Experience the evolution of Norwegian Cruise Line Ship By age. Explore ships from newest to oldest.
When it first launched in 1966,Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) was known as Norwegian Caribbean Line. The name was changed to Norwegian Cruise Line in 1987. The first Norwegian ship, Sunward, made its maiden voyage from Europe to Miami. After that, the company developed and expanded, offering cruises worldwide. For now, 21 ships in the Norwegian Cruises fleet. In terms of passenger numbers, it is the world's 4th largest cruise line, after only Carnival Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean Cruises.
Norwegian Cruise Line has never been hesitant to attempt anything new, whether it's unusual hull art that stands out at sea or new onboard innovations. This is the cruise company that invented the term "Freestyle Dining," which was a novel concept at the time and has since gained popularity. Norwegian also added Go-Kart tracks to cruise ships, including a Ferrari-branded two-level track on some ships. The majority of Norwegian's sailings are to the Caribbean and Bahamas, but the company also offers cruises to Alaska and Europe, as well as a specialized ship for Hawaiian sailings.
With such a diversified fleet, Norwegian Cruise Line cleverly divided its ships into nine different classes depending on amenities and characteristics. This makes it easy for cruisers to choose the ideal ship that suits their needs. Whether you want nonstop entertainment, opulent comfort, or family-friendly activities, NCL has a ship for you. From the Bliss and Breakaway Plus classes to the Jewel and Spirit classes, each category provides a distinct experience that will leave you wanting more.
| Cruise Ships | Class | Year Built | Refurbished | Gross Tonnage | Passengers | Crew | Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Norwegian Aqua | Prima Class | 2025 | - | 156,300 | 3,571 | 1,388 | 1,056 |
| Norwegian Viva | Prima Class | 2023 | - | 142,500 | 3,195 | 1,506 | 981 |
| Norwegian Prima | Prima Class | 2022 | - | 143,535 | 3,099 | 1,506 | 981 |
| Norwegian Encore | Breakaway Plus Class | 2019 | - | 169,116 | 3,958 | 1,735 | 1,094 |
| Norwegian Bliss | Breakaway Plus Class | 2018 | 2021 | 168,028 | 3,958 | 1,716 | 1,094 |
| Norwegian Joy | Breakaway Plus Class | 2017 | 2024 | 167,725 | 3,776 | 1,821 | 1,094 |
| Norwegian Escape | Breakaway Plus Class | 2015 | 2022 | 164,998 | 4,218 | 1,733 | 1,069 |
| Norwegian Getaway | Breakaway Class | 2014 | 2020 | 145,655 | 3,903 | 1,646 | 1,068 |
| Norwegian Breakaway | Breakaway Class | 2013 | 2020 | 145,655 | 3,903 | 1,657 | 1,068 |
| Norwegian Epic | Epic Class | 2010 | 2020 | 155,873 | 4,070 | 1,724 | 1,081 |
| Norwegian Gem | Jewel Class | 2007 | 2022 | 93,530 | 2,344 | 1,070 | 965 |
| Norwegian Pearl | Jewel Class | 2006 | 2021 | 93,530 | 2,344 | 1,072 | 965 |
| Norwegian Jade | Jewel Class | 2006 | 2022 | 93,558 | 2,352 | 1,037 | 965 |
| Norwegian Jewel | Jewel Class | 2005 | 2022 | 93,502 | 2,330 | 1,069 | 965 |
| Pride of America | Pride of America Class | 2005 | 2022 | 80,439 | 2,150 | 927 | 920 |
| Norwegian Dawn | Dawn Class | 2002 | 2021 | 92,250 | 2,290 | 1,032 | 965 |
| Norwegian Star | Dawn Class | 2001 | 2021 | 91,740 | 2,298 | 1,031 | 965 |
| Norwegian Sun | Sun Class | 2001 | 2021 | 78,309 | 1,878 | 906 | 848 |
| Norwegian Sky | Sun Class | 1999 | 2024 | 77,104 | 1,944 | 899 | 848 |
| Norwegian Spirit | Leo Class | 1998 | 2022 | 75,904 | 1,972 | 904 | 879 |
If you enjoy large, bustling floating megaresorts, Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ships will far exceed your expectations. These floating cities are filled with facilities and attractions to keep you entertained from sunrise to dusk and beyond. Imagine racing down exhilarating slides, watching Broadway-style musicals, eating gourmet cuisine, and dancing the night away under a starry sky. It's an experience unlike any other, and only Norwegian Cruise Line can give it in such great style.
