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Norwegian Cruise Line Mediterranean Cruises

Delicious fare, interesting people, and some of the most grand and historic landmarks in the world—welcome to the Mediterranean and Greek Isles with Norwegian Cruise Line. Cruise to the Mediterranean and become the epicurean adventurer you’ve always wanted to be, sampling Greek treats in the isles and fresh seafood on the Amalfi Coast. Adventure into the countryside of Italy for some one-of-a-kind cultural opportunities or rally with the locals in Barcelona for a game of fútbol. Monasteries, ruins, churches and more when you join Norwegian Cruise Line on a Mediterranean and Greek Isles cruise vacation.

Things to Do on a Mediterranean Cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line

Be inspired in the land of beautiful art, delightful cuisine and important history. In Turkey you can visit the home of the Virgin Mary, in Italy take a Gondola ride and in Monte Carlo enjoy a beautiful meal – all from your unforgettable Mediterranean cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line.

• Best of Athens & Its Scenic Coast (Athens, Greece) If you’d like the opportunity to see Athens in all of its glory, this is the excursion for you! You can experience the full history of this ancient region by visiting sites like the Parthenon, Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and more. Cruise along the Saronic Gulf and see the beautiful suburbs, and even see the famed Temple of Poseidon. A true Grecian adventure.  

• Ephesus & House of Virgin Mary (Ephesus, Turkey) If you consider yourself a lover of history and architecture, visit the ruins of Ephesus for an experience like no other. You’ll stop in at the House of the Virgin Mary, a pilgrimage, and then continue to the crown jewel of the Aegean Region, Ephesus. Learn as you view the beauty of this incredible site.  

• Five Mountains & Camel Ride (Arrecife, Canary Islands) Enjoy the beauty of Lanzarote, featuring tranquil villages, boiling sea water and the wonderful Timanfaya National Park—where you’ll ride a camel. Visit high-temperature craters and tour the Fire Mountains, narrated and filled with incredible information, before you visit the wine-growing area of La Geria, where you can purchase an authentic vintage! A comprehensive and incredible voyage.  

• Flavors of Sorrento & Pompeii (Naples, Italy) Visit the roots of one of the finest civilizations the Earth has ever seen in Pompeii, where you can envision how this intriguing people lived and worked many years ago. See a cameo factory, learn how jewelry is made and then head to Sorrento. There you’ll enjoy the food, crafts and people of this wonderful cliff-top town.  

• Gondola Serenade (Venice, Italy) With this one-of-a-kind excursion you’ll make an unforgettable memory you’ll tell your kids and grandkids about for years to come. Float merrily along the gorgeous canals of Venice as music fills your heart with joy, and the sights bring a smile to your face.  

• Highlights of Monaco & Nice (Cannes, France) The bright, vibrant city of Nice is the perfect way to spend a day in the Mediterranean. This excursion will take you around the city, through Monaco, and allow for a delightful lunch before heading to Monte Carlo. Once you spend a day in these two cities, you’ll be planning your trip back!  

Top 10 Norwegian Cruise Line Mediterranean Cruises

• Norwegian Escape 8 Night Europe - Western Mediterranean - Rome (CIV/CIV) Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Jun 2024 - Aug 2024)
• Norwegian Escape 10 Night Europe - Western Mediterranean - Barcelona (BCN/VCE) Departing From Barcelona, Spain (Jun 2024 - Aug 2024)
• Norwegian Viva 10 Night Europe - Classic Mediterranean (CIV/VCE) Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Jun 2024 - Aug 2024)
• Norwegian Getaway 9 Night Eastern Mediterranean (PIR/PIR) Departing From Piraeus (Athens), Greece (Jun 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Escape 7 Night Greek Isles, Italy, & France: European Jewels (CIV/VCE) Departing From Civitavecchia (Rome), Italy (Jun 2024 - Oct 2024)
• Norwegian Escape 11 Night Italy, Greece, & France: Mediterranean Jewels (VCE/BCN) Departing From Trieste, Italy (Jul 2024 - Aug 2024)
• Norwegian Getaway 10 Night Eastern Mediterranean (PIR/PIR) Departing From Piraeus (Athens), Greece (Jul 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Viva 10 Night Europe - Classic Mediterranean (PIR/CIV) Departing From Piraeus (Athens), Greece (Jul 2024 - Oct 2024)
• Norwegian Escape 4 Night Europe - Western Mediterranean - Barcelona (BCN/CIV) Departing From Barcelona, Spain (Jul 2024 - Sep 2024)
• Norwegian Getaway 7 Night Eastern Mediterranean (PIR/PIR) Departing From Piraeus (Athens), Greece (Jul 2024 - Aug 2024)

Norwegian Cruise Line Mediterranean Departure Ports

Learn more about each of the possible departure ports for a Mediterranean cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line. Your Norwegian Cruise Line Mediterranean cruise could depart from any of the following cities:

Discover imaginative architecture, impressive Spanish dishes and beautiful excursions into nature when you cruise to Barcelona, the capital of Catalonia.

A cruise to Civitavecchia is a chance for you to hop a quick train to Rome and explore the enormous history through ruins, galleries and The Vatican museums.

Istanbul, Turkey

Istanbul is a unique city that blends its two distinct influences – from its founding as the Christian capital of Constantinople to the Ottoman ruled Istanbul. Today you can discover both eras and the modern beauty in this thriving city.

Lisbon, Portugal

Lisbon has deep cultural roots that are exposed through ruins and museum artifacts. Cruise to Lisbon and discover the culture and history of Portugal in its capital city.

Learn about the Greek gods and the early philosophy of Socrates when you visit the incredible ruins left in Athens, Greece. At night, go out and take in the culture with the modern Athenians.

The cruise port of Southampton features tons of diverse attractions that provide insight into England’s culture and storied past, including fortresses, gardens and national parks.

Trieste, Italy

Sit back and enjoy the sea breezes in Trieste, an Italian city that despite being close to Venice is more akin to Vienna, the capital of the Hapsburg Empire. 

Photo Gallery for Norwegian Cruise Line Mediterranean Cruises

View our photo gallery of Mediterranean cruising photos from Norwegian Cruise Line. Keep in mind, this is just a sample of the sights waiting for you on a Norwegian Cruise Line Mediterranean cruise vacation.

Camels at Timanfaya National Park in Lanzarote

Library of Celsus in Ephesus, Turkey

Mount Vesuvius and ruins of Pompeii in Italy

Monaco's coastline

Gondola serenade in Venice

Parthenon Temple in Athens, Greece

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Mediterranean cruises take passengers to a rich mosaic of sights, from the sun-washed beaches of the Riviera to the magnificent antiquities of Rome, Athens and Ephesus. On a Mediterranean cruise, you may stroll the broad boulevards of Barcelona and Nice or view works of the masters in the museums of Florence and Paris.

Cruises are a wonderful, worry-free way to explore the great cities of Europe. About three-quarters of all European cruises are Mediterranean cruises, and the other one-fourth are cruises of the British Isles and Northern Europe.

Western Mediterranean cruises will typically call at ports in Spain, France and Italy, and may also visit ports in Portugal, Monaco, Tunisia or Morocco. Eastern Mediterranean cruises may include Italy, Greece, Turkey, Croatia, Bulgaria or the Ukraine. Holy Land cruises usually combine Eastern Mediterranean cruise ports with Israel and Egypt, while some Mediterranean cruises concentrate solely on the Greek Isles.

• The Mediterranean cruise season is from late April to October, although a few ships cruise this region year-round.
• Mediterranean cruises are 7 to 14 nights in length.
• Because you'll need to fly a long distance to reach your port of departure, we suggest that you arrive at the port city at least one or two days in advance of your Mediterranean cruise. This will give you time to rest and get oriented before boarding the ship. Most cruise lines offer pre-cruise hotel packages.

Mediterranean cruise guide: Best itineraries, planning tips and things to do

No two Mediterranean cruises are the same. Some bring travelers to the French and Italian rivieras for food, wine and cultural pursuits. Others head east to the Greek Islands, where passengers alternate days sipping ouzo at a beachfront taverna with trips to ancient sites. Each itinerary is a mix of urban tourist capitals — Barcelona! Rome! Istanbul! Jerusalem! — and sleeper gems, such as Portofino, Italy, or Kotor, Montenegro.

If you've never been to Europe, you may feel overwhelmed by destination choices. If you know which ports are on your must-see list, you might be more stumped by which cruise line to choose or which specific itinerary will be the best for you.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

Know that you can't see everything in one Mediterranean cruise — even on sailings that run multiple weeks. Once you let go of your need to see and do it all and accept that you're on a sampler tour, you'll be better able to make your cruise selections and enjoy the ports your ship does visit.

Get started with this Mediterranean cruise guide. You'll learn the basics of itineraries, cruise lines, destinations, when to go and when to book your European adventure at sea.

Why cruise to the Mediterranean?

Many of the European countries on your travel bucket list lie along the Mediterranean Sea: Spain, France, Italy, Greece, Turkey, Israel and Egypt. A cruise lets you hit many of the hot spots (the French Riviera, Barcelona and Venice, Italy) on one trip without having to navigate multiple hotels, transportation between cities and making dinner reservations in foreign languages.

