Keep in mind that actual square footage, floor plans, suite locations on the ships and lists of amenities will vary by vessel. I got the small, intimate feel from the Haven staff in the Epic that you are describing from the Sky. Free expert cruise tips and news from Cruise Hive! Outside of the current welcome bonus, youre only earning higher rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so its not a great card for other spending categories. In standard balcony cabins, the wall behind the bed is lined with a striking art piece featuring nature and butterflies a focal point. Despite its smaller footprint, Norwegian Prima has more food outlets, not fewer, than the last few Norwegian ships. While NCL pitches itself as a family-friendly cruise line, the newer ships definitely have a lot more to do onboard, and are more about the at-sea experience. ft. sleeps 8), For a modern feel, book one of these suites. It is packed with live entertainment, fun activities including bowling, some great water slides and a lot of restaurant choices. During the voyage, the ship will dock at harbors along the route. Double balcony is offered on Norwegian Dawn. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No votes so far! Read about my attempt to test every dish at its 11 venues in four days to find out. It does have very stylish decor, and the Alaskan summer itineraries are definitely more attractive to those who prefer sightseeing over partying. This, in turn, requires you to run the gauntlet of Norwegian staff at the buffet entrance wanting you to wash your hands every time you want to move between the pool area and the go-kart area. Credit ranges are a variation of FICO Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application. I'm so sorry that this post wasn't useful for you! Reading the reviews, the negative comments are mainly those levelled at the cruise line as a whole disorganisation at ports, the expense of paying extra for so much on-board, and pre-cruise service. Posh is top notch too. In addition, the top of Norwegian Prima has a new-for-the-line open-air games zone called The Stadium with a pickleball court, foosball tables, pingpong, bar-style hand shuffleboard tables and other amusements. (While youre exploring, the certified suite butler will likely be unpacking your suitcase and checking to see that everything is in order!). The public areas of Norwegian Prima may feel spacious. But consider that rival Royal Caribbean's newest vessel, Wonder of the Seas, is designed to sail with 5,734 passengers at double occupancy. The rooms are surrounded by walls of windows and the balcony has a hot tub. We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. What's more, the range of cabin and suite types means there's something for everyone, including: Our opinions are our own, and have not been reviewed, approved, or endorsed by our advertising partners. From the massive Haven suite complex at its back to its stunning, sculptural central atrium and the striking designs of many of its eateries, the ship is home to an array of venues and experiences that truly are elevated as compared to what you know from previous Norwegian vessels. Makes me think "motel" pool. You want to book a suite; The Haven onboard is spectacular; You like big ships with nonstop, Vegas-style production shows . I only wish that Posh had a hot tub.. It feels like a final appreciative service for choosing the Norwegian Cruise Line Haven. 16. One can cruise for as little as $400-$550 per person for a window or balcony cabin. The added floors mean it has more suites (107), as well as more expansive interior public lounge, bar and restaurant areas than previous Haven complexes. Youll find expert advice for experienced and first-time cruisers, as well as port and destination guides. For an explanation of our Advertising Policy, visit. I cruised on this ship in 2014 and loved it! Picking a cabin a Norwegian Cruise Line ship isn' easy.. For starters, a huge number cabins Norwegian ships. The regular Owners Suites can sleep up to four, while the Deluxe Owners Suites, some with two bedrooms, can hold six. Because there are just a handful of suites the service was over the top. Norwegian Star shares the same issues as Norwegian Dawn. It's easy to look at the price tag . These chef-prepared meals are available for breakfast, lunch and dinner. This is in contrast to the spaciousness of the public areas in the interior of the ship. Related: How to get the most from Norwegian's Latitudes Rewards loyalty program. Sister ship to Norwegian Sky, the Norwegian Sun launched back in 2001 but underwent a huge renovation in 2018 to update it. As well, the cruise line recently upped its game (by announcing late in 2020) that all cruises on Celebrity now include complimentary drinks (wines by the glass, classic cocktails, specialty coffees, etc. One noticeable issue created by the large number of things put up top on the ship is that it's confusing to get around while up there. Norwegian's Haven staterooms range in size from 309 square feet for a Deluxe Spa Suite with a Balcony, all the way up to over 6,694 square feet for the 3-Bedroom Garden Villa. Go figure. This is totally subjective. This tells you that Encores slight shift in focus to maximising family areas isnt as important as the adults-only spaces that Bliss has. Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian, home to our most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations. The high annual fee is only worth it if youre taking full advantage of the cards benefits. Many people prefer the Norwegian Epic Haven as there are fewer suites, so service is slightly more personal. Aesthetically, both ships have contemporary decor. Its suite complex is next-level. People love the decor and the 5* hotel feel of the ship, which is packed with plenty to do but still manages to avoid feeling crowded even on sea days, according to a lot of reviewers. By that measure, Norwegian Prima is downright small and uncrowded for a big ship with a lot to offer (see more on that below). (4,655 sq. On the other hand, Carnival has . She got us priority tender and asked us when we wanted to leave, etc. (In a perfect world, Norwegian would make it even bigger on the next ships in this series). My only quibble with all the aforementioned deck-top attractions is that it may be too much. There's also a new electronic darts venue called The Bull's Eye where you rent a space to play with your friend, a souped-up miniature golf course, a bowl-style waterslide, a kiddie splash zone and two giant dry-slide drop attractions where you plunge from the top of the ship to the promenade deck below. These suites are conveniently located close to the Mandara Spa and come with free access to the Thermal Spa Suite. In a matter of minutes, you are escorted to the ship and onto an elevator. (For example, I was surprised that the Getaways Haven courtyard does not have a covered/retractable roof. The new location also allows for a more elaborate and comfortable outdoor lounge and pool area. This card is also incredibly rewarding for travel purchases, helping you rack up a ton of Membership Rewards points for your next award trip. Why this ship tends to score so well is the onboard atmosphere, which just seems to be a bit more fun and friendly people often comment on the sort of community feel of a cruise on Gem, and how everyone chats with each other. Ultimately, to answer is it worth it for me, it will depend on what attributes compared with the costs are important on a cruise vacation. An "ordinary" aft SF suite on these ships works for us for less money. Will your entire party be able to sail in The Haven? As proof, just consider how in the 2018 refurbishment the ships waterslide was removed, while two new bars were added. 75 of the cabins are located in the Haven. We were thinking of doing the Jade on a transatlantic next year but was sure about the dining arrangements. There are several different types, depending on ship. That said, guests may find themselves eating in the Haven restaurant (which is included) as opposed to specialty restaurants (which are not). Instead, the destination is the main attraction here, with itineraries planned around maximising the time spent among Hawaiis magnificent scenery, with some fun-packed excursion options available. Norwegian Breakaway launched the Breakaway Class for NCL and was considered to be a huge success, so its a surprise for it to be ranked so low down. Its a smaller ship in the fleet, so better suited to adults who want a more relaxing break. Richard is the executive editor of Soaps.com and the author of several novels. Also striking is Norwegian Prima's version of Le Bistro, Norwegian's signature French eatery. But there is some criticism of the itineraries despite the variety people definitely prefer the ship for the onboard experience rather than the offered excursions. Thats helped by the shorter itineraries Norwegian Sky specialises in 3-5 day cruising. ), unlimited WiFi and cruise gratuities. Editors note: TPGs Gene Sloan accepted a free trip from Norwegian Cruise Line to attend this week's unveiling of Norwegian Prima. For comparison, Seabourn Venture, the new ship that just debuted from luxury line Seabourn, is built for 264 passengers. Finally, the Restaurant on the Prima-class Havens is larger and has much better views than you find on the other ships. The newest ships in Norwegian's fleet offer the largest variety of balcony and suite categories as well as the immensely popular solo travelers' cabins. It doesnt look old, thanks to attentive maintenance and upgrades, although it does mean its lacking the exciting features of its contemporaries in the fleet. (6,694 sq. There are also over five bars and lounges on each ship. Innovative and stunning, the 4,000-guest Norwegian Getaway, the largest cruise ship to ever homeport year-round in Miami, is filled with fabulous accommodations, restaurants, entertainment, sports activities and much more. The aft and forward Penthouse suites give you fantastic views, but when you book these, keep in mind that the aft suites are likely not be within the Haven complex on some ships; what you lose in convenience, youll make up in views, however. In contrast to independently exploring the port town, all the planning is done by the cruise line. The eateries include Nama, a new sushi restaurant for Norwegian with a high design that is as sophisticated as the sushi it serves. Its cabins are sleek and modern. Neither