Now, move ahead to cover all the information you need to know about Norwegian ships in a row from newest to oldest.
Norwegian Cruise Line, the most recent cruise ship in Norwegian Ships, is debuted with the introduction of its second next-generation Prima Plus class vessel. The 3,571-passenger Norwegian Luna, scheduled to debut in spring 2026, will be NCL's 21st ship, sailing from Miami to the Caribbean. It will be the sister ship to Norwegian Aqua, which is scheduled to be delivered in March 2025 and will include new-to-the-brand features, such as the most luxurious rooms in the fleet and the world's first hybrid coaster. Norwegian Luna, sister ship to Norwegian Aqua, is 10% larger than the previous Prima class ships, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva.
Norwegian Cruise Line's first next-generation Prima class ship, the 3,571 passengers Norwegian Aqua, builds on the history of the Prima class boats Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva. It will be NCL's 20th ship, launched in April 2025, and have new-to-brand features like the most spacious rooms in the fleet, the world's first hybrid coaster, and the first Prince show at Sea, "Revolution: A Celebration of Prince". Norwegian Aqua will be 66 feet larger than Prima-class ships, allowing for additional spaces such as the main pool deck, Hasuki Teppanyaki, Vibe Beach Club, Commodore Room, and Starbucks.
Related: What Are the Features and Itineraries of Norwegian Aqua 2025?
Norwegian Viva is the second most amazing ship in the Prima Class. Norwegian Viva® is designed to let you experience life to the fullest. Stretch out, way out, in some of most expansive accommodations. Stay connected to the water along the 360° water Boulevard or take a plunge in the Infinity Pool. It weighs around 142,500 gross tons and can carry 3,195 passengers at double occupancy. However, the ship, a direct sister to 2022's Norwegian Prima is a fresh, modern take on the big-ship, mainstream cruise experience that surprises and delights even this veteran cruiser.
Norwegian Prima, the first ship in NCL's Prima Class, debuted in 2022 and is purposefully meant to seem like a luxury resort rather than a cruise ship. It achieves this effect through its minimalist modern design, cool tiny spaces that create an intimate ambiance, and magnificent outdoor Ocean Boulevard promenade, where everyone will want to be. At 3,099 passengers, it is much smaller than Norwegian's previous Breakaway and Breakaway-Plus classes, which had 4,000 passengers each. Paired with a sensible design that places all of the interesting stuff in the center of the ship, making it easy to maneuver.
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What is special about Norwegian Prima?
What Is Included on the Norwegian Prima?
The Norwegian Encore, which can accommodate 3,998 passengers, is a smart and stylish ship that debuted in 2019. It is a ship designed to provide everyone with a variety of vacation options, including several bars and restaurants, indoor and outdoor activities, and nightly entertainment. Give your taste buds a double dose of excellence at the many dining options, including Onda by Scarpetta, and have a moonlit dinner on The Waterfront. Island hop through paradise in the Caribbean from Miami or take a cruise to Alaska from Seattle to experience more of the Last Frontier.
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Things to Do on the Norwegian Encore
Is Norwegian Encore a family friendly cruise?
Norwegian Bliss is a beautiful vessel with a shiny atmosphere that you wouldn't expect from such a large ship. The ship debuted in 2018 and was refurbished in 2021. Its most notable feature is the 20,000-square-foot Observation Lounge, which occupies the whole front half of Deck 15. Norwegian Bliss, the largest ship, is designed to be outstanding. The beautiful Observation Lounge boasts floor-to-ceiling windows that provide 180-degree views, making you feel with the great outdoors. Alternatively, go outside and walk the quarter-mile promenade known as The Waterfront.
Related:
What Are the Top Reasons to Take Your Family to Norwegian Bliss?
Things to do on Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Joy has evolved into a multi-purpose mega-ship that debuted in 2017, with the firm deploying it to several homeports based on client demand. New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Port Canaveral - the 3,776-passenger ship (with a maximum capacity of nearly 4,400) goes where it is most needed. A selection of cabins, the adults-only Vibe Beach Club, and Mandara Spa's Thermal Suite are all designed to promote relaxation and regeneration. Zoom in on breathtaking views along the Norwegian Joy Speedway, which is just one of the ship's many custom-built features that allow the outdoors in.