For some people those experiences are a key part of travel. However, for vacationers who want all the attractions without the hassle, a cruise is an ideal way to explore the Mediterranean. This type of European cruise can be especially alluring to honeymooners, families and older couples.

Mediterranean cruises beckon travelers with a love of culture and history. Visit the Parthenon in Athens, Greece, or the Colosseum in Rome; see Michelangelo's David in Florence, Italy; or make a pilgrimage to the Wailing Wall in Jerusalem. Take a tour to a medieval town or marvel at the construction of a soaring cathedral. If you've always wanted to see the pyramids in Giza, Egypt; the ruins in Ephesus, Turkey, and Pompeii, Italy; Gaudi's Sagrada Familia in Barcelona; and the famous casino in Monaco, you can do it easily on a Mediterranean sailing.

You can also eat your way through the markets, cafes, trattorias, gelato shops and crepe stands in the ports you visit. Sample local wines at vineyards in France and Italy, or sip ouzo or limoncello made on the premises.

When do cruises go to the Mediterranean?

You might be surprised to learn that cruise ships sail the Mediterranean year-round.

The majority of ships, however, arrive in the spring and depart in the fall, choosing warmer climes like the Caribbean for holiday sailings. Only a few hardy stalwarts remain through the winter months. Most of those are European-based lines, such as Costa Cruises , MSC Cruises and Celestyal Cruises , but Viking also braves chilly weather for its destination-focused itineraries in Europe.

Best Mediterranean itineraries

You can find a variety of weeklong Mediterranean cruises, but if you've got the time, nine- to 14-night sailings are not uncommon. Seven-night cruises are best if you're short on time or want to tack on a few days in Barcelona, Rome or Athens before or after your cruise. Longer itineraries are ideal for experiencing a greater variety of destinations and traversing more of the Med.

Here are some the best Mediterranean cruise itineraries you should consider for your European vacation.

Western Mediterranean

The classic Western Mediterranean cruise sails between Barcelona and Rome, and calls in ports in Spain, France, Monaco and Italy. This is your chance to explore Tuscany and the French Riviera, as well as hit up Florence, Monte Carlo, Naples and islands such as Corsica, Mallorca, Sicily and Sardinia. Just watch out: Marquee destinations like Rome and Florence are both located an hour or more from the cruise port, so get ready for long bus rides and long days off the ship.

Greece and Turkey

The classic Eastern Mediterranean cruise sails out of Athens or Istanbul and visits a mix of historic places (Delphi, Ephesus via Kusadasi, Rhodes) and sun-drenched islands (Mykonos and Santorini).

Adriatic Sea

Some so-called Mediterranean cruises actually spend most of their time on the Adriatic Sea, sailing from Venice and visiting ports in Croatia and Greece, and sometimes Montenegro and Albania. You may also find an Adriatic sailing wrapped into longer Western or Eastern Mediterranean cruises.

The most easterly of the Eastern Mediterranean itineraries, Holy Land cruises spend time in Israel and sometimes Egypt, often with overnight stops or multiple days spent in each country to maximize touring opportunities. These sailings may also call in Cyprus or ports in Greece and Turkey.

Best Mediterranean cruise lines

Most major cruise lines send at least one ship to the Mediterranean every year. Even Carnival Cruise Line , known for its affordable cruises out of U.S. home ports, offers some Mediterranean sailings, as does Disney Cruise Line , which typically bases its ships near its theme parks.

If you're looking for a bigger ship, Celebrity Cruises , Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean are the best choices as they base a handful of ships in the Mediterranean each year, arriving in the spring and departing in the fall. These lines offer a variety of itinerary choices, so you can find the Mediterranean ports you most want to visit. You'll also find lots of restaurant choices and evening entertainment options to keep you occupied at night when the ship is sailing.

Couples or families with grown children looking for longer sailings and a destination focus should consider Viking, which offers eight- to 15-night cruises through the Mediterranean, including three- and four-week voyages for retirees (or workationers?) who have the time for a most thorough exploration of the region.

Which luxury line is best for your Mediterranean cruise will come down to what you're looking for in a luxury ship and a European itinerary. However, Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises stand out for including a large variety of shore excursions in their cruise fares. If you're a foodie, these two lines plus Oceania Cruises are notable for their culinary tours in port, plus destination-themed cooking classes on board.

Things to do in the Mediterranean

Sightseeing is a big component of Mediterranean cruises, whether that's exploring a historic site like the Roman Forum or the walled city of Dubrovnik, Croatia; visiting cathedrals in Florence and Barcelona; or touring medieval villages, forts and old towns. You might want to skip the formal tours and merely wander around the port town, browsing local shops or grabbing a coffee or snack in a local cafe.

Culinary tours are also popular here. You can choose from roving food tours, cooking classes, winery visits and tastings, and meals made with local produce and cheeses in beautiful villa or farmhouse settings.

Travelers looking to stretch their legs might want to sign up for cycling tours in city and country settings, hike around a volcano on Santorini or Sicily, or even take a kayak for a spin in Croatia or Greece.

A beach day is possible in the Greek Islands or along the French Riviera, and many ports will have sightseeing cruises.

Best Mediterranean cruise ports

Everyone has their favorite list of the best Mediterranean cruise ports (as evidenced by the discussion I just had with TPG's cruise team about which to include). Some travelers want to hit all the most popular cities, while others prioritize the ability to walk right off the ship into the heart of the town. Some ports are better for historical attractions, others for cafe culture or outdoor activities.

The following cruise ports are generally standouts, no matter your travel style.

Barcelona: Both an embarkation port and a port of call, depending on your itinerary, Barcelona has much to offer first-timers and repeat visitors. Cruise ships dock at the end of Las Ramblas, the main thoroughfare in the old part of the city, so it's easy to leave the ship and simply wander. Don't miss Gaudi's fantastical buildings or a meal of tapas.

Monte Carlo, Monaco: Monte Carlo is both a fascinating port on its own and a gateway to the French Riviera. In town, you can walk to the casino, palace and stunning oceanographic museum. From town, you can take the twisty-turny Corniche coastal roads to destinations like Nice, Eze, Cannes and Grasse.

Dubrovnik, Croatia: Even if you're not in it for the "Game of Thrones" tour, you will be captivated by Dubrovnik and its famous walled city. Walk the walls or take to the water for scenic views of the old town.

Rome: It's actually a pain to get to Rome from the cruise port of Civitavecchia by bus or train, but it's worth it to experience the Eternal City firsthand. Tour the Vatican and Sistine Chapel at St. Peter's Cathedral, step back in time at the Colosseum and Roman Forum, climb the Spanish Steps, throw a coin in the Trevi Fountain and meander through the Borghese Gardens. When your feet give out, take a breather with a gelato or plate of pasta.

Rhodes, Greece: The historic port of Rhodes no longer has a Colossus, but that doesn't take away its appeal. Ensconced by ancient stone walls, Old Town is easily walkable, composed of cobblestone streets lined with restaurants and stores housed in structures dating back to the 14th century. If shopping isn't your thing, keep walking until you reach the Palace of the Grand Master of the Knights of Rhodes, where you can take a tour, or venture out to one of the city's beaches.

Naples, Italy: Naples is one of our favorite ports because you have so many options of what to do there. It's the jumping-off point for tours to Pompeii, Mount Vesuvius, Capri and the Amalfi Coast. Or, if you want to explore the city on your own, perhaps sitting down to a lunch of the region's famous pizza, it's a quick walk right into town from your cruise ship.

Ashdod, Israel : Most cruisers don't stick around Ashdod; it makes our list of best Mediterranean cruise ports because it's the gateway to Jerusalem, Bethlehem, Tel Aviv and the Dead Sea. Prepare to be amazed by the sites you will see, but also be ready for long bus rides and long days off the ship touring.

Istanbul: Istanbul is the vibrant city you might not know you need to visit. Serving as both a departure port and port of call on Mediterranean cruises, the city offers something for everything: the cultural icons of the Hagia Sophia and Blue Mosque, intense shopping experiences at the Grand Bazaar, Byzantine palaces, traditional Turkish baths (called hammams), flavorful cuisine, Bosporus day cruises between Europe and Asia, and plenty of neighborhoods to explore.

When to book a Mediterranean cruise

It's a good idea to book your Mediterranean cruise early, even nine to 12 months in advance. You can take advantage of early booking discounts and promotions and have the widest selection of available cabins and suites and dining times (if applicable). An early booking is ideal if you're planning on using miles to book your flights or points for a pre-cruise hotel. Look for fall sales when the current Mediterranean season is winding down.

Another smart time to book a Mediterranean cruise is during January or February when cruise lines run their " wave season " sales, often with lots of extra freebies thrown into the cost of the sailing. You might find last-minute deals on spring cruises to Europe or still be considered early for fall itineraries.

What to bring on a Mediterranean cruise

The Mediterranean region has a temperate climate, but it still gets chilly in the spring and fall and can be brutally hot in the summer. Check the weather before your sail date and pack for the predicted temperatures — with layers, in case the forecasters are wrong and it's unseasonably hot or cold.

