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20+ Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, and Things to Know

Sailing aboard a Norwegian cruise? You’re no doubt excited, but might have some questions on what exactly to expect and maybe some tips to help your trip go more smoothly. 

Above all, you should know that you’re about to have a great time. Norwegian is a popular cruise line, and one of our personal favorites.

But if you’ve never been on the cruise line, there things to know that can make your trip better. 

Overview: What It’s Like to Sail Aboard Norwegian

Before we get into the things to know, you might be wondering what it’s like to sail aboard Norwegian Cruise Line… and how it is different from other cruise lines. For that, we have an entire guide to sailing NCL here .

In general all those things that you love about taking a cruise on any line apply to Norwegian. If you’ve sailed other lines, you will likely find the experience to be similar overall.

For instance, the ships are almost works of art (especially newer ones) and an engineering marvel. There’s a big focus on things to do on the ship, and it starts with your time around the pool, often with large pool decks, plenty of chairs, as well as things like putt-putt, sport courts, and more to keep everyone occupied. There’s also a big focus on food and drink; there’s no way that you will go hungry or thirsty on your cruise.

But while Norwegian Cruise Line might offer an experience that cruisers know and love, there are some touches that set the cruise line apart from others.

A Focus on Outdoors : While any cruise ship will have outdoor space, Norwegian seems to be on a trend toward opening up the outdoors to the indoors. For instance, some newer ships have observation lounges with tall multi-story windows with 180-degree views. Ships also focus a lot on outdoor dining, and promenades that offer seaviews around the entire ship. NCL also likes to put open promenades down closer to the ocean, putting you closer to the sea.

The Haven : If you’re a cruise passenger with a higher budget, then Norwegian offers The Haven, which is unique to their ships. Instead of just offering a suite, The Haven is essentially a “resort within a resort.” In addition to luxurious (and large) rooms, the area has private entry, its own pool, restaurant, and bar. It offers the small ship experience with larger ship amenities.

Cruise Line Size : We like to think of Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian as the “Big Three” cruise lines. They dominate the market. But when it comes to size, Norwegian is the smallest of these three. What does that mean for you? Once on the ship, it means very little. But when planning, Norwegian sails from fewer ports and has fewer total sailings than its bigger rivals, so you don’t have as many options.

Onboard Expenses: Every cruise line aims to get passengers spending on the ship, but Norwegian seems to have prices that are higher than rivals like Carnival and Royal Caribbean. Internet and drink packages — two major areas of onboard spending — are good examples. Specifically the basic drink package is $109 per person, per day . Compare that to Carnival, which charges around $60. 

Tips & Things to Know About Sailing Norwegian Cruise Lines

Now that you have an idea of what you can expect on board, below we’ve pulled together some of our favorite tips and things to know for sailing on a Norwegian cruise. Use these ideas to make your trip as much fun as possible, but also potentially save money, time, and have a better vacation.

Sail on the Newer Ships When Possible (There’s a Big Difference!)

Over the last few years Norwegian has made big headlines by introducing some of the most extravagant ships at sea. Ships like the Norwegian Joy , Bliss, Encore , Prima , and Viva take cruising to another level with the public areas, restaurants, and things to do on the ship. For instance, you can even ride go-karts or dabble in virtual reality — all on a ship that’s built with a luxury feel (especially the new Prima-class vessels).

While older ships are typically cheaper to sail, we’ve found them smaller and with fewer things to do on board. Unless you only want to sit by the pool and relax, newer ships offer so much more to passengers, and the design and atmosphere is second-to-none.

So if you have the means, we recommend sailing on the newer ships.

Download the Cruise Norwegian App (It’s Free)

Everyone has an app these days, including cruise lines. The big difference? Instead of doing something silly like showing how you will look when you’re older, the cruise line apps — including the  Cruise Norwegian app  — are extremely useful.

Download it for free and you can use it for tons of things on the ship. It includes deck plans (so you don’t get lost), an overview of your onboard spending, the daily schedules, and you can even book reservations and excursions. Best of all, you don’t have to purchase wi-fi on the ship to use the app. It can save you a ton of time and headache.

Make Reservations Early (As Early As You Can)

These days there is a lot to do on new ships from specialty restaurants to activities onboard. Some Norwegian ships even have go-kart tracks at sea ! The thing is that with thousands of people on the ship and only a certain amount of open spots, the restaurants and things to do can fill up quickly. That’s why Norwegian has implemented a reservation system.

One piece of advice — sign up as early as you know you want to do something. Space is at a premium. You can do so through the app, through your online account, via phone, or once you are on the ship. No matter how you do it, just make sure you try and reserve a spot early so that you don’t miss out.

The “Free at Sea” Offer May Still Cost Gratuities

One of the big draws to Norwegian has been their  “Free at Sea” offer . You book a cabin and you can get the regular bare-bones fare, or you can get a number of perks included for a slightly fare. The perks include everything from shore excursion credit to alcohol packages to wi-fi.

You can choose whether or not to take advantage of the deal and even which perks you would like.

One thing to watch out for is gratuity. If you select an option that typically has gratuity — like the alcoholic drink package — then you still have to pay this amount. For instance, the drink package is normally $109 per person, per day. But it also has a 20% gratuity on top of that. So even with the free drinks offer, you’re paying around $20 per day. A couple on a weeklong cruise would pay a total of about $300 in gratuities on the free drink offer.

Keep this in mind. You’re still getting a good deal as far as a drink package for $20, but it might be an added expense you didn’t realize you’d have to pay.

Know That Prices for “Free at Sea” Are Often Higher (But Usually Not By Much)

We mentioned the “Free at Sea” offer above that’s been popular for Norwegian. Depending on which cabin you cruise, you can get a number of freebies included with your cruise like free drinks or free wi-fi.

One thing to watch, however, is that you actually end up paying more for the ‘free’ perk. For instance, we did a recent search for a balcony cabin on an upcoming 7-night cruise. The headline price shown was $1,599 per person, for a “sail away” balcony. This is a cabin where Norwegian picks your room, and it isn’t eligible for any of the perks in the “Free at Sea” offer.

Want to get perks included? The cheapest balcony cabin in our example search with the free perks was $1,649 — $50 more per person . This $50 per person increase seems to be consistent in our check.

