12 Must-Have Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, & Things to Know

Are you planning on sailing with Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL)? Well, Cruzely.com has got you covered with their video “12 Must-Have Norwegian Cruise Tips, Tricks, & Things to Know.” This informative video covers a wide range of topics, including tips on saving money, securing the best seat by the pool, and navigating the ship. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or have experience with other cruise lines, these tips will surely help you have a better trip. The video delves into details about sailing with Norwegian, providing valuable information for those who are new to Norwegian cruises.

One of the top tips they offer is to choose one of the newer ships for a more enjoyable experience, as these ships offer more amenities. Another handy suggestion is to download the Norwegian cruise app, which provides useful information, helps you track your expenses, and allows you to communicate with other passengers on the ship. It’s also advisable to book restaurants and activities early to secure your spot, as popular options tend to fill up quickly. The video also discusses the free at sea offer, where passengers can choose perks such as free drinks or specialty food, but keep in mind that gratuities may still apply. With all these insightful tips and tricks, you’re bound to have an incredible time sailing with Norwegian Cruise Lines.

Sailing on Newer Ships

Sailing on newer ships when cruising with Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) offers numerous benefits and enhanced enjoyment for passengers. The newer ships, such as the Norwegian Joy, Bliss, and Encore, are mega-ships that take cruising to the next level. These ships are known for their wide array of activities, dining options, and impeccable design. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or have experienced older NCL ships, sailing on the newer ships is highly recommended for a more exciting and enjoyable trip.

Amenities offered on newer ships

Norwegian’s newer ships are packed with amenities to cater to every passenger’s needs and preferences. From multiple specialty restaurants, bars, and lounges to thrilling activities like go-karts, water parks, and virtual reality experiences, these ships truly have something for everyone. Additionally, the spacious and beautifully-designed staterooms provide a comfortable and luxurious stay, making you feel right at home while cruising the seas.

Enhanced enjoyment on newer ships

The newer ships from NCL offer an overall enhanced experience for passengers. The vast array of entertainment options, such as Broadway shows, live performances, and comedy clubs, provide endless entertainment throughout the trip. State-of-the-art facilities, including spas, fitness centers, and pools, allow passengers to relax and rejuvenate while onboard. With newer ships, you can expect top-notch service and innovative features that will make your cruise with NCL truly unforgettable.

Download the Norwegian Cruise App

To make the most of your Norwegian cruise, it is highly recommended to download and utilize the Norwegian Cruise app. This free app is available for both Apple and Android devices and offers a wide range of features that will enhance your onboard experience.

Features of the Norwegian cruise app

The Norwegian cruise app is a handy tool that provides valuable information about the ship, including deck plans, dining options, and onboard activities. With this app, you can easily navigate the ship, locate restaurants, and even make reservations. The app also offers a messaging feature, allowing you to communicate with other passengers on the ship, and access to the ship’s daily schedule of events and activities.

Expense tracking through the app

One of the most useful features of the Norwegian cruise app is the ability to track your onboard expenses. This feature allows you to monitor your spending in real-time, ensuring that you stay within your budget. By keeping track of your expenses through the app, you can easily manage your onboard finances and avoid any surprises when it comes time to settle your bill at the end of the cruise.

Communication with other passengers

The Norwegian cruise app also allows you to communicate with other passengers onboard. This feature can be especially useful if you are traveling with a large group or if you want to make new friends during your cruise. Whether you want to coordinate activities, arrange meetups, or simply chat with fellow passengers, the app makes it easy to connect with others and enhance your social experience while onboard.

Reserve Early for Restaurants and Activities

To ensure that you can dine at your preferred restaurants and participate in popular activities during your cruise, it is essential to make early reservations. While the main dining room is usually included in the cruise fare and does not require a reservation, specialty restaurants and certain onboard activities have limited availability and tend to fill up quickly.

Importance of early reservations

Making early reservations for specialty restaurants and activities is crucial to secure your preferred dining times and ensure you don’t miss out on any must-do experiences. By booking in advance, you can guarantee that you’ll have a table at the specialty restaurants you’ve been looking forward to trying and secure a spot in popular activities like the go-karts or spa treatments.

Popular places and activities filling up quickly

On NCL cruises, certain restaurants, such as Cagney’s Steakhouse and Teppanyaki, are incredibly popular and tend to have limited availability. Without an early reservation, you may find it difficult to secure a table during peak dining hours. Additionally, activities like go-karts, laser tag, and popular shows can fill up quickly, so it’s essential to plan ahead and secure your spots to avoid disappointment.

Tips for making early reservations

To successfully make early reservations, there are a few tips to keep in mind. First, consider making your reservations online before your cruise departure date. Norwegian’s website or the Norwegian cruise app both offer convenient tools for making restaurant and activity reservations. Alternatively, you can also call the cruise line directly to make your reservations. It’s important to be proactive and book as soon as the reservations open to increase your chances of getting your desired times and experiences.

