and simulators, including a TopGolf option.

The private spaces impress, too, particularly within The Haven, the ultra-luxe "ship-within-a-ship" area where suites come with 24-hour butler service and access to a private sundeck with an infinity pool, restaurant, and lounge.

Norwegian Prima will have a season of inaugural voyages over the next few months. The first departs on Sept. 3 from Amsterdam , cruising Northern Europe; ports of call include Berlin, Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; and Stockholm, Sweden. She'll then make the journey across the Atlantic to Galveston, Texas, where she'll sail an 11-day Caribbean itinerary in October. And finally, she'll spend most of the winter based in Miami and Orlando (Port Canaveral) to sail five-, seven-, and nine-day trips to the Caribbean. Rates for a five-day cruise start at $1,499 per person.

Related Articles

Norwegian Aqua to Debut in 2025 Out of Port Canaveral

• November 2, 2023

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) today unveiled the evolution of the Prima Class with the all-new Norwegian Aqua, the first of the expanded Prima Plus Class setting sail in April 2025.

Starting today, guests can book Norwegian Aqua’s first voyages to the Caribbean with seven-day itineraries departing from Port Canaveral, Fla.

Voyages include calls to Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; Tortola, British Virgin Islands; St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island in the Bahamas.

The company said that the Norwegian Aqua will set new standards and deliver brand-new guest experiences to be discovered with an overall 10 percent size and capacity increase from its sister ships. Spanning 1,056 feet long,156,300 gross tons and accommodating 3,571 guests at double occupancy, Norwegian Aqua will offer more outdoor space and the highest staffing levels of any new cruise ship.

“Norwegian Aqua is a true testament of fusing together what represents the future of our Brand as the first ship in the Prima Plus Class, and our commitment to pushing the boundaries in guest-first experiences that will make new waves at sea,” said David J. Herrera, president of Norwegian Cruise Line. “Named for both the beautiful shades of blue from the ocean and our connection to the sea, Norwegian Aqua will feature new, elevated and exhilarating offerings that once again showcase NCL as the innovator in the industry and as a key contributor to a new era of cruising.”

Norwegian Aqua will showcase a lively and colourful hull art design by NCL’s first-ever major female hull artist, Allison Hueman. World-renowned for her street art and global brand collaborations, including Nike, L’Oreal and Google, Hueman’s distinctive art style is a blend of ethereal realism. Norwegian Aqua’s design, entitled “Where the Sky Meets the Sea,” is curated by Goldman Global Arts and evokes modern mythology through colourful mashups of abstract and figurative representations of sea and sky, ruled by ancient goddesses.

“I’m honored, not only to be the first major female hull artist for Norwegian Cruise Line, but to also know that my artwork will be roaming the seas touching different parts of the world,” said Allison Hueman, Filipino-American multidisciplinary artist. “It’s incredibly special for me to partner with a brand that believes in the magical connection between art and exploration.”

Cruise Industry News Email Alerts

• Breaking News

Get the latest breaking  cruise news .  Sign up.

62 Ships | 142,732 Berths | $46.7 Billion | View

Highlights:

• Mkt. Overview
• Record Year
• Refit Schedule
• PDF Download
• Order Today

• 2033 Industry Outlook 
• All Operators
• Easy to Use
• Instant Access
• Advertising
• Cruise News
• Magazine Articles
• Quarterly Magazine
• Annual Report
• Email Newsletter
• Executive Guide
• Digital Reports

Privacy Overview

• Cruise News
• Cruise Tips
• All Cruise Lines
• Carnival Cruise Line
• Celebrity Cruises
• Disney Cruise Line
• MSC Cruises
• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Oceania Cruises
• Princess Cruises
• Royal Caribbean
• Ports of Call
• Cruise Videos
• Port Webcams

• Advertiser Disclosure

(2024) Norwegian Cruise Ships Newest to Oldest: Complete List

See what year each ship was built and which ships are the largest in Norwegian's fleet.

Norwegian Cruise Line currently has 18 cruise ships in its fleet.  In terms of passengers carried, it is the 3rd largest cruise line in the world, behind Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Cruises.

From unique hull-art that stand out at sea to new innovations onboard, Norwegian Cruise Line has never been afraid to try something new.

This is the cruise line that invented the term “Freestyle Dining” which was a unique concept at the time and has really caught on.  Norwegian also introduced Go-Kart tracks to cruise ships with a Ferrari-branded two-level track found on some ships.

With a majority Norwegian’s sailings travel to the Caribbean and Bahamas, Norwegian also offers cruises to Alaska and Europe and even has a dedicated ship for sailings in Hawaii .

Norwegian’s parent company, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings, also owns Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

There are currently 8 classes of Norwegian cruise ships, although 3 of them only have one ship in them.

• Sun class (Built 1999-2001) – Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Sun
• Dawn class (Built 2001-2002)- Norwegian Star and Norwegian Dawn
• Leo class (Built 1998) – Norwegian Spirit
• Pride of America class (Built 2005)- Pride of America
• Jewel class (Built 2005-2007) – Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Pearl
• Epic class (Built 2010)- Norwegian Epic
• Breakaway class (Built 2012-2019)- Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway, Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore
• Prima class (Built 2022) – Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Viva

Future cruise ships coming to Norwegian’s fleet:

• Norwegian Aqua : This will be the first Prima Plus class ship with Norwegian.   It is set to debut in April of 2025.  It will be 156,300 gross tons in size and will carry 3,571 guests at double occupancy.
• Three other Prima-class ships are scheduled to be delivered in 2026, 2027, and 2028.
• It was recently reported that 4 mega-ships with a gross tonnage of 200,000 will be coming in 2030 – 2036.  These vessels are expected to have a passenger capacity of 5,000.

Here is a list of every ship currently sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line.  The list will be updated as new ships are added so feel free to bookmark this page for future reference.

