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10 Major Differences Between Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)

When it comes to cruising, two of the biggest players are Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. If you are planning to set sail, the odds are high you’ll be at least looking at one of these lines.

Of course, if you are about to cruise — or if you are just planning your next vacation — then you might wonder exactly what the difference is between the two. After all, at first glance they both seem to offer a similar experience with massive ships sailing to exotic ports of call with thousands of passengers.

The truth is there are a lot of things that are similar between Royal Caribbean and NCL. For the most part, taking a cruise on either line will have a similar feel. But that’s not to say they are exactly the same. Each line has things unique to its service that can endear them to passengers and potentially be what you’re looking for.

Below, we cover some of the bigger differences between Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. This should give you a better idea of what you can expect on each cruise line and if it’s the right fit for you.

In addition, we’ve also covered the differences between Norwegian and Carnival here  and differences between Royal Caribbean and Carnival here .

Why should you care about the size of a cruise line’s fleet? After all, you can only sail one ship at a time.

Fleet size gives you more options. It means more departures, more itineraries, and more choice for which ship you cruise. Bigger fleets mean more likelihood of finding the cruise that fits exactly what you want.

On that front, Royal Caribbean has a larger lineup of ships. In total, the cruise line currently offers sailings on 26 different ships and has multiple new ships coming online with Icon of the Seas and Utopia of the Seas.

Norwegian Cruise Line is no slouch, but the fleet totals 18 ships — about two-thirds as many as Royal Caribbean. That said, NCL also has a new ships scheduled each year until 2027.

Bottom line: Both cruise lines have large fleets, but if you want more options, Royal Caribbean has the larger lineup. 

Onboard Spending

Experienced cruise passengers know that what you pay for the cruise fare is not all you’ll spend on your trip. There is also onboard spending. This category includes all the money you spend on things on the ship, including drinks, specialty restaurants, wi-fi, and more.

In this case, average passengers on Norwegian can likely expect to spend more compared to Royal Caribbean.

While Norwegian has its “Free at Sea” offer (more on this below) that can save you money, in general you’ll find that prices on NCL ships are generally more expensive. For example, the cruise line’s drink package is priced at $109 per day, while Royal Caribbean’s varies, but starts around $65-70 per day.

You’ll find similar differences with things like wi-fi and gratuities. The fastest Internet service on NCL is $40 per day. On Royal Caribbean, it’s $24 (often with discounts for booking early).

As for gratuities, most cabins see a charge of $20 per person, per day with Norwegian. That price is $16 per person, per day for Royal Caribbean. 

Bottom line: In general, you can expect higher prices for things onboard NCL, from gratuities to drink packages to wi-fi access. Royal Caribbean prices are generally lower.

Looking for a more luxurious cruise? You could try sailing on smaller, more luxury-focused ships and cruise lines. However, that can be a very different experience than the fun of sailing on a larger vessel. For instance, if you have children, they would enjoy a big ship with things like go-karts and kids areas compared to a high-end ship focused on adults.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a solution. Its ships have an area called The Haven. This is a high-end “resort within a resort” that features a small number of higher-end cabins along with numerous private amenities like pools, lounges, a bar, and restaurant. Regular passengers don’t have access to these areas.

In short, if you’re wanting a more exclusive experience while still getting the advantage of a larger ship, then NCL has the solution.

Royal Caribbean does offer exclusive areas for high-end suite passengers, but The Haven is a step above.

Bottom line: Norwegian’s The Haven is a unique “resort-within-a-resort” that offers small ship luxury but big ship amenities.

Free At Sea Offer

Tired of being nickeled and dimed? One big difference you’ll find with Norwegian and Royal Caribbean is NCL’s “Free at Sea” offer .

Put simply, Free at Sea is Norwegian’s regular sale where passengers get a number of perks to have for free on their trip. The options include everything from free drinks on the ship to free specialty dining to free wi-fi and even free airfare. To be sure there are some terms and conditions, but overall the sale can give you up to five or six different items for free.

One thing to know is that cabins with this perk are more expensive than booking without. Still, if you don’t like extra charges on the ship, then this offer could be for you. 

Bottom line: Don’t want to be nickeled and dimed? Norwegian’s Free at Sea offer can include a number of amenities with your cruise, but you will pay a higher price. 

Status On the Ship

Check out the message boards for Royal Caribbean and you’re likely to hear a lot about Platinum, Diamond, and Pinnacle status in the Crown and Anchor Society. These are levels of the cruise line’s loyalty program, which indicate how many days you’ve sailed with them. Anecdotally, we’ve found status to be flaunted much more on Royal Caribbean than on Norwegian.

This isn’t to say a lack of status is held against you; truth is no one really cares if it’s your first cruise or 100th cruise. We’ve just noticed that there are a lot more high-status cards being shown on Royal Caribbean ships (most often being on a lanyard).

On Norwegian cruises we’ve see very few people with high-status key cards and fewer people in general wearing lanyards that show off the status of their card.

Bottom line: Royal Caribbean passengers seem to place more emphasis on loyalty status on the ship. That’s not a big deal, but we’ve noticed more high-status cards on the cruise line.

Connecting Outdoors

You’d think that when you’re at sea, it’s a way to have lots of outside time and connect with the ocean. Truth is that most ships offer pool decks, but seemingly not much more outdoor space. 

Norwegian Cruise Line, however, puts a bigger focus on being outside during the cruise than Royal Caribbean.

For instance, many NCL ships feature an outdoor promenade that sticks out from the ship on the lower decks, giving you a place to take in the sun and fresh air away from the pool deck. But where the biggest difference seems to be is with outdoor dining.

It seems like a no-brainer that if you are at sea then dining out in the fresh air will come with the territory. Truth is that the wind and sun can be a major issue. A five mile per hour breeze into the face of the ship can turn into 25 miles per hour when the ship is underway. That means everything on your table will be blown off. And if you are dining during the day, the tropical sun can make eating outside uncomfortable.

In other words, a cruise line has to think a lot about how to set up outdoor dining so that it’s a comfortable and relaxing experience — not a mess that leaves you annoyed.

Norwegian seems to focus more on outdoor dining, with several spots on its ships where you can sit in the outdoors and eat without having to worry about the wind ruining your dinner or sun beating down on you. 

Bottom line: Norwegian purposely creates spaces on the ship that connect passengers more to the ocean than Royal Caribbean does.

Global Itineraries (Including Hawaii)

Every cruise ship sails to international destinations, but some are definitely more global in nature. In that case, both Royal Caribbean and NCL can take you to destinations around the world. Whether it’s Europe or Alaska, Australia or the Greek Isles, if you want to go there, these cruise ships can do it.

However, there are some differences. For one, Norwegian seems less focused on the Caribbean than its rival. During the summer of 2023, NCL shows just three ships sailing from all Florida ports. Royal Caribbean has eight on its schedule. 

Norwegian, despite having a smaller fleet, sails more ships to Alaska. And perhaps most unique is Pride of America. This ship is the only major cruise ship to be registered in the United States. That allows it to sail the Hawaiian Islands without having to visit a foreign country on the trip. So if you’ve ever wanted to tour this part of the world, NCL is your best best.

Bottom line: These two cruise lines sail all around the world, but NCL’s itineraries seem to be more global in focus. Norwegian also offers a ship based in Hawaii.

Ship Size and Things to Do

When it comes to the largest ships with the most features, there’s little argument that Royal Caribbean is the gold standard.

Its Oasis-class ships are the largest cruise liners in the world, measuring more than 1,000 feet and 235,000 tons. The ships are also well-known for having unique things to do, including ice skating, FlowRider standing waves, huge multi-story slides, and tons more. If you want a ship with the most to do at sea, then Royal Caribbean is likely your choice.

But now the Icon class is making even bigger strides. With Icon of the Seas , not only will it be the new largest cruise ship in the world, it will also have a number of new features. That includes an entire waterpark.

Norwegian — after making huge strides in this area with ships like Norwegian Bliss, Joy, and Encore — is taking a different track.  Its Breakaway-Plus class of ships are the cruise line’s largest. These ships measure about 165,000 tons. On board you will find a number of unique things to do, including go-karts(!), laser tag, and even waterslides that will take you out over the edge of the ship. They are comparable to Royal Caribbean.

But now, the cruise line is moving more toward luxury with its newest ship (more on this below), seeming to cede the “bigger and more activities” crown to its rival.

Bottom line: When it comes to the ship size and number of things to do onboard, Royal Caribbean sits head and shoulders above other cruise lines.

Private Islands

These days every large cruise line offers a private island. Norwegian offers two — Harvest Caye near Belize and Great Stirrup Cay in The Bahamas. Royal Caribbean offers CocoCay in The Bahamas and Labadee, Haiti.

We love going to these private islands. They have beautiful beaches and are custom-made for cruise passengers. If you just want to hang out by the pool or work on your tan, then you can — without worry about transportation or paying fees like in other ports.

So what’s the difference? Royal Caribbean has transformed CocoCay into much more than just a simple island where you sit and relax on the beach. The island now includes Thrill  Waterpark with more than a dozen waterslides , a wave pool, 1,600 feet of ziplines, over-the-water bungalows, and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean. Similar to Royal Caribbean’s ships, the company has gone “big” with its private island.

In comparison, Norwegian’s island are a bit more laid back. They still offer plenty to do (ziplining, pool, watersports) and enjoy, but it’s not quite the massive scale you’ll find at CocoCay.

Bottom line: Both cruise lines offer private islands. Great Stirrup Cay from NCL is more laid back and relaxing while CocoCay from Royal Caribbean features much more to do, including a full waterpark.

Future Developments

There’s no doubt that right now Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer a lot of similarities and generally appeal to the same sets of passengers. It is a question if that will be the case as much in the future. 

NCL already has pushed more into luxury cruising with The Haven on its ships. But future ships seem to be focused even more on offering a high-end experience. The cruise line’s Norwegian Prima is the first of six new ships in its new Prima class, which debuted in 2022. These vessels look and are designed differently from the rest of the fleet.

With modern design, upscale dining options, infinity pools, and more, the new ships focus on a more luxurious experience compared to Royal Caribbean — or even other ships in its fleet.

Royal Caribbean, meanwhile, is debuting its Icon class. As mentioned, these will be the largest cruise ships in the world, with a large focus on family cruising with lots for kids and teens to do. That includes a complete waterpark on the ship and special family “neighborhoods” on board.

Bottom line: The direction of the future ships is very different. NCL seems to be focusing more on luxury and style while Royal Caribbean continues to go big with lots to do on the ship.

Have more questions about sailing on Royal Caribbean or Norwegian? Let us know in the comments below.

You can also see the differences between Royal Caribbean and Carnival , or the differences between Carnival and Norwegian .

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Which ship would you suggest for 2 people age 65 and a 30 year old female, We have never been on cruise. Our plans are Alaska. Want to have some great food, entertainment and fun things to do . Don’t want to have to wait for every to get to enjoy an activity and be pushed around every time I want to go out of room. Comparing Royal Caribbean Ovation of the Sea and Norwegian Encore. Any suggestion would be helpful. And what excursion are wonderful!

To me, those are fairly similar ships. I’ve sailed Norwegian Encore personally, but also took an Alaskan cruise on Odyssey of the Seas, which is the same class as Ovation. Both are great for Alaska as they have large indoor areas where you can enjoy the scenery when it’s cool outside. I also know that Odyssey had heated pools, which is nice.

My suggestion? I think it would just come down to which one was less expensive.

I’m trying to decide between Norwegian Joy and RC Anthem of the seas out of NJ/NY area. It’s two families with 4 kids (10-14). Parents are foodie people. We did Disney Dream last year and loved it, my kids 10 and 13 loved it too. We are Disney/universal people, the other family not so much into Disney.

Either should be pretty good. Depending on when you sail, you might tip the scale toward Anthem as it has more indoor area in case it’s cold in New York when you cruise.

I’m considering a cruise to Greece in 2025.. Norwegian has the new Viva… going to Greece Royal Caribbean has the explorer of the seas .. Coratia, Italy and Greece …which experience would you choose….😃😃😃

Are there other factors? Viva is obviously a nicer/newer ship but will likely be more expensive. If the cost is the same, I’d go with Viva. However, either one will be a fun trip.

What s your opinion on the Norwegian Joy? Is there fun activities for folks over 60 on consecutive sea days

Of course. It’s a large ship with lots to cater to everyone. That’s one of the advantages of today’s enormous ships. It’s harder to be bored.

Good review! I have been doing some pretty elaborate price comparisons between the two lately, and I am finding that NCL is cheaper once you add in all the extras you want.

For instance, we want the alcoholic drink package which is included in the fee with NCL when booking. You can also prepay your service fees at the time of booking, and can choose to add flights as well. Excluding your excursions and on board spending, I never have any bill to pay on disembarking day.

You can see a full, all-inclusive cost with NCL but RC you need to do your research as you have to add in all of these fees later (gratuities, flights, drink packages, transportation to/from airport). One thing I really dislike about RC is that you can’t book flights with them at the time of booking, so you can’t see what they charge for flights.

I love both lines, but go with NCL because I know what the price will be at the time of booking, and the prices are basically the same, but you get the free at sea promos with NCL.

Note: you need to compare similar class ships or the prices won’t be comparable.

i enjoyed your comparison, as I have traveled on NCL many times but not on Royal Caribbean. As a senior I have no complaints about NCL. I have taken grandchildren twice and Kids Club has saved our sanity both times! It is a great experience for the kids and allows us to do other things… I don’t need the high powered fun park setting and, in fact, prefer to travel on a smaller vessel just so the walk-about is not so daunting! Thank you!

hi i am planning a cruise and dont know what to choose. (i am female middle aged) In Nov 2022 I was on Harmony of the Seas with my 2 sisters. I loved that there were so many activities. not a foodie so i dont have any need or desire to spend money on specialty dining. i will be going with my husband and 2 sons. 28 (has Aspergers ) and 30 year old. The 30 year old and i need activities. The 28 yr old and hubby are more relaxers but need night time entertainment. 28 year old loves go karting or bumper cars. Do i go with NCL or RCL???

So there are bumper cars (free) on Royal Caribbean’s Quantum class ships. NCL’s newest ships have go-karts, but they are an extra charge.

I like to suggest the newest and largest ships for the most things to do (no matter the cruise line), whether that be activities (like go-karts) or entertainment. Given that you are all adults, I’d suggest NCL as it has a bit more “adult” feel where Royal Caribbean is more into families with kids. Just be ready for a higher cost!

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Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian

Royal caribbean, norwegian cruise line, norwegian vs. royal caribbean recapped.

Whether it’s your first time cruising or you’re a veteran at this type of travel, it can be difficult to decide which cruise line is the best fit for you.

With so many different companies to choose from — each with its own ships, entertainment, destinations and personality — finding the cruise experience that fits your needs can take some research.

Let’s compare two of the most popular cruise line options, Norwegian Cruise Line versus Royal Caribbean, to see how they stack up against one another. 

Just looking for the facts? Here’s a quick breakdown of the differences between Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line. 

» Learn more: Tips for getting the best deal on your next cruise

Royal Caribbean's Icon of the Seas. (Photo courtesy of Royal Caribbean)

Here’s what you need to know about Royal Caribbean, from ship and room size to the activities you can expect on board.

Royal Caribbean doesn’t just have more ships — it has bigger ones, too. The cruise line’s largest ship, the Wonder of the Seas, has room for 5,734 guests. The Icon of the Seas, a new ship that will launch in 2024, will carry a maximum of 5,610 guests across its 20 decks.

Suffice it to say that if you want big, you can have it with Royal Caribbean.

Of course, there are also options to sail on smaller ships, such as the Grandeur of the Seas, which caps out at 1,992 guests. 

When comparing NCL versus Royal Caribbean, you’ll want to also think about room types. Aboard Royal Caribbean’s Wonder of the Seas, for example, you can expect to find varying levels of accommodations, including suites, balcony rooms, virtual balcony rooms, ocean view rooms and interior rooms. 

You won’t get the option for a virtual balcony on every ship, so in general expect to choose between suites, balcony rooms, inside rooms and ocean-view rooms when cruising with Royal Caribbean. 

Food and drink

Royal Caribbean allows guests to either choose an assigned dining time or to eat whenever they like — you’ll make your selection during the booking process. 

The cruise line offers guests a wide variety of dining options aboard its ships. On the Wonder of the Seas, for example, there are 21 outlets from which to choose, including the main dining room, 11 specialty restaurants, a variety of cafes and casual spots.

Be aware that specialty restaurants charge an extra fee. 

» Learn more: Are cruises all-inclusive?

Royal Caribbean’s ships are big for a reason. They’re built to host a whole bunch of amenities, including pools, live entertainment, spas, fitness centers, casinos, lounges, bars, clubs, shops and more.

If you’ve ever thought, “I’m at sea and the only thing I wish I could do was go zip lining,” Royal Caribbean has heard your plea. The Wonder of the Seas has this option, along with mini golf, waterslides, karaoke, arcades, surfing, ice skating and rock climbing. 

Who Royal Caribbean caters to

Royal Caribbean offers a slightly more upscale experience than Norwegian, as well as higher-end options when it comes to suites and dining.

Still, there will be a lot of overlap between clientele. If you like to have things to do while cruising — whether with family or friends — Royal Caribbean is a cruise line to consider. 

» Learn more: What to know about the Royal Caribbean credit card

The Norwegian Encore at sea. (Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line)

Just like Royal Caribbean, Norwegian has a variety of offerings for its passengers. Find out more about its ships, rooms, dining options and activities.

Norwegian Cruise Line has varying sizes of ships across its fleet. This means that you’ll get to experience different activities, cabin types and dining options depending on which ship you’re aboard. 

The Norwegian Encore, built in 2019, is one of the cruise line’s newer ships. It can hold a maximum of 3,998 guests, and although there are some ships that can hold more guests, none are as large. 

The Norwegian Sun, meanwhile, holds a maximum capacity of 1,936 guests — the least of any ships in Norwegian’s fleet. 

Again, the types of rooms you can expect to find will vary, based on which ship you’re sailing.

Aboard the Norwegian Encore, for example, you’ll find seven different room types, including several different types of suites, ocean view and interior rooms and studio rooms for solo travelers. 

» Learn more: What to know about the Norwegian Cruise Line credit card

Norwegian is known for its casual approach to cruising.

Unlike other cruise lines, Norwegian has done away with assigned meal times and tables for guests. Instead, you can choose to have your fill at the buffet or sit down in a dining room whenever you’d like. 

There are also options for specialty restaurants aboard these ships, though these come with an additional fee. 

Like other cruise lines, you can expect to find a plethora of pools, fitness clubs, spas, bars, dance clubs, shops and casinos aboard Norwegian ships.

The activities available to you are going to depend on your ship, but the state-of-the-art Encore includes options like go-karting and waterslides, as well as a virtual reality gaming zone and live entertainment. 

Who Norwegian caters to

No comparison of Norwegian Cruise Line versus Royal Caribbean is complete without talking about who should take these cruises.

We already mentioned that Norwegian has done away with the traditional dining setups you’ll see on other cruise lines. It also has some of the newest ships among North American carriers, which means those looking for a variety of activities and a casual setup will want to consider Norwegian. 

» Learn more: The best cruise lines

We’ve broken down the differences between these two cruise lines, including what you can expect on board and who might enjoy these types of cruises.

In the end, a true comparison between Royal Caribbean versus Norwegian has less to do with how the pair stack up — after all, they’re both focused on activity-loving, younger crowds — but which option works best for you. 

Royal Caribbean has more ships and can carry far more passengers, but its destinations are limited compared with Norwegian.

Deciding where to go and what kinds of activities you enjoy will help you choose the best cruise line for your situation. 

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Norwegian Cruise Line vs. Royal Caribbean: Compare two popular big-ship cruise lines

If you are considering a cruise with Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line, you are looking for an active, big-ship cruise experience on some of the largest ships in the world.

These two companies focus on cruises for everyone — couples, seniors, families — with activities and "wow" attractions to match. Their ships are highly popular, particularly on Bahamas and Caribbean routes.

Let's compare Norwegian Cruise Line to Royal Caribbean to see what they have in common — and what they don't — so you can find the cruise that's right for you.