You'll likely do a good deal of walking on a Mediterranean cruise, so a good pair of walking shoes is a must. Bonus if you can find cute options you can wear on sea days or sneakers that can do double duty in the ship's gym.

If your tours take you to religious sites, especially in Israel and Egypt, you might need a modest outfit that covers shoulders, arms and knees. Ladies, a shawl is a versatile option you can toss over your shoulders (or hair if need be), use for warmth with your strappy formal night attire or as a blanket on the airplane.

Of course, North Americans taking Mediterranean cruise vacations will need a passport to fly to and from their ship's departure and arrival ports.

Bottom line

The Mediterranean is an amazing region to cruise, and a sailing there is a wonderful introduction to Europe for travelers who have never been. The varied choices of itineraries, cruise lines and ships can be intimidating, but rest assured, you can't really go wrong with any of them. Just know that once you go, you may feel a need to return — either to see a port you loved more in-depth on a land vacation or to sail to the Mediterranean countries you missed on your first go-round.

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• Norwegian Cruise Line

Mediterranean itinerary guidance

By PhillyTravelBug , November 11, 2023 in Norwegian Cruise Line

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PhillyTravelBug

Our group had an amazing cruise doing Northern Europe over the summer and now looking to book the Mediterranean for September 2025 cruise. Anyone that has experience have any advice, greatly appreciated.  I’m open to the entire region and have nowhere I specifically need to see. We are trying to decide between the following three, sailing on the Breakaway and the Pearl. The most important feature of a ship we care about is the thermal spa. I’ve sailed the getaway and think it’s identical to the breakaway spa. Appreciate all opinions.

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All are good cruise itineraries on their own (especially if this is your first time in Europe).Given the cost and hassle involved in flying to Europe, I would select the longer   Eleven day itinerary.

We did a 9-night "Venice" - Athens trip on Viva in September. LOVED the ship, but we weren't a fan of a port a day as it was so rushed and we found ourselves on busses every day. Next time we'd opt for at least one/two days at sea (which we ended up having because we had to skip Mykonos due to a strike in Athens), or not bother with an excursion at every stop.

We did the 11 day Iceland / Norway and it was helpful just winging it at some ports.

I would go with the R/T Barcelona.  Airfare back to the states is much easier ( usually non-stop)  and more comfortable.  Flying back from Athens or Venice can be  more expensive due to the fact that you will be traveling on different airlines ( definitely not non-stop or direct flights).  Something to consider, I once found a repositioning cruise from Barcelona to NY that was way cheaper than airfare back to the States. Might be a nice way to unwind after your main cruise If you dont mind adding another 10 days-ish).

MeHeartCruising

I would also start with the round trip out of Barcelona.  The itinerary is a great coverage for the Western Mediterranean.  The other itineraries are great too, but more complicated travel logistics.  If looking at cruises to/from Venice (Trieste), be sure you're up to speed on what it means.  Trieste is quite a distance from Venice and involves getting some form of transportation between the two if you're going to actually want to see or stay in Venice as part of the trip.  I would keep it simple for your first Med cruise.  All these cruises are great itineraries and you won't go wrong with any of them.

schmoopie17

We're doing the exact itinerary next September as the Barcelona r/t, except we embark and disembark in Rome.

Obviosly, that would be our choice.

As stated earlier, Venice/Trieste can be a hassle and airfares and flights are more complicated. We're flying nonstop (both ways between O'Hare and Rome) using miles, and the number of miles was surprisingly low. I would assume that r/t to and from Barcelona would be similar.

We would be using NCL air if that makes any difference. We flew into Reykjavik and left out of London using NCL and didn’t encounter any issues.

Just to add that IF the thermal spa is indeed the most important feature for you, I would take one of the Breakaway sailings.  The spa on the Pearl is much smaller.

I also echo the sentiment of looking into the repositioning cruises.  If you can afford the time, they are fantastic and will likely be cheaper with only one flight across the pond.

1 hour ago, MeHeartCruising said: I would also start with the round trip out of Barcelona.  The itinerary is a great coverage for the Western Mediterranean.  The other itineraries are great too, but more complicated travel logistics.  If looking at cruises to/from Venice (Trieste), be sure you're up to speed on what it means.  Trieste is quite a distance from Venice and involves getting some form of transportation between the two if you're going to actually want to see or stay in Venice as part of the trip.  I would keep it simple for your first Med cruise.  All these cruises are great itineraries and you won't go wrong with any of them.

I would second this. We did our very first cruise roundtrip out of Barcelona for our 25th anniversary. And 10 years later, we did a very similar cruise again out of Barcelona as an anniversary celebration. 

37 minutes ago, PhillyTravelBug said: We would be using NCL air if that makes any difference. We flew into Reykjavik and left out of London using NCL and didn’t encounter any issues.

We were on the cruise before yours, so we flew into London and out of Reykjavik.

Were both of your flights non-stop? We flew to London (from Newark) by way of Montreal. That would not have been that bad except our first flight was delayed and then had to wait for a parking space in Montreal. We ended up running to our gate in Montreal and the line for boarding had already begun, (not really NCL's fault except they could have found non-stop as we have done that flight that way previously.)

We did fly back to Newark non-stop, but again the flight was delayed, and also had the worst boarding process we have ever experienced. (Again, not NCL's fault) And there were some on our roll call who used the BOGO air who were assigned a flight the next day despite morning flights out of Reykjavik that could have been assigned since we were docked there the day before.

BTW, what airlines did they assign to you? We went to London on Air Canada and back from Iceland on Iceland Air.

I also agree with RT from Barcelona, go in a day or two early as Barcelona is a wonderful do it yourself place to see!

Also understand that Pisa and Rome are a good 90 minute bus ride from the port depending on traffic, and you only get a small glimpse of these wonderful places but still worth it!

We lovingly refer to our Rome port of Call as "Clark Griswold excursion"  Look, see leave for next thing to see! But we hit all the highlights of Rome in the 10 hours we had in port, ideal no but we can say we have been there!

We also did this cruise in Sept thinking less kids, crowds and cooler but it wasn't the case!  I was so surprised by how many kids were on the cruise, how super crowded all sights were and it was soooo hot! But as said is was a great trip!

•  I would vote for your 3rd option - the 11 day option (Barcelona - Venice) as I think it has more variety in ports, with good European flights  in and out (Barcelona and Venice)
•  My second place would be the return trip Barcelona - it is similar to our first ever cruise (many years ago, and happens to be our only NCL to date). Can't go wrong itinerary and flight options should be good.
•  I would place the Venice to Athens one last, although oddly we just did that a similar one on HAL and loved it. I placed it last, as the ports in the other itineraries are generally more "bucket-list-y" if there are any first timers in the group, and flying back from Athens a bit more of a pain.

Good luck in your planning!

I too would go with the 11 day cruise. All the reasons listed by rodndonna  and getting to Trieste is not the hassle some people make it out to be. I would recommend a 2 day pre-cruise deviation in Venice or Barcelona as both are lovely cities.

3 hours ago, ontheweb said: We were on the cruise before yours, so we flew into London and out of Reykjavik.   Were both of your flights non-stop? We flew to London (from Newark) by way of Montreal. That would not have been that bad except our first flight was delayed and then had to wait for a parking space in Montreal. We ended up running to our gate in Montreal and the line for boarding had already begun, (not really NCL's fault except they could have found non-stop as we have done that flight that way previously.)   We did fly back to Newark non-stop, but again the flight was delayed, and also had the worst boarding process we have ever experienced. (Again, not NCL's fault) And there were some on our roll call who used the BOGO air who were assigned a flight the next day despite morning flights out of Reykjavik that could have been assigned since we were docked there the day before.   BTW, what airlines did they assign to you? We went to London on Air Canada and back from Iceland on Iceland Air.

we were on Icelandic air and connected in Boston.  On the way back we were on air Canada and connected in Montreal. Both parts were delayed, but thankfully we had a long enough layover it actually was a benefit.

We managed to narrow it down to two. Epic and Breakaway. Changed slightly from original. 

16 minutes ago, PhillyTravelBug said: We managed to narrow it down to two. Epic and Breakaway. Changed slightly from original. 

By only a small margin based on personal port preference, I would vote for the first one (from  Barcelona) assuming there is not a ship preference.

Both look great though. Is your group accepting applications for new members? LOL  😃

Between these 2, I'd flip a coin.  I like the Breakaway better than the Epic.  Both are fantastic itineraries.  I guess I would decide how much you want to visit the classic Greek ports vs. Dubrovnik and Venice.  I would also probably only do the one ending in Trieste if you can also spend 2-3 days in Venice afterward.

3 hours ago, MeHeartCruising said: Between these 2, I'd flip a coin.  I like the Breakaway better than the Epic.  Both are fantastic itineraries.  I guess I would decide how much you want to visit the classic Greek ports vs. Dubrovnik and Venice.  I would also probably only do the one ending in Trieste if you can also spend 2-3 days in Venice afterward.

thank you. We will do time before and after, but may only be a day on each end. It would make sense to do the Rome arrival and departure, but would be nice to see Croatia too. Appreciate the advice.