Norwegian Viva

Norwegian Viva took her maiden voyage in August of 2023 and is the second Prima-class ship with NCL.   Viva is 143,535 gross tons with a capacity of 3,215.

Norwegian Prima

Norwegian Prima is the 1st of 6 Prima-class cruise ships.  The vessel was launched in August of 2021.  With a gross tonnage of 142,500, the ship is 981 feet long and can carry 3,100 guests at double capacity.

Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Encore is the final Breakaway Plus class cruise ship from NCL. The cruise ship features a go-kart track, a 10,000 sq ft virtual reality center, a laser tag arena themed after the Lost City of Atlantis, and 29 venues for food and drinks. Take a Video Tour of Norwegian Encore

Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Bliss entered service in April of 2018.  It is the 3rd of the Breakaway Plus class ships and is 168,028 gross tons in size.

Norwegian Joy

Custom built for the Chinese market, Norwegian Joy debuted in March of 2017.  In 2018 the ship was moved to the US for cruises to Alaska and Mexico.  At 167,725 gross tons Norwegian Joy has a capacity of over 3,800 guests.  See 6 cool things about Norwegian Joy .  The ship was recently updated to include a new thermal suite among other features.

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape was the first Breakaway Class Plus ship, debuting in October of 2015.   At 164,600 gross tons, Escape has a guest capacity of 4,266.  See our article on top 10 reasons to sail on Norwegian Escape .

Norwegian Getaway

The second Breakaway-class ship, Norwegian Getaway debuted in February of 2014.  At 145,655 gross tons, Getaway has a capacity of 3,969 guests.  At the time of its launch it was the 9th largest cruise ship in the world.

Norwegian Breakaway

Debuting in April of 2013 Norwegian Breakaway was the 1st ship in “Project Breakaway”, named from a public contest.  The 145,655 gross ton ship can carry 3,963 passengers at double capacity.

Norwegian Epic

Epic is the only ship in its class, although there are a few similarities in the subsequent class of Breakaway.  Debuting in July of 2009, Norwegian Epic was the 3rd largest ship in the world at the time.  At 155,873 gross tons, the ship can carry 4,100 passengers at double capacity.  Read our review on Norwegian Epic here .

Norwegian Gem

Norwegian Gem was the last Jewel-class ship made by Norwegian.  Having debuted in October of 2007, Gem is 93,530 gross tons in size and has a double capacity of 2,394.

Norwegian Pearl

Launched in October of 2006, Norwegian Pearl is the 3rd Jewel-class ship with the line.   At 93,530 gross tons, Pearl has a double capacity of 2,394 guests.

Norwegian Jade

The second Jewel class ship to be built, Norwegian Jade debuted in February of 2006.  However, the ship was originally built as Pride of Hawaii.  Jade registers at 93,558 gross tons and has a guest capacity of 2,402 at double capacity.

Norwegian Jewel

The 1st of the Jewel class ships, Norwegian Jewel was launched in June of 2005.  At 93,502 gross tons, the ship can carry 2,376 passengers at double capacity.  See what we loved about sailing on Norwegian Jewel .

Pride of America

The only ship in its class, Norwegian’s Pride of America is registered in Hawaii and offers week-long itineraries around the islands.  The ship debuted in September of 2002 and can carry 2,500 passengers.  Pride of America is registered at 80,439 gross tons.  Read our article on 12 reasons to sail on this ship .

Norwegian Dawn

A Dawn-class vessel, Norwegian Dawn entered service for Norwegian in June of 2002 after originally being intended to operate with Star Cruises.  At 92,250 gross tons, the ship can carry 2,340 passengers at double capacity.

Norwegian Star

Also a Dawn-class vessel, Norwegian Star entered service for Norwegian in November of 2001.  The ship was originally intended for Star Cruises before it was transferred to Norwegian Cruise Line.  At 91,740 gross tons, Norwegian Star has a capacity of 2,348.

Norwegian Sun

A Sun-class vessel, Norwegian Sun entered service for the company in 2001.    At 78,309 gross tons, the ship can carry 1,936 passengers at double capacity.

Norwegian Sky

Another Sun-class ship, Norwegian Sky was originally ordered by Costa Cruises.  From 2004-2008 the ship sailed as Pride of Aloha and now Sky does short sailings to the Caribbean.  Christened in 1999 as Norwegian Sky, the vessel is registered at 77,104 gross tons and has a capacity of 1,928 guests.  Read our review on Norwegian Sky here .

Norwegian Spirit

The oldest ship in the fleet, Norwegian Spirit was launched in 1998 but was acquired by Norwegian in 2004.  Originally the ship was built for Star Cruises and was named Superstar Leo.  At 74,500 gross tons, Norwegian Star has a capacity of 1,996 passengers.

Every Norwegian Cruise Ship by Size: Largest to Smallest

Future ships:.

Norwegian Viva is the next Prima class ship set to be delivered in 2023.  The ship will have a double capacity of 3,215 with a gross tonnage of 140,000.

FAQ on Norwegian Cruise Line:

Which cruise ships have the haven, do norwegian ships have casinos, do any ships have laundry facilities.

Yes, most ships in the fleet will have washers and dryers available for passengers. You will have to check the cruise ship deck plans to see which decks have self-service launderettes as not every deck will have them. There is also an iron and ironing board in this area. The cruise line also offers laundry and dry-cleaning services for your convenience. They offer same-day service too, so be sure to complete the order form in your cabin and have your stateroom steward pick it up.

Do Norwegian cruise ships have hair dryers in the rooms?

Which cruise ships have go-karts, which cruise ships with norwegian have water slides, which cruise ship is the biggest in the fleet, what is norwegian cruise line cancellation policy, who owns norwegian cruise line.