That’s not exactly “free,” but it’s a small price to pay for a drink package, wi-fi, shore excursion credit, and specialty dining.

Norwegian Casinos Are a Great Place to Learn Games

Lots of people that go on cruises love the casino. It’s a fun way to spend some time at sea whether you’re a serious gambler or just like to bet a few bucks.

Always wanted to try a new casino game but been too intimidated? That’s understandable. It’s scary to saddle up next to a bunch of pros at a blackjack table or when rolling dice in a craps game.

On Norwegian, the casino offers daily classes on games. Here, newbies can take their turn learning the rules and playing practice rounds without risking cash.

Even without the classes, cruise ship casinos are a great place to get your feet wet with new games. Limits are low , making it less intimidating for beginners.

Want to Cruise Hawaii? Norwegian Is Your Best Bet (Here’s Why)

Is Hawaii on your bucket list? Then check out cruises aboard NCL’s Pride of America. Through U.S. law, foreign-flagged vessels can’t pick up passengers from an American port and take to to another American port without having a stop in a foreign country. The vast majority of cruise ships are flagged under a foreign nation. That means to go to Hawaii, they have to put in a visit to another country along the way. 

That’s why most cruise lines leave a port like Los Angeles, sail to Hawaii, and then return for a quick visit to Mexico before heading home. Given the distance, it ends up to be a lot of time at sea.

NCL, however, operates Pride of America — the only major cruise ship we know of that’s flagged under the United States. That means it can sail all around the Hawaiian Islands, instead of spending days traveling to another country to comply with the law. So instead of spending days at sea, you spend more time exploring Hawaii and simply fly back and forth from the mainland.

Dine Outside for Fantastic Views

For some reason cruise ships seem to keep getting bigger and better but continue to bring you more inside to the shops and the restaurants. One thing that Norwegian does really well is give passengers places to connect with the ocean. One example is their outside dining.

Now, you might think that sitting outside to eat during a cruise is pretty simple. Truth is, there’s a lot to take into consideration, including the sun, rain, and the constant wind as the ship is underway.

Norwegian, however, takes all this into account with covered spots to eat that are also out of the wind. The result? A number of great places where you can sit outside, sip a drink, and enjoy a meal without having to worry about a sunburn or the wind carrying your napkin away.

The Fish (Or Other Designs) Face Forward to Tell You Where You’re Headed

A quick and easy tip to help you get your bearings on the ship — the fish face forward. Let us explain…

In the halls of the ship where there aren’t any windows, it’s easy to get turned around. All the cabin doors look the same and the hallways are long. You could walk for hundreds of feet before realizing you’re going in the wrong direction. In this case, just look down.

Many Norwegian ships have carpets with a design with lots of small fish. Other ships it’s a design with random triangles. As an aid to passengers, all the of these face forward. So you are walking in the direction of the fish or the triangles on the carpet, you’re going forward. Walking the opposite direction? Then you’re headed aft.

This can save you a lot of time, frustration, and wasted steps as you leave the cabin and head to go have fun. Look down, and the fish will tell you where to go.

Get Your Spot at the Pool Early on Harvest Caye

One of the favorite stops by Norwegian ships is Harvest Caye . The private island in the southwest Caribbean is a beach-lover’s paradise. There’s ample space to lay out by the beach, a huge freshwater pool, restaurants, bars, shops, ziplines and more. And because it’s only for Norwegian cruise ships, it’s like your own personal paradise.

One tip is to head to the pool first thing on the island and stake out a spot. Even visiting on a smaller ship, we’ve found that the chairs around the pool fill up quickly. It’s by far the most popular spot on the island.

If you head over in the late morning or early afternoon, there might not be a single open chair. During our visit we didn’t hit the pool until the peak time and had to just set our stuff on the ground. Crowds are much thinner in the early morning or late afternoon when many have headed back to the ship already.

Now, we’re not saying to be a chair hog. So don’t just set your stuff down and leave. But if you know you want some pool time, try to do it early.

Head to the 24-Hour Restaurant for Fresher Food

While cruise ship buffets are on every ship, not everyone is a fan of them. Want something fresher that’s made special for you? Head to the 24-hour restaurant on the ship.

Each Norwegian ship will have a restaurant (O’Sheehans on some, The Local on others) that serves around the clock. Have a seat, get whatever you want on the menu, and you don’t have to pay anything. The nice part is that there is a variety of things to eat, and it’s prepared for you instead of being intended to feed the masses.

Are You an Investor? You Could Get Up to $250 Onboard Credit

Most of the major cruise lines are actually part of larger public companies, including Norwegian. That means you can actually own a stake in the ship that you sail. Shares of the company trade under the ticker “NCLH”. And for those owning at least 100 shares at the time of sailing, then you are eligible for a shareholder benefit.

The amount of the benefit depends on the length of your cruise, and is currently set as follows:

• $250 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings of 15 days or more
• $100 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings of 7 to 14 days
• $50 onboard credit per stateroom on sailings of 6 days or fewer

You’ll need to submit some documentation before you sail. If you want to take advantage, then you can read more about the benefit here .

No Reservation? There Might Still Be Space Available

Miss out on making a reservation before a specialty restaurant was booked up? Head down anyway. Reservations are important, but there is still a chance you can get a seat.

Often times people make reservations and then don’t show. Or other times there is still a space, even if the reservation list is full.

The best bet is to show up early or late in the dining time — not during the peak when most people want to eat. In fact, we’ve personally showed up to a restaurant that had a full reservation list and found it largely empty when it first opened, allowing us to grab dinner with no problem.

NCL Has the Youngest (Major) Fleet in the Industry

There’s no arguing that the salt and sun take a toll on anything near the coast — especially ships. At the same time, the pace of development on cruise ships is breathtaking. A ship built 20 years ago barely even compares to a ship built today.

That’s why it’s noteworthy that NCL features the youngest fleet of any of the major cruise lines. In fact, its oldest ship was built just over 20 years ago, but many more ships have been built recently. And with the addition of its Prima class — where one new ship is slated to join the fleet each year through 2027 — that fleet should continue to stay fresh.

Want a Deal? Look for the Drink of the Day

On some cruise lines, the Drink of the Day isn’t anything special. The cruise line literally just calls a drink the “Drink of the Day” to make it seem special and charges the same amount.

