Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is known for its modern, fun-focused approach to cruising. In this article, I’ll be ranking every NCL cruise ship from the newest to the oldest. From brand-new ships like Norwegian Viva to the beloved Norwegian Sky, you’ll get a sense of what each ship offers.
To make this ranking even more useful, I’ve included passenger reviews to highlight what travelers love (or don’t love) about each ship. If you’d like to explore even more reviews and see how NCL ships compare, check out this article.
Norwegian Aqua (April 2025)
Launch Date: April 2025
Capacity: 3,571 passengers, 1,388 crew
Ship Class: Prima Plus
Length: 1,056 ft. (322 m)
Size: 156,300 GT
The Norwegian Aqua is a luxurious, next-generation ship that will offer expanded public spaces, cutting-edge attractions, and upscale dining. Scheduled to debut in April 2025, Norwegian Aqua will be the first Prima Plus-class ship. It will feature larger accommodations, a groundbreaking hybrid roller coaster-water slide, and an elevated Haven experience designed for premium comfort.
Guests will be able to enjoy gourmet dining, including the debut of Sukhothai, a new Thai specialty restaurant, alongside NCL favorites like Le Bistro and Cagney’s Steakhouse. The ship will also feature a Prince-inspired production show, “Revolution: A Celebration of Prince,” adding to its world-class entertainment lineup.
Norwegian Viva (2023)
Launch Date: 2023
Capacity: 3,219 passengers, 1,388 crew
Ship Class: Prima
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Size: 142,500 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (2.9/5)
As the second ship in NCL’s Prima Class, Norwegian Viva brings a sleek and modern experience to the fleet. It features spacious accommodations, stylish design, and innovative entertainment. One of its most striking features is the Indulge Food Hall, a unique food court-style venue with a diverse range of complimentary dishes.
Viva’s entertainment is top-tier, featuring Broadway-style performances, including Beetlejuice: The Musical, as well as Syd Norman’s Pour House, a live rock club known for its Fleetwood Mac tribute show. While the ship offers plenty of adult-oriented entertainment and activities, its kids’ and teens’ areas are smaller and less engaging than on other NCL ships. This makes it a better fit for couples and solo travelers rather than families with young children.
What Passengers Think
Passengers love Norwegian Viva’s sleek design, spacious cabins, and top-notch service in The Haven. However, some feel the ship gets overcrowded and premium extras come at a high cost.
Norwegian Prima (2022)
Launch Date: 2022
Capacity: 3,099 passengers, 1,506 crew
Ship Class: Prima
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Size: 142,500 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (2.7/5)
Norwegian Prima debuted in 2022 as the first ship in Norwegian’s Prima Class. It introduces a sleek, resort-style design that feels more upscale and intimate compared to its predecessors. One of the ship’s biggest attractions is the Ocean Boulevard on Deck 8, a stunning wraparound promenade with infinity pools, outdoor dining, and relaxing lounge spaces.
The ship’s entertainment offerings are unique, with the Prima Theater & Club doubling as a performance venue and nightclub, while Syd Norman’s Pour House keeps guests rocking with Fleetwood Mac tribute shows. Additionally, the ship offers a fresh take on dining with Indulge Food Hall, a vibrant space housing 11 different eateries.
What Passengers Think
Passengers love Prima’s modern, stylish design and spacious cabins, as well as the exceptional specialty dining and friendly crew. However, common complaints include overcrowding in public spaces, high costs, and inconsistent food quality.
Norwegian Encore (2019)
Launch Date: 2019
Capacity: 3,998 passengers, 1,735 crew
Ship Class: Breakaway Plus
Length: 1,094 ft. (333 m)
Size: 169,116 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
The Norwegian Encore is one of the newest ships in Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus class, designed to bring high-energy, resort-style cruising to the next level. It’s packed with activities, from a sprawling go-kart track and laser tag arena to the futuristic Galaxy Pavilion, featuring virtual reality gaming and a 4D cinema.
Entertainment is another major draw, with Broadway-style productions like “Kinky Boots” and “Choir of Man” bringing top-tier performances to sea. Dining is where Encore truly shines—guests can indulge in over 20 restaurant options, including standout specialty venues like Onda by Scarpetta (Italian) and Cagney’s Steakhouse.
