How Much to Do Laundry on Norwegian Cruise Line A Complete Guide

Norwegian Cruise Line offers self-service laundry rooms on every ship, with prices averaging $3–$5 per wash and $3–$4 per dry cycle—coins or card payments accepted. For a more convenient (but pricier) option, full-service laundry and pressing start around $15–$25 per item, ideal for formal nights or extended sailings. Skip the hassle and plan ahead using the NCL app or in-room service forms.

Key Takeaways

• Self-service laundry costs $3–$5 per wash/dry on most ships.
• Skip the queue: Use early morning or late-night hours.
• Pack detergent: Bring pods; onboard supplies are limited.
• Laundry bags for crew service start at $15 per load.
• Free irons available but bring a travel steamer for convenience.

How Much Does Laundry Cost on Norwegian Cruise Line? A Complete Guide

Embarking on a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) voyage promises relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable memories. But amidst the excitement of planning shore excursions, dining reservations, and cabin choices, one practical detail often gets overlooked: laundry. Whether you’re sailing for a week, a month, or even longer, managing your wardrobe efficiently is crucial to maintaining comfort and convenience. While packing light is always recommended, sometimes laundry services become a necessity—especially on extended itineraries, during formal nights, or for families with children.

Understanding the laundry costs on Norwegian Cruise Line can help you budget effectively and avoid last-minute surprises. NCL offers a range of laundry options, from self-service machines to full-service dry cleaning and pressing. The pricing structure varies depending on the type of service, cabin category, and even the ship you’re sailing on. This comprehensive guide dives deep into every aspect of NCL’s laundry services, including costs, policies, tips for saving money, and insider strategies to keep your clothes fresh without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time passenger, this guide will equip you with all the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your laundry needs at sea.

Understanding Norwegian Cruise Line’s Laundry Services

NCL provides several laundry options designed to meet the needs of diverse travelers. From budget-conscious backpackers to luxury seekers, there’s a service level for everyone. Knowing the difference between these offerings is key to choosing the right one for your trip.

Self-Service Laundry Rooms (Washers & Dryers)

One of the most cost-effective ways to do laundry on an NCL cruise is through the self-service laundry rooms available on most ships. These facilities are typically located on mid-decks (often around Deck 7–9) and are accessible 24/7. Each room includes industrial-grade washers and dryers, folding tables, and ironing boards. Some newer vessels, like the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Bliss, feature modern, well-maintained laundry centers with digital payment systems.

• Washers: High-capacity front-loading machines that handle up to 25 lbs per load.
• Dryers: Large tumble dryers with multiple heat settings (low, medium, high).
• Supplies: Detergent, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are provided free of charge—no need to pack your own.
• Payment: Most ships now use a contactless payment system via your cruise card. Older ships may still require quarters or tokens (sold at Guest Services).

Tip: Bring a mesh laundry bag to keep small items together and prevent socks from disappearing in the machine!

Full-Service Laundry (Wash, Dry, Fold)

For travelers who prefer convenience over cost savings, NCL offers full-service laundry. This includes pickup and delivery of your clothes, washing, drying, and folding. You’ll receive a laundry bag in your cabin, along with a form to fill out indicating the items you’d like processed. Drop the bag outside your cabin door by a specified time (usually 8 PM), and it will be returned the next day.

• Turnaround Time: 24–48 hours, depending on the ship and itinerary.
• Pickup/Drop-off: Done via your stateroom attendant or through the laundry chute system.
• Packaging: Items are returned in a reusable NCL laundry bag or wrapped in tissue paper.

This service is ideal for families, business travelers, or those who simply don’t want to spend time doing laundry during their vacation.

Dry Cleaning & Pressing (Premium Service)

If you have formal wear, delicate fabrics, or wrinkle-prone clothing, NCL offers dry cleaning and pressing services. This is particularly useful for guests attending formal nights, weddings, or special events onboard. Dry cleaning removes stains, preserves fabric integrity, and ensures a crisp, professional appearance.

• Dry Cleaning: Best for suits, dresses, silk, wool, and other non-machine-washable items.
• Pressing Only: For clothes that just need a quick steam or ironing (e.g., shirts, blazers).
• Express Service: Available on select ships for an additional fee, with same-day turnaround.