Norwegian is different. On their cruises the Drink of the Day is actually discounted a couple of bucks. So if a cocktail is normally $11, it will be priced at only $9. It’s a small difference, but it’s nice to get a little discount. So not only can you try something new each day, but you can also save money doing so.

Be Prepared For Higher Prices

As mentioned above, Norwegian’s “Free at Sea” offering is popular… and for good reason. For just a little more, you can get a lot of extras included with your cruise. This can be everything from wi-fi minutes to drink packages to shore excursion credit. 

One thing to note, however, is that if you don’t opt for this — and even if you do — you should be prepared for higher prices than what you see on many other lines. 

We mentioned that the drink package starts at $109 per person, per day plus a 20% gratuity. That’s considerably higher than most lines. Unlimited wi-fi runs as much as $40 per day. Gratuities cost $20 per person, per day for most cabins (and $25 for higher-end rooms). Then there are charges for things like the go-karts and the Galaxy Pavilion (a high-end video gaming experience) on newer ships.

Bottom line, it seems that NCL prices many things at a premium. Don’t have sticker shock.

Weather at Great Stirrup Cay Can Cause Cancellations

You wake up, the sun is shining, the sea is blue, and your day at Great Stirrup Cay (NCL’s private island) is… cancelled?

Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas is a must-see. It features beautiful beaches, activities, food, and more, and it’s all for the exclusive use of NCL passengers. But the ship anchors offshore and then a smaller boat (a tender) brings you in.

Unfortunately, we’ve been on a cruise where the stop was cancelled because, while the weather was beautiful, it was too windy for the tenders to operate. Instead, we spent the day at sea. To be sure, it is disappointing. Just know that since there is no dock, weather is a bigger issue on if you’ll actually be able to visit.

Sugarcane Mojito Bar Can’t Miss

Every cruise line has their own unique bars like Carnival’s Alchemy Bar or Royal Caribbean’s Bionic Bar. One of the special ones on NCL is the Sugarcane Mojito Bar.

This spot features an intimate setting that’s filled with comfy leather seats and dark wood panels that give you a Cuban vibe. But what’s special is the menu. It’s all focused on mojitos.

You can try a jalapeno cucumber mojito, or a pineapple coconut style. One that we thought sounded most interesting is the Floridita, made with Bacardi, grapefruit juice, maraschino liqueur, and lime.

Even if you’re not a huge mojito fan, the vibe and atmosphere is something you’ll want to stop and enjoy.

Bring White (or Neon) Clothing for the Party

One tip is if you are sailing the Caribbean, you’ll want to bring some white or neon clothing with you. On trips to this area, the cruise line often puts on white — or now moving to “glow” — parties on the pool deck. So you’ll head out to poolside at night, listen to some music, dance, and generally have a great time while all glammed up in either white or neon.

And after the main party, there is likely an afterparty located in the ship’s nightclub.

Wi-Fi Package Prices Fall Through the Trip

There’s no arguing that NCL likes to push prices higher. In fact, cruise line executives have said as much. That can lead to some pricey items on the ship. For example, the highest-tier of wi-fi service runs a staggering $40 per day if bought onboard, and you buy service for a whole cruise.

But there is a way you can save some money. We’ve noticed with sailing NCL that after each day you can still buy the Internet package, but the total cost reduces day by day. So if you buy the $40 service on the first day of a 7-day cruise, you’ll pay about $280 for the trip. Wait until the next day, and the price drops to around $240, and so on.

So if you can go without for a couple of days at the start of the cruise, you should be able to save some considerable money.

Boarding Early Means Waiting on a Cabin

We all want to get on the ship early and start our vacation. What we’ve noticed, however, is that boarding early (before 1-2 p.m.) usually means having to wait for your cabin to be ready. So you’ll board the ship and find that the doorways to the cabin hallways will be closed off.

You can still enjoy the ship, but you’ll either have to drop off your luggage as you board and come back later to pick it up (there is a location where they will hold bags until rooms are ready), or explore the ship with your bag in tow.

Or you can just wait to board later and be able to go right to your room as you get on the ship.

Souvenir Glasses Make Cool Keepsakes

Souvenir glasses for drinks aren’t anything new in cruising. But often they are honestly pretty tacky or gaudy. They may be fun on the cruise ship, but they are nothing you’d really use at home.

On Norwegian Cruise Line, it’s a bit different. They offer souvenir glasses you can take home, but they offer cool styles. For instance, there is a porcelain tiki glass that would be perfect for sipping something in the summer back home. Or maybe you’d rather a porcelain pineapple mug?

The point is, instead of being junky plastic cups that get tossed after a few months, these glasses are things that you’ll actually want to use back home. 

Norwegian Doesn’t Allow Drinks Onboard

Something to know for those soda drinkers who might have a favorite brand — NCL as a whole serves Coca-Cola products. You won’t find Pepsi or other products from that company on the ship.

As well, Norwegian also doesn’t let you bring on beverages (other than a bottle of wine/champagne) when you board, unlike other cruise lines. So you can’t just bring on your preferred beverage for your trip.

So if you have a drink that you just can’t live without, then you’re going to have to wait until you reach a port of call.

More on Sailing NCL:

Worth It? Complete Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) Drink Package Guide

• Norwegian Cruise Line Gratuities (Tips): Full Guide to Cost & How They Work

Good Deal? Everything to Know About Norwegian’s “Free At Sea” Sale

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Best Hawaii cruise shore excursions

A Hawaii cruise offers a convenient way to island-hop as you experience Oahu, Maui, Kauai and the island of Hawaii from both sea and land — but what exactly should you do while ashore? Choosing a cruise shore excursion in Hawaii can be tough since the 50th State offers a wide range of activities, including snorkeling and whale watching, visits to historic landmarks and sacred Hawaiian sites, and scenic excursions to breathtaking canyons and volcanoes. Foodies, fans of Hollywood blockbusters and thrill-seekers can easily get their fix, too.

With an average of eight to 10 hours on each island — although some cruises do stay overnight in select ports — it's possible to enjoy experiences that not only explore Hawaii's best-known natural, cultural and historic sites but also satisfy your own personal interests.

While shore excursion offerings, itineraries and prices vary by cruise line, here are our overall picks for the best Hawaii cruise shore excursions and what you can expect to pay.

For more TPG news delivered each morning to your inbox, sign up for our daily newsletter .