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Size of ships

Both Norwegian and Royal Caribbean operate megaships of varying sizes — all floating resorts with onboard casinos, pools, live entertainment, elaborate spas, lively dance clubs and lots of bars.

While Royal Caribbean has several ships that carry fewer than 2,250 passengers, the bulk of its vessels carry 3,000 to 4,000 passengers; its five biggest ships — topped by Wonder of the Seas and Icon of the Seas — are the world's largest cruise ships and carry more than 5,400 guests. In fact, some of the ships are so big they're set up in a neighborhood layout, including a Boardwalk neighborhood that's patterned after Coney Island, featuring a high-diving show, carousel and hot dog stand. There's also a leafy Central Park neighborhood with thousands of live plants.

Related: The 6 classes of Royal Caribbean ships, explained

Norwegian Cruise Line ships range in size from about 1,900 passengers (quaint by megaship standards) to more than 4,100 passengers. The line is not trying to win the size war, but it offers plenty of excitement on board. The latest Norwegian ships are topped by multi-level go-kart racetracks that add vroom to the cruise experience.

Related: The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

Cabins and suites

Both cruise lines proudly offer a broad range of accommodations. Norwegian particularly shines in the area of creativity and innovation.

On top of the newest ships in the fleet is The Haven, a suite complex with a private restaurant, sundeck, pool and lounge — basically a separate boutique hotel on top of the ship. Guests in The Haven get privacy in upscale, contemporary surroundings when they want, but they also have access to all the fun activities elsewhere on board.

Norwegian also pays special attention to solo travelers. In The Studios, passengers traveling solo can book creatively designed inside cabins that are priced for one (a cruise rarity). They come with exclusive access to a shared lounge, so you can socialize with other solo travelers if you wish.

Elsewhere, family cabins are located near children's facilities, and spa cabins are positioned near the spa.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Norwegian Cruise Line ships

Royal Caribbean seeks to please all travelers with the largest selection of cabin types of any cruise line. The line has everything from tight and inexpensive inside cabins with virtual balconies (sea views delivered via LED screen) and solo staterooms on select ships to two-story loft suites.

Some suites have views of the high-diving show, while some standard-size cabins face the Royal Promenade, Boardwalk or Central Park neighborhoods of the ship. (You exchange ocean views for people-watching.) Royal has moved to match NCL by providing suite guests access to a private lounge, restaurant and sun deck on its newer ships.

Related: Everything you want to know about cabins and suites on Royal Caribbean ships

Food and drink

When looking at Royal Caribbean's versus Norwegian's dining options, both lines have a lot of fee-based specialty restaurants that surpass what they offer in their complimentary venues. To some cruisers, these restaurants might seem to be a money grab, but foodies don't mind paying for the upgrade in meals.

Years ago, Norwegian developed what it calls "Freestyle Cruising," a model that sought to turn some cruise traditions — such as assigned tables in a large main dining room and formal night dress codes — on their heads. Instead, passengers eat when and where they want. However, in many cases, reservations are still required.

NCL goes all-out with choices; large ships, such as Norwegian Viva , offer more than two dozen dining experiences. You can eat for free in smaller dining rooms or the buffet or splurge, for instance, on steak , French , Brazilian and Asian fare. Norwegian pays particular attention to providing outdoor dining options.

For food included in the cruise fare, Royal Caribbean focuses much attention on its Windjammer Marketplace ( the buffet ) and main dining rooms; in the latter, you can opt for assigned tables or anytime dining. A shining point of the fee-based options on select ships is Jamie's Italian with British celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. Fans also rave about the line's fancy Chef's Table experience, a multicourse affair with chef commentary on what you are tasting.

Related: The ultimate guide to cruise ship food and dining

Kids activities

Knowing that parents appreciate some downtime, both cruise lines have well-established programs to keep your kids happy. You can have a massage at the spa, hit the casino or otherwise do grown-up things knowing that your children are in a camp-like program with youth counselors who are leading age-appropriate activities like arts and crafts, scavenger hunts, science experiments, game play or movie watching. There are also fun clubs for teens and tweens to call their own.

Royal Caribbean's Adventure Ocean program (for ages 3-12) offers an educational spin, featuring a chance for kids to become certified adventure scientists. There are also special programs for babies and toddlers, as well as older kids, ages 13 to 17.

Norwegian's Splash Academy (for kids ages 5-12) entertains with creative play, including a Circus School. Meanwhile, Entourage (for ages 13-17) keeps teens occupied with games, sports and parties in a hip club.

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Onboard attractions

Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian have developed their newest ships to be active floating playgrounds with supercharged indoor and outdoor activities for all ages. Royal is tops in its ability to push the envelope, but Norwegian is coming on strong.

All Royal Caribbean ships have rock-climbing walls and FlowRider simulators that allow passengers to surf and boogie board. The line's long roster of activity choices on its various ships includes ice skating rinks, carousels, zip lines, minigolf, laser tag, escape rooms, waterslides , simulated sky diving setups, a 10-story thrill slide called Ultimate Abyss , an amusement-park-like mechanical arm that lifts a London Eye-style pod high above the ships for views and other mind-blowing features. The larger the ship, the more onboard activities you'll find.

Norwegian's much-touted and very impressive attraction on its latest ships is a multi-story go-cart racetrack occupying a portion of the upper deck. The line also does virtual reality gaming well. Select ships have a Galaxy Pavilion full of exciting challenges and experiences.

The ships also offer Aqua Parks with exciting dual racing slides, full-size basketball courts, escape rooms, laser tag, minigolf, darts, bowling and ropes courses. New on ships in the line's 3,250-passenger Prima Class are pairs of 10-story freefall thrill slides billed as the fastest at sea.

Related: The craziest attractions you'll find on a cruise ship

Entertainment

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean have a battle of sorts in terms of signing Broadway shows for onboard productions. Both cruise lines recruit talent from Broadway, London's West End and around the world to rehearse in their own studios in Florida and have large casts of performers on their ships. The shows are slightly shortened versions of what you would see on land.

Royal Caribbean's roster includes such popular shows as "Grease," "Hairspray" and "CATS" on its biggest ships. On Norwegian ships, you can catch productions of such popular Broadway shows as "Beetlejuice," "Six" and "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical," as well as the super-fun pub show "The Choir of Man."

But the entertainment options don't stop there. Select Royal Caribbean ships feature performance spaces you might not expect to find at sea. There are outdoor shows featuring acrobats and high divers at the line's AquaTheaters, and ice skating shows with professional skaters take place in its Studio B ice-skating rinks. High-tech shows, live music and dancing the night away are also popular onboard pastimes.

Norwegian features extra-fee, adults-only show productions themed on wine or prohibition cocktails and come with drinks. Comedy is part of the scene — Prima Class vessels even have improv clubs — and Norwegian's themed parties are particularly popular with the late-night crowd. Fun bars include the Skyy Ice Bar, where you wear a parka to enjoy vodka on ice. Select ships have a Cavern Club featuring a Beatles cover band, complete with shaggy hairdos.

While both lines offer a large selection of games and contests, Norwegian has floating, participatory versions of popular TV shows such as "Deal or No Deal" and "Press Your Luck."

Related: Which cruise ship activities should you book ahead of time?

Who is on board?

Norwegian's "Freestyle Cruising" is designed to be more contemporary and less traditional, and the crowd on board tends to embrace the carefree nature of the experience. The dress code is whatever you like — dress up for a date night or down for a casual meal in a pub.

On cruises from the U.S., the crowd is mostly from North America and represents all ages, from kids to seniors. Some adults stay up late partying in the dance club or trying their luck at Norwegian's award-winning casinos.

Royal Caribbean's crowd is a mix of international travelers and those from North America, including couples, families and singles from all walks of life. You'll find night owls on Royal, too, though the crowd is a tad more upscale than Norwegian. That's partly because Royal Caribbean ships have a higher percentage of lavish, pricey suites on board and attract people who have money to spend to book them.

Related: Which cruise brand is right for you? A guide to the most popular lines

Itineraries

Both Norwegian and Royal Caribbean position the bulk of their ships in North America, but also have ships sailing in destinations around the world.

Norwegian is the only cruise line with a ship — U.S.-flagged Pride of America — that sails year-round in the Hawaiian Islands. Norwegian focuses much attention, too, on the Caribbean, Bahamas, Alaska, New England and Canada, the Mexican Riviera and Bermuda. The line offers popular, affordable sailings in the Mediterranean and Greek Isles. Other destinations include Northern Europe, Africa, Australia and New Zealand and South America.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian ship

Likewise, Royal Caribbean puts much emphasis on North America — the Caribbean, Bahamas (including the line's own extravagant private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay ), Alaska, Canada and New England and the Mexican Riviera — but also sails several regions in Europe. Its ships also ply waters in other areas of the world, including Australia, New Zealand, China and Singapore.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Royal Caribbean ship

Bottom line

Either of these cruise lines is a good choice for a first-time cruiser. Go with Royal Caribbean if you're looking for a slightly more upscale, traditional cruise ship atmosphere and Norwegian if you're seeking a contemporary take on casual cruising.

Have cruise questions? TPG has answers:

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• Man overboard: Why do people fall off cruise ships?
• What is baked Alaska, and why is it paraded around cruise ships?
• What are the largest cruise ships in the world?
• What is a gentleman host on a cruise?
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• What is a lido deck on a cruise ship?
• What's a cruise cabin guarantee, and will it save you money?
• What's the difference between a cruise concierge and a butler?

• Cruise Advice

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cruise Line: Which One is Best for You?

• May 17, 2023

There are countless cruise lines available when booking a cruise vacation. The most prominent ones are Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Both companies offer various amenities, activities, and experiences, but how do they stack up against each other?

In this comparison article, we’ll take a closer look at Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cruise Line and break down the differences between them to help you make an informed decision about your next cruise.

Royal Caribbean Ships

With 26 vessels, Royal Caribbean is known for having some of the industry’s biggest and most innovative ships, such as the Anthem of the Seas, which boasts features like a skydiving simulator and the North Star capsule that takes you high above the ocean. The line’s Oasis-class ships are the largest cruise ships in the world, with their own central park, Ultimate Abyss Slide, and a boardwalk complete with a carousel.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships

At 17 ships, Norwegian Cruise Line has a slightly smaller fleet but still offers plenty of vessels, like Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Prima. Both cruise lines have a variety of cabins, ranging from solo cabins to family-friendly suites. Norwegian is also known for The Haven, its ship-within-a-ship concept.

When comparing the two companies, it’s important to know that each cruise line could be split into two categories: old ships built in the 90s and early 2000s and newer vessels with various features.

Itineraries

Royal Caribbean is known for its extensive range of itineraries covering almost every region — from the Caribbean and the Bahamas to Europe, Alaska, and Asia.

NCL also offers voyages to a wide variety of destinations, with a focus on the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Alaska. The line also has a ship based in Hawaii year-round that circumnavigates the islands on seven-night cruises.

Both cruise lines have their own private islands, located less than half a mile from each other.

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay could be compared to a giant water park with massive slides, a helium balloon with a basket beneath it for rides, and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean. Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay is more relaxed with beach activities and a zip line. Both islands have an area where guests can pay a premium to access exclusive spaces.

Food and drinks

Dining is a major part of the overall experience during the voyage. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer various dining options for various tastes and preferences.

Royal Caribbean is known for its variety and signature dining experiences. The cruise line also offers traditional meal options such as the main dining room, which serves classic dishes like steak and lobster, and specialty restaurants like Chops Grille and Jamie’s Italian.

Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a variety of dining options, including a main dining room and specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse, La Cucina, and Le Bistro.

Norwegian is also known for its Freestyle Dining concept, which allows passengers to dine whenever and wherever they want, without needing reservations or set dining times. This is perfect for those who want more flexibility in their dining choices.

Royal Caribbean and NCL also offer buffet-style dining with a wide range of options, including international cuisine, made-to-order stations, and dessert bars.

Both restaurants offer packages for dining. Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate Dining Package includes access to several specialty restaurants for a set price. At the same time, NCL’s Dining Package offers a set number of meals at specialty restaurants for a discounted price or as part of its ‘Free at Sea’ program.

Bars and lounges

Royal Caribbean is known for its innovative bar concepts, including the Bionic Bar, where passengers can watch robots create their drinks, and the Rising Tide Bar, a mobile bar that moves between decks.

Royal Caribbean also offers a variety of other bars and lounges, including the Schooner Bar, inspired by a traditional English pub, and the Boleros Latin-themed bar.

Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a variety of bars and lounges, including the Sugarcane Mojito Bar and the Skyline Bar, which feature panoramic “views” of different cities.

The cruise line is also known for its nightlife options, including the Bliss Ultra Lounge, which features a giant LED screen and hosts nightly parties, and the Cavern Club.

Both cruise lines offer various drink options, including a la carte pricing, drink packages, and happy hour specials. It’s important for passengers to know their drinking habits and preferences to choose the best option for their budget.

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package includes access to a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. In contrast, NCL’s Ultimate Beverage Package includes access to premium spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass.

MORE: Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival Cruise Line: Which Cruise Line Is Best For You?

Cabins and Staterooms

When it comes to cabins, both Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers Solo Studios, designed for solo travelers, and features a full-size bed and access to a private lounge.

The cruise line also offers a range of stateroom options, including Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and Suites.

The Haven area in Norwegian offers a ship-within-a-ship concept. This exclusive area is available on select NCL ships and includes a variety of upscale amenities and services.

Guests who book a Haven suite will enjoy a private courtyard with a pool, hot tub, sun deck, and a private restaurant and lounge. The suites feature a separate living area, a private balcony, and a butler service.

The Haven is perfect for travelers who want a more exclusive and personalized experience at sea.

Royal Caribbean also offers a range of stateroom options, including Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and Suites. The cruise line is known for its innovative cabin designs, including Virtual Balcony staterooms with a floor-to-ceiling screen displaying real-time ocean views.

Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas also features cabins with balconies that can be transformed into indoor living spaces with a button.

Regarding amenities, Both cruise lines have staterooms that feature a mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, and 24-hour room service. The cruise line also offers family-friendly amenities such as connecting staterooms and family suites.

Solo travelers

Royal Caribbean and NCL offer a range of options to accommodate different budgets and preferences. Many of Royal Caribbean’s newer ships have dedicated solo traveler cabins that offer a more affordable option for solo travelers who don’t want to pay higher single supplement fees for traditional cabins. These cabins are smaller in size but include all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.

NCL also offers a range of options for solo travelers, including solo traveler cabins on select ships. Norwegian has a dedicated solo traveler space in the middle of the ship with a lounge and mingle area where solo travelers can get to know each other.

They also have a pricing structure that allows solo travelers to pay a reduced single supplement fee, making booking a traditional cabin more affordable without sharing with another passenger.

Entertainment and activities

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer a wide range of options to keep guests entertained throughout their cruise vacations.

Royal Caribbean is known for its family-friendly activities like rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and adults-only Solarium area.

NCL, on the other hand, is known for its entertainment options, like Broadway-style shows and the popular race track on Norwegian Bliss, Encore, Joy, and Prima.

Both cruise lines offer various dining options, including specialty restaurants, for an additional fee.

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its Freestyle Cruising, which allows passengers to choose from various dining options and entertainment venues.

The cruise line offers Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy clubs, and a dinner theater.

Norwegian Cruise Line also has a range of outdoor activities, including ropes courses, rock climbing walls, and water slides.

Royal Caribbean is also known for its innovative entertainment options. The cruise line offers Broadway-style shows, ice skating shows, and even a diving show on select ships.

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships feature the North Star, a glass capsule that takes passengers over 300 feet above sea level for 360-degree views. The cruise line also offers a range of outdoor activities, including rock climbing walls, zip lines, and surfing simulators.

Royal Caribbean and NCL have plenty of amenities to entertain you if you’re looking for a more adult-oriented vacation. Royal Caribbean’s Solarium is an adults-only retreat featuring a pool, hot tubs, and a bar. NCL’s Spice H2O is also an adults-only place, as is the Vibe Beach Club (extra fee for this resort deck).

Kids’ programs

If you’re traveling with family, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a cruise line is their kids’ programs. Royal Caribbean and NCL are known for their family-friendly amenities and entertainment options.

Royal Caribbean offers a range of kids’ programs for different age groups, including their Adventure Ocean program, which features supervised activities for kids and teens aged 3-17.

Additionally, Royal Caribbean has onboard water parks, mini-golf courses, and other fun activities that will keep kids entertained throughout their vacation.

Norwegian Cruise Line also has a range of kids’ programs, including Splash Academy, suitable for kids aged 3-12, and their Entourage program, designed for teenagers.

NCL also has youth counselors who organize activities and events for kids throughout the day.

When booking a cruise vacation, one of the top priorities for most travelers is finding a cruise line that fits their budget. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are two popular options that offer a variety of itineraries and onboard amenities, but how do they differ in pricing?

Overall, Royal Caribbean and NCL offer a range of pricing options to suit different budgets. However, there are some key differences when comparing the two cruise lines.

Firstly, Royal Caribbean tends to offer slightly higher prices than NCL, particularly when it comes to their newer and larger ships, such as Wonder of the Seas.

However, Royal Caribbean’s prices often include more amenities and activities, such as their signature surfing simulator, skydiving simulator, Broadway-style shows, and various dining options.

On the other hand, NCL often offers lower base prices, discounts, and promotions throughout the year, including its ongoing ‘Free at Sea’ perks program that includes beverages and dining packages. This can be a great way to save on additional expenses while enjoying various amenities.

Norwegian Cruise Line has a reputation for nickel and diming guests, so compare the add-on packages’ value to ensure it is a value and not an attractive advertisement.

Final Thoughts

Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer unique and exciting experiences. Royal Caribbean may be a good fit for cruisers looking for a cruise ship to be the destination. For vacationers looking for a more laid-back experience, Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising may be more your speed.

READ NEXT: Carnival Cruise Line vs. Norwegian: Which One Is Right For You?

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Royal Caribbean Vs. Norwegian: Which One Suits You Better?

Both the Norwegian cruise line and Royal Caribbean International make mega-ships to attract families. At first glance, they may seem similar and draw the same type of clientele.

Royal Caribbean International encompasses a larger brand and owns Celebrity Cruises and Silversea Cruises.

In this detailed comparison of Norwegian Vs. Royal Caribbean, you’ll discover their differences and determine the best cruise line for your next vacation at sea.

While some prefer one line over the other, each person’s needs will differ. What works for one family may not be the best choice for the next.

Who Has the Largest Ships?

A step up from the Breakaway class, Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus includes four vessels: the Joy, Encore, Escape, and Bliss. While they fit in the same category, there are slight variations in the vessel’s design. At double occupancy, these vessels carry approximately 4,000 passengers.

Onboard, these cities at sea offer endless dining choices, Haven suite amenities to make you drool, and family-friendly attractions such as go-carts, laser tag, escape rooms, and 4D theaters.

The design of the Norwegian Bliss was adapted for sailings to Alaska. Its revolutionary observation lounge encompasses 20,000 sq. feet of deck space on two floors, offering 180-degree views. 

Since Alaska itineraries focus on untouched scenery, passengers prefer cruise ships with large viewing venues.

Royal Caribbean International wins the race with the largest cruise ship. The Wonder of the Seas is currently the largest ship in the fleet, with a passenger capacity of almost 7,000. In the summer of 2024, the Utopia of the Seas is set to join the fleet.

It will be the final vessel built in the Oasis class, with the Oasis of the Seas being the first.

However, in 2024, RCI will launch the Icon class vessel with its inaugural ship, the Icon of the Seas. While only ten feet longer than the Wonder, the Icon of the Seas can carry a colossal 7,600 guests.

These massive floating islands offer various onboard activities that you can stay onboard on port days if you choose to do so.

Royal Caribbean International also has a bigger fleet with more than 25 vessels, whereas Norwegian has less than twenty.

Which One Caters Better To Families?

Both cruise lines offer children’s programs designed for different age groups. Norwegian’s Splash Academy caters to kids aged 3 to 12. Teens 13 to 17 join the Norwegian Entourage. Splash Academy divides the kids into groups: Turtles 3 to 5, Seals 6 to 9, and Dolphins 10 to 12.

The Splash Academy focuses on game shows, scavenger hunts, group sports, and events for the whole family.