What Passengers Think
Passengers praise the entertainment, top-tier dining, and Observation Lounge. Still, some find the ship overcrowded, with small pools and varying food quality.
Norwegian Bliss (2018)
Launch Date: 2018
Capacity: 4,004 passengers, 1,716 crew
Ship Class: Breakaway Plus
Length: 1,094 ft. (333 m)
Size: 168,028 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
The Norwegian Bliss was designed with Alaska cruising in mind. It features a stunning 20,000-square-foot Observation Lounge that offers breathtaking views of glaciers and fjords. Despite its size and activities, Bliss maintains an upscale feel, resembling Norwegian’s luxury sister brands like Oceania and Regent Seven Seas.
The Bliss is known for its high-energy fun, from the go-kart track and laser tag arena to the Broadway-style productions of “Jersey Boys” and “Six.” Dining options are a highlight, with standout specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Los Lobos.
What Passengers Think
Passengers love the top-notch specialty dining and attentive crew, as well as the stunning Observation Lounge. However, some find the ship overcrowded, especially in dining areas and elevators, and feel that the buffet and main dining rooms can be hit or miss.
Norwegian Joy (2017)
Launch Date: 2017
Capacity: 3,776 passengers, 1,821 crew
Ship Class: Breakaway Plus
Length: 1,094 ft. (333 m)
Size: 167,725 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (2.9/5)
Originally built for the Chinese market, the Norwegian Joy underwent a major refurbishment in 2019 to better cater to North American cruisers. Since then, it has become one of NCL’s most popular ships. Additionally, the ship features the largest Thermal Suite in the NCL fleet, offering a luxurious retreat with heated loungers, a salt room, an aromatic steam room, and a snow room.
The ship’s 2024 refurbishment added a massive Thermal Suite and an expanded Vibe Beach Club, making it a great choice for adults looking for luxury and relaxation. Dining is another highlight, with Ocean Blue, Le Bistro, and Cagney’s Steakhouse standing out among its many specialty restaurants.
What Passengers Think
Passengers praise the friendly staff, fun activities like go-karting, and smooth embarkation. However, overcrowding in popular venues, inconsistent food quality in complimentary dining, and unreliable Wi-Fi are common complaints.
Norwegian Escape (2015)
Launch Date: 2015
Capacity: 4,266 passengers, 1,733 crew
Ship Class: Breakaway Plus
Length: 1,069 ft. (326 m)
Size: 164,600 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.7/5)
From the moment you step aboard Norwegian Escape, it’s clear that this ship was built for big, bold fun. The massive 678 Ocean Place spans three decks and serves as the hub for entertainment, dining, and nightlife. The ship offers 28 bars and restaurants, including standouts like Le Bistro, Cagney’s Steakhouse, and the first-at-sea Margaritaville.
Broadway-caliber entertainment is another highlight, with performances like The Choir of Man drawing rave reviews. The top deck is packed with thrills, from a multi-level ropes course to four adrenaline-pumping water slides. With its vibrant nightlife and diverse offerings, Escape is ideal for energetic travelers looking for a lively, action-packed cruise experience.
What Passengers Think
The ship earns high marks for its specialty dining, impressive entertainment, and comfortable cabins. That said, some struggle with packed pools, extended wait times for meals, and casino noise.
Norwegian Getaway (2014)
Launch Date: 2014
Capacity: 4,028 passengers, 1,595 crew
Ship Class: Breakaway
Length: 1,068 ft. (325 m)
Size: 145,655 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.3/5)
Norwegian Getaway brings a Miami-inspired flair to cruising with bold hull art, lively outdoor spaces, and a social, high-energy atmosphere. The 678 Ocean Place atrium is the heart of the action, with a mix of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues. The Waterfront on Deck 8, a quarter-mile outdoor promenade, offers alfresco dining with ocean views.
Norwegian Getaway is packed with thrill-seeking activities, including a ropes course, five water slides, and zip lines. For those looking for entertainment and variety, Getaway delivers—whether it’s Broadway-caliber shows like Million Dollar Quartet or a relaxing escape at Spice H2O and Vibe Beach Club.
