Best Norwegian Cruise Ships Ranked

• Launched In: 2019
• Total Capacity: 3,998 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 2,043
• Length: 1,094 feet
• Width: 136 feet

The Norwegian Encore tops this list as the best Norwegian cruise ship due to its impressive blend of modern amenities, entertainment, and comfort. The vessel has the largest race track at sea, spanning nearly 1,150 feet, along with an exhilarating go-kart experience.

Additionally, the ship is also home to the Galaxy Pavilion, a hub for cutting-edge virtual reality games and thrilling experiences. Dining options are diverse, including specialty restaurants like Onda by Scarpetta.

• Launched In: 2018
• Total Capacity: 4,004 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 2,043
• Length: 1,094 feet
• Width: 136 feet

The Norwegian Bliss offers exceptional service quality; you should consider making it a top choice for your next vacation. Crew members are highly trained and dedicated to providing personalized and attentive service, ensuring that every guest feels valued and pampered.

The Bliss features a wide range of amenities, including luxurious suites and affordable staterooms. Dining options are plentiful, with specialty restaurants offering diverse cuisines and impeccable service.

• Launched In: 2015
• Total Capacity: 4,266 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 2,175
• Length: 1,069 feet
• Width: 136 feet

Built in 2012, the Norwegian Escape has gained wide recognition as a family-friendly vacation spot. Kids will be thrilled with the Aqua Park, featuring multi-story water slides, splash zones, and the exciting Free Fall slide.

The Escape’s entertainment options include Broadway-style shows and family-friendly performances that everyone can enjoy. For interactive fun, there's the Escape Room experience, where families can work together to solve puzzles.

• Launched In: 2017
• Total Capacity: 3,804 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 1,925
• Length: 1,094 feet
• Width: 136 feet

If you looking for an affordable cruise ship that is worth your time and hard-earned money, Norwegian Joy will surely exceed expectations. The top-tier customer service along with the exceptional onboard experiences make it well worth the investment.

Recently refurbished, the Norwegian Joy boasts innovative features such as the thrilling two-level race track and the immersive Galaxy Pavilion with virtual reality experiences. Meanwhile, the ship's design prioritizes the comfort and privacy of its guests.

• Launched In: 2014
• Total Capacity: 3,963 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 2,014
• Length: 1,068 feet
• Width: 130 feet

The Getaway primarily attracts wealthy guests with its luxurious amenities and exclusive services. The Haven by Norwegian offers an elite experience with private suites, a dedicated concierge, and a secluded courtyard with a pool and sun deck.

Similarly, restaurants like Ocean Blue and Cagney’s Steakhouse are excellent dining options for VIP clients. The ship also has a lavish wellness center, called the Mandara Spa, that provides a serene atmosphere for relaxation.

• Launched In: 2013
• Total Capacity: 3,963 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 2,014
• Length: 1,068 feet
• Width: 130 feet

The Norwegian Breakaway certainly lives up to its name; i.e. it is a great destination to break away from the hassle of daily life. A basic typically allows a guest to remain aboard the ship for 7 to 14 days. 

The Breakaway primarily operates in the Caribbean and European waters. In the Caribbean, it often departs from Miami or New York City and sails to popular destinations like the Bahamas, St. Thomas, St. Maarten, and Jamaica.

Meanwhile, the ship also regularly goes through major European cities like St. Petersburg, Rome, Barcelona, Naples, and more.

• Launched In: 2010
• Total Capacity: 4,100 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 2,114
• Length: 1,081 feet
• Width: 133 feet

Built-in 2010 and refurbished in 2020, the Norwegian Epic caters to a wide range of guest preferences. From diverse and high-quality dining to exclusive luxury suites, the ship stands out for providing an authentic experience to its guests.

The Epic houses more than 20 restaurants and eateries, including the likes of Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro French Restaurant, and the Teppanyaki Japanese Grill. The ship also prioritizes entertainment with Broadway-style shows and a glamorous nightlife.

• Launched In: 2006
• Total Capacity: 2,394 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 1,197
• Length: 965 feet
• Width: 125 feet

The Norwegian Pearl is a versatile and family-friendly cruise ship, known for its vibrant and lively atmosphere. Catering to a broad range of interests, it offers comfortable staterooms, ranging from luxurious suites to budget-friendly accommodations.

Additionally, the Splash Academy and Entourage Teen Club are designed to entertain children, while adults hang out at the Spinnaker Lounge or the Pearl Club Casino. For art lovers, Broadway-like shows are a hotspot for undiscovered talents and heart melting stories.