The teen group offers gaming, parties, jamming sessions, and improv acting classes. Both programs are complimentary, although late pick-ups cost USD 1 per minute.

Norwegian also offers late-night hours from 11 pm to 1 am, which incurs a fee. Additionally, parents of babies and toddlers from 6 months to 3 years can join “Guppies.” This fee-for-use program allows parents to join their little ones in a unique play zone.

Royal Caribbean has a similar kids’ program. Their Aquanauts cater to 3 to 5-year-olds, Explorers for 6- to 8-year-olds, and Voyagers for 9 to 11-year-olds. Their teens are divided into two groups; 12 to 14 years and 15 to 17.

The younger kids have activities for their age group, such as adventure art, building blocks, talent shows, sports tournaments, and scavenger hunts.

The teens can enjoy karaoke, pool parties, themed dance parties, and DJ training.

Royal Babies and Tots aged 6 to 36 months is available on selected vessels.

Outside the kids’ clubs, most newer vessels on both lines have children’s pools and water slides, and some have water parks. Both lines have climbing walls on selected ships, sometimes reserved for children.

If you’re cruising to Alaska, who can beat the views of a fjord from 300 feet in the air? The Ovation and Quantum cruise ships offer itineraries to Alaska.

Norwegian’s Breakaway-class vessels are well suited for children. There’s plenty to do at sea, with multiple water slides, a kids’ aqua park, a ropes course, and a sports complex.

In addition, the Breakaway Plus-class ships are more suited to teens with their laser tag and go-cart track. Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian larger vessels provide great Alaskan cruises for families.

The winner:  It’s hard to beat the attractions on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis-class and Quantum-class vessels.

Who would want to leave the ship on port days with Splashaway Bay, rock climbing walls, FlowRider, a carousel, bumper cars, and more? Its Oasis-class ships feature a carousel, and who doesn’t love a carousel ride?

How Do Their Dining Options Differ?

Norwegian and RCI have Starbucks coffee shops on their newest ships so that you can get your morning caffeine kick.

Norwegian’s dining rooms have all gone to freestyle dining. So, guests no longer have a choice of a set dining time or anytime dining. With freestyle cruising, you show up at a dining room when you’re hungry and wait to be seated.

While freestyle has been hugely popular with many cruise passengers, it doesn’t suit all. If you cruise with food allergies , having the same table and a consistent waiter works better.

On late port days, all passengers return to their vessel simultaneously, often creating a bottleneck at the main dining room.

Most of Norwegian’s specialty restaurants have gone to a la carte. While this might benefit those who eat very little, diners with a substantial appetite could pay much more.

Alternatively, Royal Caribbean cruises allow any time dining or set dining time. Their new ships have almost too many choices when it comes to dining.

Their specialty restaurants command some of the highest prices in the cruise industry. The  Ovation of the Seas   Chops Grille charges USD 64.99, which is almost double what you’d pay in a similar restaurant with Norwegian.

Their “Wonderland” restaurant, with its Alice in Wonderland theme, is a must-try. Its venue is quirky, but its presentation and themed food add to the ambiance of this specialty restaurant.

If you’re a big fan of additional fee restaurants, both lines offer a specialty dining package that saves a significant amount on the individual venues.

The winner:  Overall, Royal Caribbean has a leg up in terms of taste, presentation, and sheer selection of fine dining choices.

Onboard Activities

It’s hard to pick the better choice in this category, and it could come down to activities suited to your family or group. Both major cruise lines cater to adults and families.

Most vessels have all the common-place activities, including basketball courts, rocking climbing walls, and pool decks with swimming pools and hot tubs.

However, some Norwegian ships have go-cart tracks allowing you to race family and friends at sea. Their Breakaway Plus and Breakaway vessels feature a rope course high above the ocean. Another great activity is their laser tag at sea.

For thrill-seekers, their “walk the plank” provides a unique and one-of-a-kind experience at sea. But, are you daring enough to walk eight feet off the ship’s deck?

Royal Caribbean’s North Star allows guests to rise 200 feet above the ocean in a pod modeled after the London Eye. One of its best features is its wheelchair accessibility, letting all guests enjoy a unique activity.

Quantum-class vessels allow passengers to test their sky-diving skills in the RipCord by iFly wind tunnel. Suitable for kids five to those 60+, you can experience sky diving without jumping out of an airplane.

Select ships feature a FlowRider aft of the vessel. A FlowRider is a surf simulator that allows anyone to learn the art of surfing. Boogie boarding and surfing are fun activities best suited for warm climate destinations.

While some of these thrill-seeking activities incur an extra fee, the next one is included in your cruise fare. Guests can enjoy zip-lining on Oasis-class vessels.

The zip line may be short, but it runs over the Boardwalk mid-ship. Some ships feature the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-story spiraling slide suitable for all ages.

In cooler weather destinations, the Sea Plex offers a multitude of activities, from roller skating and bumper cars to pickleball and basketball.

RCI’s Voyager, Oasis, and Freedom-class vessels have ice skating rinks too. While skating on an ice rink is complimentary, the activity requires you to wear long pants. The only limitation is your desire to practice a pirouette.

The winner:  Royal Caribbean makes you love sea days with their onboard activities. Many of their attractions are inclusive. 

A Comparison Of Their Private Islands

All cruise lines have private Caribbean Islands. Norwegian calls theirs Great Stirrup Cay, and CocoCay belongs to Royal Caribbean International. Ironically, the islands sit side-by-side, 140 miles east of Miami, Florida, and are parts of the Bahamas.

RCI’s private island may be better known, maybe due to advertising of “Perfect Day at CocoCay.”. Its island has many beaches, a water park, a balloon ride, zip lining, and day-use cabanas.

RCI has invested a lot into its island, creating the largest wave pool and longest waterslide. New to CocoCay, its over-the-water huts (like in the Maldives) might cost you more than the cruise itself.

If you’ve purchased a drink package on your cruise, you can get complimentary drinks on the island. Unlike Norwegian Cruise lines, who tender to their private island, Royal Caribbean guests have the luxury of docking.

Norwegian’s private island has almost twice the area and offers excursions too. While it may be bigger, it lacks the thrills found on CocoCay. Like RCI, your alcohol on Great Stirrup Cay is included in your drinks package.

One of the unique excursions offered by both lines is their swimming with the pigs’ tour on Treasure Island.

The winner : It’s hard to beat Royal Caribbean’s CocoCay private Island. It’s truly a tropical paradise for all.

Norwegian Vs. Royal Caribbean: Staterooms

Both lines offer studio staterooms for solo guests, although Norwegian has a better concept. RCI has studio cabins on the Anthem of the Seas, Harmony of the Seas, Ovation of the Seas, Quantum of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas, and Spectrum of the Seas.

Traditionally, solo rooms were interiors, but some Royal Caribbean vessels offer selected solo balcony cabins.

Norwegian blazed the way for solo cabins. While small, at 100 sq. feet, you can find them on the Norwegian Escape, Epic, Getaway, Bliss, Breakaway, and Pride of America.

However, solo cruisers benefit by having access to the Studio Lounge (not available on the Pride of America) and a chance to meet other solo guests.

A step up from solo rooms, the insides differ between these lines. Norwegian’s interiors are very small and might be compared to a glorified shoebox with just a bed and a chair.

However, Royal Caribbean’s interiors are roomier, and some vessels feature a “virtual balcony” or large flatscreen that live streams the views outside. While you won’t have fresh air, the outside view adds to the room’s airiness, making it seem larger.

Royal Caribbean staterooms  win an award for uniqueness. Across its fleet, you can find cabins that overlook the inside of the vessel, called Central Park or Boardwalk cabins.

Oasis-class ships feature an aqua theater at the aft. This unique venue allows for another unusual cabin, the aqua theater stateroom. These are the largest staterooms, featuring two bedrooms and massive balconies overlooking the outdoor theater.

The winner:  It’s a tie. While RCI offers virtual balconies and unique cabins, Norwegian has enticing studio staterooms with access to a studio lounge.

Ship-Within-A-Ship Perks

Ship suites and  ship-within-a-ship perks are popular amongst cruisers if they can afford the upgraded staterooms. You can compare Royal Caribbean’s top suites to staying in a luxury resort on land.

Guests in these categories benefit from priority boarding and disembarkation, complimentary WiFi, a free drinks package, gratuities included, an exclusive dining venue, and a Royal Genie. 

A Royal Genie is a glorified name for a personal butler who does everything for you, including unpacking your suitcase. The Royal Loft Suite has the largest square footage at almost 2,500 sq. feet.

It’s hard to beat Norwegian Haven Suites, which give Haven guests an exclusive area of the ship. The Haven has prime real estate on the upper decks at the vessel’s bow.

This area features a concierge, sun deck, private pool, hot tubs, and bar. It’s a private oasis separated from the rest of the vessel. Haven guests enjoy a quieter space, with fewer people and upgraded amenities like padded loungers.

The Norwegian 3-bedroom Villa offers the largest suite with over 6,000 sq. feet of indoor and outdoor space. It can accommodate up to eight guests in a luxurious space.

The 3-bedroom suites are only available on selected vessels. These are the Norwegian Dawn, Gem, Jade, Jewel, Pearl, and Star.

The winner:  Norwegian wins with its Haven ship-within-a-ship suite concept.

Royal Caribbean Vs. Norwegian In Alaska

Both brands offer mega-ship itineraries to Alaska from Seattle, Washington. The Norwegian Encore and Bliss provide families with various onboard activities on their 4,000 passenger vessels.

If you prefer something smaller, you can sail on the Sun, Jewel, and Spirit, which carry around 2,000 guests.

Alternatively, you can pick from one of four Royal Caribbean vessels. Their mega-ships, the Ovation of the Sea and Quantum of the Seas, offers roundtrip itineraries from Seattle. The Brilliance of the Seas and Radiance of the Seas sail out of Vancouver, with the latter cruising one-way.

While RCI’s larger vessels carry 5,000 passengers, they dock in downtown Alaska ports. Norwegian uses Ward Cove in Ketchikan, which requires a shuttle bus to reach the downtown area.

Traveling by shuttle cuts into a port day and may factor into your decision on choosing a cruise line.

With the recent landslide in Skagway, larger vessels on both lines may need to tender in Skagway or may substitute another port instead.

If you choose a smaller ship, chances are, you won’t be impacted as they use the smaller docks unaffected by the landslide.

The Norwegian Bliss and Encore were built for Alaska. Their 180-degree observation lounge provides guests with an unobstructed view of the stunning Alaska landscape.

If you stay in a Haven suite, you’ll have access to the Haven observation lounge for a less crowded viewing experience. With a go-cart track, aqua racer, and laser tag, the kids will never be bored on sea days.

Norwegian, like Princess Cruises and Holland America, have the option to cruise Glacier Bay National Park. Norwegian offers both if you’re trying to decide on an itinerary between Glacier Bay vs. Hubbard Glacier.

You can book a cruise and land tour on Royal Caribbean’s Radiance of the Seas. Choose from 9 to 13-day itineraries that end or begin in Anchorage or Fairbanks.

Norwegian offers a similar option on four ships, although those sailing out of Seattle don’t sail to Anchorage but require a fight instead.

Guests on the Ovation of the Seas and Quantum of the Seas can experience glacier viewing from 300 feet above sea level on the North Star pod. While the attraction commands an extra charge, it’s a unique experience you can’t get on other lines.

The winner:  A tie. While Norwegian docks in Ward Cove and requires a shuttle to get to town, it’s offset by the fact that some itineraries include Glacier Bay National Park.

Itineraries

Norwegian offers cruises to most areas globally, including the Artic and Antarctica. However, they don’t sail around Asia. The Pride of America is the only cruise ship homeported in Honolulu, offering sailings around the Hawaiian Islands.

If you prefer to sail on Royal Caribbean, they only offer Hawaiian cruises at the start and end of Alaska season as the ships reposition to the Pacific Northwest. 

The Quantum, Ovation, and Brilliance of the Seas  cruise from Vancouver to Honolulu  in September and October. In April and May, they offer the reverse itinerary. These repositioning cruises come with five sea days to cross the Pacific Ocean.

Royal Caribbean does not offer cruises to the Artic or Antarctica. However, their Spectrum of the Seas, a Quantum Ultra Class vessel, offers itineraries out of Singapore and was purpose-built for the Asian market. It holds up to 5,622 guests who can choose from 3 to 9-day sailings.

Unlike NCL, Royal Caribbean provides the occasional cruises to Eastern Canada and New England. Passengers can choose from 4 to 5-day sailings on the Liberty of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas.

When it comes to world cruises, only RCL offers them. When Royal Caribbean offered an extended 274-day cruise on the Serenade of the Seas, it sold out quickly. 

The world cruise included business class airfare, hotel, WiFi, transfers, deluxe beverage package, laundry, and gratuities. Amazingly, guests will enjoy 169 port days! Be prepared for exhaustion because, in Europe, the ship has one sea day in 37 consecutive days.

While you can’t get a cabin on the world cruise departing December 2023, there are still available staterooms on portions of the itinerary.

The winner:  A tie. Both companies cover a broad spectrum of the world.

On average, Royal Caribbean charges more per day than Norweigan cruises, but this varies by vessel. The newest ships command the highest prices, and suites sell out fast.

Expect to pay significantly more at Christmas and New Year on a Royal Caribbean vessel, especially if it’s a newer one.

If you want to try out The Haven on an NCL ship, but it’s out of budget, consider a 3-day cruise to the Caribbean instead.  Sampler and mini cruises  are a great way to experience suites and upgraded staterooms without breaking the bank.

With a comparison of cruise lines, it comes down to personal choice. You may prefer one line to the other for a specific reason, while it may not be someone else’s first choice.

Even different ships within the same company may give you contrasting experiences.

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Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cruise Lines

Looking to book your next cruise and trying to decide between Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian? Choosing can be difficult, what with the huge variety of options. 

We’re here to help with this article comparing Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian. It will tell you what each cruise line has to offer so you can decide which one suits you best.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Quick Take:

• Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Dining: Royal Caribbean has dozens of different restaurants with different styles of cuisine. Norwegian, on the other hand, is more “freestyle dining” with no set dining times or dress codes.
• Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cabins: Both cruise lines offer cabins for minimalists and luxury seekers alike, but Norwegian might have a slight edge when it comes to luxury accommodations.
• Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Passengers: Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruises are good options for all types of people, but Norwegian might be a bit better for solo travelers.
• Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Entertainment: Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruise lines offer amazing entertainment, so you won’t ever be bored, but Royal Caribbean has unique amenities like bumper cars and surf and skydiving simulators.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Overview

Royal Caribbean has a large fleet of more than 27 ships. Aimed at travelers of all ages, these ships feature plenty to keep everyone entertained including cool amenities like bumper cars, FlowRider surf simulators, skydiving simulators, ziplines, and ice skating rinks, in addition to the usual casinos, spas, shows, and rock climbing walls.

Itineraries range from short 2-night cruises to a world cruise lasting 275 nights. Royal Caribbean sails to a huge variety of destinations including the Caribbean, the South Pacific, Europe, Asia, Mexico, and Alaska.

Royal Caribbean cruises are not all-inclusive; you’ll have to pay for things like drink packages and some of the premium restaurants, which can add up quickly. While Norwegian does offer all-inclusive packages, some restaurants are extra on their ships as well.

Norwegian Cruise Lines is a wonderful choice for those looking for a laid-back vacation. With no strict dress codes or set dining times, Norwegian gives you the freedom to enjoy your trip the way you want to. 

Norwegian is known for its “freestyle dining,” allowing passengers to choose from a selection of up to nine restaurants at any given time. With a range of cuisines plus the ability to have your meals whenever you want, Norwegian is a good cruise line for those who like more flexibility.

You’ll also find a wide selection of onboard activities suitable for all ages, including a casino for adults, Wii games for kids, bowling, racing, and Broadway shows. Norwegian itineraries range between 3 days and 21 days and include a mix of destinations such as the Caribbean, Alaska, Hawaii, Africa, Europe, Asia, North America, South America, Australia and New Zealand, Antarctica, and more. They also offer transatlantic and Panama Canal cruises.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Ships

As mentioned before, Royal Caribbean has 27 ships in its fleet. Each ship is large and offers all sorts of fantastic amenities (like bumper cars and surf simulators). Most of the Royal Caribbean ships hold more than double the number of passengers of other cruise lines. In fact, some accommodate more than 6,000 passengers.

Norwegian has a fleet size of only 19 ships, but they still offer itineraries with destinations all across the world. Norwegian ships also hold a lot of people, although not quite as many as Royal Caribbean. The Norwegian fleet can accommodate from 1,936 to 4,266 passengers.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Dining

Royal Caribbean has casual dining, which includes a buffet-style restaurant and a main dining room as well as additional complimentary restaurants that are all included in your fare. There are also fine dining restaurants that are extra. Passengers can choose from dining packages such as the 3 Night Dining Package or Unlimited Dining Package.

Royal Caribbean also has four drinks packages : the water package, the classic soda package, the refreshment package, and the deluxe beverage package (which is the only one including alcoholic drinks). Additionally, gratuities are charged each day for every guest.

Dining on Norwegian cruises is “Freestyle Dining.” With a wide range of options, guests are able to eat whenever and wherever they want and can choose to dine at grilles, buffets, cafes, and fine dining restaurants, all with no fixed dress codes.

Norwegian offers all-inclusive packages with unlimited alcohol, soft drinks, and meals. However, there can be added fees for specialty restaurants and drinks.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Cabins

Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruise ships are comparable in the quality and type of cabins available. They offer a range of cabin sizes, from basic inside cabins to luxurious suites with balconies.

Royal Caribbean tends to have more amenities in their staterooms, such as virtual balconies, while Norwegian has more suite options with better views. (Virtual balconies are high-definition screens inside interior staterooms that show exterior views in real-time.) Royal Caribbean also has fun and colorful family rooms that come stocked with games and neat features like Lego walls and in-room slides.

Norwegian offers accommodations for solo travelers, couples, and families. For honeymooners, Norwegian’s luxury The Haven suites are perfect for a romantic getaway. These exclusive suites are spacious and offer large balconies; some even have separate living areas and spa-like bathrooms with separate tubs. They also include access to a private pool, restaurant, lounge, and 24-hour butler service.

Both cruise lines offer cabins for minimalists and luxury seekers alike. But if you are looking for a room that will put the cherry on top of your vacation, The Haven by Norwegian is far and away the most luxurious option.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Entertainment and Activities

Royal Caribbean cruises keep everyone entertained. In addition to pools and whirlpools, there are tons of activities and entertainment options for adults, teens, and kids on each ship such as surf simulators, waterparks, rock climbing walls, live shows, bumper cars, casinos, and escape rooms. There are also dedicated kids’ club areas as well as adult-only lounges and nightclubs.

Royal Caribbean also offers award-winning Broadway shows such as Grease, Cats, and Hairspray in addition to comedy shows, game shows, and other live performances.

Norwegian isn’t far behind though. Onboard activities include pools, waterslides, casinos, bars, and shops as well as fun amenities like rock climbing walls, rope courses, waterparks, video games, and bowling alleys. Of course, you’ll also find pools, hot tubs, and spas.

You won’t be lacking any entertainment options either. Norwegian cruises offer all types of shows including Broadway hits, comedy, and dance. You can also find live music in a variety of venues. 

Regardless of which cruise line you  choose, be sure to check what will be offered onboard your specific ship before you book if entertainment and amenities are important to you. Not all cruises have the same things.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Cost 

As with any cruise line, the cost of both Norwegian and Royal Caribbean cruises varies depending on the length of the trip, destinations, time of year, and of course, what type of accommodation you select.

Royal Caribbean cruises average around $150 – $250 per person per night. Although Royal Caribbean cruises aren’t all-inclusive, you can purchase add-ons like drink packages ahead of time so it’s easier to budget and you don’t need to worry about surprise expenses. 

Norwegian has all-inclusive packages, but some specialty restaurants and drinks can cost extra. Prices for Norwegian cruises vary between $300 and $5,550 per person, though you can find some great deals with them, especially for solo travel or last-minute reservations.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Passengers

Royal Caribbean cruises offer plenty for couples, singles, solo travelers, retirees, and families with kids of all ages. There truly is something for everyone and you’re bound to see passengers from every demographic on a Royal Caribbean cruise. 

Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian are extremely family-friendly but also cater well to couples, group vacations, and solo travelers. Neither of them offers adult-only cruises, but both have several areas onboard their ships that are adult-only when you’re looking to escape from the little ones.

Norwegian may appeal more to solo travelers who want to be on their own schedule. In addition, the freestyle dining experience may make it easier for solo travelers to dine without feeling awkward. 

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Conclusion

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruise lines are pretty comparable, all things considered. Both have great amenities, cabins, and plenty of entertainment options for everyone. You won’t regret choosing either one as your next cruise line. If you’re still unsure, you might want to read Princess vs. Royal Caribbean Cruises and Is a Royal Caribbean Cruise Worth It ?

If you’d like more help deciding, or booking your cruise, reach out to one of our expert travel advisors .

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Norwegian Cruise Line Vs. Royal Caribbean: What's the Difference?

Learn about the unique features that set Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean apart. Make an informed decision for your next cruise vacation!

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Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are two well-known and grand cruising lines. Both cruise lines feature large ships in their fleets and focus on providing a magnificent experience to travelers onboard. Both cruise lines also have a long list of exotic itineraries that can easily provide many interesting options to choose from.

If you are looking to make your next cruising experience unforgettable and exciting, then these two cruise lines are the perfect choice. Both cruise lines have a lot to offer, which can make choosing between the two a tough matter. Fear not, for we can help you with the issue by providing you with all the basic information you may need about the two ships to make an informed decision for your next trip!

Norwegian Cruise Line takes a freestyle approach to the cruising experience, providing travelers with free reign over their choices in various factors, such as dining, activities, events, and more. The more laid-back theme is in line with the dress code, as there isn't one on board! The theme that you have to follow onboard is comfortability, so you can lie back and relax in the sub without having to worry about your wardrobe so much.

Royal Caribbean features larger-than-life ships in its fleet and prioritizes customer experience over all else. Royal is known to provide a grand cruising experience, filled to the brim with fun and exciting activities, fine dining options, and a lot more! Their ships are made to offer relaxation while also providing you with the option to have fun doing various activities around the ship. Known for its innovative design and need to add and provide only the latest technology onboard, Royal Caribbean is a force to be reckoned with.

Differences between Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean

Both cruise lines are magnificent and, in certain areas, seem to be similar to one another. All this can make it confusing to understand what sets them apart, but you don’t need to worry about that because we have compiled together a list of certain factors that can be used to draw a difference. These things can be kept in mind whenever you plan to make your next vacation and have to choose between Norwegian or Royal Caribbean.

1. Ship and Fleet Size:

Both cruise lines have grand ships operating in their fleets, and both offer a significant amount of ships to choose from. This ensures that first, you won’t need to worry about running out of things to do on your cruise trip as the ship is large enough to have a horde of things for you to do, and second, the larger the fleet, the larger the itinerary list of the cruise line. In fleet size, Royal Caribbean has more options, offering up to 29 best cruise ships to choose from, while Norwegian offers 19 best cruise ships to choose from in its fleet.

As for ship size, Royal’s largest ship, Icon of the Seas , measures about 1,198 feet in length and 216 feet in width, with a gross tonnage of 2,50,800 tons. Norwegian’s largest ship, Norwegian Encore , measures 1,094 feet in length and 136 feet in width, with a gross tonnage of 1,69,145 tons.

2. Destinations:

The Norwegian cruise line offers 450+ destinations and itineraries to choose from when booking your next cruise vacation. At the same time, Royal Caribbean has 300+ destinations that you can visit on any of its ships. Of course, choosing from these depends entirely on where you wish to go on your next cruising trip and who is offering options more suitable to your taste.

3. Passenger Capacity:

Icon of the Seas, Royal Caribbean’s largest circulating ship, has a passenger capacity of more than 5,400 guests at a time at double occupancy. Norwegian, on the other hand, provides space for around 4,100 passengers at a time at double occupancy.

4. Dining Facilities:

Royal Caribbean’s star in dining facilities is its buffet system, the Windjammer Marketplace. This facility is added along with the base cruise fare and features a large variety of dishes. If you wish to experience something fancier, don't worry; they have many specialty restaurants available onboard. One such special mention is celebrity chef Jamie Oliver’s ‘ Jamie's Italian ’ restaurant, which you can choose for an extra cost.

Norwegian offers a ‘ freestyle dining ’ facility, something that goes along with the overall theme and provides a major system where passengers have free choice over what they wish to eat and where they wish to eat it. NCL offers a large variety of offerings. Somewhere in the smaller dining rooms and buffets, you’ll find free yet equally good food options. If you’re willing to spend a little extra, though, then you’ll also find more exotic options at an extra rate.

5. Activities and Entertainment Corner:

Royal and Norwegian both have something for all age groups. For children, Royal features an Adventure Ocean program and many other children-centric events. With Norwegian, you’ll find that they have their Splash Academy program and other games and clubs for different ages.

For adults, Norwegian offers go-karting and virtual reality gaming. Royal features extensive onboard playgrounds with surf simulators, ziplines, and even water slides!

You can also find live theatre shows on both cruise line ships! While Royal features Broadway shows like Grease and Hairspray, you can also see other famous and well-known live musicals, such as Beetlejuice, Six, and even Summer: The Donna Summer Musical.

Related:   What Is the Difference between MSC Vs. Royal Caribbean ?

In conclusion, Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are both amazing cruise lines that offer an extensive array of options. Whether it be dining or itinerary, they have something for everyone. When choosing between the two, consider all factors and understand your needs. If you need any assistance, go to Cruisebooking.com!

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Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: Side by Side Comparison

By: Author Patrick Davis

Posted on Published: January 15, 2023

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian are two of the most popular cruise lines to consider for a honeymoon, romantic getaway, couples trip, or family vacation. Is Norwegian or Royal Caribbean better for you? It depends on what you’re looking for.

This article will help you decide which is the best cruise line for your particular needs. We’ll share the key differences between Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cruise Line so you can plan your perfect cruise vacation.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Overviews

There are several factors to consider when deciding which cruise line is best for a honeymoon or vacation. From pricing and packages to cabin accommodations, dining experiences, and entertainment options, each cruise line offers unique features that may or may not suit your needs.

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Royal Caribbean Overview

Royal Caribbean is one of the best cruise lines for people who like to get their hearts pumping and have plenty of options. With ships that feature the tallest slide at sea, giant surf pools, skydive simulators, zip lining, and rock-climbing walls, Royal Caribbean has plenty of activities that will excite adrenaline junkies. 

It also has a variety of onboard amenities and entertainment, including top Broadway musicals. And if you want to mix in some relaxation, you can enjoy a spa treatment, fine dining, and plenty of lounges and bars. 

While Royal Caribbean does have smaller ships, their larger ships (some of the biggest in the world) have so much to offer that you may not be able to experience everything during your cruise.

The largest Royal Caribbean ships are the Oasis-class ships , and they are some of the top-rated cruise ships in the industry. In fact, the Royal Caribbean ship Symphony of the Seas won Travel Weekly ’s Reader’s Choice Award for the best overall ship of 2021 and 2022.

Norwegian Cruise Line Overview

Norwegian Cruise Line takes a freestyle approach to cruising. This makes them a great choice for couples who like to do their own thing and want to avoid being tethered to a schedule.

If you want to just sit back and relax onboard Norwegian cruise ships, you can. But if you want to enjoy fine dining followed by award-winning Broadway-style shows, you can do that too. 

There are plenty of activities for couples and families to enjoy. You can release your inner race car driver on the biggest race track at sea or test your luck at the casinos and gaming centers. You can also cool off at the aqua park or just take a dip in one of the many pools.

Norwegian Cruise Lines also serves a wide variety of cuisines, whether you are feeling like fancy seafood pasta or a classic cheeseburger from the grill. No need to sign up for specific dining slots, because Norwegian Cruise Line offers open seating at flexible times. However, reservations for specialty restaurants are recommended.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cost

Cost is a big deciding factor when deciding what cruise line is the best fit. In general, Royal Caribbean tends to be a bit less than Norwegian Cruise Line, but their packages often include fewer amenities and activities. Norwegian seems to always have a promotion that includes a food and drinks package and other addons for free.

Royal Caribbean may be the best choice for you if you are looking for a budget-friendly option. It’s not to say you can’t find budget deals with Norwegian Cruise Line, but they will be on their older and smaller ships.

Norwegian vs. Royal Caribbean Itineraries

When it comes to cruise itineraries, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean sail to similar destinations, offering trips to the Caribbean , Europe , Alaska , Hawaii , Africa , and more.

Both cruise lines also have a variety of length in their itineraries, from short 3- and 5-night cruises to longer trips of 7, 9, 11, 12, and 15+ nights (including the Ultimate World Cruises by Royal Caribbean, which feature 4 segments of 60+ nights each.)

It’s hard to choose one over the other for itineraries, as they sail to many of the same destinations. Your best bet is to compare the costs and departure dates for the itinerary you want.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cabins

Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruise ships are comparable in the quality and type of cabins available. They offer a range of cabin sizes, from basic inside cabins to luxurious suites with balconies.

Royal Caribbean tends to have more amenities in their staterooms, such as virtual balconies, while Norwegian has more suite options with better views. (Virtual balconies are high-definition screens inside interior staterooms that show exterior views in real-time.) However, when it comes to cabin variety, Royal Caribbean may be the better choice if you want more options.

Norwegian offers accommodations for solo travelers, couples, and families. For honeymooners, Norwegian’s luxury The Haven suites are perfect for a romantic getaway. These exclusive suites are spacious and offer large balconies; some even have separate living areas and spa-like bathrooms with separate tubs. They also include access to a private pool, restaurant, lounge, and 24-hour butler service.

Both cruise lines offer cabins for minimalists and luxury seekers alike. But if you are looking for a room that will put the cherry on top of your vacation, The Haven by Norwegian is far and away the most luxurious option.

Norwegian vs. Royal Caribbean Food and Drink

While neither cruise line offers an all-inclusive dining experience , Royal Caribbean and Norwegian offer various restaurants, bars, and cafes you can enjoy while onboard. 

Norwegian has a “freestyle” dining experience that is quite different from Royal Caribbean’s traditional cruise dining experience.

While it can be great to choose your own schedule, the freestyle approach has its pitfalls. You can experience a long wait if you want to eat at the more popular restaurants. The other downfall is that you will have a different server every night and won’t get to know the staff as well.

If you want a romantic dinner, you can make dinner reservations in advance. You can also ask to be seated in a specific server section if you have had a good experience with them before.

Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, is a hybrid of traditional and freestyle dining. This is possible because there are so many restaurants on the larger ships.

Like Norwegian, you can find fine dining steakhouses, Italian cuisine, sushi bars, and more. Typically, these restaurants have a dress code and require reservations.

If you’re just hanging out at the pool, you can grab a quick bite at the poolside pizzeria or doughnut shop. You can also enjoy one of the many buffets if you aren’t looking to dress up for dinner.

Norwegian vs. Royal Caribbean Entertainment

You won’t have a problem finding something to do on either cruise line. Both outfits offer plenty of onboard entertainment and activities plus onshore excursions.

Norwegian sets the stage (literally) with its Broadway shows and entertainment, where you can enjoy performances like Six and Footloose, as well as comedy shows, live music, and more.

If shows aren’t your thing, you will find several water activities such as “walk the plank,” rope swings, and waterparks. You will also find mini-golf courses, rock climbing, and one of the largest race tracks at sea in the ThrillPlex activity zone.

In addition to rock climbing walls, mini golf courses, and surf simulators, Royal Caribbean goes to another level with unique offerings like the largest slide at sea, ziplining, and skydive simulators.

Royal Caribbean also features Broadway shows, casino games, and fitness centers. What sets Royal Caribbean apart is that most of the popular activities are free to enjoy.

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Atmosphere

The atmosphere on a cruise ship can vary widely depending on the passengers and the route. 

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a more laid-back, relaxed atmosphere. People are here to enjoy the cruise and don’t expect much beyond that. The crowd is mostly families and older couples, but you will also find younger people onboard.

Royal Caribbean has a more upbeat atmosphere, with its larger ships carrying more passengers than Norwegian. This makes the Royal Caribbean atmosphere more social, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and clubs to mingle at. It also offers more activities for kids and teens, so has plenty of families on board.

Still trying to decide which cruise line to go with? Check out our articles on Carnival Cruise vs. Royal Caribbean and 10 Best Honeymoon Cruises & Cruise Lines for more information!

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Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian Cruise Line

Thursday, April 4th

2024 Cruise Line Reviews

• Royal Caribbean
• Best for guests of all ages
• 27 ships in the fleet
• Some of the largest ships in the cruise industry: from 2,400 to 6,000+ passengers
• Exciting onboard activities can include rock climbing, ice skating, escape rooms, FlowRider and waterslides, and much more
• 300+ ports of call
• Two private islands: CocoCay (Bahamas) and Perfect Day (Labadee, Haiti)
• Great last-minute cruise deals
• Excellent safety record

Royal Caribbean International is a cruise line headquartered in Miami, Florida, operating a fleet of 27 ships that sail to destinations worldwide, including the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, Australia, and Alaska. The company offers innovative onboard experiences, such as Broadway-style shows, the Bionic Bar, and Virtual Balcony cabins, as well as a wide range of activities like ice skating and rock climbing while at sea. Royal Caribbean is suitable for guests of all ages and is well known for having some of the largest ships in the cruise industry, 300+ ports of call, and two private islands: CocoCay and Perfect Day. The company is also known for great last-minute cruise deals and having an excellent safety record. We recommend Royal Caribbean as one of the first places to search for your next cruise.

• Norwegian Cruise Line
• Best for large-ship sailing, especially in Alaska
• 18 ships in the fleet
• Ships accommodate anywhere from 1,900 to 4,000+ passengers
• Private island in the Bahamas, Great Stirrup Cay
• Exciting amenities on board, like go-kart tracks and climbing walls
• No required or recommended gratuities
• Freestyle cruising plus "Free at Sea" promos can make your cruise flexible and affordable

Norwegian Cruise Line, or NCL, offers sailings to destinations around the world plus exciting entertainment and flexible amenities. NCL is suitable for cruisers of all ages and adventure levels, and it's one of the only non-luxury class cruise lines that doesn't require gratuities (or even recommend them at any particular amount). While being on a ship with 2,000-4,000 other passengers might not appeal to some vacationers, NCL's large ships make it easy to eat, play, and relax in any way you want.

More Cruise Line Reviews

• Disney Cruise Line

• Celebrity Cruises

• Virgin Voyages

• Viking Cruises

• Regent Seven Seas

• Princess Cruises

• Holland America

• MSC Cruises

• Carnival Cruises

The 15 Best Cruise Lines

Which cruise line is the best.

Cruising is a popular way of traveling for many people, offering a unique experience that combines the convenience of a floating hotel with the excitement of visiting multiple destinations in one trip. In an average year, over fifteen million people say "all aboard" and set sail on an amazing vacation.

There are many different cruise lines to choose from, and each one offers a different type of experience. Some are geared towards families, while others are more focused on luxury or adventure. What would you like to see and do while you're onboard? Is a casino a must-have or a rather-avoid? Would a Broadway-caliber show tip the scales for you? Do you need a wide range of activities to keep the kiddos happy while the adults live it up or relax? The onboard activities and amenities can really make or break your vacation, so be sure you know what you're getting.

Cruise Line FAQ

Which cruise line is the best, what is included in the cost of a cruise, what is the minimum age to cruise, what are the dining options on a cruise ship, are cruise ships crowded, do i have to dress up, are activities included at destination ports, can i bring my own alcohol onboard.

Continued from above...

Another factor that can influence which cruise line you choose is the itinerary. Cruise ships travel all over the world, but some cruise lines may not have destinations available where you're hoping to go. You should also consider the size of the ship: larger ships offer more amenities, but smaller ships can access ports that bigger ships can't.

Speaking of amenities, make sure you understand what you'll get as part of your fare and which extras will come with an additional cost. For example, most cruises offer drink packages for alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, but a few have drink stations where you can get complimentary lemonade, coffee and tea. Other amenities that might be important to you are Wi-Fi, spa services, babysitting, fitness classes, and upgraded dining experiences. You can usually get a decent discount if you sign up for an amenities package before you sail, so keep an eye out for promotions in the months leading up to your sailing.

When you take a cruise, it's almost always expected that you'll tip the crew members who have attended to your needs while onboard: your cabin steward ( who probably leaves your towels folded into fun shapes every night ), your servers at your nightly meals, and the head waiter. Cruise lines have a recommended gratuity to cover all three of those staff members, usually $15-$20 per traveler, per day; the total gratuity amount may be charged automatically to your account, or you may be given envelopes to make cash payments.

While it usually isn't mandatory to pay those gratuities - you can ask to have them removed if they're applied automatically, especially if you've received poor service - it's typically considered in poor taste not to tip at the suggested levels (because crew members' salaries, much like servers at your local restaurant, are based on the expectation of tips paid by guests). And, if you receive service that goes above and beyond, adding to the recommended gratuity is always appreciated. Be aware that tips for bartenders, poolside servers, and professional services provided in the spa or elsewhere are not included in the daily suggested gratuity and may be charged automatically at the time of service.

Now that you have a good overview of the cruising experience, which cruise line should you choose? Beyond the points we already covered, here are a few additional criteria that might make it easier to pick:

• Embarkation port. You could get a great deal on a cruise, but what will it cost you to get to the port? That could involve airfare, an overnight stay or two in a nearby hotel (so that you're less likely to be affected by travel delays), and transportation from the airport or hotel to the port. This is especially true if you're taking a cruise that departs from an international destination.
• Perks for repeat cruisers. Like frequent flyer programs on airlines, most cruise lines offer benefits the more you sail. If you find yourself absolutely loving cruise vacations, it can be advantageous to put all of your eggs in one basket, so to speak. Rewards programs can include casino benefits, complimentary meals at the upgraded dining experiences, exclusive sail-away parties with free cocktails and tchotchkes, early-access booking on future cruises, and much more.
• Reputation. It's a really smart idea to see what other travelers have said about their overall experience with a cruise line before booking your trip. The ads on TV may make that private island look amazing, but someone who's been there might point out that you'll pay extra to get on that waterslide. Or, previous cruisers could tell you that despite having several formal nights on the schedule, a particular cruise line has no problem with people showing up to dinner in flip-flops and swimsuit coverups. Find out if the cruise line you're considering lines up in reality with what they advertise.

Here at Top Consumer Reviews, cruising is one of our favorite ways to travel and experience new things. And with so many different cruise lines to choose from, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. But, don't worry: take a look at our in-depth analysis of today's most popular options, find the one that's the best match for your vacation ideas and your travel party, and book that trip you've been dreaming of. Bon voyage!

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Norwegian Cruise Line vs. Royal Caribbean – Which is Better?

• Kristen Campos
• July 24, 2023

Today we’re setting our sights on the open sea. In the quest for the ultimate cruising experience, we’ll dive deep into the offerings of two heavyweights in the cruise industry: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean. From the intricacies of onboard amenities to the breadth of destination possibilities, let’s embark on this journey and decide for ourselves: Which cruise line takes the crown?

A Brief History

Norwegian cruise line (ncl).

Norwegian Cruise Line is a pioneer, having introduced the concept of “freestyle cruising,” a relaxed, resort-style experience with no fixed dining times, formal attire requirements, or structured activities. Established in 1966, NCL has grown significantly, today boasting a fleet of 17 modern ships and sailing to over 300 destinations worldwide .

In the 1960s, the Norwegian Caribbean Line, as it was then known, transformed the cruise industry by offering short, affordable cruises. This was a revolutionary concept at the time, as cruising was typically reserved for the wealthy and was seen as a grand voyage rather than a vacation option. Today, NCL continues to innovate, offering an array of experiences tailored to different passenger needs and preferences.

Royal Caribbean

Since its inception in 1968, Royal Caribbean has stood at the forefront of cruise line innovation, continuously pushing boundaries to deliver the extraordinary. With a staggering fleet of 25 ships, Royal Caribbean is known for its “bigger is better” philosophy, with several of its vessels holding the record for the largest cruise ship in the world at different times.