Note: Dry cleaning is significantly more expensive than standard laundry, so use it selectively for essential garments.

Laundry Policies & Restrictions

Before using any laundry service, it’s important to understand NCL’s policies:

• No hazardous materials: No flammable, toxic, or strong-smelling items (e.g., gasoline, paint).
• No excessive soiling: Heavily stained or soiled clothing may be rejected for safety reasons.
• No oversized items: Blankets, comforters, and large bedding sets cannot be processed.
• No personal bags: You must use the official NCL laundry bag for full-service orders.
• No guarantees: While rare, NCL does not guarantee against color bleeding, shrinkage, or damage due to improper labeling.

Always read the instructions on the laundry form carefully and separate whites, darks, and delicates as indicated.

Laundry Pricing: How Much Does It Cost?

The cost of laundry on Norwegian Cruise Line varies widely depending on the service type, ship, and even the region you’re sailing in (e.g., Caribbean vs. Mediterranean). Below is a detailed breakdown of current pricing as of 2024, based on data from recent sailings and official NCL communications.

Self-Service Laundry Costs

Using the self-service machines is the most economical option. Here’s what you can expect to pay:

• Wash: $4.00–$5.50 per load (depending on ship size and region)
• Dry: $0.75–$1.25 per 20 minutes (most loads take 40–60 minutes)
• Total per full load: ~$6.00–$8.00

Example: A family of four doing two loads (one for whites, one for colors) with 45-minute drying each would pay approximately $14–$16. That’s less than $4 per person!

Pro Tip: Combine loads to save money. A single large load (25 lbs) is far cheaper than two smaller ones. Just make sure colors won’t bleed.

Full-Service Laundry Pricing (Per Item)

This is where costs can add up quickly. Full-service laundry is charged per item, with prices starting at $5.00 for basic garments. Here’s a typical price list:

Item	Price (USD)	Notes
T-shirts, tank tops	$5.00	Basic cotton or polyester
Underwear, socks	$3.00	Per pair/set
Jeans, trousers	$8.00	Denim, khakis, dress pants
Shirts, blouses	$7.00	Button-up, polo, casual tops
Shorts, skirts	$6.00	Knee-length or shorter
Dresses, rompers	$9.00	Simple designs; add $2–$4 for embellishments
Hoodies, sweaters	$8.00	Fleece, cotton, lightweight knits
Jackets, coats	$12.00	Lightweight only; heavy coats may incur extra fees
Swimwear	$4.00	Swimsuits, cover-ups
Sleepwear	$5.00	Pajamas, nightgowns

Example: A couple sending 2 shirts, 2 pairs of pants, 4 t-shirts, 6 pairs of underwear, and 2 swimsuits would pay:

• 2 shirts: $14
• 2 pants: $16
• 4 t-shirts: $20
• 6 underwear: $18
• 2 swimsuits: $8
• Total: $76

That’s a significant expense—equivalent to a nice dinner for two at a specialty restaurant onboard. Use wisely!

Dry Cleaning & Pressing Rates

Dry cleaning is the priciest option. Prices are generally higher than land-based dry cleaners, reflecting the logistical challenges of operating at sea. Here’s a sample price list:

• Pressing only (per item): $6.00–$8.00
• Dry cleaning – shirt/blouse: $12.00–$14.00
• Dry cleaning – dress/suit: $18.00–$22.00
• Dry cleaning – jacket: $15.00–$18.00
• Express service (same-day): +30% surcharge

Tip: If you’re attending a formal night, consider pressing your outfit instead of dry cleaning if it’s not stained. Many synthetic fabrics respond well to steaming.

Important: Prices may increase by 10–15% on premium itineraries (e.g., Alaska, Europe) or during peak seasons (summer, holidays).

How to Save Money on Laundry During Your NCL Cruise

Laundry doesn’t have to drain your vacation budget. With smart planning and a few clever strategies, you can keep your clothes fresh without overspending.