What Passengers Think
Guests appreciate the variety of activities, top-notch dining, and welcoming crew. Still, many mention crowding, uneven buffet quality, and a lack of peaceful retreats.
Norwegian Breakaway (2013)
Launch Date: 2013
Capacity: 3,963 passengers, 1,657 crew
Ship Class: Breakaway
Length: 1,068 ft. (325 m)
Size: 146,600 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3/5)
Norwegian Breakaway is renowned for its resort-like entertainment, diverse dining, and plenty of onboard activities. The 678 Ocean Place atrium is the social hub, packed with bars, restaurants, and theaters, while the Waterfront on Deck 8 provides alfresco dining and ocean views.
Entertainment highlights onboard include Six, Burn the Floor, and Velvet, while the sports complex and water slides keep active cruisers busy. However, Freestyle Dining requires planning, as popular venues book up quickly. For those willing to pay extra, The Haven and Vibe Beach Club offer a quieter, more exclusive experience.
What Passengers Think
Passengers enjoy the friendly crew, lively entertainment, and dining options. Despite this, overcrowding, long waits, and aging interiors are common complaints.
Norwegian Epic (2010)
Launch Date: 2010
Capacity: 4,100 passengers, 1,738 crew
Ship Class: Epic
Length: 1,081 ft. (329 m)
Size: 155,873 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.2/5)
True to its name, Norwegian Epic is a massive floating resort packed with non-stop entertainment, diverse dining, and vibrant nightlife. One of NCL’s most unique ships, it was among the first to bring a Las Vegas-style experience at sea, with a bustling casino, Broadway-style shows like Burn the Floor, and a variety of specialty restaurants.
The ship is known for its bold, unconventional design, including split-bath cabins that some passengers love (and others find awkward). The Aqua Park, featuring water slides and a rock climbing wall, keeps families entertained, while the adults-only Spice H2O sun deck offers a quieter retreat.
What Passengers Think
Passengers praise Epic’s diverse entertainment, dining options, and friendly staff. However, its unusual cabin layout, crowded spaces, and long waits at bars and restaurants can be frustrating.
Norwegian Pearl (2006)
Launch Date: 2006
Capacity: 2,394 passengers, 1,099 crew
Ship Class: Jewel Class
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Size: 93,530 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Norwegian Pearl is a mid-sized ship celebrated for its energetic atmosphere and late-night entertainment. The ship’s unique decor, featuring colorful artwork and jewel-toned carpets, sets a fun and welcoming tone. The Bar City corridor, home to multiple bars and lounges, is a hub of activity in the evenings, while the two-story atrium offers a cozy yet spacious gathering place.
The Pearl’s dining is a highlight, with more than a dozen venues, including fan-favorites like O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill and Cagney’s Steakhouse. The refurbishment in 2017 brought refreshed staterooms and updated public spaces, ensuring Pearl remains modern and comfortable.
What Passengers Think
Passengers praise Norwegian Pearl’s friendly crew, great dining, and well-kept spaces. However, embarkation can be chaotic, and crowds gather at peak spots.
Norwegian Gem (2007)
Launch Date: 2007
Capacity: 2,394 passengers, 1,070 crew
Ship Class: Jewel Class
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Size: 93,530 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.8/5)
With its mid-sized design and friendly atmosphere, Norwegian Gem is a go-to choice for those who prefer a more personal cruise experience. The ship’s two-story atrium is a lively hub for entertainment, featuring live music, trivia, and social gatherings.
Norwegian Gem’s dining is a major highlight, with popular specialty restaurants like Le Bistro, Cagney’s Steakhouse, and La Cucina, while casual venues like O’Sheehan’s offer 24/7 comfort food. The Glow Party and lively theme nights bring an energetic vibe, while plenty of quieter spaces cater to those looking for a more relaxed experience.
What Passengers Think
Passengers appreciate Norwegian Gem’s smooth embarkation, excellent specialty dining, and mid-sized ship layout that avoids overcrowding. However, some find the main dining and buffet food inconsistent, and parts of the ship show signs of wear.
