norwegian cruise 5 person room

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

Picking a cabin on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship isn't always easy.

For starters, there are a huge number of cabins available on some Norwegian ships. The line is known for operating some of the world's biggest cruise vessels — ships so big that some have more than 2,000 cabins each.

However, it's not just the sheer volume of cabins that makes choosing a room on a Norwegian ship a challenge. It's also the number of cabin categories.

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On some of Norwegian's largest ships, including Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy, there are a whopping 39 different types of cabins — each a little different from the last.

The backstory here is that Norwegian ships are designed to appeal to a wide demographic, including travelers willing to spend at a wide range of price points. That's prompted Norwegian to offer a wide mix of cabin types.

The room choices the line offers on its ships range from relatively low-cost, windowless inside cabins measuring just 135 square feet (perfect for the budget traveler) to massive, multi-room suites that can be more than 50 times that size.

At the high end, the accommodations are aimed at affluent travelers who, for whatever reason, prefer the megaship experience to being on a luxury ship, and they truly are among the most spectacular accommodations at sea. Some, such as the giant Garden Villas found on six Norwegian ships — Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star — sprawl over thousands of square feet and have as many as three bedrooms plus separate living rooms and dining rooms.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian Cruise Line

A Norwegian Cruise Line cabin primer

As is typical for many cruise ships, Norwegian vessels offer cabins in four broad categories: Windowless "inside" cabins, ocean-view cabins, balcony cabins and suites.

On newer Norwegian ships, the majority of the cabins are balcony cabins. Cruise lines over the years have discovered that cruisers will pay a significant premium to have a balcony with their cabin, and that's prompted a rush to add more balcony cabins to ships.

However, Norwegian's newer vessels are also known for a large number of suites, including suites that are part of upscale private complexes called The Haven.

On Norwegian's 4-year-old Norwegian Encore, for instance, 19% of the 2,040 cabins are suites — a huge percentage for a large, mass-market cruise ship. On Royal Caribbean 's 4-year-old Symphony of the Seas, which launched at almost the same time as Norwegian Encore, by contrast, just 7% of cabins are suites. On Carnival Cruise Line 's 4-year-old Carnival Panorama, just 3% of cabins are suites.

Here is a breakdown of the cabin types on Norwegian Encore, which is typical for the line's newer ships:

Inside cabins: 453 (22%). Ocean-view cabins: 111 (5%). Balcony cabins: 1,090 (53%). Suites: 385 (19%).

On older Norwegian ships (and, in general, all older cruise ships), there are fewer suites — sometimes far fewer. Only 1% of the cabins on Norwegian's oldest vessel, the 1998-built Norwegian Spirit, are balcony cabins.

Inside cabins and oceanview cabins make up nearly half of all cabins on Norwegian Spirit. Here is a breakdown of the cabins on that vessel:

Inside cabins: 387 (29%). Ocean-view cabins: 223 (17%). Balcony cabins: 708 (58%). Suites: 18 (1%).

The takeaway here is that you'll have a tougher time locking down a suite on an older Norwegian ship than on a newer vessel. If you're planning a cruise on one of the line's older vessels and a suite is a must, you'll want to book early to make sure you get one.

Within each of the four broad categories of cabins on Norwegian ships, you'll find multiple subcategories. Norwegian Encore, for instance, has 16 different types of suites alone, from a Club Balcony Suite Guarantee (Category MX) that measures 249 square feet to The Haven Deluxe Owner's Suite with Large Balcony (Category H2) that measures nearly six times that amount.

In general, Norwegian cabins have a modern look with clean lines and contemporary furniture, plus lots of storage cleverly worked into the design.

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

Inside cabins on Norwegian Cruise Line ships

These are the cabins you stay in when you're on a tight budget. On any Norwegian ship, they are almost always the least expensive option when you're booking a cabin, and you can often save considerable money by booking an inside cabin versus an ocean-view or higher-level cabin.

What you'll give up, of course, is that ocean view. Your room will have four walls and no windows offering a glimpse of the outside world. In some cases, you'll find an inside cabin with a window opening up onto a hallway, but the view will be of nothing more than the hallway.

You'll also be in a very small room. Most inside cabins on the ship used in the examples above, Norwegian Encore, measure just 149 square feet. That's about 7% smaller than the typical ocean-view cabin on the vessel, which measures 160 square feet. The typical balcony cabin on Norwegian Encore is 175 square feet, not including a 30- to 110-square-foot balcony.

