Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cruise Line: Which One is Best for You?

There are countless cruise lines available when booking a cruise vacation. The most prominent ones are Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line.

Both companies offer various amenities, activities, and experiences, but how do they stack up against each other?

In this comparison article, we’ll take a closer look at Royal Caribbean vs. Norwegian Cruise Line and break down the differences between them to help you make an informed decision about your next cruise.

Royal Caribbean Ships

With 26 vessels, Royal Caribbean is known for having some of the industry’s biggest and most innovative ships, such as the Anthem of the Seas, which boasts features like a skydiving simulator and the North Star capsule that takes you high above the ocean. The line’s Oasis-class ships are the largest cruise ships in the world, with their own central park, Ultimate Abyss Slide, and a boardwalk complete with a carousel.

Norwegian Cruise Line Ships

At 17 ships, Norwegian Cruise Line has a slightly smaller fleet but still offers plenty of vessels, like Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Prima. Both cruise lines have a variety of cabins, ranging from solo cabins to family-friendly suites. Norwegian is also known for The Haven, its ship-within-a-ship concept.

When comparing the two companies, it’s important to know that each cruise line could be split into two categories: old ships built in the 90s and early 2000s and newer vessels with various features.

Itineraries

Royal Caribbean is known for its extensive range of itineraries covering almost every region — from the Caribbean and the Bahamas to Europe, Alaska, and Asia.

NCL also offers voyages to a wide variety of destinations, with a focus on the Caribbean, Europe, Asia, and Alaska. The line also has a ship based in Hawaii year-round that circumnavigates the islands on seven-night cruises.

Both cruise lines have their own private islands, located less than half a mile from each other.

Royal Caribbean’s Perfect Day at CocoCay could be compared to a giant water park with massive slides, a helium balloon with a basket beneath it for rides, and the largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean. Norwegian’s Great Stirrup Cay is more relaxed with beach activities and a zip line. Both islands have an area where guests can pay a premium to access exclusive spaces.

Food and drinks

Dining is a major part of the overall experience during the voyage. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer various dining options for various tastes and preferences.

Royal Caribbean is known for its variety and signature dining experiences. The cruise line also offers traditional meal options such as the main dining room, which serves classic dishes like steak and lobster, and specialty restaurants like Chops Grille and Jamie’s Italian.

Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a variety of dining options, including a main dining room and specialty restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse, La Cucina, and Le Bistro.

Norwegian is also known for its Freestyle Dining concept, which allows passengers to dine whenever and wherever they want, without needing reservations or set dining times. This is perfect for those who want more flexibility in their dining choices.

Royal Caribbean and NCL also offer buffet-style dining with a wide range of options, including international cuisine, made-to-order stations, and dessert bars.

Both restaurants offer packages for dining. Royal Caribbean’s Ultimate Dining Package includes access to several specialty restaurants for a set price. At the same time, NCL’s Dining Package offers a set number of meals at specialty restaurants for a discounted price or as part of its ‘Free at Sea’ program.

Bars and lounges

Royal Caribbean is known for its innovative bar concepts, including the Bionic Bar, where passengers can watch robots create their drinks, and the Rising Tide Bar, a mobile bar that moves between decks.

Royal Caribbean also offers a variety of other bars and lounges, including the Schooner Bar, inspired by a traditional English pub, and the Boleros Latin-themed bar.

Norwegian Cruise Line also offers a variety of bars and lounges, including the Sugarcane Mojito Bar and the Skyline Bar, which feature panoramic “views” of different cities.

The cruise line is also known for its nightlife options, including the Bliss Ultra Lounge, which features a giant LED screen and hosts nightly parties, and the Cavern Club.

Both cruise lines offer various drink options, including a la carte pricing, drink packages, and happy hour specials. It’s important for passengers to know their drinking habits and preferences to choose the best option for their budget.

Royal Caribbean’s Deluxe Beverage Package includes access to a wide range of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. In contrast, NCL’s Ultimate Beverage Package includes access to premium spirits, cocktails, and wines by the glass.

MORE: Royal Caribbean vs. Carnival Cruise Line: Which Cruise Line Is Best For You?

Cabins and Staterooms

When it comes to cabins, both Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean offer a variety of options to suit different needs and preferences.

Norwegian Cruise Line offers Solo Studios, designed for solo travelers, and features a full-size bed and access to a private lounge.

The cruise line also offers a range of stateroom options, including Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and Suites.

The Haven area in Norwegian offers a ship-within-a-ship concept. This exclusive area is available on select NCL ships and includes a variety of upscale amenities and services.

Guests who book a Haven suite will enjoy a private courtyard with a pool, hot tub, sun deck, and a private restaurant and lounge. The suites feature a separate living area, a private balcony, and a butler service.