Learn the cruise secrets most people don't know and cruise like a boss. Check out Intelligent Cruiser here for a better cruise vacation. (Sponsored)

Carnival Cruise Line Gives New Update on Visits to Cozumel Due to Hurricane Beryl

I’m a cruiser since the 90’s. what i miss most about cruising of yesteryear, cozumel reopening to cruise ships today, cruise line makes change to onboard bookings, related articles, (2024) royal caribbean ships by age: newest to oldest (complete list), cruise ship lifeboats: 10 surprising facts most people don’t know, top 5 cruise lines by number of total berths: now and into the future, list of carnival cruise ships newest to oldest, recent popular posts.

Two brothers started Cruise Fever in 2011 when they decided they couldn't stop cruising so they might as well write about it. Do you have Cruise Fever too? Follow along on this incredible voyage!

© 2011-2024, Cruise Fever ®. All rights reserved

• Privacy Policy
• Cruise Newsletter

Norwegian Cruise Line ships ranked by size from biggest to smallest — the complete list

Are you looking for the most megaresort-like, activity-packed Norwegian Cruise Line ships at sea? If so, you'll want to get on one of the biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships.

The biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are, almost by definition, the Norwegian Cruise Line ships with the most "stuff" — the most pools, waterslides and other deck-top attractions ( even go-kart tracks ), as well as the most onboard restaurants, bars and showrooms. They have the biggest spas and casinos among vessels in the Norwegian fleet and the most cabins and suites — as well as the most variation in suite and cabin types.

With room for 4,000 or more passengers, the biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are among the most massive resorts you'll find at sea from any cruise line and are comparable to some of the biggest resorts on land, too. If you're in the "bigger is better" camp when it comes to a resort experience, these are the Norwegian Cruise Line ships for you.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Still, Norwegian Cruise Line doesn't just operate giant vessels. The world's fourth-biggest cruise line also has quite a few relatively small cruise ships that carry just 2,000 or so people and provide a more intimate feel. In some cases, these vessels are just half the size of Norwegian Cruise Line's biggest ships. These are vessels that, notably, have fewer deck-top activities and interior venues than the biggest Norwegian cruise ships.

The smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ships are best for vacationers who like a less crowded, more intimate resort experience.

Related: The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

To ensure you end up on the right Norwegian Cruise Line ship for you, it pays to understand which Norwegian Cruise Line ships are the biggest and which are the smallest before booking.

Here, every Norwegian Cruise Line ship currently in operation is ranked from biggest to smallest.

1. Norwegian Encore

Maiden voyage: 2019 Size: 169,116 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,998

2. Norwegian Bliss

Maiden voyage: 2018 Size: 168,028 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,004

3. Norwegian Joy

Maiden voyage: 2017 Size: 167,725 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,804

4. Norwegian Escape

Maiden voyage: 2015 Size: 164,998 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,266

5. Norwegian Epic

Maiden voyage: 2010 Size: 155,873 gross tons Passenger capacity: 4,100

6. (tied) Norwegian Getaway

Maiden voyage: 2014 Size: 145,655 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,963

6. (tied) Norwegian Breakaway

Maiden voyage: 2013 Size: 145,655 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,963

8. (tied) Norwegian Viva

Maiden voyage: 2023 Size: 143,535 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,099

8. (tied) Norwegian Prima

Maiden voyage: 2022 Size: 143,535 gross tons Passenger capacity: 3,099

10. Norwegian Jade

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 93,558 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,402

11. (tied) Norwegian Gem

Maiden voyage: 2007 Size: 93,530 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,394

11. (tied) Norwegian Pearl

Maiden voyage: 2006 Size: 93,530 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,394

13. Norwegian Jewel

Maiden voyage: 2005 Size: 93,502 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,376

14. Norwegian Dawn

Maiden voyage: 2002 Size: 92,250 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,340

15. Norwegian Star

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 91,740 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,348

16. Pride of America

Maiden voyage: 2005 Size: 80,439 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,186

17. Norwegian Sun

Maiden voyage: 2001 Size: 78,309 gross tons Passenger capacity: 1,936

18. Norwegian Sky

Maiden voyage: 1999 Size: 77,104 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,004

19. Norwegian Spirit

Maiden voyage: 1998 Size: 75,904 gross tons Passenger capacity: 2,032

What is the biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ship is the 4-year-old Norwegian Encore . While not quite as big as the biggest ships from rival lines Royal Caribbean , MSC Cruises and Carnival Cruise Line , Norwegian Encore is still firmly in the pantheon of the world's cruising giants.

At 169,116 tons, Norwegian Encore is bigger than all but 21 other cruise ships in the world, 15 of which are operated by the three lines mentioned above. It regularly sails with more than 4,000 passengers on board.

The biggest of four vessels in Norwegian's Breakaway Plus class of ships, Norwegian Encore is the Norwegian ship most packed with restaurants, bars, entertainment and over-the-top attractions. It's home to one of the biggest go-kart tracks on a cruise ship, the biggest laser tag area on a Norwegian ship and an unusually large virtual reality zone called Galaxy Pavilion, to name a few of its biggest attractions. There's also plenty of room to spare for multiple pools, waterslides and a kiddie splash zone.

Additionally, Norwegian Encore offers big-name shows in big, state-of-the-art theaters; a sprawling spa; a casino that fills half a deck; a dedicated children's play zone; and more than 2,000 rooms.

What is the smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ship?

The smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ship is Norwegian Spirit. At 75,904 gross tons, Norwegian Spirit is less than half the size of Norwegian Encore, the line's biggest ship. It carries just 1,966 passengers — more than 2,000 fewer than Norwegian Encore.

Unveiled in 1998, Norwegian Spirit is not only the smallest Norwegian Cruise Line ship but also the oldest ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. At 25 years old, it's likely to be phased out of the Norwegian fleet in the coming years.

Norwegian Spirit, notably, was not built for Norwegian Cruise Line but for Asia-based Star Cruises. Its original name was SuperStar Leo. It was transferred to Norwegian and renamed in 2004.