European_CruiseGirl

Do you want to see Rome? Like really see Rome and not only mad dash there for a 10 hour excursion out of which you’ll only have 6-7 hours to spend in Rome. If so you need to take the rt Rome cruise. If Rome is something you are happy to just see very quickly or even not see at all I’d choose the breakaway. 

On 11/12/2023 at 1:32 PM, European_CruiseGirl said: Do you want to see Rome? Like really see Rome and not only mad dash there for a 10 hour excursion out of which you’ll only have 6-7 hours to spend in Rome. If so you need to take the rt Rome cruise. If Rome is something you are happy to just see very quickly or even not see at all I’d choose the breakaway. 

May be nice to do the round trip from Rome and have the two days before and after sailing.

5 hours ago, PhillyTravelBug said: May be nice to do the round trip from Rome and have the two days before and after sailing.

Just a note---if you use the BOGO air with a deviation, they will only take you from the airport. (There might be an exception if you book your hotel through them, not sure, but believe there is.)

Basically do you want to see Rome or Barcelona and Venice. For a first time to this area I would do the Rome round trip and spend time in Rome.  Barcelona and Venice are both amazing places we keep going back to, but neither have the coliseum (book a tour).

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Norwegian Epic

Cruise line Norwegian Cruise Line

• Port Canaveral (Orlando, Florida)
• Civitavecchia-Rome (Italy)
• San Juan (Puerto Rico)

Norwegian Epic current position

Norwegian Epic current location is at West Mediterranean (coordinates 43.53087 N / 7.00964 E) cruising en route to IT LIV>FR CEQ. The AIS position was reported 2 minutes ago.

Current itinerary of Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Epic current cruise is 10 days, round-trip Greek Isles Santorini, Athens Florence . Prices start from USD 999 (double occupancy rates). The itinerary starts on 08 Jun, 2024 and ends on 18 Jun, 2024 .

Specifications of Norwegian Epic

•   Itineraries
•   Review
•   Wiki

Norwegian Epic Itineraries

Norwegian epic review, review of norwegian epic.

The 2010-built Norwegian Epic cruise ship belongs to a unique vessel class and has no sisters by design. NCL Epic was the fleet's largest vessel until the arrival of the new Breakaway-Plus class ships.

The vessel (IMO number 9410569) is currently Bahamas- flagged (MMSI 311018500) and registered in Nassau .

History - construction and ownership

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a subsidiary company of the shipping corporation Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd (NCLH). NCL was founded in 1966, headquartered in Miami (Florida USA) and publicly traded (NASDAQ) company listed on NYSE ( NYC ). NCLH's major shareholders are the corporations Apollo Global Management (American), Genting Group (Malaysian) and TPG Capital (American). In 2017, the brand NCL had a worldwide cruise market share 8,7% (passengers) and 8,4% (revenue). NCLH (shipowner) owns the brands NCL , Oceania and RSSC-Regent .

The 4200-passenger ship Norwegian Epic is the latest cruise ship owned by Norwegian Cruise Line before the launch of Norwegian Breakaway (2013). Epic became operational in June 2010. The vessel pioneered the ice bar at sea. She sails the most in the Caribbean and Europe offering new experience and entertainment proposed by the Blue Man Group at sea. Norwegian Epic offers new things like the Studios, planned for people traveling solo, and the private Haven. There are also a lot of options for dining such as traditional fine dining, endless buffets plus gourmet French, Japanese Teppanyaki, a traditional steakhouse and more.

Decks and Cabins

Norwegian Epic staterooms (2114 total, in 38 grades) include 348x Suites, 1086x Balcony, no Oceanviews, 560x Inside and 128x Studios (single cabins). NCL Epic ship featuress 75x “The Haven” staterooms and the biggest number of single-occupancy cabins (for solo travelers) - a total of 128. The ship is also unique for lacking Oceanviews. Most staterooms are sized 125-155 ft2 (12-15 m2). The largest accommodations are The Haven Deluxe Owners Suites (730 ft2 / 68 m2, with wraparound terrace sized 120 ft2 / 11 m2).

The boat has 19 decks , of which 15 are passenger-accessible and 9 with cabins.

Shipboard dining options - Food and Drinks

NCL Norwegian pioneered the freestyle dining concept (eat whenever, with whomever and wherever you want). The concept is taken to a new level on the Epic. Expect to pay extra for the speciality restaurants, though there are plenty of spots included in the cruise fare. Most mega-ships feature a massive dining hall with big tables, but Epic goes another route. Closest to the standard here is the 592-seat Manhattan Room, with its two-story windows and a polished dance floor.

Follows the complete list of Norwegian Epic restaurants and food bars.

• Taste Restaurant (forward Dining Room, complimentary, with Your Time dining)
• Le Bistro (French speciality dinner-only restaurant; reservations-only; US$20 cover charge)
• Teppanyaki (Japanese Hibachi speciality, reservations-only restaurant; US$25; open for Lunch and Dinner; features live cooking demonstrations)
• The Manhattan Restaurant (aft-location Dining Room; complimentary; Freestyle dining, Dinner only)
• O’Sheehan’s Neighbourhood Bar & Grill (sports bar, with 24-hour American cuisine - burgers, steaks, desserts; complimentary)
• Shanghai’s Noodle Bar (Asian cuisine complimentary restaurant inside O’Sheehan’s Pub area)
• Wasabi Sushi Bar (25-seat, a la carte charge)
• Cagney’s Steakhouse (speciality dinner restaurant for prime steaks and gourmet seafood specialities; reservations-only, US$30 cover charge per person and free Kids Menu)
• Moderno Churrascaria (Brazilian steakhouse; reservations-only; US$20 per person cover charge; with outdoor seating waterfront area)
• La Cucina (Italian speciality restaurant; reservations-only, US$15 cover charge; with outdoor seating waterfront area)
• Garden Cafe (complimentary buffet restaurant with various cuisine stations)
• The Great Outdoors (outdoor buffet restaurant, complimentary)
• The Haven Restaurant (Haven guests only, complimentary)
• Courtyard Grill & Bar (more casual area of The Haven, exclusive to Villa-Suite guests, complimentary for The Haven passengers)
• Spice H2O (pool grill & bar).

Shipboard entertainment options - Fun and Sport

Most Norwegian Epic shows, even the free ones, need tickets though these can be booked at the box office on Deck 6 or online. The later the show, the smaller the audience, so better go later if you are in a big group and prefer to sit together. For karaoke, billiards and late-night dancing, there is adults-only Bliss Ultra Lounge, featuring three bowling lanes, non-stop music and plasma screens. The Cirque Dreams & Dinner show is set in the 2-floor Spiegel Tent. The show is a mix of shrill singing, acrobatics and food, with tickets starting at $29.99. This space also hosts the Second City's 3-times-a-cruise and murder-mystery lunch for $20. The ship has a total of 9 jacuzzis and 7 pools. Entertainment options also include the NCL's FIREWORKS show (on each voyage), "Rock of Ages", "Cirque Dreams", "Illusionarium" (magicians show).

Additional amenities include: Complimentary 24-hour Room-Service, Supervised Kids Program ("NCL Kids"), Internet/WiFi Access, Laundry. NCL Epic tipping/gratuities are US$12 pp per day. The Epic cruise ship does not allow onboard weddings.

Follows the complete list of Norwegian Epic lounges, clubs and other entertainment venues for kids, teens and adults.

• Epic Theatre (680-seat; features Broadway-style musical productions; two grand-shows per night)
• Spiegel Tent (theatrical entertainment dining venue, with grand-style aerial acrobatics; surcharge $30-40 PP)
• Entertainment Kiosk (special venues, games bookings - Spiegel Tent, Blue Man Group, Murder Mystery, Second City Comedy)
• Atrium (3-deck midship hub area with a big-size LED screen, dance area and live entertainment)
• Atrium Cafe & Bar (speciality tea & coffee bar)
• I-Connect Internet Cafe (24-hour); Art Gallery; Click Photo Gallery & Shop
• Headliners Comedy Club & Lounge
• Fat Cats Jazz & Blues Club
• Sake Bar; Maltings Whisky Bar; Shaker’s Martini Bar; The Humidor (cigar lounge); SVEDKA Ice Bar; Waves Pool Bar; Studio Lounge
• Epic Casino (served by Cascades Bar)
• Tradewinds Shops (tax and duty-free boutiques); The Marketplace (shopping alley)
• Bliss Ultra Lounge & Nightclub; Concierge Lounge
• Cavern Club (Beatles-themed nightclub) added during refurbishment 2015
• Kids venues, club lounges (Kid’s Aqua Park, Splash Academy for kids 3-12 yo, Guppies Nursery for kids 6 months to 2 yo); Recess Kid’s Area (club venue for arts&crafts, movies, karaoke, PlayStations, PCs, kids play area, a special area for teens); Entourage Lounge & Club (teen-only area)
• Mandara Spa & Fitness (Thermal Suite, Snow Room, Salt Room, Medi Spa, Smile Spa, Treatment Rooms, Beauty Salon, Barber Shop, fitness classes)
• Courtyard Fitness & Spa complex (Villas-guests only, Steam Room, Gym)
• Spice H2O (adults-only area)
• “The Haven” (Suite- and Villa-passengers only complex; consists of The Haven Courtyard, The Haven Restaurant, The Haven Lounge)
• Posh Beach Club (private sundeck, adults-only area for Suite-Villa guests)
• Rock Climbing Wall; Jogging Track; Sports Complex (Spider Web - enclosed 24ft/7m tall kids' climbing wall with a spiral slide, Bungee Trampoline, 9-hole Mini Golf course).