The company revolutionized the industry in the 1990s by introducing Voyager-class ships, boasting features unheard of in the cruising world, such as rock-climbing walls and ice-skating rinks. Ever since Royal Caribbean has been recognized for their expansive ship amenities and wide range of onboard activities.

Onboard Experiences

Entertainment and activities.

When it comes to entertainment, both cruise lines offer a plethora of choices. Norwegian Cruise Line offers Broadway-style shows, comedy clubs, live music performances, and unique entertainment options like escape rooms and virtual reality experiences. Royal Caribbean, on the other hand, is best known for its high-energy entertainment, including Broadway hits, ice-skating shows, and parades featuring characters from DreamWorks Animation films.

• Norwegian Cruise Line: Whether you’re a fan of live music, comedy, or theatrical performances, NCL has something to cater to your taste. Their Broadway-style productions, including “Kinky Boots” and “After Midnight,” received rave reviews. For the adventurous, their escape rooms and virtual reality experiences are must-try attractions.
• Royal Caribbean: This cruise line’s commitment to high-energy, unique entertainment is evident. From Broadway hits like “Grease” and “Hairspray” to thrilling ice-skating shows and AquaTheater diving performances, boredom is never an option. Their partnership with DreamWorks also means fun character experiences for the kids (and the young at heart!).

Dining Options

When it comes to food, both lines have plenty to offer. Royal Caribbean is renowned for its array of dining options, including a wide variety of international cuisines in its main dining rooms and an impressive lineup of specialty restaurants. Norwegian, on the other hand, revolutionized dining at sea with “freestyle dining,” allowing guests to dine whenever and with whomever they choose.

• Norwegian Cruise Line: With its freestyle dining concept, NCL offers flexibility and a wide variety of food options. You can choose from up to 27 dining options, including specialty restaurants like French bistro Le Bistro, Italian eatery La Cucina, and the Japanese hibachi and sushi restaurant, Teppanyaki.
• Royal Caribbean: With a focus on diversity, Royal Caribbean provides an extensive range of dining options . In addition to the main dining rooms, you can sample delights from Jamie’s Italian by celebrity chef Jamie Oliver, enjoy prime steaks at Chops Grille, or experience Wonderland, an imaginative dining concept inspired by “Alice in Wonderland.”

Onboard Accommodations

Norwegian cruise line staterooms.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s staterooms are known for their comfortable, contemporary design. They offer a variety of room options to suit different needs, from budget-friendly inside cabins to the luxurious and spacious Haven suites, which offer access to a private courtyard, butler service, and exclusive dining.

A particularly popular option among solo travelers is the Studio cabins, specifically designed for single occupancy, removing the “single supplement” that can make cruising alone more expensive. These cabins also grant access to the Studio Lounge, a private space for socializing with other solo cruisers.

Royal Caribbean Staterooms

Royal Caribbean’s cabins are designed with guest comfort in mind and range from cozy interior rooms to sprawling suites with private balconies. Unique to Royal Caribbean are the “virtual balcony” interior rooms that feature floor-to-ceiling HD screens showing real-time ocean views.

For the ultimate in luxury, the Royal Suite Class offers exclusive benefits like a personal Royal Genie service, premium in-suite dining, and access to private areas on the ship. If you’re cruising with family or a group, consider the Family Suites, which can accommodate larger groups and include extra amenities to keep everyone comfortable and entertained.

Destinations and Itineraries

Norwegian cruise line itineraries.

The Norwegian Cruise Line has an expansive list of destinations, sailing to over 300 places around the globe. From the majestic fjords of Norway to the sun-soaked beaches of the Caribbean, NCL’s itineraries cater to a wide variety of tastes.

Particularly popular are the line’s cruises to Alaska, where guests can spot breathtaking glaciers and an array of wildlife. The line’s unique Hawaiian itinerary, which sails round-trip from Honolulu and visits several islands, is another standout.

Royal Caribbean Itineraries

Royal Caribbean’s itineraries span the globe, with more than 260 destinations in over 70 countries. The line is especially known for its Caribbean cruises, where guests can explore stunning islands like St. Maarten, Barbados, and their private island in The Bahamas, Perfect Day at CocoCay.

One of Royal Caribbean’s most popular routes is its Mediterranean cruises, offering an opportunity to experience the rich history and culture of Europe. Another noteworthy offering is the Asia itineraries, allowing passengers to immerse themselves in the diverse cultures of Japan, China, and Southeast Asia.

Family-Friendly Amenities

Norwegian Cruise Line Family Options

Norwegian Cruise Line’s family-friendly amenities make it an excellent choice for those planning a family vacation. They offer complimentary youth programs, such as Splash Academy and Entourage, designed to keep children and teens engaged throughout the journey.

• Splash Academy: This is designed for kids aged 3-12, offering a range of age-appropriate activities like arts and crafts, circus school, and sports competitions.
• Entourage: This teen lounge serves as a cool hangout for teenagers aged 13-17, featuring video games, movies, and themed parties.

Moreover, NCL offers larger family cabins and multi-room suites to comfortably accommodate families of any size.

Royal Caribbean Family Options

Royal Caribbean is famous for its family-friendly offerings, providing a wealth of activities that cater to children of all ages. Their Adventure Ocean program, for instance, is divided into several age groups to ensure kids are engaged in age-appropriate activities. There are also teen-only hangout spots and a nursery service for infants and toddlers.

• Adventure Ocean: This is a complimentary program for kids aged 3-12, offering science experiments, art projects, and adventure games.
• Teen Hangouts: Teen-only spots include a disco, lounge area, and a “living room” for hanging out and making new friends.
• Royal Babies & Tots Nursery: This provides professional care for your little ones aged 6 months to 36 months in a safe and interactive environment.

Furthermore, Royal Caribbean’s family staterooms and suites offer plenty of room for families, and their larger ships boast kid-friendly features like water parks, ice skating rinks, and mini-golf courses.

Loyalty Programs

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Latitudes Rewards

Latitudes Rewards is NCL’s loyalty program, where guests earn points for every night they sail. The more points you accumulate, the higher your tier level and the more benefits you receive. Perks can include priority check-in, complimentary dining at specialty restaurants, and even free cruises for top-tier members.

Latitudes Rewards enhances your cruise experience by providing exclusive benefits to repeat customers. The rewards start accruing from your second cruise onward, making it an excellent program for those planning to cruise with NCL repeatedly.

Royal Caribbean’s Crown and Anchor Society

The Crown and Anchor Society is Royal Caribbean’s loyalty program, offering perks to repeat cruisers based on the number of cruise points they have earned. Cruise points are earned based on the length of the cruise and the type of stateroom booked.

Benefits range from priority check-in and private departure lounges to exclusive events and balcony discounts. Plus, the Crown and Anchor Society offers milestone benefits, giving members additional perks when they reach 140, 210, 280, and 350 cruise points.

How do the sizes of the ships compare between Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean?

Both Norwegian and Royal Caribbean operate mega ships of varying sizes. Royal Caribbean’s largest ships, the Oasis class, can carry more than 5,400 guests, while Norwegian’s largest ships can accommodate more than 4,100 passengers.

What types of cabins and suites do Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer?

Both cruise lines offer a broad range of accommodations. Norwegian shines with The Haven, a suite complex with a private restaurant, sundeck, pool, and lounge. They also have special attention to solo travelers with The Studios. Royal Caribbean offers everything from inside cabins with virtual balconies to two-story loft suites.

How do the dining options compare on Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean?

Both lines have a lot of fee-based specialty restaurants. Norwegian developed “Freestyle Cruising,” allowing passengers to eat when and where they want. Royal Caribbean focuses much attention on its Windjammer Marketplace (the buffet) and main dining rooms.

What activities do Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer for kids?

Both cruise lines have well-established programs to keep kids happy. Royal Caribbean’s Adventure Ocean program has an educational spin, while Norwegian’s Splash Academy entertains with creative play, including a Circus School.

What onboard attractions do Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer?

Both cruise lines have developed their newer ships to be active floating playgrounds. Royal Caribbean ships have rock-climbing walls and FlowRider surfing simulators, among other activities. Norwegian’s latest ships feature a multi-story go-cart racetrack.

How does the entertainment compare on Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean?

Both cruise lines have a battle of sorts in terms of signing Broadway shows for onboard productions. Royal Caribbean’s roster includes shows like “Grease,” “Hairspray,” and “CATS.” On Norwegian ships, you can catch productions of shows like “Kinky Boots,” “Six,” and “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical.”

What is the crowd like on Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean?

Norwegian’s “Freestyle Cruising” is designed to be more contemporary and less traditional, attracting a carefree crowd. Royal Caribbean’s crowd is a mix of international travelers and those from North America, including couples, families, and singles from all walks of life.

How do the itineraries of Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean compare?

Both Norwegian and Royal Caribbean position the bulk of their ships in North America, but also have ships sailing in destinations around the world. Norwegian is the only cruise line with a ship that sails year-round in the Hawaiian Islands.

Which cruise line is better for a first-time cruiser?

Either of these cruise lines is a good choice for a first-time cruiser . Go with Royal Caribbean if you are looking for a slightly more upscale, traditional cruise ship atmosphere, and Norwegian if you are looking for a contemporary take on casual cruising.

How do the decor styles of Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean compare?

Norwegian’s decor is contemporary, reflecting the fact you’re staying in fancy digs. Royal’s decor is soothing, subtle, and slightly upscale, akin to a Marriott or Hilton hotel.

The Verdict

Both Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer extraordinary cruising experiences, each with unique offerings that cater to different tastes and budgets. The choice between the two ultimately comes down to personal preference, whether it be the casual, flexible atmosphere of NCL or the adrenaline-pumping entertainment and innovation of Royal Caribbean. Either way, unforgettable adventures await.

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Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian Cruise Line – Everything You Need to Know

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Are you planning on booking a cruise and comparing Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line, to see which is best for you?

Since these are both popular well-loved cruise lines, this is a great question. While Royal Caribbean and Norwegian do have some similarities, there are some important differences to be aware of.

As someone who has cruise with both Norwegian and Royal Caribbean, I know first hand that both cruise lines have a lot to offer.

With that being said, here’s everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

This post contains affiliate links which means if you click and buy that I may make a commission, at no cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for details.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Why Cruisers Like Royal Caribbean

Royal Caribbean is part of Royal Caribbean group, formally known as Royal Caribbean International. Royal Caribbean is a contemporary cruise line that is known for it’s innovation and for having the largest cruise ships at sea.

Here are the reasons why cruisers like Royal Caribbean:

Cruise ship design.

If you’ve never cruised with Royal Caribbean, Royal Caribbean cruise ships are going to blow your mind!

Royal Caribbean has some of the most incredible and innovative cruise ships in the world. Royal Caribbean’s Oasis Class ships are the largest cruise ships at sea, at over 220,000 tons and more than 6,000 passengers.

These ships offer the most features and attractions. If you want a Royal Caribbean cruise ship with tons of activities, make sure you choose an Oasis Class ship.

Quantum Class ships also have amazing onboard attractions. Although they are a bit smaller in size at over 160,000 tons and more than 4,500 passengers, these are still popular and well loved cruise ships for families and kids .

Royal Caribbean’s older cruise ship designs are still great, but you won’t some of the bells and whistles that you will find on the large ships like the Oasis and Quantum Class.

If you enjoy a more traditional cruise ship and don’t need surfing pools, indoor skydiving and zip lines, older Royal Caribbean cruise ships are a great way to cruise for less .

It’s important to research to find the Royal Caribbean cruise ship and itinerary suits you best.

Private Island

When it comes to private islands owned by cruise lines, nobody does it better than Royal Caribbean.

The great thing about cruising to the Caribbean or Bahamas with Royal Caribbean, is that many itineraries stop at their private island, Perfect Day at Cococay.

Perfect Day at Cococay has an incredible water parks, which includes Daredevil’s Peak, the tallest waterslide in North America. You’ll also find beautiful beaches, large swimming pools, zip lining, a hot air balloon ride and many more activities.

The food on the island is very tasty and it’s included with the price of your cruise .

Royal Caribbean also has Labadee which is their other private island located in Haiti. In Labadee you’ll find gorgeous beaches, a roller coaster and a zip line.

Variety of Restaurants & Dining Options

There are many dining options to choose from onboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships. There’s a mix of restaurants are included and others which have an extra cost.

Some “free” casual dining options on Royal Caribbean include the Windjammer Marketplace (buffet) , El Loco Fresh (mexican casual food), Sorrento’s Pizza, Cafe Promenade, and Central Park Cafe. For a nice down meal, the main dining room is a great included dining venue.

Royal Caribbean cruise ships also have a wide variety of specialty restaurants which have an additional charge. If you think you’d like to do more than a couple of nights at a specialty restaurant, consider purchasing the Ultimate Dining Package so you can try them all.

Family Friendly Environment

Royal Caribbean cruise ships have a fun, family friendly environment. You’ll find food, dining options, activities and events which cater towards families with young kids, teenagers and young adults .

Royal Caribbean cruise ships attract families with kids of all ages. Many people love their Adventure Ocean kid’s club, which ranges from the nursery through 17 years of age.

Those who are cruising with a family, love to cruise with Royal Caribbean as it is the ultimate cruise line for family vacations.

Related: Best Royal Caribbean Ships For Families – Complete Guide

Included Activities & Onboard Attractions

Royal Caribbean is known for having fun ships and some of the best onboard activities at sea. When you’re on a Royal Caribbean cruise, there is never a dull moment.

The onboard attractions are family friendly, so it’s a great time for everyone. Here’s a list of activities onboard Royal Caribbean cruise ships:

Activities Onboard Royal Caribbean:

• Ice Skating
• Silent Disco
• Rock Climbing
• Water Slides
• Escape Room (additional cost)
• Splash Park
• FlowRider Surf Simulator
• Basketball Courts
• Bumper Karts
• The Ultimate Abyss (10 story dry slide)

One of the best parts about cruising with Royal Caribbean is that most of their cruise ship activities are free. This is especially important for families, as paying extra for activities can really add up and blow your cruise vacation budget.

Related: Is a Royal Caribbean Cruise Worth It? 10 Things You Need to Know

Entertainment

If you want a cruise line where you are always going to be entertained, then Royal Caribbean is for you. Royal Caribbean is known for having some of the best entertainment at sea.

Since Royal Caribbean has some incredible big ships, there are multiple entertainment venues onboard. On select ships you’ll find aqua shows, musicals, ice skating shows at the ice rink, comedians and broadway style shows.

The great thing about Royal Caribbean ships is that there are a variety of different shows happening every evening. This means that there will always be plenty of options when it comes to entertainment, each and every night of your cruise vacation.

Kid’s Club

Royal Caribbean has one of the best youth programs in the cruise industry. If you’re cruising with kids , take advantage of Adventure Ocean, Royal Caribbeans kid’s club.

The Adventure Ocean kid’s club is a supervised program where kids between that ages of 3 and 17 can make new friends, hang out and participate in activities. The kids and teenagers are separated by age group and have lots of fun things to do fo all ages!

As someone who grew up cruising, I know first hand how fun the kid’s club is on Royal Caribbean. As a kid, my parents could not get me out of the kid’s club, because it was such a good time!

On select Royal Caribbean cruise ships, there is a nursery for 6 to 36 month old children. Royal Caribbean is one of the only cruise lines that offers a nursery for young children.

Related: What to Pack for Kids on a Cruise: Kid’s Cruise Packing List

Get The Ultimate Cruise Planner

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Why Cruisers like Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Cruise Line, also known as NCL, has the reputation of being a fun, family friendly cruise line. Similarly to Royal Caribbean, Norwegian cruises has exciting attractions and beautiful ship designs.

Here are the reasons why cruisers like Norwegian Cruise Line:

Freestyle cruising.

Norwegian cruise line is most known for it’s relaxed “freestyle cruising” concept. You won’t find strict dress codes and formal nights on a Norwegian cruise ship.

While other cruise lines have embraced the concept of “open dining”, nobody does it better than Norwegian Cruise Line.

With freestyle cruising, cruise passengers can eat in different restaurants and dining rooms, on their own schedule. Although you can make reservations, there are no set dining times.

This creates a very laid back atmosphere and allows you enjoy your cruise at your own pace.

Free At Sea Perks

The Free at Sea promotion is one of the best benefits when cruising with Norwegian. This perks program, which has a free beverage package as an option, is a big reasons why people love cruising with Norwegian.

While the Free at Sea promotion changes at times throughout the year, overall the basics remain the same. With Free At Sea you can get a free beverage package, free specialty dining, free wifi (not unlimited), free shore excursion credits and discounts on 3rd and 4th passengers (on select sailings).

At times, you may even find a free air promotion. Always check with your travel agent or on the Norwegian website to find the best options for you and current free at sea promotions.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea Perks Explained

Video: Norwegian Free at Sea Perks Explained

Variety of Restaurants

For those who like cruise food, Norwegian has a nice variety of restaurants onboard their fleet. You’ll find 2-3 main dining room type restaurants, and all you can eat buffet and The Local or O’Sheehans (pub style restaurant).

When it comes to specialty restaurants, Norwegian has a lot to offer. Specialty restaurants do have an additional cost, however they are a significantly better culinary experience. You can also get free specialty dining as a perk with Norwegian’s Free at Sea promo .

On many Norwegian cruises you’ll find Teppanyaki, Cagney’s Steakhouse, OceanBlue (sea food) and La Cucina (Italian food). Depending on the cruise you are on, there can be many other specialty restaurants options as well.

Norwegian also has O’Sheehans and The Local, which are pub style restaurants that are open 24/7. Those who cruise with Norwegian, love these restaurants because the food is amazing and it’s open all the time.

Related: 10 Big Dining Mistakes Not to Make on a Cruise

Norwegian cruise ships are known for having amazing entertainment. Compared to other cruise lines, you can see that Norwegian invests a lot of money into their theatre and production shows.

Inside the theatre onboard Norwegian cruise ships, the lighting, sound and set design are among the best at sea. Additionally, Norwegian has great entertainers, singers, live bands, magicians, comedians and illusionists.

On past cruises on the Norwegian Breakaway, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Joy , the entertainment has always been phenomenal.

When cruising with Norwegian, you will never get bored! In particular in the evening time, there are always a variety shows and musical performances happening around the ship.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line Beverage Packages: What’s Included and is it Worth it?

Activities & Onboard Attractions

Whether you’re a young cruiser or an older cruiser, there are activities and attractions for everyone onboard a Norwegian cruise.

NCL is known for their fun activities and amazing attractions. The attractions onboard Norwegian are some of the best at sea.

Here’s a list of attractions onboard select Norwegian cruise ships.

Attractions Onboard Norwegian Cruise Line:

• Race car simulator
• Ropes courses
• Virtual reality
• Water slides
• Escape rooms

* Certain activities onboard Norwegian cruises do have an extra charge .

On a sea day, there are poolside activities that are fun to watch or participate in. At the main pool, you can find belly flop competitions, scavenger hunts and the poolside olympics, which is an absolute blast!

Related: What’s Included on Norwegian Cruise Line and What Is Not

Norwegian Cruise Line is the perfect for a family vacation. There are plenty of activities, shows and a supervised kid’s club and teen club that children of all ages can enjoy.

In the dining rooms, buffet and restaurants, there will always be culinary options that are well suited for younger children.

NCL does a great job at making a fun, safe and family friendly environment for it’s cruisers.

Related: 10 Best Cruises For First Time Cruisers – First Time Cruiser Guide

Many guests love Norwegian Cruise Line’s casino. The casino onboard Norwegian cruises is large, has an enclosed smoking area (on certain ships) and even has a small buffet.

It’s in a central location, which makes it convenient for those who want to play in the casino. In the evening time, the casino is quite busy and the passengers love it!

There are slot machines, blackjack tables, poker tables and even a high roller room. If you like to gamble, then you will love the casino onboard Norwegian, as well as the Casino at Sea program.

Dress Codes

A big reasons why passengers love cruising with Norwegian is because of their relaxed cruise line dress codes . On Norwegian, there isn’t any expectation to “dress up”.

This creates a relaxed atmosphere, where guests aren’t pressured to “dress up” on Norwegian . Of course, if you prefer to dress up you can. However, if you’d prefer to dress more casually, this works too.