In part because of its smaller size, Norwegian Spirit offers fewer venues and attractions than newer Norwegian vessels, but it still offers a lot. In all, you'll find 13 food outlets on Norwegian Spirit, including two main restaurants, a casual buffet eatery, and versions of the line's signature Cagney's Steakhouse and French eatery Le Bistro. There are more than half a dozen bars and cafes.

Deck-top attractions on Norwegian Spirit include several pools, whirlpools, waterslides, a basketball court and a jogging track. The ship also has a casino, spa, nightclub and theater.

Are bigger Norwegian Cruise Line ships coming?

The answer isn't clear. Norwegian Cruise Line currently has four new cruise ships on order, and all were originally designed to be smaller than the biggest Norwegian ships currently at sea. However, Norwegian recently announced that some of the ships will be redesigned to be as much as 20% bigger .

Depending on how much bigger Norwegian makes these ships, they might become the biggest ships in the Norwegian fleet.

The four ships on order for Norwegian are all sister vessels to the recently unveiled Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima, which are tied as Norwegian's eighth biggest ships. The first of the four additional ships on order, Norwegian Aqua , is scheduled to begin sailing in April 2025, with the three other new vessels arriving between 2026 and 2028.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line ships and itineraries

The four new ships are all part of what Norwegian is calling the Prima Class of ships. The first two ships in the series, Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima, measure 143,535 gross tons a piece, which is about 15% smaller than Norwegian Encore, Norwegian's biggest ship.

The last four ships in the series, as noted, are being redesigned to be bigger than the first two ships in the series.

Norwegian executives said the smaller size of the new Prima Class ships would give the line more options in designing itineraries, as the vessels would be able to access smaller ports around the world than some of the bigger Norwegian ships can.

What's the difference between bigger and smaller Norwegian Cruise Line ships?

To put it simply: The biggest Norwegian Cruise Line ships have room for more onboard venues and attractions than the line's older vessels.

On Norwegian's giant Breakaway Plus Class vessels (Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape), for instance, you'll find multiple pools, waterslides, a kiddie splash zone and — on most of the ships — a sprawling go-kart racing track. Each of the vessels also offers Broadway shows in giant theaters; sprawling spas; large casinos; expansive children's play zones; and more than 2,000 rooms.

Additionally, two of the biggest ships in the series, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy, have what may be the largest and coolest gaming and virtual reality zones at sea.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian ship

Norwegian's smaller ships, by contrast, lack many of the above features. Because of their smaller size, they have a much more intimate feel, at least when compared to the biggest cruise ships at Norwegian and other mass-market lines, and they hold far fewer people. While Breakaway Plus Class ships can hold around 4,000 passengers, based on double occupancy, the line's smallest vessels are only designed to carry about 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Norwegian's smallest ships are a good choice for vacationers who aren't eager to travel with the huge crowds that are common on the world's biggest cruise ships. They appeal to a subset of Norwegian fans who prefer more intimacy in a cruise vessel and don't mind giving up some onboard amenities to get it. They are also often less expensive to sail on, on a per-day basis.

Related: Don't miss out on these Norwegian loyalty perks

Additionally, because of their size, the smallest ships at Norwegian are able to operate itineraries to places that aren't as easy for big ships to visit. Not all ports in the world can handle a ship the size of Norwegian Encore.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• 8 cabin locations on cruise ships you should definitely avoid
• Which cruise brand is best for you? A guide to the most popular lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your first cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways that cruising newbies waste money on their first cruise
• The 15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
• Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Go by yourself: Norwegian Cruise Line adding nearly 1,000 cabins for solo travelers

Solo travelers will soon have more options when they take a cruise. Norwegian Cruise Line will add close to 1,000 dedicated staterooms for guests sailing on their own throughout its fleet.

The cruise line will introduce new Solo Inside, Solo Oceanview and Solo Balcony cabin categories for sailings departing Jan. 2, 2024 and later. The staterooms opened for sale on select ships starting this week will become more widely available “on a rolling basis,” according to a news release .

“We strive to provide our guests with diverse offerings to create their dream vacation,” the line’s president, David J. Herrera, said in the release Tuesday. “Since we first launched our solo staterooms in 2010 with Norwegian Epic, they have been quite popular with single travelers. 

Herrera added that Norwegian made the expansion based on growing demand for solo travel. “We are continuously listening to our guests to deliver the experience they want,” he said.

Availability and pricing will vary based on the destination and demand, but a spokesperson for the line said in an email that guests who book the staterooms “can expect to pay less than a traditional double occupancy room.”

On a week-long Alaska cruise departing from Seattle on April 6, 2024, for example, a Solo Balcony cabin currently starts at $1,799 for one guest, while a Balcony cabin starts at $1,997, according to the line’s website .

Sailing solo: Is it worth it to take a cruise by yourself?

Norwegian is not the only line making investments in solo cabins. Oceania Cruises, also part of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., launched its new ship Oceania Vista with six dedicated veranda staterooms for guests going it alone in May.

The luxury line debuted solo oceanview staterooms on four of its small ships in 2022.

Nathan Diller is a consumer travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at [email protected].

I sailed on Carnival's new cruise ship. See all of its amenities — and why some are better than its pricier competitors

• I spent four nights on the new  Carnival Firenze cruise ship  in May.
• The ship has plenty of free activities alongside enticing up-charged options.
• Take a look at all the amenities on Carnival's new Italian-themed vessel.

Carnival's new Firenze cruise ship is filled with upcharged options. But if you look past them, you'll be pleasantly surprised by their complimentary activities.

The company's second Italy-themed ship came highly anticipated. In early April, Firenze's naming ceremony "triggered a step up in bookings," Josh Weinstein, the president and CEO of Carnival Cruise Line's parent company, Carnival Corp, told analysts in late June.

Two weeks after the ceremony, Carnival Firenze set sail on its maiden voyage from its homeport in Long Beach, California, marking the 27th vessel to join the cruise line's fleet.