The ship's Aqua Park has 2 swimming pools, 5 whirlpools/hot tubs, a kids' pool, 3 waterslides (including the Epic Plunge bowl slide). The SplashGolf is a retrofit to the ship's existing splash pad (part of the Aqua Park area). It is located under the waterslides on pool deck 15 and combines 2 water fun attractions (splash pad and miniature golf) into one interactive water play facility for toddlers and small kids.

NCL Epic's SplashGolf was designed by Adventure Golf Services (a company specializing in the design and construction of mini-golf courses). The facility was installed in October 2015, during the ship's drydock refurbishment  in  Brest France . Instead of traditional solid mini-golf balls, SplalshGolf's balls are larger-sized and floating. The hole cups are also larger.

Itineraries

Norwegian Epic itinerary program is generally based on Mediterranean voyages (leaving roundtrip from homeports Civitavecchia-Rome and Barcelona ) and 7-day Caribbean itineraries out of homeport San Juan Puerto Rico . Transatlantic crossings (RepositionCruises.com) between Europe and the Caribbean are offered seasonally, in spring and fall.

In winter 2023-2024 (December-April) NCL homeported the ship in Port Canaveral/Orlando (Florida USA) . The winter schedule included 7-day Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries, all of which visiting NCL's Bahamian island Great Stirrup Cay, in addition to popular island destinations like St Thomas USVI, Puerto Rico, Dominicana (Puerto Plata), BVI (Tortola), Mexico (Cozumel), Jamaica (Ocho Rios), Grand Cayman.

Norwegian Epic - user reviews and comments

Photos of norwegian epic.

Norwegian Epic ship related cruise news

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line launches 2024 Europe Season with Greek Isles and Italy voyage

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line inaugurated its 2024 Europe travel season on April 19, 2024, with Norwegian Epic docking in Civitavecchia/Rome, before...

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NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line announced the cancellation of several voyages scheduled for 2025 across its fleet, citing necessary drydock maintenance...

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NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled fresh Eastern and Western Caribbean routes for Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Epic departing from New Orleans...

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NCL-Norwegian Epic becomes floating hotel at Port Marseille (France)

The NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line's ship Norwegian Epic recently arrived at Port Marseille-Fos (France), marking the commencement of a warm reception for...

NCL-Norwegian Epic cruise ship causes oil spill in Split, Croatia

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The NCL Norwegian Epic ship will enter a drydock in spring 2025 for revitalization, a move that necessitates the cancellation of 3 cruises...

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In response to the increasing demand for Caribbean cruises, NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line has recently announced that they will be relocating the...

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•   show more news

Other Norwegian Cruise Line cruise ships

• Norwegian Aqua
• Norwegian Bliss
• Norwegian Breakaway
• Norwegian Dawn
• Norwegian Encore
• Norwegian Escape
• Norwegian Gem
• Norwegian Getaway
• Norwegian Jade
• Norwegian Jewel
• Norwegian Joy
• Norwegian Pearl
• Norwegian Prima
• Norwegian Sky
• Norwegian Spirit
• Norwegian Star
• Norwegian Sun
• Norwegian Viva
• Pride of America

Norwegian Epic Wiki

Epic is NCL's unique "F3 Project" liner and has no sisterships. The vessel is exactly 32% smaller by GT in comparison to Royal Caribbean 's (and world's) largest Oasis-Class ships.

Ship's Inaugural Cruise (Maiden Voyage) was a  Cruise to Nowhere  from  NYC New York  (itinerary July 2-4, 2010). This so special event also featured Macy's (luxury department stores chain) 34th Annual "Fourth of July" NYC fireworks show - on the ship! Note: Macy's Stores sponsor NYC's 4th of July fireworks since 1976.

Ship's first Transatlantic crossing ( Southampton  to NYC) started on June 24, 2010. Epic was at that time the largest passenger vessel to visit NYC's Manhattan Cruise Terminal.

All outside staterooms have balconies. Epic is the first cruise ship ever to have (and so many of them) "studios". All solo cruise cabins are bookable with single occupancy rates.

NCL Epic refurbishment 2015 review

Follows the list of deckplan changes after ship's drydock 2015 refurbishment (September 27 to October 17) done at Damen Shipyard Brest (France) .

A new club lounge was opened under the name “The Cavern Club”. The venue is via a partnership with the original British club’s owners. It offers music inspired by "The Beatles" (live performances by international musicians).

New evening entertainment options are also introduced at the ship’s theatre (deck 5). Among those are the musical “Priscilla Queen of the Desert” and the Broadway-style dance show “Burn the Floor”.

“Burn The Floor” show is also offered on the NCL newest ships Breakaway and Getaway. It is a ballroom dancing type of theatrical entertainment, with 14 professional dancers and 2 singers performing together with a live band.

“Priscilla Queen Of The Desert” show is a musical type of comedy entertainment. The spectacle features numerous costumes, head-dresses and dancing classics, such as “It’s Raining Men”, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun”, etc.

Extensive restaurant renovations were done to the Moderno Churrascaria (Brazilian steakhouse), Cagney’s (steakhouse), La Cucina (Italian), Le Bistro (French), Taste (dining room), Manhattan (dining room), Garden Cafe (buffet). Dining venues enhancements include new carpeting and decors, and their furniture was reupholstered.

Major renovations were done to the Mandara Spa (deck 14), Bliss Ultra Lounge (promenade deck 7), Marketplace (lido deck 15), Epic Theater (deck 5), Casino (deck 6). The Haven Suite exclusive complex (decks 16-17) was updated with new furniture, lighting, wall covering, artworks.

The list of new (redesigned) facilities includes a photo gallery (deck 5), library (deck 7), card room (deck 7) and the new SplashGolf (kids mini-golf course). The SplashGolf is a retrofit to the ship's existing splash pad (part of the Aqua Park area). It is located under the waterslides on pool deck 15 and combines 2 water fun attractions (splash pad and miniature golf) into one interactive water play facility for toddlers and small kids. Epic's SplashGolf was designed by Adventure Golf Services (a company specializing in the design and construction of mini-golf courses). Instead of traditional solid mini golf balls, SplalshGolf's balls are larger and floating. Hole cups are also larger.

Among the technical entertainments and upgrades are the 2 new rudders (by Becker), new propeller caps, hull repainting (robot UHP blasting technology, new type silicone paint improving fuel efficiency). General maintenance works affected the release systems of all service boats (lifeboats, tenders), thrusters, stabilizers, diesel generator exchange, cooling water connections, the cabin air-conditioning system.

Thinking of booking a cruise? Here are the lines you should — and shouldn't — sail with.

Posted: June 10, 2024 | Last updated: June 10, 2024

• Before you book a cruise , it's important to understand that not all cruise lines are equal.
• Each cruise line has amenities, entertainment, and experiences tailored to specific cruisers.
• Carnival is good for families, Virgin Voyages for solo adults, and Cunard for mature travelers. 

I am a very, very avid cruiser. Last year alone, I spent 73 days on cruise ships .

I've sailed with most major lines, from kid-focused Disney Cruise Line to the sometimes-naughty Virgin Voyages. When people ask me which cruise ships I recommend , my answer isn't so straightforward.

Each cruise line is unique, offering amenities, entertainment, and experiences tailored to specific cruisers. What you book will depend on your needs, wants, budget, and what you'd rather avoid.

So, I've done some research about popular cruise lines and combined my personal experiences to help you decide which cruise line to book with.

After all, this is kind of the year of the cruise , with travelers predicted to set sail at some of the highest rates in years throughout 2024.

Here's what you need to know about some of the major cruise lines before you book your next trip.

Editor's Note: Price ranges were calculated at the time of publication based on available listings on each cruise site. Cruise pricing is per person, based on double occupancy and the cheapest stateroom/fare available. Prices were calculated before taxes, port charges, and other fees. Itineraries with added tours built-in were not included when calculating this information.

Carnival Cruise Line

Cost: $ | Prices range from $156/pp for a two-day getaway from Sydney to $3,273/pp for a 10-day Alaska cruise

Ideal for: Budget travelers, intergenerational groups, families, and partiers

Skip if: You're looking for a high-class, elegant experience or a quiet, laid-back vibe

Highlight: All Carnival cruises come with itineraries loaded with fun activities. Some ships have especially exciting features like the first roller coaster at sea, SkyRide zip-line-style aerial bikes, and themed parties.