Norwegian Jade (2006)
Launch Date: 2006
Capacity: 2,402 passengers, 1,100 crew
Ship Class: Jewel Class
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Size: 93,558 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)
Norwegian Jade may be one of NCL’s older ships, but thanks to a major refurbishment under the Norwegian Edge program, it feels fresh and modern. The revamped atrium, contemporary décor, and updated dining venues give the ship a more upscale feel while maintaining the casual Freestyle Cruising experience.
The ship’s entertainment lineup is a standout, featuring a Cirque-style show, live music, comedians, and magicians. Dining options include Cagney’s Steakhouse, Moderno Churrascaria, and O’Sheehan’s, though the smaller size of the ship means fewer specialty dining venues than on larger NCL ships. Jade’s size allows it to access smaller, unique ports, making it a great choice for itinerary-focused cruisers.
What Passengers Think
Passengers enjoy the great entertainment, smooth embarkation, and well-kept staterooms. However, food quality varies, drink service is slow, and daytime activities are limited.
Norwegian Jewel (2005)
Launch Date: 2005
Capacity: 2,376 passengers, 1,100 crew
Ship Class: Jewel Class
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Size: 93,502 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.5/5)
Norwegian Jewel is a mid-sized cruise ship that delivers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with plenty of entertainment and dining choices. The ship’s laid-back Freestyle Cruising vibe allows guests to dine when and where they want, whether it’s at O’Sheehan’s 24-hour pub, the ever-popular Cagney’s Steakhouse, or the revamped Bliss Ultra Lounge for cocktails and late-night dancing.
The ship’s live music, aerial acts, and game shows keep entertainment lively, while digital screens make it easy to book dining and excursions on the go. Norwegian Jewel’s smaller size allows it to visit ports that larger ships can’t, making it a great option for travelers looking for unique itineraries without sacrificing comfort.
What Passengers Think
Guests love the friendly crew, diverse dining, and manageable ship size. However, some areas feel dated, and embarkation can be slow at some ports.
Pride of America (2005)
Launch Date: 2005
Capacity: 2,186 passengers, 950 crew
Length: 920 ft. (280 m)
Size: 80,439 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
Pride of America is a U.S.-flagged large cruise ship that exclusively sails Hawaiian itineraries without needing a stop in a foreign port. This allows guests to maximize their time in the islands, spending every day in port exploring Oahu, Maui, the Big Island, and Kauai. The ship itself is a floating tribute to American heritage, with décor and venues inspired by iconic U.S. landmarks, from Jefferson’s Bistro to the Gold Rush Saloon.
Dining options on the ship include the casual 24-hour Cadillac Diner, Skyline Restaurant, and specialty venues like Cagney’s Steakhouse and the Napa Wine Bar. Guests can also enjoy live music, Broadway-style performances, as well as hula dancing and lei-making activities. Though some areas show signs of aging, the ship’s 2016 renovation improved cabins, lounges, and common areas.
What Passengers Think
Passengers appreciate the smooth embarkation, clean staterooms, and incredible Hawaiian itinerary. However, some report inconsistent food, limited entertainment, and signs of wear despite renovations.
Norwegian Dawn (2002)
Launch Date: 2002
Capacity: 2,340 passengers, 1,032 crew
Ship Class: Dawn Class
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Size: 92,250 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
Norwegian Dawn is a well-loved mid-sized ship known for its inviting atmosphere, diverse dining options, and engaging entertainment. Guests can choose from 11 restaurants, including complimentary venues like O’Sheehan’s and Bamboo, or indulge in specialty dining at Le Bistro, Los Lobos, or Cagney’s Steakhouse.
The ship’s vibrant entertainment scene includes comedy shows, musical performances, and Second City improv acts, and there’s always a lively energy throughout the ship. Despite some signs of aging, the ship offers a fun and welcoming vibe, making it an excellent choice for travelers who prefer a smaller, more intimate cruise experience.
What Passengers Think
Guests enjoy the attentive crew, manageable ship size, and the chance to visit smaller, less crowded ports. Still, embarkation issues, limited dining variety, and aging venues are common concerns.