This boost in bookings might not come as a surprise after seeing its prices.

New cruise ships generally command an inflated fare. But it seems the new 5,245-guest Firenze ignored this tradition, with 2024 fares currently starting at almost $360 per person for a four-night cruise.

Not too bad , given all of its amenities.

Firenze is more than just another towel animal-toting Carnival cruise.

In 2022, Carnival acquired Firenze and its sister ship from Costa Cruises. Firenze then underwent a two-month refresh to be outfitted with the "Carnival Fun Italian Style" theme.

If you're an American who loves campy European-themed venues — think a cheaper version of the Venetian in Las Vegas — Firenze could feel like an Italian getaway. The theme is hard to miss, from the white statues to the giant photos of Florence, Italy.

I went on Firenze's four-night cruise about two weeks after its maiden voyage.

I previously wrote a less-than-glowing review of Carnival Firenze , although I was impressed with the vessel's complimentary activities, a rarity on many popular cruises.

Norwegian's newer ships, for example, have $10 mini-golf courses and VR arcades that cost $29 for an hour of play. Similarly, Royal Caribbean's new ultra-giant, ultra-popular Icon of the Seas has a $49-per-person ropes course that can be completed in less than a minute.

Carnival Firenze also has a mini-golf and ropes course — but they're both free, albeit not as exciting or modern as the cruise line's competitors.

Unfortunately, the arcade isn't free. But you'd be hard-pressed to find a complimentary one anywhere.

Like Icon of the Seas, brave guests must be harnessed in before walking Firenze's ropes course.

But unlike Royal Caribbean's adrenaline-pumping walkway, Firenze's course takes several minutes to complete. And while it's less showy and dramatic than Icon's, it is free to go on as many times as you'd like — and for that, a better deal.

Want to keep the adrenaline going? Carnival's new ship has waterslides near the children's water playground.

Nearby, there's also cornhole, a giant chess set, and an outdoor sports court for an afternoon of shooting hoops. If you're lucky, you can also claim one of the open-air foosball tables.

If not, there's an indoor foosball table near the ping pong table and a collection of board games and books.

Speaking of indoor-outdoor options, Firenze has two pools, one outside and another under a glass roof.

The latter is also home to the makeshift nighttime movie theater, so long as viewers are OK with paying $4 for popcorn and the background sound of screaming children at the pool.

If you want to escape the kids, Firenze has the obligatory cruise ship spa, casino, and boutiques.

Or go to the adult-only outdoor lounge outfitted with rows of lounge seats, two hot tubs, and, most importantly, no children in sight. It's also where you'll also find the ship's salad bar — one of Firenze's 15 dining options.

Of the 16 restaurants, nine venues are complimentary

But there are some caveats.

Some included options, like the pizza kiosk and buffet, have up-charged items. Others, like the aforementioned salad bar and grill stand, remained frustratingly closed until the last day of my cruise.

But if you don't consider these stipulations, Firenze's free-to-upcharged restaurant ratio isn't abnormal. About half of competitor Icon of the Seas' 21 dining venues also cost extra.

Carnival Firenze's specialty options include an empanada stand and classics like sushi, teppanyaki, and Italian restaurants.

Travelers ready to splurge on food could pay as little as $1.50 for an empanada or almost $50 for a steakhouse dinner.

Dining at the free buffet but eyeing the up-charged chicken wings? They'll be $5 for six pieces. Having breakfast at the free main dining room? A fresh juice will be $5.

Want a dinner lobster roll from the seafood shack? It'll be another $18.

During the day, the seafood shack serves as a complimentary chicken stand, joining eight other free options.

Cruisers can live out their "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives" dreams at the Guy Fieri-branded burger counter, where heavy accouterments like fried mozzarella slabs and onion rings are commonplace.

Or, head up a deck to Il Mercato for grab-and-go Italian sandwiches.

Firenze has two main dining rooms for a more formal sit-down dinner. Just note that the dinner buffet serves the same menu as these restaurants. And while the food is fine, it's not great — and I did find a piece of plastic hidden in my pasta.

As with any mass-market cruise ship, alcohol isn't free.

Cocktails are about $13, while beers and seltzers are about $9. But if you can't cruise without booze (it is Carnival, after all), the new ship has plenty of venues for your needs.

Bars like Piano Bar 88 and Tuscan Lounge have live music.

Amari offers options that fit the ship's Italian theme, like aperitifs, digestives, and Negroni sbagliatos ("stunnin'!").

Meanwhile, Heroes Tribute Bar and Lounge is great for guests who want to sip a beer, watch sports, and surround themselves in American military garb.

If you enjoy doing karaoke, you'll love karaoke night at the stylish and contemporary Moda Bar and Lounge.

And if you crave Aperol spritzes the moment the sun comes out, you could find yourself frequently visiting the bubbly-forward, new-to-brand Frizzante.

While not technically a bar, the coffee shop also sells boozy milkshakes and floats for almost $12.

But then again, everything at JavaBlue Cafe has a price tag, from the $4.50 latte to the icy $7.25 frappe. And if you want a sweet treat with your pick-me-up, it'll be $4 for a doughnut or cupcake.

(If you don't want to pay for caffeine, the buffet has free black coffee, Bigelow's green tea, and Lipton tea.)

It wouldn't be a cruise without live entertainment, either.

The atrium hosts musicians and singers dressed in Venice Carnival — or "Eyes Wide Shut" — style masks, while the smaller Limelight Lounge is the go-to for stand-up comedy. There's also an interactive "Deal or No Deal" game show, although participation costs $25.

But if we're talking about traditional theater shows, my four-night cruise included the cheesy "Dear Future Husband" song-and-dance production and the interactive "What's Age Got To Do With It?" game show.

If laughter from the crowd indicates success, the game show — which sources participants from the crowd — was a hit.

A show where half the players are children is sure to be entertaining.