Prices may vary among third-party sellers, and from cruise line to cruise line. To account for that, we are using the following price key to help you get an idea of the costs to expect for each tour.

• $ = under $70.
• $$ = $70-$140.
• $$$ = $140-$200.
• $$$$ = over $200.

Honolulu, Oahu

Pearl Harbor

Price: $$-$$$

Pearl Harbor, one of Oahu's best-known sights, can be tricky to visit on your own because the historic World War II memorials commemorating the Dec. 7, 1941 bombing by the Japanese are located on an active military base with stringent security protocols. (No bags of any size are allowed and phones and wallets must be carried in a clear plastic bag or in a pocket.) A guided tour will get you into Pearl Harbor in a hassle-free manner and make it easy to visit the multiple sites — the USS Arizona Memorial, the USS Missouri battleship, USS Bowfin submarine and the Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum — with the required reservations already arranged.

Some cruise lines offer multiple Pearl Harbor excursions with variations in the sites visited, so be sure to read tour descriptions carefully. If your cruise begins or ends in Honolulu, Pearl Harbor visits are often offered on embarkation or disembarkation day packaged with a hotel or airport transfer. Other Pearl Harbor shore excursions include a Honolulu city tour that visits Diamond Head Crater and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.

Important to know: Most Pearl Harbor shore excursions last five to seven hours and are appropriate for all ages. There is quite a bit of walking involved and some stair climbing is required to visit the USS Missouri, where the formal surrender ceremony by the Japanese took place on Sept. 2, 1945, ending WWII. The somber USS Arizona Memorial, where 1,177 sailors and civilians died (many of them entombed in the sunken wreck) is reached by a short boat ride.

Related: Shore excursions: What new cruisers need to know

Diamond Head Crater hike

Diamond Head Crater, the photogenic volcanic landmark seen in many images of Waikiki Beach, isn't just amazing to look at — it's also incredible to climb. Active cruisers can take on the challenge during a guided Diamond Head adventure hike to its 763-foot summit. The payoff? Stunning 360-degree views of Waikiki, downtown Honolulu and the Pacific Ocean.

This excursion requires you to ascend a series of moderate but sometimes uneven switchback trails followed by a walk through a narrow 200-foot tunnel. You'll then climb up two sets of steep stairs (76 steps and 99 steps, respectively). Those who choose the more difficult route to the summit will need to climb the 99 steps and an interior spiral staircase to reach the historic lookout bunkers. If you choose the easier route to the summit up the scenic Loop Trail, you'll then descend into the bunker and down the spiral staircase and 99 steps. You can also retrace your steps and descend on the Loop Trail.

Important to know: Book an early morning tour if it's offered, since temperatures escalate quickly by midmorning; wear sneakers and a hat and bring sunscreen and water. The hike is about 1.6 miles roundtrip and takes 60 to 90 minutes depending on the group and the number of people on the trail; total tour time is three to three and a half hours.

Oahu's North Shore tour

If you've visited Honolulu before or simply prefer scenic locales to cities, a good option is a tour that whisks you away from the bustle of downtown Honolulu and Waikiki and through the Ko'oalu Mountains to the immersive beauty of Oahu's North Shore. This lush and dramatic coastline is known for the big waves that pound its beaches from October to March and for its waterfalls, sugarcane fields and historic fish ponds. The region is visually stunning and its small towns offer a chance to sample Hawaiian cuisine, especially garlic shrimp, and shop for locally grown products such as macadamia nuts and pineapples.

Highlights include big-wave surfers riding the famed Banzai Pipeline (during winter months); the Byodo Temple, a Buddhist shrine built amid towering green peaks in 1968 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first Japanese immigrants to Hawaii; the waterfalls of Waimea Valley; and historic Haleiwa Town.

Important to know: North Shore excursions are typically five to seven hours in length with at least half the time spent on the tour bus. On sailings that end in Honolulu, some cruise lines offer panoramic North Shore tours combined with an airport drop-off (available for those with flights departing after 5:00 p.m.).

Iolani Palace and Hawaiian Monarchs tour

If Hawaii's royal history intrigues you, some cruise lines offer excursions that visit Iolani Palace, the final residence of the islands' kings and queens, and other sites of royal significance. Constructed in 1882, Iolani is the only royal palace in the United States; it was home to King Kalakaua, who built it, and his sister and successor, Queen Liliuokalani, who was imprisoned there after the U.S. annexed Hawaii. A circa-1883 statue of King Kamehameha I, who unified the Hawaiian Islands in 1810, and Kawaiahao Church, completed in 1842, are also nearby in downtown Honolulu.

Other royal sites that might be visited on a more extensive tour include the Pali Lookout, where Kamehameha I conquered the island of Oahu in 1795, and Mauna Ala, the royal mausoleum where six of the last eight Hawaiian monarchs are entombed.

Important to know: Most Iolani Palace and royal-focused shore excursions last about four hours and combine a bus tour with a self-guided audio tour of the palace.

Related: 10 cruise ship excursions to avoid

Kahului, Maui

Haleakala Crater

Price: $$$-$$$$

Experiencing Haleakala Crater is on many Maui visitors' must-do lists and there are several ways to visit the slumbering 10,023-foot-tall volcanic peak that dominates the island's landscape. (Don't worry – it last erupted in 1790.) A few shore excursion options require that your cruise ship overnights in Kahului, the main port, or Lahaina, or has a late sail-away time.

Haleakala means "House of the Sun" and perhaps the most surreal experiences are tours at sunrise or sunset (available on sailings that overnight in Maui). To experience sunrise high above the clouds you'll need to depart the ship before 3:00 a.m. and wind your way up Haleakala's curving roadway in total darkness before watching the sun brighten the horizon and illuminate the vast 3,000-feet-deep crater with its dramatic orange-hued cinder cones. In contrast, a sunset tour lets you survey the crater and then watch as the sun disappears below the clouds and the night sky fills with twinkling stars. If you just want to experience Haleakala's scenic slopes and crater in daylight, panoramic sightseeing tours are also available.

If you're more adventurous, there are also Haleakala downhill biking tours, which transport you by minibus to an elevation of 6,500 feet and let you ride 14 miles down the switchback road on Haleakala's slopes amid the farms of Upcountry. Most bike tours do not offer access to the summit and crater.