Pack Smart: Reduce Laundry Needs

The best way to save on laundry is to minimize the need for it. Here’s how:

• Choose wrinkle-resistant fabrics: Opt for polyester, rayon, spandex, or blends that don’t require ironing.
• Use packing cubes: Separate clean and dirty clothes to stay organized.
• Bring odor-resistant clothing: Merino wool and bamboo fibers naturally resist bacteria and odors.
• Pack mix-and-match outfits: A few versatile pieces can be worn multiple times with different accessories.
• Include a small travel-sized detergent: Use the sink in your cabin for quick hand-washing of underwear, socks, and swimwear.

Example: A 7-day cruise requires only 3–4 shirts if you re-wear them with different bottoms or layers.

Use Self-Service Laundry Strategically

If you’re comfortable doing laundry yourself, this is the best way to cut costs. Follow these tips:

• Go during off-peak hours: Early morning or late night avoids crowds and ensures machines are available.
• Combine loads: Wash whites together, darks together, and use the largest capacity possible.
• Bring your own laundry bag: A mesh bag keeps small items together and doubles as a storage solution.
• Check for discounts: Some ships offer “Laundry Day” promotions (e.g., 10% off self-service) on sea days.

Bonus Tip: Bring a portable drying rack or use your cabin’s shower curtain rod to air-dry delicate items after hand-washing.

Leverage Cabin Attendants & Housekeeping

Your stateroom attendant is more than just a cleaner—they can help with laundry too!

• Request a laundry bag early: Get the form and bag on Day 1 to avoid last-minute rushes.
• Ask for help with folding: Some attendants will help organize your laundry if you tip them.
• Use the iron in your cabin: All NCL cabins come with a steam iron and ironing board—perfect for quick touch-ups.

Note: While tipping is optional, a $2–$5 tip per laundry delivery is appreciated and may result in faster service.

Take Advantage of Promotions & Packages

NCL occasionally offers laundry packages or bundled services, especially for longer cruises or suite guests. These may include:

• Unlimited self-service access: $25–$35 for the entire cruise (available on select ships).
• Pre-paid full-service credits: Buy $50 worth of service for $40 (rare but possible during promotions).
• Suite perks: Guests in The Haven or suites often receive complimentary pressing or reduced laundry rates.

Check your pre-cruise documents or ask Guest Services upon boarding for current offers.

Hand-Wash Strategically

For minimalists, hand-washing is the ultimate cost-saving method. All cabins have a sink, and you can use:

• Travel detergent sheets: Lightweight and TSA-friendly.
• Shampoo or body wash: In a pinch, these work well for delicate items.
• Hair conditioner: Acts as a fabric softener when hand-washing.

Hang items to dry overnight using the shower rod, towel hooks, or a portable hanger. Most synthetics dry within 6–8 hours in the cabin’s air-conditioned environment.

Laundry Tips for Different Traveler Types

Your laundry strategy should align with your travel style. Here’s how different types of cruisers can optimize their approach.

Families with Kids

Children go through clothes fast—spills, sand, and sweat are inevitable. For families, a hybrid approach works best:

• Use self-service for everyday clothes: T-shirts, shorts, and swimwear.
• Send formal wear for pressing: Save dry cleaning for special occasions.
• Hand-wash underwear and socks: Quick and free.
• Bring stain remover wipes: Treat spills immediately to avoid extra charges.

Tip: Pack extra swim diapers and use the self-service machines to wash reusable options.

Business Travelers & Professionals

If you’re working remotely or attending meetings onboard, presentation matters. Prioritize:

• Pressing suits and dress shirts: $7–$8 per item is worth the professional look.
• Use dry cleaning sparingly: Only for stained or delicate garments.
• Keep a travel steamer in your carry-on: Quick touch-ups between meetings.
• Book express service: For last-minute needs before a presentation.

Pro Move: Wear the same blazer multiple days with different shirts to reduce laundry volume.

Extended Cruises (10+ Days)

For month-long voyages, laundry becomes a weekly chore. Plan accordingly:

• Schedule laundry on sea days: Avoid port days when you’re off the ship.
• Use full-service for bulk items: Save time by sending a full bag weekly.
• Invest in a small travel iron: For minor wrinkles between services.
• Check for mid-cruise discounts: Some ships offer laundry specials after the halfway point.

