Norwegian Cruise Line: Ultimate Guide

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For Australians wanting to experience cruising that combines awe-inspiring destinations with modern comfort and luxury, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers nothing but an unforgettable cruise journey.
Norwegian Cruise Line brings its signature style and innovation to the waters of Australia and beyond inviting cruise enthusiasts to explore the region for their bucket-listed seacation.
Norwegian Cruise Line is the fourth-largest cruise line in the cruise industry by passenger size. Its 19 vessels have a total of 55,820 berths and bring their guests to over 400 destinations across the seven continents.
Founded in 1966, this line is also a go-to cruise line for cruise enthusiasts because of its generous feature “Free At Sea” which is one amenity other lines do not have.
For cruisers, here are some of the tips to consider in booking for Norwegian Cruise Line.
Why the Norwegian Cruise Line?
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) values freedom and flexibility for its guests. You don’t have rigid schedules, or dress codes, just cruising on your own terms. This cruise line usually ditches the traditional cruise rules, letting you do things your way.
Its award-winning fleet is packed with everything from Broadway-style shows to open-air racetracks. And with the recently upgraded More at Sea program, you can enjoy perks like premium drinks, specialty dining, and better Wi-Fi—so you don’t have to fully unplug unless you want to.
For Australians, NCL’s local itineraries mean you can hop on a cruise from Sydney or Auckland and explore places like the South Pacific, New Zealand, and beyond—without dealing with long-haul flights. Whether you’re after a laid-back island escape or something a little more adventurous, Norwegian Cruise Line gives you plenty of options.
At Glance (Accommodation type, Destination/Ports)
Destinations
Norwegian Cruise Line’s 2025-2026 season is shaping up to be a good one, with itineraries that cover everything from tropical getaways to icy wilderness adventures. Whether you’re after a laid-back island escape, a deep dive into history, or a cruise packed with once-in-a-lifetime scenery, NCL has plenty to choose from.
If Australians want to explore their own backyard in style, the 2025 Norwegian cruise line will take you from Sydney or Auckland to stunning coastal gems across Australia and New Zealand. Think dramatic fjords, buzzing cities, and untouched beaches—without the hassle of long-haul flights.
For something a little more immersive, NCL’s Asia cruises hit destinations like Japan, Thailand, and Vietnam. Expect a mix of ancient temples, futuristic cities, and food so good you’ll start planning your next trip before you even get home.
Glaciers, wildlife, and rugged landscapes—Alaska is one of those bucket-list places that just hit differently. NCL’s cruises sail from Seattle, bringing you face-to-face with towering icebergs, orcas, and the kind of scenery that makes you put your phone down and just stare.
The NCL cruise will also head to Europe. History, culture, and more picture-perfect coastal towns than you’ll know what to do with. Whether it’s a sun-soaked Mediterranean cruise or a Norwegian dream adventure in Northern Europe with other stops in places like Amsterdam and Copenhagen.
If your idea of a cruise holiday involves white sand, turquoise water, and a cocktail (or three), the Caribbean is always a good idea. NCL’s cruises hit all the tropical hotspots, giving you a mix of relaxation and adventure.
Accommodation
Staterooms onboard the 19-vessel Norwegian Cruise Line range from 9.3 square metres to 622 square metres which suit all types of cruisers. Cabin categories include Suites and Penthouses, Club Balcony Suites, Balcony Staterooms, Oceanview Staterooms, Inside Staterooms and Studios.
Meanwhile, starting January 2, 2024, NCL will add 1000 solo cabins across its 19-ship fleet. Solo Cabins come in three categories: Solo Inside, Solo Oceanview and Solo Balcony.
NCL guests may also opt to book their accommodation in The Haven which is perched in an elevated and exclusive section of the vessel. It comes complete with round-the-clock personal butler and concierge services.
What Included
Booking a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about what’s onboard too. Here’s what you can expect to be part of your fare (and what’s not):
What You’ll Get:
- Your Cabin: Whether it’s a cozy Inside Stateroom or a luxury suite, your accommodation is sorted.
- Dining: Access to main dining rooms, buffets, and select complimentary venues. Think hearty breakfasts, laid-back lunches, and delicious dinners without any extra cost.
- Entertainment: Broadway-style shows, live music, and comedy acts—all included. You’ll have something to keep you entertained every evening.
- Activities: Trivia games, dance classes, and poolside fun—perfect for sea days.
- The Gym: Use the onboard fitness center to burn off last night’s dessert (or just feel better about the next one).
- Kids & Teens Clubs: Free, supervised fun for younger travelers, so parents can kick back and relax.