Is the entertainment better on Norwegian and Royal Caribbean’s newest ships? Yes.

Does Carnival Firenze have as many pools as its competitors' latest vessels? No.

But is Firenze's mini-golf and ropes course free? Yes.

Plus, with four-night voyages starting at almost $90 a night, Firenze's 2024 itineraries are both shorter and cheaper than several other new cruise ships on the market. (Norwegian Viva's cheapest 2024 itinerary is more than $1,520 per person for an 11-day sailing, while Icon of the Seas starts at almost $1,770 per person for eight days.)

So, if you can resist the enticing upcharges, Carnival's new Firenze could be a great pick for families looking for a cheap and fun vacation at sea .

• Main content

Cruise lines changing itineraries as Hurricane Beryl charges through Caribbean

With ports on both sides of the state, Florida is a popular destination for those planning a cruise.

Those plans are being disrupted this week after Hurricane Beryl made landfall on Carriacou Island Monday as a powerful Category 4 storm with 150-mph winds.

➤  Track Hurricane Beryl

The hurricane has grown since then, and is now at Category 5 hurricane with 165-mph winds as it moves west across the Caribbean Sea . Life-threatening winds and storm surge are expected to impact Jamaica by Wednesday.

Here's what you should know if you're scheduled to take a cruise.

Cruisemapper shows few cruise ships in Caribbean as Hurricane Beryl continues westward path

There were a few cruise ships in the Caribbean Sea early Tuesday, with most only going as far south as Jamaica and most concentrated along the Mexican coast, according to cruisemapper.com.

➤ Interactive map : See the latest on cruise ship locations

A few ships were shown in Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands.

Most ships were concentrated around the Bahamas and off the east coast of Florida.

Beryl is expected to bring life-threatening winds and storm surge to Jamaica Wednesday as it moves quickly west across the Caribbean.

How strong is Hurricane Beryl and where is it going?

Spaghetti models: where will hurricane beryl go next.

Special note about spaghetti models:  Illustrations include an array of forecast tools and models, and not all are created equal. The hurricane center uses only the top four or five highest performing models to help make its forecasts. 

Royal Caribbean Blog announces changes to itineraries because of Hurricane Beryl

▶  Royal Caribbean had three ships in the southeastern Caribbean as of July 1 and announced it was changing cruise ship itineraries because of Hurricane Beryl, according to Royal Caribbean Blog.

Icon of the Seas, Wonder of the Seas, and Harmony of the Seas have all changed itineraries due to the hurricane, according to the website.

Royal Caribbean's newest and largest ship — Icon of the Seas — departed from Miami, June 29, days before Beryl hit the eastern Caribbean. The ship was scheduled to visit St. Maarten and St. Thomas, among other locations in the eastern Caribbean. Instead it will visit Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico. Cruisemapper.com showed the ship off Cozumel Tuesday morning.

Royal Caribbean notified passengers via email of the itinerary change intended to avoid strong winds and high waves on the sea.

Wonder of the Seas, which left Port Canaveral June 30, will skip two ports and call on Nassau, Bahamas, the blog announced. Tuesday morning, cruisemapper showed the ship between Key West and Cuba.

“We’re terribly sorry for the last-minute change caused by the weather, your safety is our top priority," the letter read.

"Please know, being onboard is one of the safest places because we are faster and can move out of the way of any inclement weather."

Norwegian Cruise Line changes stops to avoid eastern Caribbean

▶  Norwegian Cruise Line  altered nearly the entire itinerary for a week-long sailing on its Norwegian Breakaway ship that departed from Miami on Sunday. The line canceled stops in Honduras, Harvest Caye in Belize, and Costa Maya and Cozumel in Mexico, according to a letter sent to guests the line shared with USA TODAY. The ship will instead visit Puerto Plata in the Dominican Republic, St. Thomas, Tortola, and Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas instead.

“While we share your disappointment, these modifications were made with great consideration as your safety, and that of our crew, is always our number one priority,” the letter said.

The line similarly changed a week-long sailing aboard Norwegian Jade that left Port Canaveral on Saturday, replacing planned calls in Falmouth, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel with San Juan, Puerto Rico, Tortola and Puerto Plata.

Was your cruise itinerary changed? Here's what to do next

Carnival Cruise Line bumps up stops to Mexico

▶  Carnival Cruise Line’s  Carnival Liberty ship moved a planned Friday stop in Cozumel up to Tuesday. The vessel departed on a week-long cruise from New Orleans, Louisiana, on Sunday,  according to CruiseMapper .

Carnival Horizon, which is sailing a  six-day itinerary  that left Miami on Sunday, will skip a visit to Grand Cayman on Wednesday.

“The safety of our guests and crew is paramount, and we are continuing to monitor forecasts and factor in guidance from the National Hurricane Center, U.S. Coast Guard, and the local port authorities to provide timely updates to our guests as more information becomes available,” spokesperson Matt Lupoli said via email.

Disney Cruise Line replaces Falmouth visit with sea day

▶  Disney Cruise Line’s  Disney Fantasy ship — which set sail on a  week-long cruise  from Port Canaveral on Saturday — will not visit Falmouth as planned on Wednesday. The stop will be replaced with a  sea day .

Cruisemapper showed the ship west of the Cayman Islands Tuesday morning.

We use cookies to understand how you use our site and to improve your experience. This includes personalizing content and advertising. To learn more, click here . By continuing to use our site, you accept our use of cookies, revised Privacy Policy and Terms of Service .

New to Zacks? Get started here.

Member Sign In

Don't Know Your Password?