Important to know: Haleakala tours typically last four to seven hours. Because of Haleakala's high altitude and volcanic nature, they aren't recommended for anyone with respiratory or heart problems. Temperatures are much cooler (45 to 65 degrees) at the summit, so bring a sweater or jacket.

Road to Hana

Driving Maui's legendary Road to Hana, a narrow, twisting, 52-mile route with more than 600 hairpin curves and 59 one-lane bridges, takes considerable concentration — but a Road to Hana tour on a professionally driven minibus frees everyone in your travel group to relax and enjoy the epic scenery along the way. Most cruise lines offer full-day excursions to Hana, a low-key hamlet located on the island's east coast amid jagged volcanic rocks and black-sand beaches.

Besides the thrill of this one-of-a-kind drive, which takes two to three hours to navigate, a Road to Hana excursion offers a chance to experience Maui's splendid bays and lush landscape of lava pinnacles, tropical fruit trees, giant ferns and rushing waterfalls. Highlights include the black-sand beach at Wai'anapanapa State Park, Pua'a Ka'a State Park and the Seven Sacred Pools of Ohe'o Gulch with its multiple cascades and soothing natural pools.

Important to know: Road to Hana excursions typically take nine to 10 hours, include lunch and aren't recommended for anyone prone to motion sickness. Sites visited vary by cruise line and some tours allow time for swimming.

Molokini Crater snorkel

Maui is home to one of the premier snorkel spots in Hawaii: Molokini, a mostly submerged crescent-shaped volcanic islet located about 2.5 miles off Maui's southern coast. This protected marine conservation site is reached via a scenic catamaran sail, during which guides will outfit you with snorkel gear and provide instructions for exploring these crystal-clear reef waters teeming with colorful sea life. Some excursions also visit Turtle Arches, lava formations known for frequent sea turtle sightings, and during humpback season (December to April), it's also possible to spot whales in the area.

Important to know: Molokini Crater snorkel tours are generally four hours long and all equipment, as well as breakfast, lunch or snacks and beverages, are provided. Water conditions can vary, so if seasickness is a problem, take that into consideration before booking.

Related: Ship-sponsored vs. independent shore excursions on cruises: Which should you book?

Whale watching

If you're cruising Hawaii between December and April and you're fascinated by whales, Maui offers a terrific opportunity to see pods of humpbacks in their winter playground. More than 10,000 of these charismatic giants migrate here annually to mate and give birth. Their activities — tail slaps, breaches and calves swimming alongside their mothers — are all on display as you venture out in a whale-watching boat, or perhaps a more adventurous Zodiac. Most tours are led by naturalist guides, and in some cases a portion of the cost is earmarked for conservation through the Pacific Whale Foundation.

Important to know: Expect to spend about three hours at sea as guides search for whales; sightings, while likely, aren't always guaranteed. Water conditions can also vary and seasickness is a possibility.

Nawiliwili, Kauai

Waimea Canyon tour

Price: $-$$

Nicknamed the "Grand Canyon of the Pacific," Waimea Canyon is a 10-mile-long gorge known for the dramatic red and green hues of craggy cliffs that extend up to 3,000 feet below its rim. Located within Waimea Canyon State Park, which now requires reservations for individual visits, this scenic treasure can be viewed from lookout points.

A shore excursion that allows for about 30 minutes of viewing and picture taking is certainly the easiest way to see the canyon from a cruise ship. These tours include lots of scenic touring during the 90-minute drive each way between the cruise terminal and the canyon; many stop at the Spouting Horn blowhole or small towns in Kauai's Koloa district.

But there are caveats, namely that rainy conditions on Kauai, which is Hawaii's wettest island, can fog in the gorge and make for a disappointing outing. Kauai's driest months are April to September.

Important to know: Most Waimea Canyon excursions take four to five hours; some longer Best of Kauai excursions combine a visit to the canyon with a Wailua River cruise to the Fern Grotto.

Related: Best time to cruise Hawaii

Hollywood in Hawaii tour

Fans of "Jurassic Park" probably know that much of the 1993 Steven Spielberg movie was filmed on Kauai — but a number of other big-screen and TV classics were, too. Movie-set tours are popular excursions, especially for film buffs. These tours take place on minibuses or motor coaches outfitted with TV screens, so you can watch snippets of Hollywood movies where they were filmed and, in some places, get out and snap photos yourself.

Besides "Jurassic Park," other movies and TV shows filmed on the island include "Tropic Thunder," "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Six Days and Seven Nights," "Blue Hawaii," "South Pacific," "Donovan's Reef," "Gilligan's Island," "Fantasy Island" and "The Amazing Race."

Important to know: Most movie-set excursions take about five to six hours and primarily involve scenic touring — so even if you haven't seen the movies, it's an entertaining and comfortable way to sightsee Kauai.

Wailua River cruise and Fern Grotto

Price: $$ - $$$

Kauai is home to Hawaii's only navigable river, the Wailua River, which offers access to one of its lushest hidden spots: the Fern Grotto. This excursion combines a relaxing cruise with insights into Hawaiian culture and entertainment in the form of Hawaiian song and dance. The tourist boats that navigate this peaceful river through Wailua River State Park are run by a local family with members providing commentary.

Access to the Fern Grotto, a natural lava-rock cave covered with lush tropical vines, requires a 10-minute walk along a mostly flat, paved and shaded path. Upon arrival at the Fern Grotto, photo ops and additional entertainment await. Wailua River cruise tours also generally stop for picture-taking at Opaeka'a Falls, a 151-foot cascade that plunges into a secluded pool.

Important to know: Most Wailua River and Fern Grotto excursions are three to four hours long. Tours that combine those sights with a tour of Waimea Canyon last about seven hours and include lunch.

 Hilo, Hawaii

Hawaii Volcanoes National Park

While Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, one of Hawaii's most popular tourist attractions, is accessible from both cruise ports on the island of Hawaii, it's a quicker trip (about 30 to 35 minutes' drive each way) from Hilo. Most cruise lines offer excursions, but almost all of them are just a basic introduction that only touches on what this 505-square-mile national park has to offer.

The main activity involves visiting several viewpoints and steam vents on the rim of Kilauea Crater with a guide who offers commentary on this active volcano's history, geology and current status. It's unlikely you'll see molten lava, and most tours do not drive out along the famous Chain of Craters Road. Some tours, however, do include a walk through the 500-year-old Thurston Lava Tube.