Related: Why windowless inside cabins aren't so bad

Of note, Norwegian is well-known for one particular type of inside cabin: unusually tiny, interior studio cabins designed for solo travelers.

Norwegian first added such cabins to a ship in 2010, on the then-new, 4,070-passenger Norwegian Epic. They were such a hit the line quickly began adding them to more vessels.

Measuring just 100 square feet but superbly designed to maximize storage space, the solo rooms on Norwegian Epic (there are 128 in all) are clustered around an exclusive Studio Lounge with a bar and television area where solos can mingle at daily hosted happy hour gatherings.

Since 2010, Norwegian has added similar solo cabin complexes with exclusive lounges to seven more new ships. Norwegian Encore has an 82-cabin solo complex spread over three decks.

The similarly sized Norwegian Escape and Norwegian Bliss also have 82-cabin solo complexes, while the smaller Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway have solo areas with 59 cabins. The line's two newest ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva , have 73 solo cabins.

Related: I've been on nearly every Norwegian ship. Here are my first impressions of Norwegian Prima

Norwegian also offers four solo cabins on its Hawaii- based Pride of America.

In most cases, these studio cabins have windows that face an interior hallway, though some solo cabins have windows and balconies.

Ocean-view cabins on Norwegian Cruise Line ships

With an ocean-view cabin, you get a window looking out to the sea but not an attached balcony where you can sit outside and enjoy the fresh air.

Norwegian's newer ships have relatively few such cabins, as generally cabins that face outward are now built with balconies.

In general, ocean-view cabins on Norwegian ships are bigger than inside cabins but not quite as big as balcony cabins (when comparing their interior space). However, you sometimes can find ocean-view cabins that are significantly bigger than what is typical for a balcony cabin. This is sometimes the case for ocean-view cabins at the front of ships, where there can be relatively large but odd-shaped rooms with windows but no balconies.

Several recent Norwegian vessels have some quite large ocean-view cabins at their fronts that measure from 240 to 372 square feet. Dubbed Family Oceanview Stateroom with Large Picture Window, they are designed to hold up to five people and are marketed to families.

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian's Latitude Rewards loyalty program

Balcony cabins on Norwegian Cruise Line ships

Balcony cabins are what everyone wants these days, and Norwegian is delivering with huge numbers of balcony cabins on all its newest ships.

On the line's new Prima-class ships, which began debuting in 2022, around 57% of rooms are balcony cabins — and that number jumps even higher if you include suites on the ship that have balconies (see below for more details on suites on Norwegian vessels).

Including suites, the percentage of cabins on the first two ships in the series to debut (Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva) that have balconies jumps to 64%. The percentage is even higher on the line's newest Breakaway-plus class vessels, at a very high 72%.

The typical Norwegian balcony cabin has a contemporary look with clean lines and relatively minimalist furniture. Norwegian balcony cabins typically offer twin beds that can be converted into a queen bed, a built-in desk area and a sofa that often pulls out into an additional bed.

Balcony cabins on Norwegian ships typically measure a bit over 200 square feet, including the balcony space, but some can be significantly bigger.

On Norwegian Encore, a category of balcony cabins known as Large Balcony cabins (category B6) measure 331 square feet, due to enormous balconies that measure 155 square feet. The ship also offers aft-facing balconies (category B1) that measure up to 426 square feet, again due to unusually large balconies.

Related: 6 reasons to book a balcony cabin

Suites on Norwegian Cruise Line ships

As mentioned above, Norwegian is known for a large number of suites on its ships. It's also known for some of the very biggest suites in the entire cruise industry.

The Garden Villas found on Norwegian Jewel, Norwegian Pearl, Norwegian Gem, Norwegian Jade, Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star are truly stunning, with living areas with glass walls looking over the pool areas of the ships. They have as many as three bedrooms plus separate living rooms and dining rooms.

Some of the Garden Villas measure as much as 6,694 square feet — more than twice the size of the typical home in the United States.

Among notable extras, the Garden Villas have private outdoor sundecks and courtyards with hot tubs. Additionally, the Garden Villas on Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Star include private outdoor dining areas and steam rooms.

On more than half of Norwegian's ships, many of the top suites are part of an exclusive, keycard-accessed area called The Haven. Aimed at luxury travelers, The Haven complexes are located at the very top of the vessels and often come with private lounges, pools, sunning areas and even restaurants.

Related: 7 reasons to splurge on a cruise ship suite

Depending on the ship, top suites can come with such perks as private butlers and concierges who attend to your every need; access to a private restaurant; a private suite lounge and sun deck; reserved seating in entertainment venues; and priority boarding and disembarkation.