Free at Sea Offer

One of the most exciting promotions offered by Norwegian Cruise Lines is the Free at Sea offer. This offer allows passengers to choose from a range of perks to enhance their cruise experience, including free drinks, specialty dining, shore excursions, and internet packages. However, it’s important to understand the details and considerations when taking advantage of this offer.

Overview of the Free at Sea offer

The Free at Sea offer provides passengers with the opportunity to customize their cruise experience by selecting various perks. These perks vary depending on the length of the cruise and can include options like unlimited open bar, specialty dining, Wi-Fi packages, and additional guests cruising for free.

Perks available with the offer

The Free at Sea offer allows passengers to choose from multiple perks based on their preferences and needs. The most popular perk is the unlimited open bar, which provides guests with a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout their cruise. Other perks may include specialty dining packages, allowing guests to enjoy meals at exclusive onboard restaurants, and internet packages, which provide Wi-Fi access to stay connected during the cruise. Additionally, guests can choose additional guests cruising for free, making it an excellent option for families or groups of friends traveling together.

Considerations regarding gratuities

While the Free at Sea offer provides the opportunity to enjoy various perks, it’s important to note that some perks may still require payment of gratuities. For example, if you choose the unlimited open bar perk, a 20% gratuity is typically added to your onboard account for the duration of the cruise. It’s essential to factor in these additional costs when deciding which perks to select and budget accordingly.

Price Difference for Cabins with Free at Sea Offer

When considering the Free at Sea offer, it’s important to understand the pricing structure and how it might affect the cost of different cabin options.

Understanding the pricing

With the Free at Sea offer, Norwegian Cruise Lines often adjusts the pricing structure for cabins. The cost of cabins that include the Free at Sea perks is typically higher compared to cabins without the offer. It’s essential to evaluate the overall value of the perks and compare it to the price difference before making a decision.

Comparison of cabin prices

To illustrate the price difference, let’s consider a random seven-day cruise with an interior cabin. The base price for a sail-away interior cabin, which doesn’t include any Free at Sea perks, might be around $649 per person. However, if you opt for a cabin with the Free at Sea offer, the price can increase by approximately $400 per person. While the cabin with perks may have a higher upfront cost, it’s important to consider the additional value you’ll receive through the chosen perks.

Factors to consider

When deciding whether to choose a cabin with the Free at Sea offer, several factors should be taken into account. Firstly, evaluate the perks included in the offer and determine how much value they provide to your cruise experience. Consider whether you’ll make use of the perks and if they align with your personal preferences. Secondly, compare the price difference between cabins with and without the offer and determine if the additional cost is reasonable for the perks offered. Lastly, assess your budget and determine if the perks are worth the potential increase in price for your overall cruise experience.

Beginner-Friendly Casino

For those looking to try their luck at the casino while onboard Norwegian Cruise Lines, the casinos onboard NCL ships are known for being beginner-friendly and offer classes for novice players.

Features of the casino onboard

The casinos onboard NCL ships are conveniently located in the middle of the ship, making them accessible to all passengers. Unlike high-end casinos in Las Vegas, cruise ship casinos have low limits, creating a relaxed and less intimidating atmosphere for beginners. The casinos offer a variety of popular games, including roulette and craps, as well as slot machines and card games. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a beginner, the cruise ship casino provides an exciting and enjoyable gambling experience for all.

Classes for beginners

One of the perks of NCL’s casino is the availability of classes for beginners. During periods when the casino is less busy, passengers can participate in these classes to learn how to play various casino games without risking any money. The friendly dealers provide guidance and explanation of the rules, allowing beginners to gain confidence and knowledge before playing with real money. These classes are an ideal opportunity to dip your toes into the world of casino gambling and try out games you’ve always wanted to learn.

Learning games at the casino

If you’re not interested in taking a formal class but still want to learn how to play a particular game, cruise ship casinos are an excellent place to do so. The dealers and staff at the casino are knowledgeable and more than willing to help beginners understand the rules and strategies of different games. Don’t be afraid to ask questions or seek guidance from the friendly casino staff, as they are there to ensure you have a great experience while playing.

Drink Packages and Beer/Wine Option

To enhance your beverage choices while onboard a Norwegian cruise, consider taking advantage of NCL’s drink packages or the beer and wine package.

Availability of drink packages

NCL offers a variety of drink packages to suit different preferences and budgets. The most inclusive drink package is the unlimited open bar, which allows you to enjoy a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout your cruise. This package is ideal for those who enjoy cocktails, spirits, and premium drinks. However, if you’re primarily a beer and wine drinker or prefer non-alcoholic beverages, NCL also offers more focused packages that cater specifically to those preferences.

Choosing the beer and wine package

If you primarily enjoy beer and wine, opting for NCL’s beer and wine package can offer significant cost savings. This package typically includes a selection of beers and wines, giving you the freedom to choose from a variety of options during your cruise. By selecting the beer and wine package instead of the unlimited open bar, you can enjoy your favorite beverages while staying within your budget.