• Launched In: 2007
• Total Capacity: 2,394 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 1,197
• Length: 965 feet
• Width: 125 feet

The Norwegian Gem is an invaluable part of the Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet. Built at a cost of approximately $390 million, the vessel incorporates state-of-the-art technology to enhance passenger experience and operational efficiency.

The Gem is equipped with Azipod propulsion units which improve maneuverability and fuel efficiency. Further, advanced stabilization systems ensure a smoother ride, contributing to the ship's impressive aerodynamics and stability in various sea conditions. 

Additionally, the ship features a sports complex, a rock climbing wall, and dedicated kids’ and teens’ clubs. It is indeed a well-rounded choice for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

• Launched In: 2005
• Total Capacity: 2,376 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 1,188
• Length: 965 feet
• Width: 125 feet

With the Norwegian Jewel, you can choose a variety of regions and travel duration, based on your budget and time available. During the summer months, the Jewel primarily sails in Alaska, offering breathtaking voyages from Seattle or Vancouver to various Alaskan ports.

In the winter months, the Norwegian Jewel often relocates to warmer climates, offering cruises in the Mexican Riviera and the Panama Canal. Departing from Los Angeles, this craft normally ports at Mexican locations like Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, and Mazatlan. 

Occasionally, the Jewel also operates in the South Pacific and Australia. These cruises highlight the exotic beauty of destinations like Fiji, New Caledonia, and Vanuatu.

• Launched In: 2001
• Total Capacity: 2,348 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 1,176
• Length: 965 feet
• Width: 125 feet

Norwegian Star offers a basic 7-day cruise package to popular destinations in the Caribbean, Europe, or Alaska. Passengers can expect comfortable accommodations in well-appointed staterooms, ranging from cozy inside cabins to luxurious suites with private balconies. 

Likewise, the package may include access to exclusive onboard experiences, such as shore excursions, specialty dining packages, beverage packages, and Wi-Fi plans. This allows passengers to customize their cruise experience to suit their preferences and budget.

• Launched In: 2002
• Total Capacity: 2,340 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 1,174
• Length: 965 feet
• Width: 125 feet

The Norwegian Dawn boasts a range of luxury facilities to ensure a premium cruising experience. The ship features The Haven by Norwegian, an exclusive enclave offering luxurious suites. Guests can also opt for a personalized service by paying for a dedicated concierge and 24-hour butler service.

The Dawn also features a selection of upscale bars and lounges, where guests can enjoy premium cocktails and live entertainment in sophisticated surroundings. Gatsby's Champagne Bar and the Sugarcane Mojito Bar are two of the most lively spots above the Norwegian cruise liner.

• Launched In: 1998
• Total Capacity: 2,018 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 1,008
• Length: 879 feet
• Width: 121 feet

Norwegian Spirit is designed to meet the expectations of diverse tastes and preferences. Guests usually start their morning with a leisurely breakfast and spend the day indulging in a series of activities, fitness classes, trivia contests, art auctions, or culinary demonstrations.

Those seeking relaxation can unwind by one of the ship's pools or hot tubs, go for a spa treatment, or simply lounge on a sun deck with a refreshing drink in hand.

As evening approaches, guests can savor a delectable dinner at one of the ship's specialty restaurants, followed by a Broadway-style show, a comedy performance, or a themed party.

• Launched In: 2001
• Total Capacity: 1,936 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 968
• Length: 848 feet
• Width: 123 feet

The Norwegian Sun is an excellent choice for families seeking a memorable cruise experience on a reasonable budget. For kids, the Splash Academy provides supervised fun and educational activities, whereas teens can hang out with peers at Entourage.

Moreover, families can bond over exciting experiences like rock climbing, mini-golf, or splashing around in the pools and water slides. The ship's comfortable and well-appointed accommodations ensure a restful retreat for families after a day of adventure and exploration.

• Launched In: 1999
• Total Capacity: 2,004 passengers
• No. of Staterooms: 1,002
• Length: 848 feet
• Width: 123 feet

The Norwegian Sky is known for its great customer service and dedicated crew. The ship's staff wins over the guests with their friendliness, professionalism, and dedication to creating a memorable experience. The cruise ship also offers a compelling package with its all-inclusive model.

Unlike many other cruise lines, Sky's Free at Sea promotion often includes perks such as unlimited beverages, specialty dining, shore excursions, and Wi-Fi. This inclusive approach appeals to budget-conscious travelers seeking transparency and flexibility in their vacation expenses.