Just be ready to look through a lot of suite types if you're booking a Norwegian ship. Some Norwegian ships have up to four types of Penthouse suites available, for instance, and three kinds of family suites.

Bottom line

Norwegian has something for everyone when it comes to cabins on its ships.

You can book a small, inside cabin that will get you on board one of the line's vessels at a very reasonable cost or a super suite that will set you back many times more but that comes with all sorts of perks.

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What Cruise Ships Have 5 Person Rooms

Published: December 11, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Idalina Clark

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Introduction

When it comes to planning a cruise vacation for a family or a group of friends, finding suitable accommodations can be a challenge. Most standard cruise ship cabins are designed to accommodate 2-4 people, leaving larger groups with limited options. However, there are cruise lines that offer 5 person rooms, providing a convenient and comfortable solution for those traveling in larger parties.

In this article, we will explore which cruise ships have 5 person rooms and delve into the criteria for these rooms. We will also discuss the different cruise lines that offer such accommodations, the room categories and features that can be expected, as well as any additional amenities and services specifically catered to guests staying in these rooms. Lastly, we will provide some useful tips for booking 5 person rooms on cruise ships.

With the information provided, you’ll be equipped to plan your cruise vacation with peace of mind, knowing that your entire group can stay together in a comfortable and spacious 5 person room. So let’s dive in!

Criteria for 5 Person Rooms on Cruise Ships

When looking for 5 person rooms on cruise ships, there are a few important criteria to consider. These criteria ensure that the room can comfortably accommodate all guests and provide a pleasant experience for everyone onboard. Here are some key factors to consider:

• Size and Layout: 5 person rooms typically have a larger size and are designed with a layout that maximizes space. They often include additional beds or pull-out sofas to accommodate the extra guests.
• Sleeping Arrangements: The room should provide appropriate sleeping arrangements for all guests, whether it’s a combination of double beds, single beds, or convertible sofas. Ensuring that everyone has a comfortable place to sleep is essential.
• Amenities: Look for rooms that offer amenities such as a private bathroom, storage space for belongings, a seating area, and a small refrigerator. These amenities are important for convenience and ensuring a comfortable stay for all guests.
• Accessibility: Consider the accessibility of the room, especially if there are elderly or mobility-impaired individuals in your group. Look for rooms that are easily accessible and have appropriate facilities to meet their needs.
• Location: The location of the 5 person room on the cruise ship is also important. Some guests may prefer rooms closer to amenities and activities, while others may prefer a quieter location away from the noise. Choose a room location that suits your preferences and needs.

It’s important to note that the availability of 5 person rooms can vary depending on the cruise ship and itinerary. Some ships may have limited options, so it’s advisable to book early or consult with a travel agent to secure the desired accommodations.

Now that we’ve covered the criteria for 5 person rooms, let’s explore the cruise lines that offer these accommodations.

Cruise Lines Offering 5 Person Rooms

Several cruise lines recognize the need for larger accommodations and offer 5 person rooms to accommodate families and larger groups. Here are some cruise lines that provide these rooms:

• Royal Caribbean International: Royal Caribbean is known for its family-friendly amenities, and they offer 5 person rooms on many of their ships. Their spacious cabins are designed to comfortably accommodate everyone, with options like bunk beds, pull-out sofas, and additional storage space.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line has a variety of ships that feature 5 person rooms. Their rooms are designed with flexibility in mind, including fold-down beds and pull-out sofas to maintain comfort and maximize space. They also offer interconnecting cabins, which can be ideal for larger groups traveling together.
• Carnival Cruise Line: Carnival Cruise Line offers 5 person rooms on their ships, designed with families in mind. These spacious cabins feature various sleeping arrangements, including pull-down beds and bunk beds. Carnival also provides many family-friendly amenities and activities throughout the ship.
• Disney Cruise Line: Disney Cruise Line is renowned for its exceptional family entertainment, and they offer 5 person rooms on their ships. These rooms are well-appointed and include thoughtful Disney-themed touches. Disney Cruise Line also offers exclusive activities and entertainment for guests of all ages.
• MSC Cruises: MSC Cruises offers 5 person rooms on their family-friendly ships. These rooms are designed with comfort and practicality in mind, providing ample space for families to relax. MSC Cruises also offers a range of activities and amenities to keep passengers entertained throughout their voyage.