Most cruise lines will have one or two formal nights throughout the cruise. However on NCL, there are no formal nights , so you don’t have to worry about bringing your formal clothing.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line: What to Wear on a Freestyle Cruise

Norwegian Cruise Line has a youth program for kids between the ages of 3 to 17. The kid’s club is a great place where you can leave your children in a safe and fun environment.

Throughout the cruise, there are organized activities and themed parties and taking place in the kid’s club. This is a great place to leave your children while you relax by the pool or go to a show in the evening time.

The kid’s club is separated by age group and the activities will be catered towards the specific age groups. Here is how the kids club is separated:

Kids Club Info

• Splash Academy (ages 3-12)
• Entourage (ages 13-17)

As someone who grew up cruising, I’ve always loved the kids club. When I was younger, my parents would have trouble getting me to leave the kids club since it was so much fun.

Solo Cruisers

Norwegian is a great cruise line for solo cruisers . Norwegian has solo studio cabins, that don’t have a singles supplement. The cruise line also has a fun atmosphere and some communal spaces for single passengers to hang out.

So Which Cruise Line is Best for You? Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line

Royal caribbean is best for:.

Any cruiser who enjoys nonstop entertainment, activities and an exciting environment. Royal Caribbean is often referred to as the cruise line for those who are young at heart.

Whether you’re older, younger or cruising with a family, Royal Caribbean has fun things to do for all of their guests. The value of the many activities and onboard attractions is a plus for Royal Caribbean.

Norwegian Cruise Line is Best For:

Cruisers who enjoy exciting attractions, amazing entertainment and a fun night life. NCL does a great job at having fun activities planned throughout the cruise, so there is always something going on.

Norwegian is a great cruise line for families, as well as cruisers of all ages. Solo cruisers also like what Norwegian has to offer.

There are plenty of onboard attractions, bars and restaurants to try while you’re on a Norwegian cruise. Freestyle cruising is great for those who prefer a relaxed dress code and schedule.

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Final Thoughts on Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian Cruise Line

Well there it is, Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian Cruise Line.

Comparing Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise line is actually quite easy because they have a lot of similarities. Both cruise lines are family friendly, have incredible attractions and designed to be fun cruises.

When it comes to choosing which cruise line is better, it really comes down to what you’ll enjoy most on your cruise vacation. Both cruise lines have big fan bases and get a lot of repeat cruisers!

In this post, I shared everything you need to know about Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Have you cruised with Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruise Line or are you planning to? Please let me know what you like best in the comments below.

Happy Cruising!

If you enjoy this post please don’t keep it to yourself ;-). Please feel free to share on Facebook or Pinterest (share buttons at the top). Thanks so much!

Author Bio: Ethan Schattauer writes about fashion, travel and college advice on the website WhatToWearMen.com . As a frequent cruiser, Ethan shares his unique perspective on what cruising is like for teens and young adults.

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Global Munchkins

Travel + Global Inspired Lifestyle

April 13, 2023

Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian Cruise Line [Ultimate Face Off & The Best Review!]

To start things off on a completely transparent note, I do not think you can go wrong with either of these amazing cruise lines! Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian cruise might be a long debate for our family when it comes to choosing our next vacation, but it is simply because we love them both.

They both have a ton of stuff to do onboard, but there are features we like more on each cruise line. So let’s check it out!

Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian: The Pros

From dining options to what is included in the cruise fare, we break down the pros of sailing with Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian below.

Royal Caribbean Pros

• Fixed or Flexible My Time Dining: Royal Caribbean gives you options when it comes to what your dining experience will be like depending on the ship.
• Celebrity Chef: The cruise line is paired with Jamie Oliver . 
• Formal Nights: Although we love the choice of flexibility, I think a formal night is part of the cruising tradition! I love that our family gets all dressed up because it isn’t something we normally do. Every Royal Caribbean Cruise offers at least 1 formal night . 

Entertainment

• Insane Slides: How cool is it to have a water park on the ship? Royal Caribbean is always coming up with bigger and better slides! In fact, they currently have the tallest slide at sea , which is called the Ultimate Abyss Slide!

• Poolside Fun: Every ship has at least two pools, often with splash zones and slides. The staff also makes sure there is plenty of interactive fun on deck at all times. 
• Fun for Kids & Kids at Heart: You will find basketball courts, rock climbing walls, and mini-golf courses on most ships. On Quantum level ships you can go indoor skydiving ! 

• Other: All the usual trivia and bingo, & nightlife entertainment from shows to dance clubs

Family Friendly

• Family Friendly Programming: Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian in terms of childcare just really depends on your preferences. We enjoy the way Royal Caribbean is set up with three different age groups and amazing staff. Check out our review of Harmony of the Seas , and hear first hand why our kids loved it so much! 

• Parent Time: As a cruise line overall, Royal Caribbean really puts a focus on making the trip enjoyable for everyone. If you have got kiddos 3-11, they can start out dinner with you and then be picked up by club staff for some fun. 
• Other Guests: Most other guests on the ship will also be families or couples .
• The Promenade: These spaces are offered on their high-class ships, and they are insane. It is like having a whole little world right on your ship . They offer spots to dine or grab a snack, sip your coffee, people watch, and get some shopping in. Some ships even have an ice skating rink . Everyone in your family will find something they love here. 

• Seaplex: The Seaplex is on Quantum-class ships and is the ultimate family fun center. They have everything from bumper cars to arcade games, roller skating, and even trapeze classes !
• Tons of Choices: Royal Caribbean ships have many different cabin choices . The largest ship has a whopping 24 different types of rooms! 
• Virtual Balconies: If you are in an inside room, there is a good chance you will have a virtual balcony . Although it is not my favorite as I would much rather have a real view, it does make the room feel brighter. 
• The Ultimate Family Suite: This suite is on the Symphony of the Seas ship and it is seriously one of the coolest places we have ever stayed . 

• Suite Privileges: On Quantum and Oasis level ships, there are amazing suite privileges . You may even get VIP Pool Seating. 
• BIG Rooms: The suites and family cabins are more spacious than most other cruises. 
• More Ports: In the battle of Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian, Royal Caribbean wins having the most ports in Northern America. They have 14 places for you to set sail from . 
• Wide Variety of Options: They sail to many different places and have many different cruise lengths. 
• Year-Round Europe: You can sail from Europe year round whether it be the Baltic, Meditteranean, or Northern Europe. 
• Check out all of Royal Caribbean’s itineraries here !

Norwegian Pros

• Freestyle Dining: We absolutely love the concept of freestyle dining ! This means you can eat whenever you feel like and have different restaurants to choose from. Every Norwegian ship has at least 2 different dining rooms. On the Norwegian Joy, they have 5! You can check out our experience with delicious freestyle dining here.
• Specialty Restaurants and Dishes: Norwegian has some of the most incredible fine dining restaurants aboard their ships. You can book a special date night at their famous Le Bistro or be entertained throughout your whole dinner at Teppanyaki. These are an extra-fee but well worth it. 

• 24/7: Every ship has at least one spot that is open 24 hours a day for late night cravings . 
• All Inclusive Cruise Fares: On the Norwegian Sky and the Norwegian Sun, fares include all drinks even alcoholic. 
• Race Tracks at Sea: The Norwegian Joy and the Norwegian Bliss both have two-level go-kart tracks . This is one of our absolute favorite features on any cruise! Not to mention, it is one of a kind. 

• Pools: No matter what ship you are on you can count on finding at least one pool and multiple hot tubs .  Norwegian also has an amazing kids aqua park play area.
• Sports Fun: You can find basketball and mini golf on most of ships, along with fun rock walls. Some of the ships also have the awesome ropes courses , which we absolutely love! In the spirit of being competitive, some ships also have a Laser Tag Arena. 

• Indoor Fun: All the usual cruise entertainment, Wine and Beer Tastings , Escape Rooms, Bowling, and Wii Play

• Lower Cost: Norwegian typically has very reasonable prices and if you watch for them, you can find great specials. 
• Great Kid Programming: Programming is divided into 4 different age groups making it very specific and engaging for your child. There is also a nursery for children 6 months-2 years.
•  Other Guests: Norwegian Cruises are typically full of families , so you can count on a family-friendly environment. 

• Haven Bliss Suites: Haven is available on 10 of NCL’s ships, and it is an amazing way to cruise! These are top deck suites with their own courtyard and pool. On some of the ships, Haven even has its own dining room! 

• Family Cabins: Even large families have a wide variety of cabin options, including balcony and oceanview rooms. 

• Many Options: There are so many places you can sail on NCL . Their choices include; Asia, Africa, Alaska, Australia & New Zealand, Florida & the Bahamas, Bermuda, Canada & New England, the Caribbean, Cuba, Bermuda, South America, Europe, and more. 
• Hawaii Options: NCL has been voted to have the best Hawaii itinerary . You visit 4 islands with nearly 100 hours in port. 
• Alaska Cruises:  Norwegian has the best ships out of any cruise line sailing to Alaska . The Norwegian Bliss & Norwegian Joy are brand new ships and simply amazing.
• Varying Lengths: You can sail as a weekend getaway or go on the ultimate cruise adventure for 15+ days. Of course, there is just about every option in between also. As far as itinerary goes, Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian is pretty even. 
• Check out all Norwegian itineraries here !

Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian: The Cons

Now that we covered all the pros, lets go over some of the cons for both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruises.

Royal Caribbean

• $$$: Royal Caribbean cruises typically have a higher price tag. This is especially true on the newest ships.  
• Day Care: Babies 6-36 months can go to the nursery, but it is an extra fee. This is not even available on all ships. 
• The kids club is set up with structured activities, so if your child does not want to participate they are not allowed to have fun on their own. Our 3-year-old had trouble with trying to follow a set schedule. 
• Decisions: You either love freestyle or you hate it. With a large group, like an extended family, it can be hard to get everything decided. 
• Freestyle Does NOT Mean All Included: Some entertainment and specialty dining will cost you extra. You need to consider this when budgeting for your cruise, however, Norwegian does have several FREE Dining offers available to make the upgraded dining FREE!
• Solo Travellers: On ships with studio rooms, you will find a larger crowd of solo travelers. This is by no means a bad thing, but it does change the environment a bit.

Our Quick Guide: Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian

Let’s go ahead and break down the wins of both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian cruise lines!

What Royal Caribbean Wins: 

• Massive Ships – It is hard not to find something exciting to do on Royal Caribbeans Oasis Class ships. We spent 7 days on the Harmony of the Seas and did not get to finish everything
• Unique Shows – It’s hard to beat the aqua theater, although Norwegian has some great new shows on their ships such as Jersey Boys and Footloose, you can’t help but be in awe of someone diving from 100 feet up on a high wire on the back of a cruise ship.

• Competitions –  Yes, this is definitely a weird one to rank, but our family loves a “friendly” competition. There were several onboard the Royal Caribbean cruise, soccer, basketball, ping pong and more!

What Norwegian Wins: 

• Restaurants – I love the variety of restaurants onboard Norwegian Cruise Line , plus with their Free at Sea promotions, they are often included with your cruise. 

• The Suite Experience (Haven) – The Haven is pretty incredible with retractable roof pools onboard the Bliss & Joy it truly is a luxe experience.
• Kids Club – Our kids enjoyed the kids club onboard Norwegian Cruise Line more because of the more relaxed environment
• Bang for the Buck –  It seems like a Norwegian Cruise is usually about 15-20% cheaper than a Royal Caribbean cruise and will include a few perks like unlimited drinks, upgraded dining, free wifi and more

Norwegian vs. Royal Caribbean – Too Close to Call

Pools & Slides –   They both have some pretty amazing water slides. My kids love the drop slide on Norwegian, but they also love the funnel slides onboard the Harmony of the Seas and the many pools

More Top Deck Fun Activities – On Royal Caribbean, you might find yourself enjoying a FlowRider or zip line, while on Norwegian you can enjoy Go-Karting, Laser Tag or a Rooped Course. 

Unique Attractions –  Royal Caribbean will wow you with things like a robot bar and a carousel at sea, while Norwegian breaks out fun things like a Nitro Cold Brew Bike, Million Dollar Chocolate Machine and a wonderful Mojito Bar.

Overall, you can’t really go wrong with either of these cruise lines. I personally love the newer ships (built in the last 7-10 years) as they often have the most activities for families. 

If you have any questions about Royal Caribbean or Norwegian Cruises feel free to ask in the comments or send us a message on our Instagram

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Frequently Asked Questions about Royal Caribbean vs Norwegian Cruise

Is royal caribbean more expensive than ncl.

The cost of a cruise can vary depending on many factors, such as the destination, length of the cruise, type of cabin, time of year, and availability.

Therefore, it is difficult to make a definitive statement about whether Royal Caribbean International or NCL (Norwegian Cruise Line) is more expensive in general.

That said, most of the time (but not always) Norwegian runs higher in cost than Royal Caribbean.

Is Royal Caribbean considered a luxury cruise line?

Royal Caribbean is not typically considered a luxury cruise line, but rather a premium cruise line that offers a wide range of vacation experiences to passengers.

While Royal Caribbean’s ships are often larger and offer more onboard activities and entertainment than some luxury cruise lines, the company still provides a high level of service and quality amenities to its guests.

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Cruise Lines Compared: Carnival, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian in 10 Different Areas

Which cruise line to choose?  It’s often a dilemma for first time cruisers.  Even seasoned cruisers loyal to a particular line often wonder what it might be like if they were to jump ship and try out the competition.

Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean all target a similar passenger demographic: singles, couples, and families in their 20s-50s.

While all cruise lines offer a similar product, there are some general differences between lines, which might make one more appealing than another.

Here are 10 main areas of interest and how these cruise lines compare.

If there’s anything consistent about cruise fares is that they are inconsistent.  An incredible amount of variability exists when it comes to cruise pricing.  It may vary depending on itinerary, season, age of the cruise ship, cabin category, etc.  Therefore, it can be a challenge when trying to compare apples to apples.

For cost comparison purposes, I looked at double-occupancy 7-night high-season balcony sailings in Alaska and 7-night low-season Caribbean inside cabins.  All fares were obtained directly from the cruise line websites.

To see prices on all three cruise lines across multiple travel websites, you can instantly find prices by clicking on the following links:

• Carnival Cruise Line Prices
• Norwegian Cruise Line Prices
• Royal Caribbean Prices

It may be surprising to some that although Carnival is frequently touted as a budget line, its sailings were not always the cheapest from cruises that I looked at.

Based on this small sample size, Royal Caribbean tends to be the most expensive cruise line. The exception being for the Northbound Alaska route where it is inexplicably both the most and least expensive, even when ships are similar in age and identical in class.

It should also be noted that on the Norwegian sailings, you can pay a higher fare and receive the Free at Sea selections as an additional benefit.  Passengers may choose from a beverage package, shore excursion credits, specialty dining, or onboard WiFi.  The Free at Sea is not included in OX, BX, or MX categories (the cheapest cruise fares).

Though not included for this comparison, there are often reduced rates for the 3 rd and 4 th passenger in a cabin.  Carnival tends to steeply discount additional passengers, while Royal Caribbean will sometimes offer Kids Sail Free promotions.

2. Cruise Ships

  Just as there is wide variety in cost, ships within each lines fleet can have dramatic differences.

Carnival currently has a fleet of 27 cruise ships. More than half of the fleet would be considered smaller ships by today’s standards, with capacities of less than 3,000 passengers.  Carnival has a cruising long history and continues to sail 8 cruise ships that originally made their debut in the 1990s.

Norwegian’s fleet is comprised of just 17 ships and is the youngest line in this comparison.   Norwegian has embraced the mega-ship concept with 6 of its ships close to or exceeding, 4000 passengers.

Royal Caribbean sails 26 ships across eight different classes. Though its fleet is similar in size to Carnival, its passenger capacity is much greater. Megaships are synonymous with Royal Caribbean.  Ten ships have capacities ranging between 3,782 to a whopping 5,518 passengers.  Royal Caribbean has also been the most innovative line of the bunch, building ships that feel much more like Las Vegas hotels than cruise ships.

3. Staterooms

Whether seeking a basic bargain of a cabin or desiring all the trappings of luxury, each of these lines offers something a bit different.

Carnival offers some of the largest staterooms in the industry.  Regular cabins are comfortable and have great storage even when sailing with four, but most Carnival cabins lack much of anything that makes them special.

In recent years, Carnival has made an effort to differentiate some staterooms.  Ships with Cloud 9 Spa cabins include some upgraded amenities and a few spa perks.

The newest ships, Vista, Horizon, and Panorama, have Family Harbor and Havana staterooms, each with private areas reserved exclusively for passengers sailing in those category cabins. Read: Unique Staterooms Only Found on Carnival

Norwegian has a couple of unique stateroom categories that make it stand out from the rest of the pack.  Anyone who has ever been interested in solo cruising quickly learned that they will pay double for the privilege.  Seven of Norwegian’s ships cater to solo travelers with Studio rooms and a special lounge where Studio guests can meet and mingle.

At the other end of the spectrum is The Haven.  Passengers sailing in Haven staterooms will experience all the luxury Norwegian offers.  Between well-appointed rooms, a private restaurant and lounge, concierge, butler, and Haven Courtyard, these guests will experience true cruise ship pampering.

Standard Norwegian rooms are cozy with some nice decorative touches.  Balconies on the newer ships can be on the small side, though still large enough for two to sit and enjoy.  The trade-off may be the large bathroom–large by cruise ship standards anyway.  The large size and layout of Norwegian Breakaway Class bathrooms are my favorite of any cruise line.

Royal Caribbean has almost a dizzying variety of unique staterooms available.  There are inside rooms with virtual balconies depicting exactly what it looks like outside of the ship at that moment.  Other inside staterooms or balconies overlook the inside of the ship, providing views of the Royal Promenade, Central Park, and the Boardwalk.

If money is no object, families may choose to splurge on Royals Caribbean’s Ultimate Family Suites.  This two-deck, fully tricked out suite is more than 1,300 sq ft of fun and games, complete with slide, because taking the stairs isn’t fun for kids or kids at heart.

4. Entertainment

There are those who still enjoy classic cruise entertainment after dinner and others who wouldn’t be caught dead at a production show.  While the classics still exist, cruise lines have really stepped up to offer new and different entertainment options in an effort to both evolve and distinguish themselves.

Carnival’s main theater Playlist Productions is still mostly traditional cruise ship singing and dancing without much a story or plot to follow.  More fun are the shows where the passengers take part in.

Hasbro, The Game Show is a family-friendly game show where passengers play life-size games to compete for prizes.  And Lip Sync Battle: Carnival is the ship version of the hit television show where uninhibited passengers can strut their stuff on stage and live out their rock star dreams.

Where Carnival really shines is the Punchliner Comedy Club .  Every comedy show throughout the cruise will be completely different with both family-friendly and adult shows scheduled.

Norwegian has a nice mix of production shows, consisting of traditional singing and dancing, as well as Broadway musicals with a true storyline to follow.  More impressive are the dinner shows such as Cirque Dreams.  For an additional fee, passengers are served a set menu while being mesmerized with acrobatics and other circus-like acts.

Elsewhere onboard, passenger participation shows like Deal or No Deal can be found, along with dueling pianos and comedy.

While the quality of the comedy shows has been quite good, each show is not unique.  In addition, we’ve been disappointed to find that the seating for most comedy shows and dueling piano performances consists of hard, wooden, straight-back chairs. They are not very comfortable.

Royal Caribbean is again the most innovative when it comes to onboard entertainment.  Main theater production shows on Oasis, Quantum, Freedom class ships are true Broadway musicals with elaborate sets.

Ships with an ice rink will hold remarkably well-done ice skating shows, given how small the rink actually is.  But most spectacular are the shows held in the AquaTheater.  Aerialists, divers, and synchronized swimming come together in stunning, edge-of-your-seat performances.

The rise of the mega-ships has resulted in some negative consequences for entertainment.  Ships with 4,000-6,000 passengers just cannot devote enough space to accommodate the audiences these shows attract.

The solution has been to implement a reservation system.  It’s a good way to ensure you will get to see a show that interests, but it results in a more scheduled, less-spontaneous vacation.  It also means a lot of waiting.  To keep reservations, passengers must arrive 15 minutes prior to the start of the show.  For those without reservations, is the standby line.  After waiting standby, you may or may not get in. Although usually you won’t have a problem.