Related: Best Things to do on Norwegian Joy
Norwegian Escape can accommodate about 4,218 passengers and debuted in 2015 with 164,998 gross tonnages, making it the greatest playground at sea for all ages. Take hanging out to new heights on the ropes course, and daring to walk the plank, which reaches eight feet over the ship's side. Swoosh down the waterslides and splash around the Kids Aqua Park. Then relax in the Spa Thermal Suite. Dine oceanside on The Waterfront, where every table has the best view. Roll into good times at the casino, listen to great music, and see incredible creative productions.
Related: What shows are on the Norwegian escape?
Discover a sea of options on Norwegian Getaway, which debuted in 2014 and can seat about 3,903 guests. Enjoy the finest seat in the house at any table along the quarter-mile promenade, The Waterfront, which offers exquisite dining, unique restaurants and lounges, and magnificent sunset views. Savor a variety of complimentary and specialty eating options, including trademark French restaurant, Le Bistro. Hang out with your friends at the action-packed Sports Complex and Ropes Course. Enjoy the excitement of The Whip and Free Fall water slides. Alternatively, a massage at Mandara Spa can help you slow things down significantly.
Related: Things to do on Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Breakaway has entertainment and dining that is more resort-like than ship-like. Other cruise lines have followed the same, but Norwegian Breakaway pioneered the trend by outnumbering its competitors in terms of restaurants, shows, and entertainment options. The ship debuted in 2013 and can hold around 3,903 guests, like the sister cruise ship Norwegian Getaway. Travel to the Caribbean to swim with dolphins, the Mediterranean to immerse yourself in history, or the Transatlantic for a tranquil getaway. Spend some well-deserved "me time" in the award-winning Mandara Spa® and Thermal Suite.
Related: Things to do on Norwegian Breakaway
The Norwegian Epic, which debuted in 2010, is sure to impress with its contemporary design, world-class performances, and countless onboard activities. Cruisers of all ages may enjoy everything from an aqua park to a high climbing wall, as well as luxury accommodations that can accommodate 4,070 people. Take a break from the action at Mandara Spa and unwind in the Thermal Suite, which is intended for maximum relaxation. Speaking of grown-ups, Posh Beach Club and Spice H2O are adult-only establishments that offer a daytime retreat and an evening celebration.
Related: Things to Do on the Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Gem, which was built in 2007 and refurbished in 2022, is an accessible ship with enough entertainment alternatives to suit most cruise passengers. There is plenty of open deck space on the ship, and almost every public room has a magnificent view of the passing ocean or scenery. Enjoy the more intimate, relaxing environment of mid-sized ship, Norwegian Gem, while sailing to popular locations. This cruise ship offers luxurious year-round voyages. Escape to the Caribbean, Bermuda, or Bahamas and let go of your daily schedule. Fuel up for the day with your favorite Starbucks beverage.
Related: What Are the Best Cabins on the Norwegian Gem?
Norwegian Pearl is a mid-sized ship that can seat 2,344 guests while providing a relaxing ambiance and attractive décor. She has a number of accommodation options. Explore the Caribbean islands or take advantage of the Panama Canal for a relaxing cruise. Mealtime is a highlight on Pearl, with several sophisticated eating options available, including the complimentary 24-hour Eatery, O'Sheehan's Neighbourhood Bar & Grill, two steakhouses, and much more. Whether you want a family vacation or a romantic getaway, this ship's stylish design and first-class amenities make it a great choice.
Set sail on Norwegian Jade for a more intimate and easygoing atmosphere. The Cruise has a passenger capacity of 2,352 and a gross tonnage of 93,558. On a Caribbean cruise, you may relax on pristine beaches and drink island cocktails, leaving your routine behind. Onboard, you'll find modern décor, updated staterooms, and new venues. Indulge your tastebuds on a gastronomic tour with a variety of delectable complimentary and specialty restaurants, including Brazilian at Moderno Churrascaria, French food at Le Bistro, Italian cuisine at La Cucina, and much more.