It’s important to check with each cruise line for specific information on the availability and pricing of 5 person rooms. Additionally, some luxury and boutique cruise lines may also have options for larger accommodations, although they may be limited. Consulting with a travel agent can be helpful in finding the best cruise line that suits your group’s needs.

Now that we are familiar with the cruise lines that offer 5 person rooms, let’s explore the different room categories and features that can be expected.

Room Categories and Features

When booking a 5 person room on a cruise ship, there are typically a few different room categories to choose from. These categories offer varying sizes, layouts, and features. Here are some common room categories and features you can expect:

• Standard Family Room: This is the most common type of 5 person room on a cruise ship. It usually consists of a larger cabin with multiple beds, including double beds, single beds, or pull-out sofas. These rooms may also include a private bathroom, storage space, and a seating area.
• Suite: Some cruise lines offer suite accommodations that can comfortably accommodate 5 guests. Suites provide a more luxurious and spacious experience, with separate sleeping and living areas. They may also come with additional amenities such as a private balcony, butler service, and exclusive access to certain areas of the ship.
• Interconnecting Cabins: To accommodate larger groups, some cruise lines offer the option of booking multiple cabins with connecting doors. This allows families or friends to stay close while still having their own individual spaces.
• Accessible Rooms: Cruise lines also have accessible 5 person rooms available for guests with disabilities or mobility restrictions. These rooms are specifically designed to meet accessibility requirements, with features such as wider doorways, accessible bathrooms, and modified furniture layouts.

In addition to the room categories, there are certain features that may be included in 5 person rooms on some cruise ships. These features can enhance the comfort and convenience of your stay. Some common features include:

• Storage space for luggage and personal belongings
• A small refrigerator or mini-bar
• A flat-screen TV with a selection of channels and movies
• Comfortable bedding and linens
• In-room safes to store valuables
• A desk or seating area for relaxation
• Climate control settings for individual comfort
• A private bathroom with toiletries provided

It’s important to note that the specific room categories and features can vary depending on the cruise line, ship, and even the itinerary. Therefore, it’s advisable to check with the cruise line or consult a travel agent to ensure you have the correct information before making a booking.

Now that we have explored the room categories and features, let’s discuss any additional amenities and services specifically catered to guests staying in 5 person rooms.

Additional Amenities and Services for 5 Person Rooms

When booking a 5 person room on a cruise ship, there are often additional amenities and services that are specifically catered to guests staying in these rooms. Cruise lines strive to ensure that families and larger groups have a comfortable and enjoyable experience onboard. Here are some additional amenities and services you can expect:

• Dedicated Concierge: Some cruise lines provide a dedicated concierge service for guests staying in 5 person rooms. This personalized service can assist with any special requests or needs, including making reservations for dining, entertainment, or spa treatments.
• Priority Embarkation and Debarkation: Guests staying in 5 person rooms may receive priority embarkation and debarkation, allowing them to skip long lines and enjoy a smoother and more efficient check-in and check-out process.
• Access to Exclusive Areas: Certain cruise ships have exclusive areas or lounges reserved for guests staying in suites or 5 person rooms. These areas offer a more private and relaxed atmosphere along with additional perks such as complimentary drinks and snacks.
• Special Kids’ Activities: Cruise lines often provide a variety of supervised activities and clubs specifically designed for children and teenagers. This gives younger guests staying in 5 person rooms the opportunity to socialize, make new friends, and participate in age-appropriate activities while under the supervision of trained staff.
• Flexible Dining Options: Cruise lines understand that families and larger groups may have different dining preferences and schedules. Therefore, they often offer flexible dining options, including early or late seating, buffet-style dining, and specialty dining venues, allowing guests to choose the dining experience that best suits their needs.
• In-Room Dining: 5 person rooms may offer the convenience of in-room dining, allowing guests to enjoy meals and snacks in the privacy of their cabin. This can be particularly useful for families with young children or for those who prefer to dine in a more intimate setting.
• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Some cruise lines provide complimentary or discounted Wi-Fi packages for guests staying in 5 person rooms. This allows guests to stay connected with loved ones back home or share their vacation experiences on social media.

It’s important to note that the availability of these amenities and services can vary depending on the cruise line, ship, and itinerary. It is advisable to check with the cruise line or consult a travel agent to confirm the specific perks and privileges included in your booking.

Now that we have covered the additional amenities and services for 5 person rooms, let’s move on to some tips for booking these rooms on cruise ships.

