Norwegian Prima
After launching six 4,000-passenger megaships in its Breakaway and Breakaway Plus classes, Norwegian Cruise Line introduced a next-generation ship in August 2022 that’s slightly smaller but actually feels more spacious — and more elevated. Norwegian Prima, which carries 3,099 guests at double occupancy, is more sophisticated than her predecessors, with eye-catching contemporary décor, new dining venues (including a great complimentary option for lunch and dinner), and onboard activities designed to entertain and thrill passengers of all ages.
As the pioneer of “Freestyle Cruising,” which emphasizes what it calls “freedom and flexibility” (but others tag as “nickel and diming”), NCL offers low fares and frequent “Free at Sea” promos that can be a good value, especially when third and fourth passengers in a cabin sail free. But guests will still need to pay extra to enjoy many popular onboard experiences, from specialty dining (which, with its à la carte pricing, can get quite expensive) to activities such as go-karts, virtual-reality gaming, and access to the Vibe Beach Club adults-only pool and bar area.
Still, Norwegian Prima delivers a lot of pluses if you’re a fan of megaships. Its spacious staterooms feel fresh and modern. Its bars are plentiful (there are 17, including a new Metropolitan Bar that serves inventive cocktails sustainably crafted with syrups created from leftover foods such as croissants and banana peels). Its eight specialty restaurants are visually enticing and serve well-executed food (especially Onda by Scarpetta for upscale Italian, Le Bistro for classic French, Los Lobos for contemporary Mexican, and Nama for creative sushi). And Prima’s entertainment lineup is music-centric and fun.
Solo travelers can also book one of Prima’s interior Studio staterooms at lower fares, while guests who prefer a more exclusive space can opt for a suite in The Haven, NCL’s signature ship-within-a-ship enclave featuring private elevators, a private lounge and restaurant, and a secluded sundeck and pool. On Prima, The Haven’s décor is understated and moody, created by Italian interior designer Piero Lissoni to reflect a more refined space within a big, exuberant ship.