Norwegian Jewel, launched in 2005, underwent substantial repair in late 2022 to recover its sparkle. All cabins, suites, restaurants, cafes, the Entourage Club for teens, the main pool, and the atrium have all been upgraded. There are two new bars: Bliss Ultra Lounge, which plays dance music after dark, and The Pit Stop, a 1950s-themed pub with a view of the pool. Two Deluxe Owner's Suites have also been added to the Haven. The new appearance is so modern that it's almost unrecognizable in some public locations. While some may miss the water slide and false palm trees, the pool is now a more pleasant place, particularly for adults.
Related: Things To Do Onboard Norwegian Jewel
Pride of America was built in 2005 and had a significant, multimillion-dollar upgrade renovation during a monthlong dry dock in spring 2022, which involved gutting the ship and replacing outdated furnishings with updated carpets, furniture, and flooring. The Pride of America's diverse culinary and entertainment choices enable passengers with a wide range of interests to find a place that suits them. Pride of America®, the only ship sailing year-round from Honolulu, provides the ideal Hawaii cruise holiday. Say hello to a world of relaxation with onboard hot tubs, saunas, and the award-winning Mandara Spa.
Despite her flaws, the Norwegian Dawn is a ship that you love. Built in 2002 as the third ship in the Norwegian fleet to accommodate the line's Freestyle Cruising concept like a variety of restaurants, bars, and entertainment, the ship has undergone several refurbishments, the most recent of which was a 2021 refresh of public spaces and cabin decor, as well as the addition of new restaurants and bars. Book Mediterranean and European cruises to visit castles, cathedrals, beautiful islands, and sophisticated cities. Choose an Extraordinary Journey for immersive and unique experiences.
Related: Things to do on the Norwegian Dawn
The 2,348-passenger Norwegian Star, which debuted in 2001, was the first Norwegian ship designed specifically for Freestyle Cruising, NCL's anti-traditionalist concept that offers a variety of dining, accommodation, and entertainment alternatives. Norwegian Star completed a summer 2021 restoration that included the Sky-High Bar (which replaced the Bier Garten), the Bliss Ultra Lounge (which replaced the Spinnaker Lounge), and the adults-only Spice H2O. Additionally, all cabins and suites have USB charging connections. Experience cruises across the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, South America, and Transatlantic on the Norwegian Star.
Norwegian Sun, with its classic design and elegant interiors, provides a sophisticated setting for experiencing the world's greatest sites. The ship has a capacity of 1,878 and was last refurbished in 2021. From the opulent Owner's Suites and Penthouses to the Family Balcony and more, this smaller ship makes it easy to choose your travel style. Let the good times flow from poolside to tableside at the lively casino. There's something for everyone on board, whether you want to relax at the award-winning Mandara Spa, work out with panoramic views in the fitness facility, or start your day with breakfast in bed.
Related: Things to do on Norwegian Sun
Come onboard Norwegian Sky for a more intimate and traditional cruise experience. The ship was built and launched in 1999. This trip has a capacity of 1,944, which is the lowest among Norwegian cruise ships. This ship offers a variety of destinations, including the Bahamas, Greek Isles, and Norwegian's extraordinary journeys. Prepare to relax with onboard pools and the award-winning Mandara Spa. Stretch your legs and take in the breathtaking views on the outdoor track or at the fitness center. On board, you can enjoy a choice of specialty and complimentary dining options, including Italian at La Cucina and French at Le Bistro, as well as informal outdoor restaurants.
The 2,032-passenger Norwegian Spirit was launched in 1998. She is the line's smallest and oldest ship. Experience relaxed luxury on Norwegian Spirit, which has been rebuilt from bow to stern with the adult traveler in mind. Follow the sun rather than a timetable on this small, intimate ship, where pampering and relaxation are always available. Get on the hot seat in the casino, roll into massive laughs at the comedy club, and watch mesmerizing live performances. Plus, with great food options ranging from Italian at Onda by Scarpetta and steak at Cagney's to French meals at Le Bistro and more, savoring every moment at sea is a breeze.
Norwegian Cruise Line’s ships come in all ages, offering something for everyone. From their newest ships packed with modern features to older ones with a cozy, classic feel, each has its charm. Whether you’re looking for big, exciting ships or smaller, more intimate ones, there’s a great match for every traveler. No matter the age, every ship is built to give you an amazing cruise experience.
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