Cruise Line Packages
Norwegian Cruise Line knows that no two cruisers are alike, which is why they offer a range of cruise deals and packages to help you customize your trip. From drinks to dining and even Wi-Fi, these options let you focus on what matters—having an amazing time at sea.
Beverage Packages
Love a good cocktail (or three)? NCL’s beverage packages have you covered:
- Unlimited Open Bar: Sip on your favourite beers, wines, spirits, and non-alcoholic drinks whenever you feel like it.
- Premium Plus: Top-shelf drinks, specialty coffee, and bottled water—this one’s for the serious beverage connoisseurs.
- Soda Package: Perfect for kids, teens, or anyone looking for unlimited fizzy fun.
Dining Packages
For foodies, the Specialty Dining Package lets you sample NCL’s incredible specialty restaurants at a fixed price. Steak, sushi, or Italian? Why not all of them?
Wi-Fi Packages
Whether you’re posting vacation snaps or just need to check emails (we won’t judge), NCL’s Wi-Fi packages have options for everyone:
- Unlimited Wi-Fi for staying connected all day.
- Minute-based plans for quick check-ins or social media scrolls.
Shore Excursion Packages
Make the most of your time on land with shore excursion packages. From guided tours to adventure-filled activities, booking ahead guarantees you won’t miss out on the must-see experiences at each port.
Cruisetours
Want to dive deeper into your destinations? NCL’s Cruisetours combine your cruise with a land-based adventure. Think Alaska’s wild landscapes, Europe’s historic cities, or Asia’s vibrant culture—all wrapped up in one seamless trip.
Flight & Hotel Packages
Skip the stress of coordinating travel plans. NCL’s flight and hotel packages make it easy to get to your ship on time—and in style.
With these packages, you can make your cruise as laid-back or as extra as you want. So go ahead, customize your trip, and make it one to remember.
Dining Experiences
The line features a wide variety of culinary options, from mouth-watering treats and healthy meals to the most creative cuisines crafted by culinary experts. NCL also provides guests the option to set dining times as they please. NCL guests who avail of the More At Sea promo will have the specialty dining package included in the cruise.
Complimentary dining includes up to three Main Dining Rooms, The Local Bar & Grill (formerly O’Sheehan’s), and The Buffet at The Garden Café. In addition, venues like the Spiegel Tent and Illusionarium are also part of the complimentary dining list. However, 24/7 Blue Lagoon, Cadillac Diner, Las Ramblas, and Henry’s are not part of the complimentary dining options.
Guests who do not have reservations for the Main Dining Rooms are entertained on a first-come, first-served basis.
On the other hand, the line also has a list of specialty dining venues which include Le Bistro, Moderno Churrascaria, Cagney’s Steakhouse, Teppanyaki, La Cucina, and Ocean Blue.
Furthermore, Starbucks cafes and kiosks are also available on select NCL vessels.
Cabins Experiences
Your cabin isn’t just a place to sleep—it’s your home at sea. Whether you’re after something simple or full-blown luxury, Norwegian Cruise Line has a stateroom to match.
If you’re all about value, Inside Staterooms keep things comfortable and cozy, while Oceanview Staterooms give you a window to the world (or at least the sea). Want your own outdoor space? Balcony Staterooms let you start the day with fresh ocean air and a coffee in hand.
Need a little extra space? Club Balcony Suites step things up with roomier layouts and upgraded perks. And if you’re going all in, Suites & Penthouses bring luxury touches, more space, and priority services—perfect for those who like to cruise in style.
At the top of the list is The Haven—NCL’s private-access retreat with massive suites, butler service, and exclusive areas that make the rest of the ship feel like a distant memory.
Solo traveller? No problem. Studio Cabins are designed just for you, with access to an exclusive lounge so you can meet fellow solo cruisers without awkwardly crashing group dinners.
No matter which cabin you book, NCL’s focus on smart design, comfort, and storage means you’ll have everything you need—because a great cruise starts with a great place to unwind.
Activities (Family, Kids and Couple)
Norwegian Cruise Line offers an array of onboard activities that suit guests of all ages.
Thrill-seeking guests can have their hearts pumped up with the line’s ThrillPlex activity zones. The line also features one of the largest race tracks at sea. Passengers may also opt for go-kart racing, laser tag, or the Ocean Loops slide in the Aqua Park.
NCL ships have more than 20 bars and lounges that offer different types of drinks and beverages for guests to enjoy, especially during nighttime.
Moreover, entertainment at night ranges from Broadway-inspired shows to full-production concerts and performances, all for the delight of guests onboard. Some of the impressive Broadway performances onboard that guests enjoy are Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots, and Rock of Ages.