For the most part, Norwegian and Royal Caribbean have done a great job of breaking up the crowds so that it never feels overly crowded on their mega-ships.  Entertainment is the one area where I feel they have fallen short.

5. Shipboard Activities

What’s there to do onboard?  Anyone who thinks it’s all shuffleboard, bingo, and salsa lessons hasn’t heard about today’s cruise ships.

Carnival calls its ships Fun Ships and they really do live up to the name.  Whether out of the pool deck or somewhere below, there are always fun and lively activities going on.  However, if dance contests and mixology competitions aren’t your thing, the adult only Serenity area is perfect for relaxing.

Slower to innovate its ships with new deck activities, Carnival is now rising to meet the competition.  Six cruise ships now have an exhilarating sky-high ropes course towering over the Sports Square.

Unique to Vista Class ships is the Sky ride, a peddle-powered vehicle riding high above the deck.  Carnival Panorama is the only ship in its class to have a SkyZone trampoline park.  Finally, Mardi Gras will feature the first ever roller coaster at sea when the ship debuts in 2020.

Norwegian’s newer ships also began debuting with novel activities on deck to keep the fun going.  There are thrilling drop slides, rock climbing walls, and ropes courses.  Truly brave souls can walk The Plank, an extension of the ropes course extending 8 feet over the side of the ship.  Even if you don’t have fear of heights, walking out over the side of a mega-ship will get your heart racing!

Laser tag is available on several ships, but Norwegian’s most original shipboard activity has been the installation of racetracks on the decks of Norwegian Bliss, Encore, and Joy.

Below decks, pub-style gaming can be had at O’Sheehan’s, including a small bowling lane.

Royal Caribbean continues to lead the way in shipboard activities as well.  Famous for its Flowriders and multi-deck rock climbing walls, Royal Caribbean is even pushing the envelope with its shipboard waterslides. Riptide is the first headfirst waterslide at sea and The Blaster , an aqua coaster, are both onboard Navigator of the Seas.

Royal Caribbean has plenty of thrills that don’t involve getting wet.  The Ultimate Abyss is the newest attraction on Symphony of the Seas, a slide twisting down for 10 decks of darkness.  Thrill-seekers’ days at sea can be action-packed with zip line rides over the Boardwalk, ice skating, carousel rides, laser tag, bumper cars, escape rooms, sky diving simulators, bungee trampolines, and even a trapeze school.

6. Complimentary Dining

There has been a tremendous increase in the number of restaurants onboard cruise ships.  Though many of them do require an additional fee, every ship has plenty of complimentary dining options to choose from.

Carnival moved to a more casual dining room experience several years ago with the introduction of American Table.  Gone are the starched white tablecloths in favor of warm wood tabletops and modern décor.  The exception is on Cruise Elegant nights when tablecloths and a more formal dinner service returns.

Menus were revamped with American Table.  Nightly menus feature a changing selection of starters, soups, salads, and 8-11 entrees, including a selection of dishes representing local ports of call.  Both traditional set dining times and Your Time dining are available in the main dining room.

Elsewhere on board, Carnival ships have well laid out buffets with themed-stations to go between rather than single entrances backed up with long lines.

Highlights on the Lido deck are Guy’s Burger Joint, with a selection of burgers and toppings to choose from.  The Blue Iguana Cantina is a popular spot for tacos and burritos.  Blue Iguana is also open for breakfast and rarely crowded.  It serves breakfast burritos, huevos rancheros, and arepas.

Pizza preferences are very personal, but in my opinion, Carnival has the best pizza at sea.  The fresh, handmade crusts are super thin, coming out of the ovens hot and crispy.  My personal favorite is the Quattro Formaggi.  Pizza is available 24 hours a day and there is almost always a line for these excellent pizzas.

Newer ships have additional complimentary options such as Guy’s Pig and Anchor BBQ, and even a small buffet below deck in Ocean Plaza.

Norwegian’s introduction of its Freestyle cruising concept revolutionized cruise ship dining.  With no set dining times, no formal nights, and multiple venues to choose from, it became widely popular and other lines quickly adopted some of its ideas.

On Norwegian, passengers dine where they want, when they want.  Main dining room menus consist of a rotating selection of starters, an always available selection of 6 Classic Entrees, and changing selection of around 6 Featured Entrees.

Though Freestyle Cruising means there is no need to dress up for dinner, the white tablecloths and décor still give the experience an elegant feel.  Some dining rooms may host a live band and dance floor, resulting in an enjoyable supper club vibe.

The Garden Café is a comprehensive buffet with traditional buffet selections for breakfast and lunch, as well as pizza, deli, and grilled items.  On ships such as Bliss, Getaway, Escape, and Breakaway, it is the only pool deck dining location with complimentary food and can get quite crowded during prime breakfast and lunch hours.

Other complimentary options are popular Asian-themed restaurants such as Shanghai’s Noodle Bar, and a true pub-style venue, O’Sheehan’s.   Open 24 hours, O’Sheehan’s is a great place to grab a quick bite.  Though the menu is somewhat limited, the pub offerings are quite good and served quickly.  This is a venue I would definitely like to see other cruise lines implement.

Royal Caribbean’s main dining rooms also have set dining and My Time dining options to choose from.  As with Carnival, Royal Caribbean is keeping with the tradition of formal nights.

Main dining room menus on Royal Caribbean are the least exciting of the bunch.  There are fewer selections in each category and several of them repeat over the course of a 7-day cruise.   That being said, in my experience, the quality of the beef entrees has been better than on other lines.

The Windjammer buffet is extensive with multiple stations spread out, breaking up the crowds.  We appreciated that on busy mornings, crewmembers would seat passengers at empty tables in an effort to get passengers in and out efficiently.

Other complimentary venues near the pools are the Wipeout Café offering burgers, hot dogs, and pizza, while healthier dishes served in the Solarium Bistro.

Below decks are favorites such as the Boardwalk’s Dog House, Sorrento’s Pizza, the Café Promenade, and the Park Café.

It’s a good idea to check the Cruise Compass for dining options.  While some restaurants like Johnny Rockets charge a fee for lunch and dinner, it serves breakfast items free of charge and is likely less chaotic than the buffet.

7. Specialty Dining

Cruise lines are offering more specialty restaurants than ever before.  If looking to celebrate a special occasion, or just indulge in an over-the-top experience, there are unique dining venues to choose from.

Carnival has been adding its list of specialty dining concepts with each new ship build.  Once limited to a single steakhouse, depending on the ship, Carnival now has restaurants featuring a variety of cuisines.  Onboard you may find Italian, Asian, Sushi, Seafood, Teppanyaki, a brewhouse, and a Chef’s Table experience.

Recently announced is Carnival’s partnership with Emeril Lagasse for a Creole-themed restaurant on Mardi Gras coming in 2020.

Norwegian ‘s specialty dining restaurants include popular cuisines such as French, Italian, and Asian, as well as concepts like teppanyaki and churrascaria, and even a raw bar.   Specialty dining packages may be purchased pre-cruise or selected with a Free at Sea promotion, making it an economical to visit several of your top choices during a cruise.

Onboard Breakaway, Epic, Escape and others, theater lovers can also choose to enjoy a meal while enjoying a show.  Wine Lovers the Musical is held during the day, with Cirque-style shows in the evening.

Royal Caribbean debuted Johnny Rocket’s on Voyager of the Seas in 1999 and has been adding new and exciting options ever since.  Steak, seafood, Italian, Mexican can be found along with the interesting, imaginary, and very instagrammable venue, Wonderland.

Royal Caribbean now offers both 3 restaurant and Unlimited Dining Packages .  Pricing depends on length of cruise and class of ship.  Chef’s Table is excluded.

8. Drink Prices/Packages

How much are the drinks?   Cruising and tropical drinks were made to go together!  After indulging on vacation, many are nervous to see how big their bar bill is going to be.

Carnival has the most reasonably priced drinks and drink packages.   Domestic beers are around $6.25 while imports are $5.95-$7.95.  Wines by the glass range from $7.25-$12.75.  Cocktails will vary from around $8.50 to $10.95.  Gratuities are an additional 18%.

Carnival’s beverage package, known as Cheers, may be purchased before your cruise or while on board.  Pre-purchase prices are $51.95/day, plus 18% gratuity.  Total cost for a 7-day cruise is $429.11 per person.  The cost when purchased onboard is $56.95/day.

Unlike other lines, Carnival’s beverage package is not unlimited.  Only 15 alcoholic drinks are allowed each day.  Soda, bottled water, specialty coffees, and energy drinks are included and will not count against the 15 drinks.

All adults in the same stateroom must purchase Cheers.

Norwegian’s drink prices are also fairly reasonable.  Domestic beers are $6.75 and imported are $6.95.  Wines by the glass are $7.95-$10.95.  Cocktails vary from $8.95-$12.95.  Gratuities are an additional 20%.

Norwegian’s Unlimited Beverage Package is a great deal if chosen as part of a Free at Sea promotion.  You’ll still pay gratuities on the “free” package, but it’s a better deal than purchasing the package outright.  The Unlimited Beverage Package is $99/day with a 20% gratuity, or $831.60 for a 7-day cruise.  There is no limit to the number of alcoholic beverages, but it only covers drinks priced up to $15 and does not include specialty coffees or bottled water.

The newer Premium Beverage Package priced at $128/day includes higher-end liquors, specialty coffees, and bottled water.

All adult passengers in the same stateroom, adjoin stateroom, or on the same reservation must purchase the package.

Royal Caribbean’s drink prices are higher than the competition.  Domestic beers are $7.99 and imports are $7.25.  Wines by the glass vary from $8-$48.  Cocktails are between $10.99-$15.  Gratuities are an additional 18%.

Royal Caribbean’s beverage package is priced between $63 and $70/day depending on the sailing and ship class.  As with Norwegian, there is no limit to the number of alcoholic drinks but does not include drinks priced higher than $12.  A $12 credit is given to any beverage purchases over the limit.  Soda, specialty coffees, and bottled waters are included with the package.

All adults sailing in the same stateroom must purchase the beverage package.

Royal Caribbean frequently offers sales on the pre-purchase of beverage packages.  If interested in a beverage package, log in to your booking and keep an eye out for sales.

9. Private Islands

Many cruises schedule a port call at their private island.  It’s a great way to enjoy a relaxing beach day without having to spend a lot of money.

Carnival has several private island-like ports of call.  Half Moon Cay , located in the Bahamas, was originally purchased by Holland America.  As the cruise lines fall under the same corporate umbrella, Carnival ships will use it as well.  Half Moon Cay is fairly basic as far as private island amenities go, and the use of tenders is required, but the clear turquoise waters and powder white sand help make up for the lack of flashy features.

Mahogany Bay in Roatan, Honduras is another Carnival Corporate private beach retreat.   Passengers can walk to Mahogany Bay’s beach or take a ride on the chair lift.  Facilities are owned and operated local Honduran businesses, so while food and drink are available, they are not included.

In the Dominican Republic, is Amber Cove , Carnival’s newest and most developed private island cruise port.  This stop has both beach access and a pool with swim-up bar, waterslides, and lazy river.

Norwegian’s private island, Harvest Caye , is located off the coast of Belize.  The impressive 75-acre facility features a giant pool with swim-up bar, waterfalls, and tropical palm tree islands.  The beach area, with its overwater zip line, is expansive with plenty of complimentary loungers in both sun and shade.  Food and drink are available for purchase at the Landshark Bar and Grill.

Great Stirrup Cay in the Bahamas does not have a pier like Harvest Caye and requires tendering.  Though also lacking in some of the amenities of Harvest Caye, there are complimentary dining venues at Great Stirrup Cay.

Royal Caribbean has 2 private islands.  The original, Labadee is located in Haiti.  Lunch buffets are complementary and served at several locations so food is nearby no matter which part of the island you find yourself in.  Most activities, such as the aquapark, waterslide, and dragon Coaster are an additional fee to enjoy.  See our article on things to do in Labadee here.

Royal Caribbean claims the perfect day will be had at its brand new private island, Coco Cay.  The creativity implemented on Royal Caribbean ships appears to have also been applied to this private island.  The overwater cabanas, a hot air balloon, towering water slides, and a wave pool have been extremely popular with cruisers.

Complimentary food will be available, however, the waterpark, zip line, and hot air balloon experience are an additional charge.

10. Embarkation Ports

  Just getting to your cruise port of embarkation can be a significant expense.  Cruise lines are making an effort to expand their footprint in order to make cruising as accessible as possible.

Carnival has done an excellent job at adding ships to a large number of cruise ports.   Carnival ships embark from 17 different domestic ports.

• Fort Lauderdale
• Jacksonville
• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• Port Canaveral
• San Francisco

Norwegian’s footprint is considerably smaller but still manages to maintain a presence in different regions of the United States.

Royal Caribbean offers sailings from 15 domestic embarkation ports.  While several cities in the West Coast are included in the list, these are all seasonal or repositioning sailings.  Royal Caribbean has not had a permanent presence on the West Coast in a number of years.

• Cape Liberty, NJ

No one should feel like they have to book cruises on the latest and greatest ships.  Megaships can be overwhelming, especially for those new to cruising.   Even ships without all the best innovations onboard provide a fantastic vacation experience.

This is a guest post written by Melissa Lagerquist.

6 Things I Won’t Buy on a Cruise Ship

New mega cruise ship coming to miami in 2025 will have bumper cars and 7 unique districts, icon of the seas is royal caribbean’s greenest ship yet, 10 things cruisers ask from their cabin stewards most, related articles, what happens when your cruise ship leaves without you, which carnival cruise ships have the most space ratio per passenger, diehard cruiser turns home into cruise ship in new video.

Kim, why don’t you give your comparison likes & dislikes so we have an idea what you are talking about.

Omg stay clear of Carnival no matter how cheap it is

My pizza favorite is also the Quattro Formaggio on carnival. I would like to know what that wonderful sauce is that they put on this pizza. Is there any way to find out? If so, please e-mail me.

I loved your article and although it’s torally subjective and a tough choice I wanted to see what your opinion was for the final verdict.

You forgot the MOST important difference, the level of Service. Carnival Stewards have 32 cabins to service. RCCL & NCL Stewards have 14-18 cabins. ihave done 140 Cruises

Who cares it’s the worst cruiseline out there

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7 Best Cruises to Alaska, According to Travel Experts

Book a once-in-a-lifetime trip to see glaciers, national parks and wildlife!

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While some travelers dream of lounging on a beach in the Caribbean, others might be itching to put on hiking shoes and explore the great outdoors. If glaciers, wildlife and picturesque coastline have long been on your bucket list, consider booking a cruise to Alaska. The northernmost American state offers an activity for everyone's interest and level of adventure. You can take a thrilling helicopter flight to explore a glacier on foot or observe miles of Alaska’s lush scenery and spy whales from a comfortable seat on a boat.

Princess Cruises

A top choice for multi-generational families and larger groups seeking on-board experiences for a wide age range, Princess will sail seven ships to Alaska in 2024 — more than any other line. Princess also offers the most departure cities , potentially saving you money on airfare. Alaska sailings range from 4 to 22 days, though a week is the sweet spot. The line is also only one of seven permitted to enter the magnificent Glacier Bay National Park (shown); check out the tips at the end of the story for details.

Good Housekeeping Contributing Travel Editor Karen Cicero and her daughter recently sailed on Majestic Princess, a Family Travel Awards Winner , and raved about the ship's amenities, especially the Hollywood Pool Club. She described it as “an indoor space with a heated pool, plush loungers, and cabana-like spots that are free for all guests to use.” Cicero was also impressed with the entertainment and activities suitable for all ages, the excellent dining options and a supervised kids’ club for ages 3 to 12. "We saw grandparents and grandkids on the dance floor, at the shows, on the excursions — bonding moments were everywhere," Cicero said.

In 2024, Majestic Princess and Discovery Princess, the line's newest Alaska ship, will both sail roundtrip from Seattle. "You can't beat Princess if you're looking for an experience that will please all ages," said Cicero.

Departure Cities: Los Angeles; San Francisco; Seattle; Vancouver; Whittier, Alaska Cruise Ships: Crown Princess (2024 only); Grand Princess, Caribbean Princess (2025 only), Royal Princess, Sapphire Princess, Discovery Princess, Majestic Princess (2024 only), Crown Princess, Coral Princess (2025 only)

Norwegian Cruise Line

Passengers are loyal to Norwegian for its beautiful ships, top-notch service and innovative amenities. The cruise line pioneered the concept of “freestyle cruising," which includes a flexible dining time. Flexible cruising continues to be a major selling point , according to our testers who recently sailed roundtrip from Seattle to Alaska on the Norwegian Encore (pictured). "We enjoyed not having to rush back to the ship after an excursion because we had a dinner reservation," said our tester who sailed with her spouse.

They also frequented the Encore’s Observation Lounge, where they were able to cozy up and spend hours searching for marine life from floor-to-ceiling windows. Activities and entertainment, like go-karting, slides and laser tag, are abundant. For a premium experience, consider booking a stateroom in The Haven. The Encore's most luxurious accommodations feature spacious rooms — the bathrooms are nearly double the size of those in standard staterooms — a private sundeck and a concierge.

The variety of sailings to Alaska is also another reason to choose Norwegian. "If Hawaii is also on your bucket list, Norwegian is one of the only cruise lines to offer a 16-day cruise departing from Honolulu that sails through both Hawaii and Alaska so you explore two dreamy destinations on one vacation," said Cicero. She added that Norwegian sails to Alaska until late October — about a month longer than most cruise lines.

Departure Cities: Honolulu; Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver; Whittier, Alaska (2025) Cruise Ships: Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Jewel (only in 2024), Norwegian Spirit (only in May 2024), Norwegian Sun, Norwegian Jade (only in 2025), Norwegian Joy (only in 2025)

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Disney Cruise Line

Disney lovers will have the time of their lives sailing roundtrip from Vancouver to Alaska aboard the Disney Wonder. "It was the best experience ever," said a mom of two young adults who sailed on the ship in May 2023. "We felt like it was a great combination of Disney and Alaska."

On-board experiences brilliantly align with the destination. For instance, Disney characters are dressed in special outfits for Alaska and are on deck during the days at sea. "We were able to get incredible photos with the glaciers behind the characters," said the mom, who also noted that you can order Mickey Mouse ice cream bars from room service. Cicero added, "Disney has the best kids' and teen clubs of any cruise line. They're enormous, filled with epic activities like superhero training and are a great place for kids and teens to make friends."

If you want an equal dose of Disney and Alaska, this is the cruise for your crew. Sailings range from five to nine nights. All routes head to Stikine Icecap so guests can observe stunning glaciers, cliffs, waterfalls and wildlife.

Departure City: Vancouver Cruise Ship: Disney Wonder

Royal Caribbean International

Royal Caribbean doesn’t only sail to the Caribbean. This global cruise line whisks passengers to Alaska from popular ports such as Seattle and Vancouver. You can choose a classic seven-night itinerary or a 13-night land-and-sea getaway.

Cruise enthusiasts at the Good Housekeeping Institute are fans of Royal Caribbean for its state-of-the-art ships, exceptional service and high-quality entertainment. "Royal Caribbean had the first rock-climbing wall and ice-skating rink on a cruise ship," said Cicero. "Since then, they've brought so many other epic activities to sea." For instance, Royal Caribbean’s Quantum Class, which includes Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas and Ovation of the Seas, offers skydiving, a surf simulator and a robot bar. "This line is an especially good fit for families with tweens, teens and young adults ," said Cicero, who sailed on Royal Caribbean with her teen daughter.

Departure Cities: Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver Cruise Ships: Quantum of the Seas, Anthem of the Seas, Radiance of the Seas, Brilliance of the Seas (only in 2024), Ovation of the Seas (only in 2024), Serenade of the Seas (only in 2025)

National Geographic Lindblad Expeditions

For an incredible small-ship experience, look no further than the Lindblad Expeditions–National Geographic team-up. The largest of its ships that sail to Alaska can accommodate no more than 138 passengers — just a sliver of the 4,900 or so that Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas can hold. " Being on a smaller vessel means that you’ll be able to sail right up to less frequented glaciers, waterfalls and fjords, " said Cicero.