Note: On repositioning cruises, laundry services may be limited on certain legs—plan ahead.

Formal Night Attendees

NCL hosts at least one formal night per cruise. To look sharp without overspending:

• Press your outfit: $8 is cheaper than dry cleaning ($18–$22).
• Use the cabin iron: For last-minute creases.
• Pack a backup outfit: In case of spills or damage.
• Wear the same suit/dress twice: If you’re on a 14-day cruise, reuse with different accessories.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

Even experienced cruisers make laundry mistakes. Learn from these common pitfalls to save time, money, and stress.

Overusing Full-Service Laundry

Many guests send everything—even t-shirts and socks—to full-service, driving up costs unnecessarily. Solution: Reserve full-service for items you can’t wash yourself (e.g., dress shirts, jeans, delicate fabrics). Use self-service or hand-washing for basics.

Ignoring the 24-Hour Turnaround

Full-service laundry takes at least one full day. If you send your clothes on the last night of the cruise, they may not be returned before disembarkation. Solution: Submit laundry by Day 2 of a 7-day cruise to ensure everything is back by Day 6.

Forgetting to Separate Colors

Mixing reds with whites can lead to ruined clothes. Solution: Always separate loads by color and fabric type. Use the laundry form to indicate “whites,” “colors,” and “delicates.”

Not Checking the Laundry Bag

Some guests forget to double-check the bag before sealing it, only to realize they included the wrong items. Solution: Lay out all items before filling the bag and cross-check with the form.

Assuming All Ships Have the Same Services

Smaller ships (e.g., Norwegian Sun) may have limited laundry facilities or no self-service machines. Solution: Check your ship’s deck plan online before sailing to see what’s available.

Overlooking the Ironing Board

Many guests don’t realize their cabin has an iron and ironing board. Solution: Use it for quick touch-ups instead of paying for pressing.

Conclusion: Smart Laundry = Smarter Vacation

Laundry on a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation doesn’t have to be a chore—or a budget buster. By understanding the available services, pricing structure, and smart strategies, you can keep your clothes fresh, wrinkle-free, and ready for every adventure. Whether you choose the cost-effective self-service machines, the convenient full-service option, or the premium dry cleaning route, the key is planning ahead.

Remember: packing smart, combining services, and using onboard resources can significantly reduce both time and expense. Families, business travelers, and long-haul cruisers all benefit from a tailored laundry approach. And with NCL’s reliable systems and helpful staff, you’ll spend less time worrying about clothes and more time enjoying the open sea, stunning ports, and world-class entertainment.

So next time you book an NCL cruise, don’t just pack your swimsuit and sunscreen—pack a laundry plan too. With this guide in hand, you’re ready to sail in style, comfort, and confidence. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to do laundry on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Norwegian Cruise Line offers self-service laundry rooms with washers and dryers, typically charging $3–$5 per cycle. Prices may vary slightly depending on the ship and itinerary, so check your cruise details for exact rates.

Is there a self-service laundry on Norwegian Cruise Line ships?

Yes, most Norwegian Cruise Line ships have self-service laundry facilities equipped with washers, dryers, and detergent vending machines. These are available to all passengers, usually located on select decks.

Can I use the laundry service on Norwegian Cruise Line for free?

No, Norwegian Cruise Line does not include complimentary laundry services for standard passengers. However, suite guests and certain loyalty program members may receive discounted or free laundry perks.

What’s the best way to save money on laundry during a Norwegian cruise?

To save on laundry costs, pack enough clothing for your trip or use the self-service facilities strategically. Consider bringing quarters or a prepaid card, as some machines may not accept cash.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line offer same-day laundry or dry cleaning?

Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line provides paid same-day laundry and dry cleaning services through their onboard staff. Submit items by early morning, and they’ll be returned by evening for a premium fee.

How much to do laundry on Norwegian Cruise Line compared to other cruise lines?

Norwegian’s self-service laundry rates are similar to competitors like Carnival and Royal Caribbean, averaging $3–$5 per cycle. However, full-service laundry and dry cleaning tend to be slightly more expensive on NCL.