NCL also features innovative and high-tech activities for the family, like those offered in the Galaxy Pavilion.
Popular Fleets
The 19-ship fleet of Norwegian Cruise Line is divided into six classes: Prima Class, Breakaway Plus, Breakaway, Jewel, Dawn, and Sun. Additionally, Norwegian Epic, Pride of America, and Norwegian Spirit are in their own classes, adding to the line’s variety of ships.
In 2017, NCL announced the six-ship Prima Class on order from 2022 to 2027. The first ship of this class, Norwegian Prima, had her maiden voyage in 2022, starting with an 8-night sailing to Amsterdam. The Prima Class accommodates 3,099 passengers and has a gross tonnage of 143,535.
The four-vessel Breakaway Plus Class has the largest cruise ships in the NCL fleet, with a passenger capacity ranging from 3,998 to 4,266 people and gross tonnage ranging from 164,600 to 169,145 tons.
In other categories, the line’s Breakaway Class has two vessels, each with a passenger capacity of 3,963 and a gross tonnage of 145,655.
NCL’s four-ship Jewel Class, two-ship Dawn Class, and two-vessel Sun Class have passenger capacities ranging from 1,936 to 2,402.
Furthermore, there are three individual cruise ships, including Norwegian Epic, with a passenger capacity of 4,100 and a gross tonnage of 155,873.
Loyalty Programs
Frequent cruisers with Norwegian Cruise Line get rewarded through the Latitudes Rewards Program, a tier-based system packed with perks. The more you sail, the better the benefits (discounts, priority access, and even a free cruise once you hit the top tier).
How It Works
Earning points is simple:
- You get 1 point for every night you spend onboard.
- Book a suite or The Haven, and you’ll score an extra point per night.
- Book through Latitudes Rewards Insider Offers, and you’ll grab another extra point per night.
- Stack them together, and you could be earning up to 3 points per night.
Tiers & Perks
The program has seven tiers, with increasing rewards as you move up:
- Bronze (1–19 points) – Discounts on drinks, onboard shopping, and more.
- Silver (20–44 points) – Extra savings on shore excursions and photos, plus an invite to an exclusive cocktail party.
- Gold (45–74 points) – Add priority tendering at ports, spa discounts, and free bottled water.
- Platinum (75–149 points) – Free specialty dining, laundry service, and even more savings.
- Sapphire (150–349 points) – More discounts, plus priority everything.
- Diamond (350–699 points) – Onboard credit, deeper discounts, and VIP treatment.
- Ambassador (700+ points) – The ultimate reward: a free 7-night cruise for two.
Signing Up
No need to do anything—once you complete your first cruise, you’re automatically in. Your membership kicks in within 48 hours of disembarkation.So, if you’re planning to cruise with NCL more than once, it pays to stick around. The perks add up fast, and before you know it, you could be sipping cocktails on a free cruise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Norwegian Cruise Line have gratuities?
Norwegian Cruise Line applies a daily service charge of $20 per person, per day for Club Balcony Suite and below. Those booked in The Haven and Suites are charged $25 per guest, per day. Additionally, a 20% gratuity is automatically added to all beverage, specialty dining, and spa bills for passengers 3 years and older.
So, while enjoying the freedom and flexibility NCL offers, expect daily service fees starting at $20. Furthermore, The Haven and Suite guests should anticipate and budget for the higher $25 daily charge due to their premium accommodations.
Are there dress codes aboard the Norwegian Cruise Line?
NCL’s comfortable cruising concept relieves guests of stricter and formal dress codes. On a usual sailing trip, guests are invited to wear smart casual dinner attire in the main dining hall and other specialty restaurants. However, tank tops for men, flip flops, baseball caps, visors, and jeans that are overly faded, with holes or tears, and worn below the hips are not permitted in main dining rooms or specialty restaurants.
On the other hand, dining at buffet restaurants and other less formal dine-for-fee restaurants allows casual attire such as pants, jeans, shorts, and sundresses.
Who sails on Norwegian Cruise Line cruises?
Norwegian Cruise Line attracts a wide range of cruise enthusiasts from around the world, including Australians. The entire NCL fleet caters to families with children, thanks to their extensive kid-friendly facilities and activities. Additionally, couples, both young and old, are drawn to Norwegian’s romantic sailings and diverse dining and entertainment options. Furthermore, the line is also popular among solo travellers because of the various opportunities offered by NCL to socialize and meet new people. Also, Norwegian’s relaxed dress code and flexible approach appeal to travellers who prefer a more laid-back and casual cruise experience.