Of course, an intimate experience comes at a higher price tag — its eight-day Alaskan adventure starts at about $6,200 per person, though you won't need to pay extra for excursions. "Voyages tend to be themed and stress the educational component," said Cicero. For instance, one focuses on coastal wildlife while another explores native cultures. A Good Housekeeping staff member who sailed the line to the Galápagos Islands (a providence of Ecuador) raved, "The ship was beautiful! I was super impressed with the staff and the service felt above and beyond.”

Departure Cities: Juneau, Alaska; Ketchikan, Alaska; Seattle; Sitka, Alaska Cruise Ships: National Geographic Quest, National Geographic Venture, National Geographic Sea Bird, National Geographic Sea Lion, National Geographic Resolution

Holland America Line

Holland America has a well-earned reputation for bringing guests to new destinations for more than 150 years. Its ships tend to be mid-sized — larger than Lindblad's offerings but smaller than the Quantum ships from Royal Caribbean. While Holland attracts an older demographic, its Alaskan cruises are often filled with multi-generational families.

One of the cruise line’s most popular itineraries is the Seven-Day Inside Passage, which takes you through Glacier Bay National Park, the Inside Passage, Tracy Arm Inlet and several must-visit port towns. But for adventure seekers curious to see as much of Alaska as possible, you’ll find tons of extended itineraries including a robust 28-day voyage that crosses the Arctic Circle.

Holland America is the only cruise line permitted to serve glacier ice, using it for cocktails like the Blue Iceberg and Juneau Gin & Tonic. The line also launched a new Alaskan-themed brunch menu offered once per cruise.

Departure Cities: Anchorage, Alaska (for land-sea tours only); Fairbanks, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, Whittier, Alaska Cruise Ships: Eurodam, Koningsdam, Nieuw Amsterdam, Noordam, Zuiderdam, Zaandam

Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity is popular with adults and couples looking for a premium onboard experience, including delicious cuisine, luxurious staterooms and a high-end spa . We can’t imagine a better way to rest and relax after spending a day exploring the Alaskan wilderness. Our travel experts suggest choosing one of Celebrity's many Alaska itineraries that sail through the Inside Passage and up to Dawes Glacier or Hubbard Glacier, two of the state’s gems.

Of the three Celebrity ships that sail to Alaska, we recommend the Celebrity Edge for those new to cruising or seeking a more contemporary experience. Launched in 2018, the ship features standout innovations like Eden, a multi-level bar with panoramic views, and the Magic Carpet, a multi-purpose floating space suspended directly above the sea.

Departure Cities: Seattle; Seward, Alaska; Vancouver Cruise Ships: Celebrity Solstice, Celebrity Summit, Celebrity Edge

Tips for booking your cruise to Alaska

✔️ Check your itinerary. The itinerary you choose is key on an Alaskan cruise. If you have your heart set on visiting Glacier Bay National Park, make sure that your cruise line has it listed on the schedule. "Only seven lines were awarded the Glacier Bay contract by the National Park Service ," Cicero said. If you're not sure whether the cruise you have in mind will go through Glacier Bay, double-check with the cruise line or your travel agent.

✔️ Book shore excursions well in advance. Alaskan cruises generally sail from April to October. Because of the shorter season, your ship will likely be close to capacity and several ships may overlap in ports. Excursions will book up quickly. To secure your spot, book excursions well in advance or as soon as they're available.

✔️ Focus on family. Alaskan cruises are best for kids who are at least 5 years old. "Keep in mind that cruise lines don't allow kids who aren't potty-trained to be in pools, even if they're wearing a swim diaper," Cicero said. It's also worth noting that most cruise lines don't permit babies under 6 months or pregnant passengers who are 24 or more weeks along. Cicero advises families with school-age children to look for on-ship amenities, such as an indoor heated pool, a supervised kids' club and a variety of family-friendly nighttime entertainment. "Before you sail, you should also find out which non-alcoholic beverages are complimentary," Cicero said. "Many cruise lines charge extra for soft drinks, but milk and juice are usually included." Free room service is another big perk for families, she notes, so see if that's offered on the line you're considering.

✔️ Check your passport. Even if your cruise starts and stops in a U.S. port like Seattle, there's a high chance your ship will dock in Canada at some point throughout your trip. Also, " some of the excursions in Alaskan ports venture into Canada and will require a passport," explained Cicero. For instance, you may take the White Pass & Yukon Route Railway from Skagway into Yukon, a Canadian territory. Your passport will need to be valid for at least 6 months following the cruise.

✔️ Pack layers. This is especially crucial if you're traveling in Alaska's shoulder season — May and September. While May tends to be drier, temperatures remain relatively chilly. Likewise, September marks the end of the summer season and welcomes cooler temperatures and more rainfall. Because you'll be spending a lot of time outdoors, it's important to prepare for all weather scenarios, including windy conditions common to sailing cruise ships.

✔️ Book next summer's cruise soon. To get the best staterooms and excursions, start looking for a 2025 cruise in 2024, Cicero said, noting that many ships start to fill up at least 6 months in advance. And don't forget about major sale days. "Last year, cruise lines had fantastic Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals," she said.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Good Housekeeping Institute Writer and Product Analyst Olivia Lipski covers everything from tech to travel, fitness, outdoor, home and more. Not only does she have years of product review experience under her belt, but she’s also a travel enthusiast who has been on more than 20 cruises (and counting)!

The former travel editor at Parents magazine, Karen Cicero specializes in travel, children's book, lifestyle and food coverage. She manages the experience portion of the Good Housekeeping Family Travel Awards. She has sailed on four cruise lines with her family and toured several others. She recently was a featured speaker at several travel industry conferences, including PRSA, Mid-Atlantic Tourism Alliance and the Family Travel Association.

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The 8 best alaska cruises for families.

Plan your next family vacation to explore the boundless beauty of the 49th state.

The Best Alaska Cruises for Families

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

A cruise to Alaska is a once-in-a-lifetime family or multigenerational vacation. With unique opportunities for wildlife viewing and outdoor adventures that you won't find anywhere else in the world – not to mention scenic cruising days on the ship to spend time together – this special experience will stay with you forever.

For an extended vacation in the 49th state, consider booking a cruisetour. This combined cruise and pre- or post-cruise land tour option is offered by many of the larger cruise lines. The tours visit some of the top attractions in the state , such as Denali National Park and Preserve, and often include picturesque rides into Alaska's remote wilderness aboard the Alaska Railroad. Some tours also head north to Fairbanks and visit Kenai Fjords National Park or Wrangell-St. Elias National Park (or both, in some cases). You can choose between fully escorted adventures or laid-back options to explore on your own, depending on what works best for your family.

Ready to book your Alaska adventure? These eight cruise lines offer excellent family-friendly excursions ashore , plus plenty of onboard activities to keep both kids and parents entertained during days at sea.

Find your perfect cruise

Princess Cruises: 7-Day Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay

Departure city: Vancouver, British Columbia

The 2024 cruise season brings Princess' 55th-anniversary sailing to The Great Land, and the line is offering more than 150 Alaska voyages between April and September. The popular Voyage of the Glaciers with Glacier Bay itinerary northbound from Vancouver to Anchorage (Whittier), Alaska , is available on dozens of dates this season on Grand Princess , Royal Princess or Sapphire Princess . The sailing includes stops in the ports of Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway, as well as scenic cruising in beautiful Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve and College Fjord in Alaska. If you prefer a smaller ship, choose Grand Princess or Sapphire Princess, which hold 2,610 and 2,680 passengers (double occupancy), respectively. Meanwhile, Royal Princess accommodates 3,560 guests at double occupancy.

The Princess Cruises North to Alaska program features immersive, family-friendly opportunities to learn about the history and traditions of the 49th state. Guests can sample fresh local seafood and meet famous Alaskans such as Libby Riddles, the first woman to win the 1,100-mile Iditarod dog race. In Skagway, families can meet some of the newest sled dogs and their handlers during Puppies in the Piazza on the ship. Younger cruisers and teens can participate in the Alaska Explorers Youth Program in partnership with Glacier Bay National Park and the Discovery Channel, which includes activities like the "Deadliest Catch" Crab Sort Challenge.

The North to Alaska program also partners with Discovery and Animal Planet to feature onboard exhibits about Alaska, as well as curated excursions like the White Pass Rail Bennett Lake & Yukon Adventure in Skagway, which was created by a train historian. Back on the ship, kids and teens can hang out with other young cruisers their age at Camp Discovery's Treehouse (ages 3 to 7), Lodge (8 to 12) or Beach House (13 to 17). In addition, be sure to keep an eye out for Princess Cruises' Alaska mascot: Stanley the Bear. You might even find him during story time at the kids clubs wearing a captain's uniform or destination-themed costumes, such as lumberjack gear in Ketchikan.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Alaska – Dawes Glacier, Juneau & Ketchikan

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Departure city: Seattle, Washington

This seven-day round-trip voyage from Seattle is available on Norwegian Bliss from April to September during the line's 2024 Alaska season. The sailing includes the ports of Sitka, Juneau , Icy Strait Point and Ketchikan (Ward Cove), plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an evening stop in Victoria, British Columbia , before disembarking in Seattle. Norwegian Bliss can carry 4,004 passengers at double occupancy and 4,266 passengers at maximum capacity.

The entire family will enjoy excursions like the Whale Watching & Bear Search tour in Icy Strait Point, while thrill-seekers of all ages will want to book an adrenaline-pumping ride down the mountain on the massive ZipRider zip line. In Ketchikan, take a hike through Tongass National Forest, the largest national forest in the U.S., where you might catch glimpses of wildlife like black bears or bald eagles. You can also head offshore from Ketchikan aboard the Aleutian Ballad, the famed ship from Discovery Channel's "Deadliest Catch," to pick up the day's bounty of king crab and search for marine wildlife along Alaska's Inside Passage.

Plenty of family activities and entertainment options are offered on this Norwegian Cruise Line ship, including the Bliss Speedway, a two-level racetrack at sea; laser tag; mini-golf; an interactive aqua park with waterslides that zip above the side of the ship; a video arcade; and live entertainment. You'll also find kids clubs designed for younger children and teens , as well as adults-only escapes like Vibe Beach Club and Spice H2O. When it comes to dining, there's no shortage of casual fare for hungry kids at venues like the Garden Café buffet, American Diner and The Local Bar & Grill.

Disney Cruise Line: 7-Night Alaskan Cruise from Vancouver

Matt Stroshane | Courtesy of Disney Cruise Line

This seven-night itinerary aboard Disney Wonder departs round-trip from Vancouver on several voyages throughout the 2024 Alaska season, which runs from May to September. The weeklong Disney Cruise Line sailing includes glacier viewing along the Stikine Icecap and stops in Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan. Plus, you'll enjoy plenty of Disney fun on board, with character meet-and-greets, Broadway-quality shows, and entertaining activities and venues for kids and adults alike.

Many of the ship's nautical-themed staterooms are designed with families in mind and feature a "split bath" concept and extra under-bed storage for suitcases. Disney Wonder can hold 1,750 passengers at double occupancy and 2,700 passengers at maximum capacity. The ship's unique rotational dining venues include an "under the sea" adventure at Triton's, a dinner show with Disney characters at Animator's Palate and Southern specialties with jazz music at Tiana's Place. For a night out sans kids, adults can savor a quiet evening with northern Italian cuisine at Palo or nosh on casual pub fare at Crown & Fin Pub. Younger sailors will find age-appropriate spaces at Disney's Oceaneer Club and Lab, tween venue Edge, and teen club Vibe.

Disney's excursions also offer family fun ashore – especially in Skagway. Try panning for gold with Disney characters like Donald Duck, then feast on baked Alaska salmon at Liarsville Gold Rush Trail Camp. You can also take an extended six-hour tour by boat into Alaska's deepest fjord, Lynn Canal, then hike through the rainforest to reach your canoe for a wilderness safari at Glacier Point. For a bucket list splurge, reserve a spot on the helicopter flightseeing tour that includes dog mushing on the Denver Glacier with a team of Alaska sled dogs.

Holland America Line: 7-Day Alaska Inside Passage

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Holland America's Koningsdam will sail the line's seven-day Inside Passage itinerary more than 20 times between April and September in 2024. This round-trip voyage embarks in Vancouver and includes multiple days of scenic cruising. You'll sail through the Inside Passage for two days; through Tracy Arm Inlet, where you can disembark for a shore excursion; and through Glacier Bay, where the Junior Ranger Program is a highlight for kids. The ports of call on this itinerary are Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan in Alaska.

Koningsdam features dedicated family staterooms with beds for up to five guests, two bathrooms and extra closet space. The ship carries 2,650 guests at double occupancy and 3,194 passengers at maximum capacity. A wildlife expert on the ship helps guests spot Alaska's incredible marine and land animals through announcements and during daily programs. Keep an eye out for humpback whales, orcas, sea otters, moose, brown bears and other wildlife. While in the Tracy Arm Wilderness Area, you'll want to take the Tracy Arm Fjord & Glacier Explorer excursion to explore glacier-covered mountains, jagged cliffs and the largest temperate rainforest in the U.S. surrounding the fjord. On a high-speed catamaran, you'll get up-close views of the Sawyer Glaciers and have potential sightings of harbor seals, bears, mountain goats and more.

Back on board, Holland America Line 's kids club offers supervised, age-appropriate activities for young cruisers ages 3 to 17 – including children who may need certain accommodations. You'll also find plenty of family-friendly options for dining on Koningsdam, including Lido Market, New York Pizza and the poolside Dive In grill. During the cruise, look for themed evenings in the Lido Market like salmon bakes or seafood boil pop-up dinners, which are in line with Holland America's commitment to serving certified sustainable and traceable Alaska seafood. An Alaska brunch is also offered once during the voyage in the main dining room; you'll enjoy dishes highlighting ingredients from Alaska and the Pacific Northwest.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Royal Caribbean International: 7 Night Alaska Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

Hop aboard Royal Caribbean's Quantum of the Seas for the seven-night Alaska Adventure Cruise, sailing round-trip from Seattle . This itinerary is available on several dates between May and August 2024 and features stops in the towns of Ketchikan, Sitka and Juneau, plus scenic cruising in Endicott Arm and Dawes Glacier in Alaska. There's also an afternoon call in the Canadian city of Victoria. While there, book an off-roading excursion through the coastal rainforest that includes a zip line adventure. Or, take a self-guided tour through Victoria's famed Butchart Gardens and the tropical Butterfly Gardens filled with wildlife.

Quantum of the Seas – which holds 4,180 passengers at double occupancy and 4,905 passengers at maximum capacity – is one of the two larger Royal Caribbean ships sailing in Alaska in 2024 (Ovation of the Seas is the other). As such, it offers abundant activities and entertainment for families at sea. On board, guests can experience Ripcord by iFly (the only skydiving simulator at sea) and take in snow-capped mountain views from the FlowRider surf simulator or atop the ship's rock climbing wall. Other onboard activities include bumper cars, an escape room, an arcade, pickleball and The Silent Party (a dance party where everyone wears headphones).

At mealtime, kids will have plenty of choices for casual and quick bites, from carefully crafted hot dogs at the Dog House and specialty pies at Sorrento's Pizza to around-the-clock snacks at Café Promenade and grab-and-go fare at The Café@Two70. When the little ones want to play or chill out with kids their age, Adventure Ocean offers activities for children 3 to 12 years old. Meanwhile, teens can meet other 13- to 17-year-olds at the Hideout Hangout.

Carnival Cruise Line: 7-Day Alaska from Seattle, WA

Courtesy of Carnival Cruise Line

Departure city: Juneau, Alaska

Carnival's 2024 Alaska season runs from May to September, with the 7-Day Alaska from Seattle itinerary available every month during that time. The round-trip sailing aboard Carnival Luminosa stops in Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia. You'll enjoy scenic cruising in Victoria and through Tracy Arm Fjord. You'll also have one "fun day at sea" to check out the activities and entertainment on the ship, which offers a double occupancy capacity of 2,260 passengers and a maximum capacity of 2,826 passengers.

Younger sailors ages 2 to 11 can join in on ocean-themed games, songs and programming at Camp Ocean, while tweens and teens (ages 12 to 17) can participate in destination-focused activities at See the World. Club 02 is a designated space for guests ages 15 to 17 to watch movies, play sports and video games, and more. Families can enjoy Dive-In Movies together at Carnival Seaside Theater and watch live musical productions at Playlist Productions. When it comes to dining on Carnival , families will have a choice of several casual restaurants to satisfy finicky eaters, including Pizzeria del Capitano, The Carnival Deli, Lido Marketplace and Swirls for soft serve ice cream. For a special night out, make reservations at the Steakhouse, which costs extra but offers reduced prices for children 11 and younger.

When going ashore, Juneau offers many family-friendly excursions – some of which you may not have the chance to experience anywhere else in the world. The Taku Lodge Feast & 5-Glacier Seaplane Discovery takes guests airborne by bush plane over the five glaciers in the Juneau Icefield. After the ride, you'll land in the Taku River at the historic Taku Lodge, which sits across from Juneau's largest glacier, the Taku Glacier. At the lodge, you'll feast on a bountiful meal featuring homemade side dishes and one of the best-known local seafood specialties, Alaska king salmon.

Celebrity Cruises: 7 Nights Alaska Hubbard Glacier

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Celebrity's seven-night Alaska Hubbard Glacier itinerary is available on nine voyages between May and September 2024. The Celebrity Solstice (which holds 2,852 guests at double occupancy) sails round-trip from Vancouver and stops in the ports of Icy Strait Point, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska. You'll have two days of scenic cruising in the Inside Passage and around Hubbard Glacier. While in Icy Strait Point, book a guided nature walk excursion along the "Trail of the Bears" in the bush country of the Spasski River Valley. During your search for Alaska's coastal brown bears, you'll also learn about the Tlingit culture and community in Hoonah, and perhaps even see Sitka black-tailed deer and bald eagles.

Back on the ship, Celebrity's Camp at Sea program entertains children, tweens and teens ages 3 to 17 with four different age-appropriate programs: Shipmates (ages 3 to 5), Cadets (ages 6 to 9), Captains (ages 10 to 12) and Teens (ages 13 to 17). The customizable activities change every cruise and are based on the interests of the participants. Celebrity also offers autism-friendly activities and services for families on board.

When it comes to dining options on the ship, families will find kid-friendly selections on the in-room dining menu and at the main restaurant. For quick casual fare, head to the buffet-style Oceanview Café or to the Mast Grill for burgers and other grab-and-go bites. If you want healthier dishes, the Spa Café offers homemade energy bars, acai bowls, turkey wraps and other light choices.

UnCruise Adventures: Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise

Courtesy of UnCruise Adventures

If you prefer a small-ship cruise experience without the bells and whistles of some larger vessels, UnCruise offers adventure-style cruises to Alaska on its fleet of safari- and expedition-style ships. With these intimate cruises, you and the kids (ages 8 and older) can get up close to glaciers, wildlife and Alaska's vast wilderness directly from the ship via Zodiacs and kayaks. You may even see wildlife from a short distance away along the shoreline, as UnCruise vessels are able to sail into smaller waterways that are inaccessible to larger ships.

The line's Glacier Bay Adventure Cruise features two full days in pristine Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve aboard the Wilderness Discoverer, which holds a maximum of 76 passengers. Here, guests can hike along remote coastlines amid old-growth forests, view sea life up close and go birding at South Marble Island. You'll also have the opportunity to see several tidewater glaciers, go kayaking in the Keku Islands and explore Neka Bay on Chichagof Island. Another highlight is a visit to Glacier Bay Lodge at Bartlett Cove, the only hotel accommodations in the 3.3 million-acre national park. The seven-night itinerary departs round-trip from Juneau and is offered between April and September 2024.

The full itinerary includes stops in Icy Strait and Neka Bay; Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve; Chichagof Island (which boasts the world's largest population of brown bears per square mile); Frederick Sound; and Tracy Arm and the Sawyer Glaciers. During the weeklong cruise, you'll have narration by expert onboard guides and embark on some of the most memorable adventures your kids will ever have in Alaska's remote wilderness.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. She used her knowledge of Alaska cruises and extensive research to write this article. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List: Must-Have Items
• The Best Time to Cruise to Alaska
• The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises
• The Best Alaska Cruise Lines
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

Top All-Inclusive Family Resorts

Tags: Travel , Cruises

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