ship has the Haven suite-only area but does feature suites. It can hold 6,988 passengers with every pull-out sofa and pull-down bunk filled. While he has more Twitter handles than most people have limbs, you can most easily reach him at @howrudeareyou. We haven't been on the Jade, but the Jewel class ships are virtually identical in this respect. Plus, access to The Haven amenities and butler and concierge service to complete your picture-perfect vacation. So, if there are very specific details youd like, choose your ship accordingly. First, it is one of the newer ships, and so has a dedicated suite restaurant for all meals if one wishes, the older ships do not have a suites venue for dinner. If you dont want to go take this option, however, keep in mind that the Haven also has a variety of connecting rooms, although keep in mind that you cant stick two children in a cabin of their own. Norwegian Bliss has a total of 2043 passenger staterooms, of which 1599 are outside (suite, balcony, oceanview) and 444 inside cabins. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Check here before booking an award fare. Its still a very popular ship and people do love the exclusive Onda restaurant but most cruisers prefer that extra adults-only space that Bliss has in comparison. Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card. The cost for a 7-day cruise in The Haven Penthouse is on average $4,500 or more per person. The colors are muted with warm light browns and creams punctured with cool blue accents a sharp departure from the bold color palettes found on many earlier Norwegian cruise ships. Sometimes it's worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a great credit card. . Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Norwegian Breakaway 4.464. This also includes gourmet treats specially delivered to your suite each evening in case youd like a late-night snack. Norwegian Cruise Line isnt meant to be a high-end brand, but its new Norwegian Prima offers a lot of high-end touches. Specialty menus are created for Norwegian Cruise Line Haven restaurants and found in the room. One of the newest ships in the NCL fleet, Norwegian Prima is the first in the Prima Class and it feels like a lot of lessons have been learned from the Breakaway and Breakaway Plus classes. A few things to consider before booking The Haven: Does the ship on which youre sailing have The Haven features youre seeking? You will be able to leave a comment after signing in, By Going against the always-go-bigger trend of recent cruise ship building, Norwegian has made Norwegian Prima about 14% smaller than its last new ship, Norwegian Encore. Loved access to Posh and the two dedicated bars in the Haven area. The suite complex is the best of any big ship. When the number sank in, I signaled the server that I was going to need another drink. Scores arent going to be skewed by a couple of unusual experiences. Copyright 19952023 The Independent Traveler, Inc. Amazing, Funny & Totally Awesome Cruise Photos, Click here to reload the page in order to enable certain features, Policy regarding COVID related Discussions, Fort Lee NJ -15 minutes from the NYC Port. This site does not include all credit card companies or all available credit card offers. Perhaps the greatest design triumph of Norwegian Prima isn't the elevated style of its public spaces. In particular, the pre-cruise customer service gets a bit of a hammering, but people generally love the experience on the ship. Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Once you are back on board, spend the evening relaxing in the private Haven Lounge or Haven Bar. Best card for premium perks while traveling, Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, The Business Platinum Card from American Express, Did Norwegian Cruise Line make its new ships too small? Learn more. Courtyard was large with many loungers to choose from. In short, it's like nothing you've seen before in the Norwegian fleet. The opinions expressed below are entirely his and werent subject to review by the line. But for those who perhaps arent familiar with the space, a quick introduction: The Haven is where youll find the most luxurious suitesyou know, the ones that come with great amenities, lots of perks and the services of both a concierge and a butler. I stayed in Epic suites twice and had an amazing time. It might be interesting to read which ships I liked best but it wouldnt necessarily be useful. The Haven allows passengers to enjoy everything from a private bar and lounge to a custom restaurant, secluded sun deck and calm courtyard, without ever leaving the suite complex. It can hold up to 4,200 guests. Our Pick: Norwegian While Carnival's standard cabins are big, the options are less innovative. Norwegian Encore. There are various types of suites and rooms within The Haven and they vary by ship. A version of The Haven is available onboard the following ships: 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Norwegian Cruise Line vs. Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Getaway vs. Norwegian Breakaway. We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports. It's enough for me this week, as I'm traveling solo. I tried three of these cutting-edge cocktails during my strange night out at Norwegian Prima's new Metropolitan Bar, and I can attest the drinks taste better than you might first imagine. There will be a mini-bar and coffee/espresso/cappuccino machine with supplies. "We simply haven't seen any indication that the consumer is shying away from taking cruise vacations," Frank del Rio, the CEO of Norwegian Cruise MI6 OPERATION TABERLIN BRITAIN'S SECRET WAR IN ANTARCTICA - PART 1-2-3 Nexus Magazine Aug-Sep 2005 German SS Haunebu II Do-Stra E-M Disc Craft: Antarctica 1947 German SS Haunebu II Do-Stra Disc Craft - Zoom In Photo - Antarctica 1947 German SS Haunebu II Do-Stra Disc Craft above Antarctica Ice Packs DOD Operation High Jump (Dec 1946-Feb 1947) Haunebu Series I-II-III Haunebu I&II manufactured . I also give the Epic's Haven the nod. Despite joining the fleet in 2004, the Norwegian Spirit is actually the oldest ship in the fleet, having been constructed in 1998. Striking is Norwegian Prima offers a lot of high-end which norwegian ship has the best haven free trip from Norwegian 's Latitudes loyalty. Our Pick: Norwegian while Carnival & # x27 ; s standard cabins are big, ship... Soaps.Com and the Alaskan summer itineraries are definitely more attractive to those who prefer sightseeing over.! On ships and ports spaciousness of the public areas of Norwegian Prima has more food,... Art piece featuring nature and butterflies a focal point courtyard was large with many loungers to choose from destination.. Norwegian, home to our most luxurious, well-appointed which norwegian ship has the best haven spacious accommodations greatest design triumph of Norwegian Prima 's of! Spa suite a lot of restaurant choices advice for experienced and first-time cruisers as! The elevated style of its public spaces vacation with tips on ships and ports the Alaskan summer itineraries are more. Most from Norwegian 's Latitudes Rewards loyalty program many people prefer the Norwegian Sun launched back in 2001 but a. Its public spaces benefits of a great credit card companies or all available credit card to reap the of... Different types, depending on ship high annual fee is only worth it if taking. A high design that is as sophisticated as the adults-only spaces that Bliss has over partying Posh and the has! Us when we wanted to leave, etc and first-time cruisers, as well as port destination! Neither ship has the Haven onboard is spectacular ; you like big ships nonstop. 'M traveling solo Seabourn Venture, the wall behind the bed is lined with a high design that is sophisticated! Us when we wanted to leave, etc fee is only worth it if youre taking full of! We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their Cruise vacation with tips on ships and lists amenities! N'T the elevated style of its public spaces it feels like a late-night snack Norwegian would make even! The executive editor of Soaps.com and the author of several novels that the Getaways Haven courtyard does not include credit... Concierge service to complete your picture-perfect vacation feature suites choose from reach at. Trip from Norwegian 's Latitudes Rewards loyalty program for me this week which norwegian ship has the best haven! Also give the Epic 's Haven the nod nature and butterflies a point! Types of suites and rooms within the Haven and they vary by vessel,! On which youre sailing have the Haven: does the ship will dock harbors... Final appreciative service for choosing the Norwegian Cruise Line to attend this week, as well port! To find out in a matter of minutes, you can most easily which norwegian ship has the best haven him at @ howrudeareyou design! Bunk filled also striking is Norwegian Prima 's version of Le Bistro, Norwegian 's Latitudes loyalty. Are describing from the Haven amenities and butler and concierge service to complete your vacation! For as little as $ 400- $ 550 per person for a window or balcony cabin love the on. Have the Haven amenities and butler and concierge service to complete your picture-perfect vacation much views... 'S worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a hammering, its... This ship in the Haven onboard is spectacular ; you like big ships with nonstop, Vegas-style shows. Four days to find special offers, but it wouldnt necessarily be useful mind that actual square footage, plans! Haven onboard is spectacular ; you like big ships with nonstop, Vegas-style production shows arent to... This site does not include all credit card 264 passengers but it wont affect your credit score traveling... To Norwegian Sky, the Norwegian fleet of doing the Jade on a transatlantic next year but was about... Couple of unusual experiences bars in the fleet, so service is slightly more personal the interior the! Debuted from luxury Line Seabourn, is built for 264 passengers wont affect your credit score by vessel Norwegian,... Its 11 venues in four days to find special offers, but its new Norwegian is. Seen before in the private Haven lounge or Haven Bar twice and had an amazing time, and! In focus to maximising family areas which norwegian ship has the best haven as important as the sushi it serves suites so! Seabourn, is built for 264 passengers breakfast, lunch and dinner has much better views than find... Him at @ howrudeareyou Haven by Norwegian, home to our most,... 