Other longer and more costly excursions of up to seven hours combine a visit to the national park with a helicopter flight-seeing tour and/or stops at various waterfalls or gardens near Hilo.

Important to know: Standard Hawaii Volcanoes National Park tours are about four hours long, and many also make a stop at the Mauna Loa Macadamia Nut Visitor Center for tastings and shopping. The walk to the rim of the Kilauea crater is mostly on gravel or dirt pathways, but some areas overlooking the crater have potential trip hazards. Also, because the crater emits volcanic gases, these tours aren't advised for people with respiratory issues.

Hilo waterfalls and gardens

Hilo's location on the island of Hawaii's lush leeward side makes it a mecca for cascading waterfalls and verdant gardens. Cruise ship excursions that visit several falls or combine a visit to a single waterfall with a stop at a botanical garden, tropical zoo or orchid farm are popular.

The two major falls near Hilo are the 100-foot Rainbow Falls, which earned its name from the prismatic effect that takes place on sunny mornings, and the powerful Akaka Falls, which is reached via a walk through a tropical forest and tumbles a breathtaking 442 feet. Other tour stops could include Hilo's Liliuokalani Gardens (the largest Japanese garden outside of Japan), the Nani Mau Gardens or the Pana'ewa Rainforest Gardens and Zoo.

Important to know: Waterfalls and gardens shore excursions vary in length from four to seven hours, and participants should expect to be on their feet for a good portion of the tour. Rainbow Falls is easily accessible from the parking lot. To see Akaka Falls, you must navigate quite a few steps and walk a half-mile circular path.

Related: Avoid these 10 mistakes when booking cruise shore excursions

Volcano Winery

The island of Hawaii is home to Volcano Winery, the southernmost winery in the U.S. If sipping vino is a favorite pastime — and you have a curious palate — an excursion here could be a relaxing way to spend a few hours. Volcano Winery, which is family-owned and located at an elevation of 4,000 feet, specializes in tropical blends by mixing distinctive local fruits such as yellow guava and even tea and honey with grape varietals that include Pinot Noir and Cayuga to produce uniquely flavored wines. It also produces some 100% grape wines.

Important to know: Excursions to Volcano Winery are generally three hours long and include a tour of the winery and a tasting.

Kona, Hawaii

Kona Coast snorkel

For passengers who didn't get a chance to snorkel in Maui, the waters just off Kona's rugged lava coast offer another excellent opportunity to spy on Mother Nature's underwater handiwork. Most cruise lines offer a snorkel excursion by catamaran that will allow even novices to don a mask and fins and behold the intricate coral and dazzling reef fish that call the area's tranquil bays and coves home. Dolphin spotting is also possible.

A more adventurous option is a snorkel tour by Zodiac, which combines the thrill of zipping around in a 24-foot motorized raft with enjoying up-close views of coastal caves and lava tubes — and some snorkel time, of course.

Important to know: Most catamaran snorkel excursions are appropriate for all ages, last about four hours and include either breakfast or lunch; all equipment, including flotation aids, is provided and some catamarans are equipped with a diving board and waterslide for added fun. Zodiac excursions are more physically demanding and are not recommended if you have back or neck problems; you also need to be able to climb back into the raft via a small four-rung ladder.

Atlantis Submarine

Price: $$-$$$$

If you've never been in a submarine, Kona offers a chance to see the area's abundant sea life as you venture 100 feet below the surface of the Kona coast's crystal-clear waters. The Atlantis Submarine (also operating on Maui and Oahu) is U.S. Coast Guard-certified, fully air-conditioned and offers individual viewing portholes.

Important to know: Atlantis Submarine excursions last about one and a half hours and are not recommended for anyone prone to claustrophobia or motion sickness; you must be at least 3 feet tall and able to climb a vertical 12-step ladder into and out of the submarine. Excursion costs vary widely from cruise line to cruise line.

Kona coffee tour

Kona is famous for the coffee that grows in its rich volcanic soil, so if you want to taste a cup of Joe right at the source, this port is the place to do it. Cruise lines offer a variety of coffee-themed excursions; some are geared to education about the farming and production process while others focus more on sampling the goods and buying souvenirs to take home.

Some foodie-focused tours combine coffee sipping with locally grown chocolate tastings and visits to Kona-based breweries, while other full-day excursions pair a visit to a coffee farm with a cloud forest tour or a tour of Kona's top historic sights and a snorkel in Kealakekua Bay.

Important info: Kona coffee excursions are mostly three to four hours long. However, costs vary widely depending on the type of excursion, from a simple tasting room visit to a farm-based roasting experience.

Place of Refuge and Painted Church

History buffs will find plenty to love on this guided bus excursion, which visits cultural and religious sites along the Kona Coast. Three key locations are on the itinerary, the first being Kealakekua Bay, where legendary Captain Cook met his demise at the hands of local Hawaiians in 1778 and is memorialized in a monument.

Nearby is the second stop: St. Benedict's Painted Church. While the outside of this small Catholic church built in 1899 looks traditional, the inside dazzles with the artwork of Father John Velghe, a Belgian priest who drew the murals in an effort to teach local Hawaiians how to read.

The third is Pu'uhonua O Honaunau, which means "Place of Refuge at Honaunau." Built in 1650 and carefully restored, this cultural site is an ancient Hawaiian religious sanctuary where the bones of Hawaiian chiefs were once stored. It later became a place of refuge for defeated warriors.

Important to know: Place of Refuge and Painted Church excursions are typically three to four hours long and involve a minimal amount of walking.

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

NCL Excursion Reviews

By Coastalbreezes , May 16, 2016 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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Coastalbreezes

When I was deciding on what excursions to take on my upcoming cruise, I found it so helpful to read the reviews on NCL's website. Some excursions that sounded great had some terrible reviews and others enlightened me that it might be an hour catamaran ride followed by a 45 minute bus ride to get to a particular place (something I wouldn't be interested in).

One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).

Considering the thousands of people who take excursions, I was surprised that there weren't more reviews.

To those who post them, thank you. And if you do take a ship-sponsored trip, I would love to read about your experience. It really helps especially with the high cost involved for most of them.