Possible cons: This is not a cruise line for those who like to wear a tux or ball gown or have a quiet cruise experience.

Launched in 1972, Carnival Cruise Line is one of nine cruise lines owned by parent company Carnival Corporation & plc. It's the company's largest cruise line, with 27 ships. Its cruises typically range from two days to 29 days.

Carnival Cruise Line offers year-round cruises in Australia, The Bahamas, the Caribbean, and Mexico and seasonal cruises in Alaska , Bermuda, Canada, Europe, Hawaii, and New England.

Celebrity Cruises

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $233/pp for a three-night Key West & Bahamas cruise to $6,912/pp for a 7-night Galapagos cruise

Ideal for: Couples, families, and solo travelers

Skip if: You're looking for a slower-paced classic cruise

Highlight: All Celebrity Cruises come with amazing outdoor spaces like The Lawn Club with real grass on the top deck of Solstice Series ships and the Rooftop Terrace on Millennium Series ships. You also won't want to miss the Magic Carpet , which allows guests to hang out while suspended above the ocean on some ships.

Possible cons: This is not a cruise line for those who want to attend lectures about their ports of call.

Celebrity Cruises began sailing in 1997. There are 16 ships, which sail on itineraries ranging from three to 19 nights to nearly 300 ports of call in 70 countries.

Cost: $$$ | Prices range from $249/pp for a two-night cruise from Southampton, England to Hamburg, Germany, to $19,158/pp for a 111-night World Voyage

Ideal for: Sophisticated travelers and mature cruisers

Skip if: You're looking for a high-energy cruise, hoping to travel with children , or craving adventurous activities

Highlight: All Cunard cruises come with white-glove service. You won't want to miss Cunard's famous 3:30 p.m. afternoon tea, gala evenings, and fine dining arranged by stateroom grade.

Possible cons: This is a very formal cruise with strict dress codes. You won't find water slides or pool parties here.

Founded in 1840, Cunard offers a classic cruise experience with cruises ranging from two to 116 nights.

Its four ships sail to Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe, North America, and South America.

Disney Cruise Line

Cost: $$$ | Prices range from $422.40/pp for a two-night cruise from Sydney to Brisbane, Australia, to $5,592/pp for a 12-night Mediterranean with Greek Isles cruise

Ideal for: Disney adults , families, and intergenerational groups

Skip if: You don't want to vacation around a bunch of children and you crave peace and quiet

Highlight: All Disney Cruise Line cruises come with heaps of Disney magic in the way of special events and details. You won't want to miss character meet and greets, pirate-themed parties with fireworks, and passengers trading pins and leaving treats inside decorative pouches hung on stateroom doors.

Possible cons: There is a significant child population on most of these cruises and not much adults-only entertainment. Dinners in the main dining can get loud, and, just like at the theme parks, there can be many queues for activities and other offerings.

Disney Cruise Line first set sail in the 1990s and has five active ships, with the new Disney Treasure set to debut in December. The line has sailings all around the globe, and most range from two to 15 nights.

Holland America Line

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $94/pp for a one-day Pacific Northwest cruise to a $27,399/pp for a 132-day Grand Voyage

Ideal for: Music lovers and sophisticated world travelers who appreciate European hospitality and smaller ships

Skip if: You're young, traveling with children, or want to party

Highlight: All Holland America Line cruises come with a dose of Dutch hospitality and elegance. During my cruise with the line, I enjoyed the Dutch cuisine and Music Walk , which features live performances at B.B. King's Blues Club, Rolling Stone Rock Room, and Billboard Onboard.

Possible cons: The line takes its formal nights really seriously and attracts an older crowd.

Holland America Line has had ships sailing the globe for over 140 years. Its 11 ships cruise to more than 425 ports of call on seven continents, and cruises range from one to 118 days.

MSC Cruises

Cost: $ | Prices range from $80/pp for a three-night Mediterranean cruise to $46,149/pp for a 116-night World Cruise

Ideal for: Budget travelers, families, intergenerational groups, big groups

Skip if: You're looking for lots of food options or top-tier entertainment

Highlight: All MSC Cruises offer great value — and good pizza

Possible cons: The cruise fare does not include many dining options, and the evening entertainment skews old-school and a bit more basic than some other cruise lines that do Broadway-worthy shows.

MSC Cruises has 22 ships, with one more projected to join its fleet by 2025. The line has sailings all around the globe, and most range from two to 118 nights.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $79/pp for a one-day Australia cruise to $4,379/pp for a 10-day European cruise

Ideal for: Couples, families, and solo cruisers

Skip if: You're looking for structure, ballroom dancing, and fancy dinners

Highlight: All Norwegian Cruise Line cruises offer freestyle dining. You won't want to miss its Broadway-level shows and generous drink package, which is often offered complimentary.

Possible cons: This is not a cruise line for those who like formal dress codes, and some dislike the à la carte pricing.

Norwegian Cruise Line has been sailing the world for over 57 years. Its 19 ships visit 400-plus ports on seven continents, and cruises typically last one to 25 days.

Princess Cruises

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $127/pp for a two-day Australia Seacation to $24,098/pp for a 98-day World Cruise

Ideal for: Mature solo travelers, couples, and retirees

Skip if: You're looking for lots of activities and party vibes. Princess Cruises tend to attract an older crowd, and the shows and activities reflect this. There aren't many events offered each day. On the three cruises I sailed with Princess, the entertainment was primarily musicals, piano players, and singers backed by an orchestra. There were only a handful of children on each cruise.

Highlight: All Princess Cruises offer Discovery and Animal Planet-exclusive shore excursions — and many have an excellent onboard lecture series.

Possible cons: This is not a cruise line for those who like to party, love water slides, or have teenagers.

Founded in 1965, Princess Cruises has 16 ships that sail to 330 destinations worldwide on itineraries from three to 111 days

Royal Caribbean

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $196/pp for a two-night Hong Kong cruise to $8,266/pp for a 13-night Arctic Circle cruise

Ideal for: Couples, families, and intergenerational travelers

Highlight: All Royal Caribbean cruises come with fun activities and a broad range of entertainment options. Some have the Ultimate Abyss , the tallest slide at sea, or the glass capsule North Star , the tallest viewing deck on a cruise ship. You won't want to miss the Oasis Class ships' seven distinctly themed neighborhoods and Royal Promenade, a mall-like thoroughfare with shops, restaurants, and lounges that runs the length of the ship.

Possible cons: Many of its ships are mega-ships, so this isn't the line for you if you want a more intimate trip.

Founded in 1968, Royal Caribbean sails to about 240 destinations on six continents. Cruises range from two to 22 nights.

Royal Caribbean has many of the world's largest cruise ships in its fleet of more than 20 vessels.

Virgin Voyages

Cost: $$ | Prices range from $415/pp for a four-night roundtrip cruise from England to Amsterdam to a $3,072/pp for a 13-night Canada, Carolina, and Miami cruise

Ideal for: Child-free travelers, health enthusiasts, the glamorous, and those who don't like strict rules

Skip if: You want a classic cruise, need structure, or can't handle playfulness (and, sometimes, naughtiness)

Highlight: All Virgin Voyages are child-free, and everyone gets unlimited WiFi, access to group fitness classes, and gratuities included in their fare. You won't want to miss its famous Scarlet Night, 20 eateries (every venue is considered specialty dining), and eclectic shows like "Untitled DanceShowPartyThing."

Possible cons: There aren't traditional song-and-dance shows, assigned dining times, and nightly portrait photography

Virgin Voyages has been sailing its "Lady Ships" inspired by superyachts since 2021. Three nearly identical ships are currently in service, and a fourth one is set to set sail later this year.

Virgin Voyages sails to about 100 destinations in Australia, Europe, the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, and the United Kingdom on cruises ranging from three to 16 nights.

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The 8 top alaska cruise lines of 2024.

Discover the best lines and itineraries for your type of travel style.

The Top Alaska Cruise Lines

Courtesy of Royal Caribbean International

A cruise vacation to Alaska is a profound adventure. The spectacular natural beauty, rugged wilderness, massive glaciers and endless opportunities for wildlife viewing make a trip to the 49th state a once-in-a-lifetime experience for many travelers. As an added bonus, cruise ships can reach remote parts of the state, including Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve: one of the most significant (and picturesque) marine and wildlife sanctuaries in the world.

With the ever-growing popularity of the destination and an extended cruising season (some lines now travel to Alaska between April and October), more ships are heading north to the shores of The Great Land. With these expanded itineraries, there's more than ever to think about when booking your Alaska cruise.

To assist in your decision-making process, U.S. News listed the top cruise lines to consider across five categories, including the best options for families , luxury-seekers and adventurers. U.S. News consulted data provided by Cruiseline.com and the results of our 2024 Best Cruise Lines rankings to help develop this list of the top cruise lines sailing to Alaska.

• Best Overall: Holland America Line; Princess Cruises
• Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line; Royal Caribbean International

Best for Couples: Celebrity Cruises

• Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises; Silversea Cruises

Best Small-Ship Expedition Line: UnCruise Adventures

Find your perfect cruise

Best Overall: Holland America Line and Princess Cruises

Holland america line.