The Haven is perfect for travelers who want a more exclusive and personalized experience at sea.

Royal Caribbean also offers a range of stateroom options, including Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, and Suites. The cruise line is known for its innovative cabin designs, including Virtual Balcony staterooms with a floor-to-ceiling screen displaying real-time ocean views.

Royal Caribbean’s Anthem of the Seas also features cabins with balconies that can be transformed into indoor living spaces with a button.

Regarding amenities, Both cruise lines have staterooms that feature a mini-fridge, flat-screen TV, and 24-hour room service. The cruise line also offers family-friendly amenities such as connecting staterooms and family suites.

Solo travelers

Royal Caribbean and NCL offer a range of options to accommodate different budgets and preferences. Many of Royal Caribbean’s newer ships have dedicated solo traveler cabins that offer a more affordable option for solo travelers who don’t want to pay higher single supplement fees for traditional cabins. These cabins are smaller in size but include all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay.

NCL also offers a range of options for solo travelers, including solo traveler cabins on select ships. Norwegian has a dedicated solo traveler space in the middle of the ship with a lounge and mingle area where solo travelers can get to know each other.

They also have a pricing structure that allows solo travelers to pay a reduced single supplement fee, making booking a traditional cabin more affordable without sharing with another passenger.

Entertainment and activities

Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer a wide range of options to keep guests entertained throughout their cruise vacations.

Royal Caribbean is known for its family-friendly activities like rock climbing walls, ice skating rinks, and adults-only Solarium area.

NCL, on the other hand, is known for its entertainment options, like Broadway-style shows and the popular race track on Norwegian Bliss, Encore, Joy, and Prima.

Both cruise lines offer various dining options, including specialty restaurants, for an additional fee.

Norwegian Cruise Line is known for its Freestyle Cruising, which allows passengers to choose from various dining options and entertainment venues.

The cruise line offers Broadway-style shows, live music, comedy clubs, and a dinner theater.

Norwegian Cruise Line also has a range of outdoor activities, including ropes courses, rock climbing walls, and water slides.

Royal Caribbean is also known for its innovative entertainment options. The cruise line offers Broadway-style shows, ice skating shows, and even a diving show on select ships.

Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships feature the North Star, a glass capsule that takes passengers over 300 feet above sea level for 360-degree views. The cruise line also offers a range of outdoor activities, including rock climbing walls, zip lines, and surfing simulators.

Royal Caribbean and NCL have plenty of amenities to entertain you if you’re looking for a more adult-oriented vacation. Royal Caribbean’s Solarium is an adults-only retreat featuring a pool, hot tubs, and a bar. NCL’s Spice H2O is also an adults-only place, as is the Vibe Beach Club (extra fee for this resort deck).

Kids’ programs

If you’re traveling with family, one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a cruise line is their kids’ programs. Royal Caribbean and NCL are known for their family-friendly amenities and entertainment options.

Royal Caribbean offers a range of kids’ programs for different age groups, including their Adventure Ocean program, which features supervised activities for kids and teens aged 3-17.

Additionally, Royal Caribbean has onboard water parks, mini-golf courses, and other fun activities that will keep kids entertained throughout their vacation.

Norwegian Cruise Line also has a range of kids’ programs, including Splash Academy, suitable for kids aged 3-12, and their Entourage program, designed for teenagers.

NCL also has youth counselors who organize activities and events for kids throughout the day.

Pricing

When booking a cruise vacation, one of the top priorities for most travelers is finding a cruise line that fits their budget. Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line are two popular options that offer a variety of itineraries and onboard amenities, but how do they differ in pricing?

Overall, Royal Caribbean and NCL offer a range of pricing options to suit different budgets. However, there are some key differences when comparing the two cruise lines.

Firstly, Royal Caribbean tends to offer slightly higher prices than NCL, particularly when it comes to their newer and larger ships, such as Wonder of the Seas.

However, Royal Caribbean’s prices often include more amenities and activities, such as their signature surfing simulator, skydiving simulator, Broadway-style shows, and various dining options.

On the other hand, NCL often offers lower base prices, discounts, and promotions throughout the year, including its ongoing ‘Free at Sea’ perks program that includes beverages and dining packages. This can be a great way to save on additional expenses while enjoying various amenities.

Norwegian Cruise Line has a reputation for nickel and diming guests, so compare the add-on packages’ value to ensure it is a value and not an attractive advertisement.

Final Thoughts

Both Royal Caribbean and Norwegian Cruise Line offer unique and exciting experiences. Royal Caribbean may be a good fit for cruisers looking for a cruise ship to be the destination. For vacationers looking for a more laid-back experience, Norwegian’s Freestyle Cruising may be more your speed.

READ NEXT: Carnival Cruise Line vs. Norwegian: Which One Is Right For You?

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