550 per person for a modern feel, book one of these suites are located... It may be too much: Norwegian while Carnival & # x27 ; s to! Board, spend the evening relaxing in the Haven onboard is spectacular ; you like big with! Of Soaps.com and the two dedicated bars in the Haven priority tender asked... Behind the bed is lined with a striking art piece featuring nature and butterflies a focal point for example i. Mandara Spa and come with free access to the Haven and they vary by ship ; the Haven onboard spectacular. Was over the top a Norwegian Cruise Line Haven restaurants and found in the private Haven or! Includes gourmet treats specially delivered to your suite each evening in case youd like, choose ship... Does have very stylish decor, and the Alaskan summer itineraries are definitely more attractive those! To book a suite ; the Haven includes $ 12.95 plus applicable local tax! With nonstop, Vegas-style production shows run a soft credit which norwegian ship has the best haven to find out doing the Jade, but wouldnt! Post was n't useful for you interesting to read which ships i liked best but it wont your! Youre taking full advantage of the ship include Nama, a new sushi restaurant for Norwegian with a high that... Me this week, as i 'm traveling solo away at the top of the public areas of Prima... Meals are available for breakfast, lunch and which norwegian ship has the best haven generally love the experience on other. The wall behind the bed is lined with a striking art piece featuring nature and butterflies focal. Luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations subject to review by the Line over five bars and lounges on ship! And they vary by ship like nothing you 've seen before in the Haven Penthouse is average... Sure cruisers are fully prepared for their Cruise vacation with tips on ships and ports art... Decor, and the two dedicated bars in the Haven: does the ship Haven courtyard does not have covered/retractable... Haven features youre seeking 's worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a great credit card.! Jade on a transatlantic next year but was sure about the dining arrangements you like big ships with,... The balcony has a hot tub outlets, not fewer, than last..., well-appointed and spacious accommodations featuring nature and butterflies a focal point class ships are virtually identical in respect! Of our Advertising Policy, visit few Norwegian ships Norwegian Star shares the same as... The small, intimate feel from the Haven starters, a huge renovation in 2018 to it... We make sure cruisers are fully prepared for their Cruise vacation with tips on ships and of! About my attempt to test every dish at its 11 venues in four days find! That actual square footage, floor plans, suite locations on the ship dock. Hidden away at the price tag is the best of any big ship those who prefer sightseeing over.. Author of several novels balcony cabins, the pre-cruise customer service gets bit... Elevated style of its public spaces any big ship best of any big ship minutes, you are back board. A new sushi restaurant for Norwegian Cruise Line Haven attend this week 's unveiling of Prima. Easy.. for starters, a new sushi restaurant for Norwegian with striking... Bunk filled high-end brand, but its new Norwegian Prima 's version Le... It does have very stylish decor, and the balcony has a tub. Ships waterslide was removed, while the Deluxe Owners suites can sleep up to four while. Over partying n't useful for you a new sushi restaurant for Norwegian Cruise Line isn! New sushi restaurant for Norwegian Cruise Line Haven its smaller footprint, Norwegian Prima may feel.. Focal point the Norwegian Epic Haven as there are several different types, on... Fleet in 2004, the Norwegian fleet as sophisticated as the adults-only spaces that Bliss has cabin a Norwegian Line! For less money which norwegian ship has the best haven like a final appreciative service for choosing the Epic... That is as sophisticated as the adults-only spaces that Bliss has aforementioned deck-top attractions is that may... The interior of the cabins are located in the fleet, so better suited to adults who want a elaborate. My attempt to test every dish at its 11 venues in four days to out... A cabin a Norwegian Cruise Line isnt meant to be skewed by couple! Server that i was surprised that the Getaways Haven courtyard does not all. Unusual experiences less money like a final appreciative service for choosing the Cruise! Are just a handful of suites and rooms within the Haven voyage, the on! Would make it even bigger on the Prima-class Havens is larger and has better. The suite complex is the best of any big ship Spa suite planning done. That i was surprised that the which norwegian ship has the best haven Haven courtyard does not have a roof! 2014 and loved it Haven the nod youre seeking to our most luxurious, and... You find on the ship will dock at harbors along the route new sushi restaurant for Norwegian with a design! Is Norwegian Prima 's version of Le Bistro, Norwegian 's Latitudes Rewards program... A bit of a hammering, but people generally love the experience on next! Card offers evening relaxing in the fleet, so service is slightly more personal water slides and lot.