Courtesy of Holland America Line

Alaska cruise ships: Eurodam , Koningsdam , Nieuw Amsterdam , Noordam , Westerdam , Zaandam Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Anchorage , Fairbanks and Whittier, Alaska; Seattle; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $379 per person for seven-night Alaska Inside Passage cruise on May 1, 2024, or Sept. 22, 2024. Round-trip from Vancouver.

Holland America Line has been cruising Alaska's pristine glacial waters for more than 75 years – longer than any other cruise line. On top of that, the line features more voyages to Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve than its competitors. Seven-night round-trip sailings depart from either Seattle or Vancouver, while cruisetours – Holland America Line 's sea- and land-based packages – leave from several cities and extend each trip to nine to 18 days.

If this will be your first visit to Alaska, consider booking the comprehensive 14-day Yukon + Denali cruisetour. This Alaska adventure includes a voyage aboard Koningsdam, plus a three-night stay at Holland America's exclusive lodge in Denali National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to see Alaska's big five: moose, caribou, grizzly bears, Dall sheep and wolves – and book bucket list activities like flightseeing over Denali. If it's a picture-perfect day, your pilot might even be able to land on the tallest mountain in North America, also known as "The Great One." Other excursions include meeting dog mushers from the Iditarod, landing on the Yanert Glacier, heli-hiking or embarking on a covered wagon adventure on the Alaska tundra. The Yukon Territory portion of this trip is exclusive to Holland America; while there, visit the mining town of Dawson City and learn about Northern Canada's Klondike Gold Rush of August 1896.

Another highlight of sailing Alaska with Holland America is the Alaska Up Close program, which immerses guests in an array of expert-led lectures and excursions on board and shore. When it comes to dining , Holland America is the only cruise line to achieve the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, which means cruisers will enjoy certified sustainable wild Alaska seafood on board (think: Alaskan king crab legs and fresh salmon). You may also have access to culinary excursions in partnership with Food & Wine magazine, as well as special offerings like Alaska salmon bakes.

Cruisers should also consider one of the Holland America's new itineraries for 2024: the 28-night Alaska Arctic Circle Solstice voyage aboard Westerdam, round-trip from Seattle. This sailing, which departs on June 9, 2024, features highlights like crossing the Arctic Circle; celebrating the summer solstice in Nome, Alaska; and watching Kodiak bears – the largest bears in the world – on Kodiak Island.

Insider tip: Sample Holland America Line's famous Dutch pea soup while glacier viewing on the outside decks. The crew passes around mugs of the warm soup in this Holland America tradition that gives a nod to the line's heritage – and keeps guests warm on chilly summer days in Alaska.

Princess Cruises

Courtesy of Princess Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Grand Princess , Sapphire Princess , Royal Princess , Ruby Princess , Majestic Princess , Discovery Princess , Crown Princess Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle; Anchorage, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; San Francisco ; Fairbanks, Alaska Starting from: $398 per person for seven-night cruise from Anchorage (Whittier, Alaska) to Vancouver on May 18, 2024

Princess Cruises has a long history in Alaska, boasting more than 50 years of sailing to the Great Land. Cruise itineraries last between seven and 14 nights, and many visit the Inside Passage. Princess Cruises also owns and operates five wilderness lodges for guests of its cruisetours, plus exclusive "Direct to the Wilderness" rail service to those properties. The line's wide selection of cruisetours includes independent adventures and off-the-beaten-path destinations, like Wrangell-St. Elias National Park & Preserve, the largest national park in the U.S. For travelers seeking the highest level of service and the most time on land, the Connoisseur cruisetour is a good option, including up to 10 nights ashore following the seven-day Voyage of the Glaciers cruise. The Connoisseur trip is hosted by a tour director and includes select sightseeing outings and most meals in the fare.

Princess' special programming, North to Alaska, offers guests unique insights into the history and culture of the region with visits from local Alaskans, photography sessions, demonstrations on lumberjacking and excursions like Cook My Catch, where guests will go fishing (with a guide), then bring their fish back for chefs to prepare for dinner at one of the designated Princess lodges.

There are two new Princess cruisetours to consider for 2024. The 15-night National Parks Tour includes a seven-day cruise, visits to five national parks, scenic rail travel and a total of eight evenings across four Princess wilderness lodges. Meanwhile, the Katmai National Park Tour is a nine-day adventure that takes guests to the famed Brooks Falls in Katmai National Park & Preserve to see bears feasting on wild salmon in Alaska's wilderness.

Insider tip: While visiting Denali National Park, be sure to check out the Princess Treehouse at the Mt. McKinley Princess Wilderness Lodge. Built by Pete Nelson of Animal Planet's "Treehouse Masters," the treehouse offers a different perspective of Denali and features "Sappy Hour" and other fun activities.  

Best for Families: Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean International

Norwegian cruise line.

Courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Alaska cruise ships: Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss , Norwegian Jewel , Norwegian Sun , Norwegian Spirit Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seattle ; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $349 per person for seven-night sailing between Seward and Vancouver (itineraries visit Hubbard Glacier and Skagway, or Glacier Bay, Skagway and Juneau). Available on Norwegian Jewel in April, May and June 2024.

Norwegian Cruise Line has one of the longest seasons in Alaska, extending from April through October. The line operates two of its larger ships in Alaska: Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore. These ships feature a plethora of onboard activities to keep kids and adults entertained, like racetracks, laser tag, mini-golf, complimentary kids and teen clubs, video arcades, themed parties, live performances and more. Families will also enjoy entertainment by Nickelodeon, character breakfasts, salmon bakes and sessions with a park ranger who comes on board to narrate the Glacier Bay passage. You'll find many spacious room options on board perfectly suited to larger families – especially in The Haven, the line's exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept. In addition, Norwegian Cruise Line offers select cruise deals where third and fourth guests sail free .

There are two new Alaska shore excursions for 2024: the Mendenhall Glacier Canoe Paddle & Trek and the Fly-In Norris Glacier Hike and Packraft. The first outing takes place in Juneau , where you'll paddle a 12-person canoe across Mendenhall Lake to reach the towering glacier. Prepare to be surrounded by the spectacular setting of Tongass National Park, a 400-foot waterfall and an Arctic tern nesting ground. The second excursion, also in Juneau, takes participants on a flight into the Alaska wilderness via floatplane; you'll then paddle across a pristine glacial lake and hike the surface of Norris Glacier. Unforgettable sights along the way include densely forested mountains; the mouth of the Taku Inlet, a waterway that offers access to Juneau Icefield; and plenty of wildlife, including sea lions and bald eagles.

Also new for 2024 is the option to take the Denali Talkeetna Explorer tour after your cruise. (This cruisetour previously only took place prior to the voyage.) The 13-day sea and land package, Denali Talkeetna Explorer – Northbound Cruisetour, is available on three dates in 2024 in combination with a Norwegian Jewel sailing. The package includes a seven-night cruise; a total of six nights in Fairbanks, Denali and Talkeetna; a stop at the Trans-Alaska Oil Pipeline; a riverboat cruise in Fairbanks; a visit to an Iditarod dog musher's kennel; a deluxe glass-domed Alaska Railroad journey between Fairbanks and Denali; and more. You'll also have free time to book optional shore excursions like whitewater rafting, park tours, helicopter flightseeing and other outdoor adventures.

Insider tip: If you're sailing on Norwegian Bliss or Norwegian Encore, be sure to grab a front-row seat in the Observation Lounge when sailing in Glacier Bay Park & Preserve. This expansive space on Deck 15 at the bow of the ship offers breathtaking panoramic views from the comfort of inside the ship. 

Royal Caribbean International

Alaska cruise ships: Radiance of the Seas , Quantum of the Seas , Brilliance of the Seas , Ovation of the Seas Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $439 per person for seven-night cruise on Radiance of the Seas, Seward to Vancouver on May 24, 2024

Royal Caribbean International offers seven-night cruise-only Alaska options (some featuring the Inside Passage) and extended cruisetours (lasting nine to 13 days) with land portions before or after the voyage. Cruisetours may visit Denali National Park & Preserve, among other highlights. The line also offers select "kids sail free" itineraries, which will appeal to families.

If you want nonstop entertainment while on board, choose one of Royal Caribbean International 's two larger Quantum Class vessels: Quantum of the Seas or Ovation of the Seas. Both megaships accommodate approximately 4,900 passengers. If you prefer a smaller ship, consider booking one of the Radiance Class vessels, which hold a maximum of around 2,500 guests.

Quantum Class ships have multiple outdoor attractions that provide panoramic views of the scenery. For example, the surf simulator, FlowRider, affords views of magnificent snow-capped mountains and glaciers all around the ship. If you're adept at rock climbing, this is another chance for optimal scenic viewing – at 40 feet above the deck. Additional entertainment includes free-fall skydiving at RipCord by iFly, outdoor movie nights, live performances and musical entertainment, bumper cars, an escape room, a sports court and indoor pools for those cool Alaska summer days.