• Zacks #1 Rank
• Zacks Industry Rank
• Zacks Sector Rank
• Equity Research
• Mutual Funds
• Mutual Fund Screener
• ETF Screener
• Earnings Calendar
• Earnings Releases
• Earnings ESP
• Earnings ESP Filter
• Stock Screener
• Premium Screens
• Basic Screens
• Thematic Screens
• Research Wizard
• Personal Finance
• Money Management
• Retirement Planning
• Tax Information
• My Portfolio
• Create Portfolio
• Style Scores
• Testimonials
• Zacks.com Tutorial

Services Overview

• Zacks Ultimate
• Zacks Investor Collection
• Zacks Premium

Investor Services

• ETF Investor
• Home Run Investor
• Income Investor
• Stocks Under $10
• Value Investor
• Top 10 Stocks

Other Services

• Method for Trading
• Zacks Confidential

Trading Services

• Black Box Trader
• Counterstrike
• Headline Trader
• Insider Trader
• Large-Cap Trader
• Options Trader
• Short Sell List
• Surprise Trader
• Alternative Energy

You are being directed to ZacksTrade, a division of LBMZ Securities and licensed broker-dealer. ZacksTrade and Zacks.com are separate companies. The web link between the two companies is not a solicitation or offer to invest in a particular security or type of security. ZacksTrade does not endorse or adopt any particular investment strategy, any analyst opinion/rating/report or any approach to evaluating individual securities.

If you wish to go to ZacksTrade, click OK . If you do not, click Cancel.

Image: Bigstock

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCLH) Moves to Buy: Rationale Behind the Upgrade

Investors might want to bet on Norwegian Cruise Line ( NCLH Quick Quote NCLH - Free Report ) , as it has been recently upgraded to a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). This upgrade primarily reflects an upward trend in earnings estimates, which is one of the most powerful forces impacting stock prices.

A company's changing earnings picture is at the core of the Zacks rating. The system tracks the Zacks Consensus Estimate -- the consensus measure of EPS estimates from the sell-side analysts covering the stock -- for the current and following years.

Individual investors often find it hard to make decisions based on rating upgrades by Wall Street analysts, since these are mostly driven by subjective factors that are hard to see and measure in real time. In these situations, the Zacks rating system comes in handy because of the power of a changing earnings picture in determining near-term stock price movements.

As such, the Zacks rating upgrade for Norwegian Cruise Line is essentially a positive comment on its earnings outlook that could have a favorable impact on its stock price.

Most Powerful Force Impacting Stock Prices

The change in a company's future earnings potential, as reflected in earnings estimate revisions, has proven to be strongly correlated with the near-term price movement of its stock. The influence of institutional investors has a partial contribution to this relationship, as these big professionals use earnings and earnings estimates to calculate the fair value of a company's shares. An increase or decrease in earnings estimates in their valuation models simply results in higher or lower fair value for a stock, and institutional investors typically buy or sell it. Their transaction of large amounts of shares then leads to price movement for the stock.

Fundamentally speaking, rising earnings estimates and the consequent rating upgrade for Norwegian Cruise Line imply an improvement in the company's underlying business. Investors should show their appreciation for this improving business trend by pushing the stock higher.

Harnessing the Power of Earnings Estimate Revisions

As empirical research shows a strong correlation between trends in earnings estimate revisions and near-term stock movements, tracking such revisions for making an investment decision could be truly rewarding. Here is where the tried-and-tested Zacks Rank stock-rating system plays an important role, as it effectively harnesses the power of earnings estimate revisions.

The Zacks Rank stock-rating system, which uses four factors related to earnings estimates to classify stocks into five groups, ranging from Zacks Rank #1 (Strong Buy) to Zacks Rank #5 (Strong Sell), has an impressive externally-audited track record, with Zacks Rank #1 stocks generating an average annual return of +25% since 1988. You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here >>>> .

Earnings Estimate Revisions for Norwegian Cruise Line

This cruise operator is expected to earn $1.43 per share for the fiscal year ending December 2024, which represents a year-over-year change of 104.3%.

Analysts have been steadily raising their estimates for Norwegian Cruise Line. Over the past three months, the Zacks Consensus Estimate for the company has increased 17.8%.

Bottom Line

Unlike the overly optimistic Wall Street analysts whose rating systems tend to be weighted toward favorable recommendations, the Zacks rating system maintains an equal proportion of 'buy' and 'sell' ratings for its entire universe of more than 4000 stocks at any point in time. Irrespective of market conditions, only the top 5% of the Zacks-covered stocks get a 'Strong Buy' rating and the next 15% get a 'Buy' rating. So, the placement of a stock in the top 20% of the Zacks-covered stocks indicates its superior earnings estimate revision feature, making it a solid candidate for producing market-beating returns in the near term.

You can learn more about the Zacks Rank here >>>

The upgrade of Norwegian Cruise Line to a Zacks Rank #2 positions it in the top 20% of the Zacks-covered stocks in terms of estimate revisions, implying that the stock might move higher in the near term.

See More Zacks Research for These Tickers

Normally $25 each - click below to receive one report free:.

Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (NCLH) - free report >>

Published in

This file is used for Yahoo remarketing pixel add

Due to inactivity, you will be signed out in approximately:

• 00800 0310 21 21 1-855-577-9489 1-877-288-3037 1-877-288-3037 1-877-474-2969
• | NCL Travel Blog">11-Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Northbound Cruise Tour | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line">14-Day Authentic Alaska - Southbound Cruise Tour | Deck Plans | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | Norwegian Cruise Line">20-Day Transpacific from Tokyo (Yokohama) & Alaska | Norwegian Cruise Line
• | NCL Travel Blog">11 Reasons to Cruise to Alaska this Summer | NCL Travel Blog
• View All Results
• Preferences
• Latitudes Rewards
• Special Offers
• Personalised Recommendations
• Make reservations before you cruise
• 1 (current)

* Terms & Conditions Package not available on sailings less than 5 days or charter sailings.

• Cruise Ships

AWARD-WINNING CRUISE SHIPS

• Email Sign Up For Special Offers
• Phone Let Us Call You

When you sail with Norwegian Cruise Line, you are cruising on the most innovative and accommodating fleet on the high seas. Our award-winning fleet was built for Freestyle, designed to give you freedom and flexibility. Choose your ship, choose your destination and step on board for the perfect holiday.