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BirdTravels

One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).   Tracy

I am a "Top 10" shoreex reviewer on NCL.com. The majority of the reviews that I have done over the years are no longer on the NCL website. I've never tied to figure out how it all works.

I had originally assumed that between seasons, tours were removed from the website when they were no longer offered. Then when the cruise line contracts with a tour provider for the next season, they were created with no reviews. Now I just don't know.

All I can say is that there were many more reviews written than what you find on the web site.

You would be shocked at how many posters just walk aimlessly around the ports and don't venture further...so no reviews needed

Many just take a cab to the beach...which is a perfect thing to do in the Carib...so no reviews

Sent from my iPad using Forums

When I was deciding on what excursions to take on my upcoming cruise, I found it so helpful to read the reviews on NCL's website. Some excursions that sounded great had some terrible reviews and others enlightened me that it might be an hour catamaran ride followed by a 45 minute bus ride to get to a particular place (something I wouldn't be interested in).   One thing I did notice is that most excursions only had a few reviews (maybe a few had 10 or more but that was the minority).   Considering the thousands of people who take excursions, I was surprised that there weren't more reviews.   To those who post them, thank you. And if you do take a ship-sponsored trip, I would love to read about your experience. It really helps especially with the high cost involved for most of them.   Tracy

Something to remember is that when booking an ncl excursion....you are basically using the same operators that you would book if booking on your own

Price notwithstanding....it is quite likely that you won't even be able to book a particular say snorkel excursion on your own in many case as ncl has already booked the boats for their excursions

When you can find a private snorkel excursion the prices are usually very high but you are getting more time

While you can dig around to find one I myself have found it easier to do certain excursions through the ship

Fwiw the last thing I want or need is a bus tour of an island. If I book ncl tours I want snorkeling or I can just grab a cab to a beach....which btw in a place like st kitts will also get you a stop on a mountaintop to see the monkeys and where the Atlantic and Carib meet.

Any taxi driver worth their salt in st kitts knows to stop there if you are going to that part of the island

99% of the time I am cruising solo so I only take NCL excursions because I don't feel comfortable jumping in a taxi alone.

I love going to the beach and for my upcoming cruise, I was about to book a certain beach excursion when I decided to read the reviews. Most of them talked about how rocky the beach was, lots of seaweed and how the local vendors refused to leave you alone. Not my idea of fun so I nixed the idea.

Fortunately by continuing to read additional reviews, I found the perfect beach trip.

I submitted a review of an excursion in Tangier that was a bit critical - NCL never published it.

Check out the ports of call you are visiting here on CC you will get more info than you will ever find on NCL's web site. Or any one ships web site.

Or check out Trip advisor.

The posted ones are approved by NCL so not everything gets posted.

That's too bad because I would think it would help others make an informed decision. I've also written some critical (yet honest) reviews and have had both my positive and negative ones published.

99% of the time I am cruising solo so I only take NCL excursions because I don't feel comfortable jumping in a taxi alone.   I love going to the beach and for my upcoming cruise, I was about to book a certain beach excursion when I decided to read the reviews. Most of them talked about how rocky the beach was, lots of seaweed and how the local vendors refused to leave you alone. Not my idea of fun so I nixed the idea.   Fortunately by continuing to read additional reviews, I found the perfect beach trip.   Tracy

I don't actually believe you would be solo in a taxi to the beach anyway.

They usually wait until the van is full or semi full and then try to agree on a pick up time at the beach for the group

That's been our experience anyway

We get in taxi...with others whom we do not know...but who usually are agreeable to whatever beach the group wants....although you can go to any beach you want but the dispatchers know to group riders by beach preference....then....

Upon drop off at the beach the group usually agrees to a pick up time....as no one wants to miss the ship

Its all very civilized and easy

The group can agree to make sure they locate you before they leave just to be sure you don't miss the ride back

No need to stay with them at the beach but honestly just agree to meet up at agreed upon time

All pax have the same concerns so you will be ok doing this IMHO

I have to debate the NCL sanctioned excursions. Coming off the Getaway back in the end of April, this was the first time I booked third party excursions (and one NCL) for this trip. And to be honest, I did a lot of reading here (CC) and with TripAdvisor to select my excursions. The cost savings is substantial when you are a family; (I had two adults and two kids). Every NCL excursion was a budget buster and I saved at least close to $200 per excursion going third party. Each one had absolute assurances to make sure you didn't miss your boat. Many rely on reviews to maintain their business model and they know we (Americans) like to speak our mines so many won't risk a bad review.

I did Cozumel (last port) on NCL as a "last minute" selection since we had nothing planned. The cost was the highest of all the excursions.

Do your homework and have confidence that there are plenty of good third party excursions out there.

Hope this helps.

Don't forget to join your roll call and go to the Meet & Greet! Most people on the roll call have already researched/arranged independent tours (many based on Trip Advisor reviews and are looking for people to round out their groups. If the groups are full, you can contact the tour operator directly about starting another group.

We have never done a ship-operated tour, most because they are so expensive, and the groups are always sooo large! On private tours, you have smaller groups/buses, so it is easier and faster to get around/stay ahead of the ship tours.

On our most recent cruise, we met up with a couple from our M&G. The husband would go ashore as soon as the ship was cleared, survey all the tour operators selling tours, and then negotiate a price for a group of us (made up of M&G'ers and other people we met on the cruise). We ended up saving a ton of money on these private excursions, and the service was often better because the companies are smaller and more reliant on good reviews on sites such as TA.

Last three posts = great suggestions!

• 5 years later...

Has this not changed in the last 6-years?  Still no way to post a tour review (I just poked around for 20 minutes and couldn't figure it out)?  The descriptions on their reviews leaves MUCH to be desired (ex. recent "7 hour tour including Mayan ruins etc"....but 6 of it is BUS transport time). 

I guess as the seller (and profiter), they are likely not going to want any negative reviews so I suppose I am not surprised, but I never realized they were so curated.

Happycrafter123

I really wish there were reviews posted for the NCL excursions too.  Upcoming Baltic cruise, and I’ve compared prices with other tour operators, when factoring in the free at sea discount, it really is about the same price give or take a couple dollars as going with non-NCL operators, but not sure of the quality, and really don’t like the risk of missing boat…. 

Sailing12Away

Best bet is to search in the port of call forums. That's where you'll get unfiltered and honest opinions on the best (and worst) cruise-sponsored tours, as well as options for ones found via Viator or private companies.

