Considering its humble beginnings, the level of success that Norwegian Cruise Line has carved out for itself is truly remarkable. Indeed, the cruise line – which was founded with a single ship back in the year 1966 – is one of the most successful cruise operators in the world today. With an overarching philosophy that emphasizes freedom over strictly followed procedures and protocols, Norwegian has always been ahead of the curve – especially considering that a less formal approach is all the rage nowadays. From the style of its ships to its unique itineraries, Norwegian manages to stay ahead of the curve year after year. Families and honeymooners alike turn to Norwegian for their cruise needs, and there’s little question that a bright future lies ahead for this friendly, exceptionally approachable cruise line.
What’s New
Like most other major cruise lines, Norwegian strives to continually produce and emphasize new features and updates for its entire fleet. These days, Norwegian has been experimenting with a large number of different on board amenities. Martini and champagne bars have been rolled out on a small percentage of the Norwegian fleet; luxury villas are another area that the cruise line is looking to explore. With the addition of a bowling alley on some of its ships, Norwegian proves once again that they are always more than willing to up the ante in order to produce something fresh, fun and new for its passengers.
Known For
Norwegian Cruise Line has been around long enough to prove that it has what it takes to satisfy and thrill its customers. Their enviable reputation has a lot to do with the following key characteristics:
Homeland Cruising
Norwegian employs a savvy strategy of creating several United States home ports in order to make choosing Norwegian much easier and more convenient for a greater number of people. With home ports currently in Boston, Baltimore, Seattle, New York, New Orleans, Philadelphia – and more – Norwegian can rely on the business of those who can’t spend the time involved in going on far-flung cruises.
Deep Discounts
Regularly offering incredible discounts is another way that Norwegian distinguishes itself from the pack. Past promotions include cruises that cost only $25 a night pretax, $99 children’s fares and several other eye-catching deals. Compared with a lot of its competition, Norwegian really does make an effort to make cruising as affordable – and accessible – as possible.
Freestyle Cruising
The primary philosophy of Norwegian – and the thing that wins over so many passengers – is its well-known “Freestyle Cruising” style. Where cruise lines have traditionally been known for extreme decorum and fine, carefully followed traditions, Norwegian promotes a more laissez-faire style that is particularly popular in today’s world.
Regular Hawaii Itineraries
Incredibly, Norwegian Cruise Line is the only major cruise line to offer year-round itineraries to the Hawaiian Islands. As such, they pretty much corner the market on such cruises, and most people who want to cruise to Hawaii end up booking a spot on Norwegian.
Top Itineraries
Hawaii
Norwegian’s Hawaiian itineraries are exceptionally popular. In fact, Norwegian has a home port in Honolulu, which is largely what makes it possible for them to extend this unique service.
Alaska
With stops at ports of call as varied as Glacier Bay, Victoria and Juneau, Norwegian’s Alaska itineraries have a little bit of something for everybody. Ships depart from either Vancouver or Seattle, depending on the circumstances.
Bermuda
Six-night, round-trip cruises from Philadelphia down to Bermuda are very popular Norwegian Cruise Line itineraries. Ports of call include King’s Wharf and St. George.
Southern Caribbean
Many of Norwegian’s Southern Caribbean cruise itineraries are longer, 14-night trips. They usually include stops at ports of call like Antigua, San Juan and Tortola.
The Fleet
Norwegian Dawn
An indoor pool – a true rarity in the world of major cruise lines – is just one of the many great things that stand out about the Norwegian Dawn. Original Impressionist paintings dot the halls, passageways and common areas of the ship, lending a dose of class and sophistication. Even the most finicky eaters are sure to be pleased with the vast array of offerings on the Norwegian Dawn, whose cuisine ranges from Tex-Mex to Asian to French and Italian.
Norwegian Pearl
The world’s first at-sea bowling alley is one of the major attractions of the Norwegian Pearl. This ship is decked out to please virtually anyone, but definitely has an edge when it comes to keeping teenagers happy. 12 freestyle restaurants, 11 bars and lounges, a kid’s club and a massive climbing wall all converge to make this a hip, modern ship.
Norwegian Spirit
Asian-themed décor helps give this ship a fresh, modern flair while maintaining a healthy dose of classic elegance. Ask any kids who board the ship, though, and they’re bound to talk on and on about the exceptionally fun water park on board. For the parents and other adults, the swanky Maharini’s Lounge & Nightclub offers a refreshing break from much of the fun in the sun activities. With a 1,996-passenger capacity, the Spirit is one of the best ships in the Norwegian line.
Pride Of America
As the ship that is used for Norwegian’s popular Hawaiian itineraries, the Pride of America wins over thousands of people every year. Although it sails the seas around the Hawaiian Islands, the Pride of America boasts a thoroughly patriotic, American design. The Internet center on board this ship is truly state of the art, helping to lend it modern appeal.