Explore Our Ships

Norwegian Aqua

Prima class.

• DESTINATIONS
• Northern Europe
• Ship 156,300 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,571 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2025 Year Built

Norwegian Bliss

Breakaway plus class.

• Transatlantic
• Panama Canal
• Extraordinary Journeys
• Ship 168,028 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,958 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2021 Refurbished Year Built 2018

Norwegian Breakaway

Breakaway class.

• Mediterranean
• Canada & New England
• Ship 145,655 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,903 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2020 Refurbished Year Built 2013

Norwegian Dawn

• Greek Isles
• Ship 92,250 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,290 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2021 Refurbished Year Built 2002

Norwegian Encore

• Ship 169,116 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3958 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2019 Year Built

Norwegian Epic

• Ship 155,873 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 4,070 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2020 Refurbished Year Built 2010

Norwegian Escape

• Ship 164,998 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 4,218 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 2015

Norwegian Gem

Jewel class.

• Ship 93,530 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,344 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 2007

Norwegian Getaway

• Year 2020 Refurbished Year Built 2014

Norwegian Jade

• South America
• Pacific Coastal
• Ship 93,558 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,352 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 2006

Norwegian Jewel

• Ship 93,502 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,330 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 2005

Norwegian Joy

• Ship 167,725 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,776 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2024 Refurbished Year Built 2017

Norwegian Pearl

• Year 2021 Refurbished Year Built 2006

Norwegian Prima

• Ship 143,535 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,099 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Year Built

Norwegian Sky

• Ship 77,104 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 1,944 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2024 Refurbished Year Built 1999

Norwegian Spirit

• Australia & New Zealand
• Ship 75,904 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 1,972 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2022 Refurbished Year Built 1998

Norwegian Star

• Ship 91,740 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,298 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2021 Refurbished Year Built 2001

Norwegian Sun

• South Pacific
• Ship 78,309 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 1,878 Guest Capacity double occupancy

Norwegian Viva

• Ship 142,500 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 3,195 Guest Capacity double occupancy
• Year 2023 Year Built

Pride of America

• Ship 80,439 Gross Register Tonnage
• Guest 2,150 Guest Capacity double occupancy

There's a new Disney cruise ship on the way. Where will it sail and what will it include?

Disney is expanding its cruising fleet in Japan.

A brand-new cruise ship, scheduled to begin sailing in early 2029, will be based in Japan year-round , Disney officials announced Tuesday. This will be the second Asia-based Disney cruise ship.

“The addition of a locally based Disney cruise ship will offer fun and relaxation for Japanese Disney fans and visitors from around the world during magical voyages filled with the incredible entertainment, world-class dining and exceptional guest service that set Disney cruises apart,” a statement from Disney read. “We are so excited to see this new Disney vacation experience come to life!”

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

What will the new Japan-based Disney cruise ship include?

This will be a sister ship to the Disney Wish, which debuted in 2023 and sails out of Port Canaveral in Florida. Walt Disney Imagineering is designing the ship to include many guest-favorite venues and experiences from the Wish, but with modifications specifically with Japanese guests in mind.

Details on what those may be, as well as a sailing itinerary, have not yet been revealed.  

The new unnamed Japan-based ship will have about 1,250 staterooms. If it's like the Disney Wish, it should hold about 4,000 passengers.

It will be built at Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenburg, Germany and operated in agreement with Oriental Land Co., OLC has a 40-year relationship with Disney as it owns and operates Tokyo Disney Resort.

This will be the second Asia-based Disney cruise ship

The Disney Adventure is scheduled to sail from Singapore in 2025.

Three- and four-day sailings will be offered on the Disney Adventure. The ship will include some new offerings.

• Disney Imagination Garden – Described as the “emotional heart of the Disney Adventure,” this is an open-air performance venue. It’s inspiration ranges from Moana to Mowgli.
• San Fransokyo Street – This family entertainment area will feature interactive games, activities, shops and cinemas. It’s inspired by Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Big Hero 6.”
• Town Square – A “fantastical forest” that includes shops, lounges and cafes with nods to Disney’s princesses.
• Marvel Landing – This all-new experience will offer guests all of ages fun interactions with Marvel characters.
• Toy Story Place – Cruisers will get to explore a whimsical, interactive play land themed to the beloved Toy Story franchise.

What is the average cost for a Disney cruise?

The range varies greatly depending on the ship, the time of year and the length of the sailing .

For example, a verandah cabin aboard a 4-night sailing aboard the Disney Wish in the beginning of November goes for $3,645 per person. Four-nights aboard the fleet’s oldest ship, the Disney Magic, in a verandah cabin at the beginning of December is about $2,490 per person.

What is included in a Disney cruise?

Nearly all food and non-alcoholic beverages are included.

That includes room service, buffets, pool-side dining and rotational dinner dining, made popular by Disney. Each night guests dine in a different themed restaurant and the same serving staff moves with them to each restaurant.

Shows, character interactions and many onboard activities are included.

Some specialty beverages, dessert shops and adult restaurants are an extra fee. There’s also an additional charge for spa services, excursions and some onboard sporting activities.

Disney Cruise Line currently has five ships

Disney first entered the cruising market in 1998 with the Disney Magic . It was followed shortly by a sister ship, the Disney Wonder.

These are the smallest Disney ships accommodating about 2,700 passengers.

The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy joined the fleet in 2011 and 2012 respectively. They can hold about 4,000 guests.

Disney’s newest ship, the Disney Wish set sail in 2022. It also can hold about 4,000 guests, but it’s the largest of the ships with 14 decks.

A new ship, the Disney Treasure, is scheduled to debut this December.

Spitzer is a Trending Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected]

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: There's a new Disney cruise ship on the way. Where will it sail and what will it include?