Norwegian Sun (2001)
Launch Date: 2001
Capacity: 1,936 passengers, 906 crew
Ship Class: Sun Class
Length: 848 ft. (258 m)
Size: 78,309 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
Norwegian Sun remains a solid choice for those who enjoy a more intimate, relaxed cruise experience. After a 2018 refurbishment, the ship received a modern refresh, including updated cabins, new specialty restaurants like Los Lobos Cantina, and vibrant social spots like Bliss Ultra Lounge.
Onboard dining options range from two main dining rooms and a buffet to specialty venues like Le Bistro and Cagney’s Steakhouse. The ship offers a casual, friendly atmosphere and a variety of engaging activities, from game shows to live music in Spinnaker Lounge. Norwegian Sun is perfect for Alaska, the Caribbean, and the Panama Canal, where destinations take center stage.
What Passengers Think
Guests love the attentive crew, intimate setting, and access to less-visited ports. Still, some report dated cabins, uneven food quality, and entertainment that’s less extravagant than on larger ships.
Norwegian Star (2001)
Launch Date: 2001
Capacity: 2,240 passengers, 1,100 crew
Ship Class: Dawn Class
Length: 965 ft. (294 m)
Size: 91,740 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3.2/5)
Norwegian Star is one of NCL’s older ships, but it still delivers a well-rounded cruise experience. Guests can enjoy diverse dining, engaging entertainment, and vibrant social spaces. The ship is home to over 10 restaurants, including Japanese, French, and Tex-Mex cuisine, alongside multiple bars and lounges.
Norwegian Star offers an easy-to-navigate layout and a more intimate feel compared to NCL’s larger ships. The ship frequently sails to unique destinations, including Europe, the Mediterranean, South America, and the Panama Canal. This makes it an appealing choice for travelers seeking varied itineraries over high-tech onboard attractions.
What Passengers Think
Passengers love Norwegian Star’s exciting itineraries, dedicated crew, and excellent specialty dining. However, some note aging areas, inconsistent buffet food, and occasional port disorganization.
Norwegian Sky (1999)
Launch Date: 1999
Capacity: 2,004 passengers, 934 crew
Ship Class: Sun-class
Length: 848 ft (258 m)
Size: 77,104 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (3.5/5)
Norwegian Sky might not be the newest ship in the NCL fleet, but it still delivers a fun and lively cruise experience. Designed for shorter sailings, this mid-sized ship is packed with activities, bars, and dining options that cater to travelers looking for an easygoing getaway.
The ship offers a variety of options to suit every taste, from casual bites at the Garden Café buffet to upscale dining at Cagney’s Steakhouse and Le Bistro. It also features standout areas like the Spinnaker Lounge, which offers panoramic views and late-night entertainment. The Stardust Lounge theater hosts production shows, while the bars and lounges keep the nightlife scene going well into the evening.
What Passengers Think
Guests appreciate the friendly crew and the ship’s well-kept condition, despite its age. Its smaller size makes navigation easy, making it a great choice for a short, budget-friendly cruise.
Norwegian Spirit (1998)
Launch Date: 1998
Capacity: 2,016 passengers, 975 crew
Ship Class: Leo-class
Length: 880 ft (268 m)
Size: 75,904 GT
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2/5)
Norwegian Spirit stands out as a passenger favorite, thanks to a massive $100 million refurbishment in 2020. This revitalization gave the ship an elegant, adult-focused atmosphere, complete with modern décor, refreshed staterooms, and upgraded restaurants.
Onda by Scarpetta, the ship’s upscale Italian eatery, brings a high-end dining experience, while Windows Main Dining Room offers stunning ocean views with its towering, double-height windows. This ship lacks the high-tech features of modern mega-ships, but it provides a warm and inviting atmosphere. Guests enjoy top-tier dining and extended itineraries to destinations like Alaska, Asia, and the South Pacific.
What Passengers Think
Guests praise the attentive crew, diverse dining options, and elegant design following its refurbishment. Many also enjoy the high-quality entertainment and production shows, though cabin sizes are smaller than on newer ships.
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