• 1 year later...

On 5/16/2016 at 8:43 AM, BirdTravels said:   I am a "Top 10" shoreex reviewer on NCL.com. The majority of the reviews that I have done over the years are no longer on the NCL website. I've never tied to figure out how it all works.   I had originally assumed that between seasons, tours were removed from the website when they were no longer offered. Then when the cruise line contracts with a tour provider for the next season, they were created with no reviews. Now I just don't know.   All I can say is that there were many more reviews written than what you find on the web site.

do you have a place where you posted your reviews? looking for the mediterranean

littlelulu01

18 hours ago, Joan18 said: do you have a place where you posted your reviews? looking for the mediterranean

https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2727265-mediterranean-ship-excursions-review/page/2/#replyForm

Not Bird travels but I posted reviews of about 14 Mediterranean ncl excursions on this review.  It was just prior to the pandemic but same excursions still on offer through ncl so you might get some ideas. 

12 minutes ago, littlelulu01 said: https://boards.cruisecritic.com/topic/2727265-mediterranean-ship-excursions-review/page/2/#replyForm Not Bird travels but I posted reviews of about 14 Mediterranean ncl excursions on this review.  It was just prior to the pandemic but same excursions still on offer through ncl so you might get some ideas. 

I remember reading your review, it was great!

19 hours ago, Joan18 said: do you have a place where you posted your reviews? looking for the mediterranean

Sorry. They were NCL reviews which are probably OBE. The pandemic cancelled our last med cruise and we have been staying closer to home since. 

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Port Canaveral, FL

Port Canaveral, FL is about an hour's drive east of Orlando, two hours from Tampa and two and a half hours from Jacksonville. Tallahassee is just under five hours to the north. Port Canaveral is the closest city to Disney World and the other theme parks in Orlando, and is next to Cape Canaveral Kennedy Space Center. A wide variety of activities are available near the port, including several miles of beaches and parks, boating, fishing, shopping and several restaurants.

Carnival uses cruise terminals 3 and 6. Royal Caribbean uses cruise terminals 1, 5 and 6. Disney uses cruise terminal 8. Norwegian uses cruise terminals 5 and 10. MSC uses cruise terminal 10.

Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 1 9050 Discovery Road Port Canaveral, FL 32920 Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 3 220 Christopher Columbus Dr. Port Canaveral, FL 32920

Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 5 9245 Charles Rowland Drive Port Canaveral, FL 32920

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Port Canaveral Cruise Terminal 10 9005 Charles Rowland Drive Port Canaveral, FL 32920

Port Canaveral is 45 miles from Orlando International Airport. Parking is $17.00 per day (rates are subject to change by the Port Authority).

From North/South - Take I-95 to Exit 205 East to Hwy 528 East. Drive 11.5 miles on Hwy 528 East and exit to the "A" cruise terminals onto SR 401 North. Drive 1 mile on SR 401 North and follow signs to correct cruise terminal and pier (according to cruise line).

From Orlando International Airport - Take the North Exit from the Airport, staying to the right, to S.R. 528 (Beachline Expressway) East. Take S.R. 528 directly to Port Canaveral.

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Travel | Baltimore cruise industry hopes Key Bridge…

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Travel | baltimore cruise industry hopes key bridge channel reopens in time for busy june.

In 2023, Maryland Port Administration spokesperson Richard Scher said, 444,000 passengers boarded cruises in the terminal, the highest total since 2012.

Eight cruise ships are scheduled to depart in June.

“We are expecting our channel to be reopened by the end of May,” Scher said.

The Dali, a cargo ship with thousands of containers aboard, has sat in the Patapsco River since it struck one of the Key Bridge’s support piers March 26, collapsing the span into the water and killing six construction workers. Crews plan to use explosives Monday to remove bridge and roadway wreckage that has been lodged on top of the ship. Removing the ship is a major step toward reopening the 50-foot-deep shipping channel, which authorities have said will be usable by the end of May.

The cruise terminal primarily services ships from Carnival and Royal Caribbean cruise lines, and the Norwegian Cruise Line also occasionally uses the terminal. Typically cruises are round trips, although there are some one-way transatlantic offerings. Neither Carnival nor Royal Caribbean responded to a request for comment.

Royal Caribbean cruise ships left Baltimore on a 13-night trip March 15 and a 12-night trip March 23, and both ships returned to Norfolk, Virginia, where buses took passengers back to their cars in Baltimore, according to the Cruise Maryland Terminal 2024 schedule. Royal Caribbean also had cruises originally scheduled to leave from Baltimore on April 4 and 12 rerouted to Norfolk and has two more trips originally scheduled to leave Baltimore on May 25 and 30.

In a statement May 15, the cruise line said the May 25 cruise will leave Baltimore “as planned’.”

“Royal Caribbean International looks forward to returning to the Port of Baltimore once again. Vision of the Seas will set sail on a 5-night itinerary as planned on Saturday, May 25,” Royal Caribbean said.

A Carnival cruise ship left Baltimore on March 24 for a seven-night trip and returned to Norfolk, according to the Cruise Maryland Terminal 2024 schedule. Carnival also had cruise ships scheduled March 31; April 7, 21 and 28; and May 5 and 12 that left from Norfolk instead.

Scher said there are no confirmed updates yet about the schedule for Royal Caribbean ships originally scheduled to leave Baltimore on May 25 and 30 and a Carnival ship originally scheduled to leave May 26.

“The incident began on March 26 and each cruise scheduled since then to leave from Baltimore has instead left from Norfolk,” Scher said

Norwegian Cruise Line did not have any ships scheduled to depart Baltimore until September.

Cruise terminals require customs and border protections and security, as well as luggage and cleaning services. Scher said the Maryland Departments of Commerce and Labor have instituted financial assistance and worker retention programs for port workers

Stephen Kirkland, executive director of the Norfolk cruise terminal, which boarded around 125,000 passengers in 2023, said the city primarily works with Carnival but originally did not have any cruises scheduled for this spring and summer because of construction on the terminal.

“Demolition on that project wasn’t due to start until June, when we got the calls from Royal Caribbean and Carnival that they needed to reroute, we had an available terminal because of construction,” Kirkland said.

Kirkland said Norfolk still plans to start construction in June.

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