Cost savings for beer and wine drinkers

For beer and wine enthusiasts, the beer and wine package offers a more cost-effective option. By paying for a dedicated package that includes your preferred beverages, you can avoid unnecessary expenses associated with the unlimited open bar package, which covers a broader range of alcoholic drinks. Additionally, by selecting the beer and wine package, you have the convenience and peace of mind of having your chosen drinks readily available throughout your cruise.

Outdoor Seating in Restaurants

One of the highlights of dining onboard Norwegian Cruise Lines is the availability of outdoor seating in various restaurants, allowing passengers to enjoy beautiful views while savoring their meals.

Restaurants with outdoor seating

NCL offers a selection of restaurants that provide outdoor seating options, allowing diners to enjoy their meal in the fresh air and take in the stunning views of the ocean or port destinations. Whether you prefer casual dining by the pool, an elegant dinner under the stars, or a quick bite with a panoramic view, there are multiple options available to suit your preferences.

Enjoying views while dining

Dining at a restaurant with outdoor seating allows you to fully immerse yourself in the cruise experience. Whether you’re enjoying a delicious breakfast, a leisurely lunch, or a romantic dinner, the picturesque views add an extra touch of magic to your meal. From watching the sunset over the horizon to observing the bustling port activities, dining outside provides a unique and memorable experience.

Benefits of outdoor dining

In addition to the captivating views, outdoor dining offers several benefits. The fresh air and open space create a more relaxed and refreshing atmosphere, enhancing your overall dining experience. Outdoor seating is also an excellent option for those who prefer a quieter and more intimate setting or for families who want to enjoy a casual meal while keeping an eye on their children playing nearby. Don’t miss the opportunity to book a table at a restaurant with outdoor seating and indulge in a delightful dining experience surrounded by nature’s beauty.

Navigating the Ship

Navigating the ship can seem daunting, especially for first-time cruisers. However, Norwegian Cruise Lines provides a helpful wayfinding system to assist you in finding your way around the ship.

Understanding the fish symbols on the carpet

A unique feature of Norwegian Cruise Lines’ newer ships is the use of fish symbols on the carpet to assist passengers in determining the ship’s direction. Each fish symbol is designed to face either the ship’s bow (forward) or stern (backward), helping you easily orient yourself and navigate the ship. Whether you’re trying to find your stateroom or locate a specific venue or activity, these symbols can act as handy navigation markers.

Determining the ship’s direction

To determine the ship’s direction, simply observe the fish symbols on the carpet. If the fish is swimming towards the front of the ship, you’re heading forward. If the fish faces the back of the ship, you’re heading backward. By taking note of these symbols in corridors, stairwells, and common areas, you can easily find your way to your desired destination on the ship.

Using the symbols as navigation markers

The fish symbols on the carpet serve as helpful navigation markers, allowing passengers to navigate the ship with ease. By paying attention to these symbols and following the direction they indicate, you can eliminate the stress of getting lost or confused while moving around the ship. As you explore the various decks and facilities, keep an eye out for the fish symbols and let them guide you to your next adventure onboard.

Onboard Credit for Norwegian Stockholders

If you are a Norwegian Cruise Lines stockholder, you may be eligible to receive onboard credit as a shareholder perk. This additional benefit can enhance your onboard experience and provide you with extra spending money during your cruise.

Understanding the perk for stockholders

As a Norwegian Cruise Lines stockholder, you may be eligible to receive onboard credit as a perk. Onboard credit is a sum of money added to your onboard account and can be used to offset expenses incurred during the cruise, such as specialty dining, spa treatments, excursions, or onboard shopping. This perk is offered to reward and acknowledge the loyalty of NCL shareholders.

Determining the amount of onboard credit

The amount of onboard credit you receive as a Norwegian Cruise Lines stockholder can vary based on several factors. The length of the cruise is one significant factor influencing the credit amount. Typically, the longer the cruise duration, the higher the onboard credit. Additionally, the number of shares you hold, as well as any specific promotions or offers available at the time of booking, can also influence the credit amount. It’s important to check with NCL or your travel agent for the most up-to-date information regarding the specific onboard credit you are eligible for.

Length of the cruise affecting the credit

The length of the cruise directly impacts the amount of onboard credit you may receive as a shareholder perk. For example, a shorter three-day cruise may offer a smaller credit amount compared to a week-long or multi-week cruise. It’s important to consider the duration of your cruise when expecting the onboard credit and plan your spending accordingly. Whether you choose to pamper yourself at the spa, indulge in specialty dining experiences, or purchase unique souvenirs, the onboard credit provides you with the flexibility to enhance your cruise experience without dipping into your own funds.

In conclusion, sailing on newer ships, taking advantage of the Norwegian Cruise app, making early reservations, exploring the Free at Sea offer, understanding cabin pricing, enjoying the beginner-friendly casino, choosing suitable drink packages, dining outdoors, navigating the ship effectively, and utilizing onboard credit as a stockholder are some essential tips, tricks, and things to know when sailing with Norwegian Cruise Lines. By following these recommendations, you can have a fantastic and memorable cruise experience with NCL.