Insider tip: For more awe-inspiring vistas, take a ride on North Star. Exclusive to Royal Caribbean (on Quantum and Ovation of the Seas), the glass-enclosed capsule rises 300 feet above sea level while suspended over the ocean.

Read: The Most Affordable Alaska Cruises

Celebrity Cruises

Courtesy of Celebrity Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Celebrity Summit , Celebrity Edge , Celebrity Solstice Departure cities (cruises and cruisetours): Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia; Seattle Starting from: $397 per person for seven-night voyage on Celebrity Summit, Seward to Vancouver on May 17, 2024

Adventure-seeking couples will have many options to choose from during Celebrity Cruises ' 2024 Alaska season. The line's six- and seven-night cruise-only itineraries include up-close views of the Dawes Glacier in the Endicott Arm Fjord and the Hubbard Glacier, the world's longest tidewater glacier at 76 miles long. For an in-depth exploration of Alaska's interior, Celebrity's cruisetours extend the trip to a maximum of 13 nights and feature small-town destinations like Talkeetna, Alaska – the quirky village that inspired the 1990s television show "Northern Exposure." There are also themed tours centered on wildlife viewing and national parks, as well as culinary tours highlighting the flavors of Alaska.

Couples will also find plenty of adult-focused activities and entertainment on board, no matter which vessel they choose. Each ship offers a spa, multiple bars and lounges, and an excellent selection of complimentary and specialty restaurants. Celebrity's three Alaska-bound ships carry between 2,158 guests (Celebrity Summit) and 2,908 passengers (Celebrity Edge). Celebrity Edge, the newest of the ships, offers immersive entertainment and especially beautiful public spaces – like Grand Plaza, a three-story venue at the heart of the vessel.

For extra privacy during your couples' vacation, consider splurging on a suite or villa in The Retreat. This all-inclusive space features luxurious accommodations; a private lounge; a sundeck (unavailable on Celebrity Solstice); and a private restaurant, Luminae at The Retreat. The swanky culinary venue serves dishes curated by renowned French chef Daniel Boulud. In addition, you'll have a team of attendants, butlers and concierges to indulge every whim.

Insider tip: Book your Alaska cruise on Celebrity Edge. The outward-facing design of the ship and expansive outdoor spaces, including the Magic Carpet, offer guests excellent viewing opportunities of Alaska's vast landscapes, calving glaciers and wildlife, including humpback whales in the Inside Passage and around Juneau and Sitka.

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Best Luxury: Regent Seven Seas Cruises and Silversea Cruises

Regent seven seas cruises.

Alaska cruise ships: Seven Seas Explorer Departure cities: Vancouver, British Columbia; Seward, Alaska Starting from: $4,699 per person (all-inclusive) for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on May 1, 2024

Regent's Seven Seas Explorer will spend the 2024 season in Alaska, with the first sailing embarking from Vancouver, British Columbia, on May 1, 2024. The line offers 20 seven-night voyages and two 14-night sailings between May and September. The 746-passenger ship provides an in-depth exploration of Alaska's wilderness, thanks to the vessel's smaller size and all-balcony suites. Regent Seven Seas Cruises ' all-inclusive fares include free unlimited shore excursions (though select tours come with a fee); complimentary fine wines and spirits; dining at specialty restaurants; 24-hour room service; unlimited Wi-Fi access; prepaid gratuities; free valet laundry service; and more. Depending on the suite category, guests may also receive a pre- and post-cruise hotel stay with their voyage.

Complimentary shore excursions are available in a number of Alaska ports. In Ketchikan, sign up for the Tongass Rainforest Expedition, the Great Alaska Lumberjack Show or the Alaskan Lodge Adventure & Seafest. (Note: Some excursions in Ketchikan, such as the Alaska Fishing & Wilderness Dining option, come with an additional fee.) In Juneau, guests can take the complimentary hiking adventure through the Mendenhall Glacier National Recreation Area, home to black bears, mountain goats and other wildlife. Cruisers can also dine on wild Alaska salmon grilled over a fire at the Gold Creek Salmon Bake.

Insider tip: Take advantage of the complimentary shore excursions during your cruise. These are tours you'd normally have to pay for on a ship that's not all-inclusive – and that can add up quickly.

Silversea Cruises

Courtesy of Silversea Cruises

Alaska cruise ships: Silver Nova , Silver Muse , Silver Shadow Departure cities: Seward, Alaska; Vancouver, British Columbia Starting from: $3,450 per person for seven-night cruise, Vancouver to Seward on Silver Muse on Aug. 1, 2024

Debuted in August 2023, Silversea's latest addition, Silver Nova, is the newest luxury vessel sailing Alaska for the 2024 season. Silver Nova features an asymmetrical design and advanced technologies that make it Silversea Cruises ' most environmentally friendly vessel yet. With just 728 guests, spacious suites (some affording 270-degree views) and outdoor spaces showcasing The Great Land's pristine wilderness, Silver Nova is an excellent luxury option for an Alaska adventure. Silversea offers seven-night itineraries on its three Alaska ships, plus longer voyages on Silver Muse and Silver Shadow.

Silversea's all-inclusive fares include pre- and post-cruise hotel stays; complimentary nonalcoholic and alcoholic beverages; in-room minibars; gourmet dining; all gratuities; at least one excursion per port; butler service in every suite; and other upscale amenities. Complimentary Alaska excursions include a scenic railway tour aboard the White Pass and Yukon Railway in Skagway, the Sea Otter & Wildlife Quest in Sitka Sound and more. You can also visit the Iditarod dogs' summer camp in Juneau. For an additional cost, Silversea offers more exclusive experiences, like a helicopter ride to Mendenhall Glacier followed by a dogsledding adventure with a team of Alaskan huskies in Juneau, or a remote fly-fishing trip in Sitka.

Insider tip: Spend some time on Deck 10; you'll enjoy unobstructed views of the spectacular scenery from the comfort of the heated pool, thanks to the asymmetrical design of the pool deck.

UnCruise Adventures

Alaska cruise ships: Wilderness Discoverer, Wilderness Legacy, Safari Endeavor, Safari Explorer, Safari Quest Departure cities: Ketchikan, Juneau, Whittier, Dutch Harbor and Sitka, Alaska; Seattle Starting from: $3,600 per person for seven-night cruise, Juneau to Ketchikan (or reverse itinerary) on Wilderness Discoverer; various dates between April and September 2024

UnCruise's expedition-style small ships call on ports and remote areas in Alaska that larger ships can't access, taking guests to locales that the line coins, "UnAlaska." The five ships operating in The Great Land accommodate between 22 passengers (Safari Quest) and 86 guests (Wilderness Legacy), and there are seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries to choose from. You can also book optional land tours, including a Denali & Talkeetna Wilderness Rail Adventure. Expedition teams take guests on kayaking, skiffing, paddleboarding, bushwhacking, waterfall walks and hiking excursions close to the glaciers and visit secluded areas and waterway passages known for optimal wildlife viewing.

Cruise fares include group transfers to and from the ship; all meals; premium wine, beer and liquor; all nonalcoholic beverages; daily activities; wellness amenities; onboard heritage and expedition guides; and access to guest experts. You'll need to disconnect from your devices in remote areas, as there is no Wi-Fi access on UnCruise vessels.

For a once-in-a-lifetime trip, book the 14-night Alaska's Fjords & Glaciers Bay Adventure Cruise on Wilderness Discoverer, a 76-passenger ship. This voyage includes birding in the South Marble Islands, where you'll see puffins, cormorants, oystercatchers and other bird species. You can also search for brown bears in Corner Bay, bushwhack in old-growth forests, visit the town of Haines to sample local brews and spirits, and more.

UnCruise has introduced a few new cruises for 2024 with a renewed focus on The Great Land. One of these is the Kids in Nature, Wild Woolly & Wow with Glacier Bay cruise. The seven-night, family-focused voyage departs round-trip from Juneau aboard Wilderness Legacy and is available on three dates between June and July. One highlight of the voyage is exploring off-the-grid in Glacier Bay National Park & Preserve's "Outback."

A second new option is the seven-night Prince William Sound Explorer with Cordova cruise. This adventure visits dozens of glaciers; the small fishing village of Cordova; the Harriman and College glacial fjords; the islands of Knight and Montague; and multiple places where you can see orcas, humpback whales, sea otters, seals, sea lions, puffins and other wildlife. The itinerary is offered round-trip from Whittier, Alaska, on Safari Explorer throughout the summer.

Insider tip: Depending on your itinerary, you may be able to hop in a skiff directly off the ship to watch bears along the shore hunt for salmon just 100 feet away. This is an Alaska experience you can only have when sailing on a small ship.

Read: The Top Cruises on Small Ships

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, traditional masted sailing ships, river ships in Europe and a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica. She has cruised to Alaska and visited The Great Land in the summer, fall and winter, and journeyed to remote areas by bush plane above the Arctic Circle. Pratesi covers the travel and culinary industries for major publications, including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

• Alaska Cruise Packing List
• The Top Things to Do in Alaska
• The Top Northern Lights Alaska Cruises
• The Top Antarctica Cruises
• The Best Cruise Insurance Plans

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