Tips for Booking 5 Person Rooms on Cruise Ships

Booking a 5 person room on a cruise ship requires some careful consideration to ensure a smooth and enjoyable vacation. Here are some helpful tips to keep in mind when booking these rooms:

• Plan and book early: 5 person rooms tend to fill up quickly, so it’s best to plan and book your cruise well in advance. This will give you a better chance of securing the desired accommodations and getting the best available rates.
• Consult with a travel agent: Consider consulting with a travel agent who specializes in cruises. They can help you navigate through the various cruise lines, ships, and itineraries to find the best options that suit your group’s preferences and budget.
• Consider the cabin location: Think about the location of the 5 person room on the ship. If you prefer a quieter setting, consider choosing a cabin away from entertainment venues and high-traffic areas. However, if you want easy access to amenities, a cabin closer to the ship’s central areas may be more suitable.
• Compare room configurations and amenities: Different cruise lines may offer different configurations and amenities in their 5 person rooms. Compare the options available to find a room that best meets your group’s needs, including the number and size of beds, bathroom facilities, storage space, and additional features.
• Consider interconnecting cabins: If a single 5 person room is not available, consider booking interconnecting cabins. This allows your group to stay close while still having separate cabins, providing more space and privacy.
• Check for promotions and deals: Keep an eye out for any promotions or deals offered by the cruise lines. They may have special offers for 5 person rooms, such as discounted rates, onboard credits, or complimentary upgrades that can enhance your cruise experience.
• Read reviews and seek recommendations: Before finalizing your booking, take the time to read reviews and seek recommendations from other travelers who have stayed in 5 person rooms on similar cruise ships. Their firsthand experiences can provide valuable insights and help you make an informed decision.
• Communicate special needs or requests: If you have any special needs or requests, such as accessible accommodations, dietary restrictions, or allergies, be sure to communicate them to the cruise line when booking your 5 person room. This will ensure that necessary arrangements are made to accommodate your group’s specific requirements.

By considering these tips, you can increase the chances of securing the perfect 5 person room for your group and enjoy a memorable and comfortable cruise vacation.

With that, we have covered the tips for booking 5 person rooms on cruise ships. Let’s conclude our article.

Booking a 5 person room on a cruise ship allows families and larger groups to enjoy a memorable vacation together. With the criteria, cruise lines, room categories, additional amenities, and booking tips discussed in this article, you are now well-equipped to find the perfect accommodations for your group.

Remember to consider the size, layout, and amenities offered in 5 person rooms. Research the cruise lines that offer these rooms, such as Royal Caribbean International, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Disney Cruise Line, and MSC Cruises. Explore the different room categories available, such as standard family rooms, suites, and interconnecting cabins. Take note of additional amenities and services catered to guests in 5 person rooms, such as dedicated concierge services, exclusive access, and special activities for children.

When booking, plan and book early, consult with a travel agent, compare room configurations and amenities, and consider interconnecting cabins if needed. Check for promotions and deals, read reviews, and communicate any special needs or requests to ensure a seamless experience for your group.

By following these tips, you can secure a comfortable and enjoyable 5 person room on a cruise ship, allowing your group to make lifelong memories while cruising the open seas.

So, start planning your cruise vacation today and embark on an adventure that will create cherished moments for everyone onboard!

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SOLO CRUISES FOR SINGLES & SOLO TRAVELLERS

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CRUISES FOR SINGLES & SOLO CRUISING

Best for solo travellers - cruise critic's 2023 editors' picks awards.

The best experiences last a lifetime - solo travel is one of them. The ability to explore, take chances, meet new people and do what you want when you want. To trade stories, and cocktails, with like-minded travellers from around the world. Or to sail with a group, on your own terms. Now when you cruise solo with Norwegian, you'll enjoy more freedom and choice than ever. We've doubled the number of Solo Staterooms across our fleet by adding Solo Balcony and Oceanview rooms, in addition to Inside rooms and Studios. The best part? The savings! Traditional double occupancy rates do not apply. So come aboard with friends or family - or take time to meet new people, then watch the sunset from your private balcony. After all, you're pretty good company.

Exclusively for one

Studio staterooms.

Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to build staterooms and common areas specifically for the single cruiser. Our Studios are the perfect sized room for solo cruising and the Studio Lounge is a great way to meet other single cruisers.

The choice is yours

Additional staterooms.

Prefer a room with a view or with additional space to unwind? We offer Balconies, Oceanview and Inside Staterooms for solo travellers. All Solo Staterooms include exclusive access to the Studio Lounge* where you can unwind and meet other solo cruisers. And save money when you book - these rooms are priced exclusively for solo travelers!

* Studio Lounge and accessibility varies by ship.

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