Is Norwegian a Good Cruise Line for Kids A Family Friendly Review

Norwegian Cruise Line is an excellent choice for families with kids, offering a wide range of age-specific activities, flexible dining, and spacious accommodations. With dedicated kids’ clubs, splash zones, and entertainment like Broadway shows and ropes courses, children stay engaged while parents enjoy stress-free vacations.

Key Takeaways

• NCL offers dedicated kids’ clubs for ages 3–17 with engaging, age-appropriate activities.
• Flexible dining options cater to picky eaters and family schedules with no set meal times.
• Free dining for kids 4–12 on select sailings, making family meals more affordable.
• Family-friendly staterooms include connecting cabins and extra sleeping arrangements for comfort.
• Onboard waterparks and play areas provide hours of active entertainment for all ages.
• Supervised teen programs offer safe, social spaces with gaming and themed events.

Is Norwegian a Good Cruise Line for Kids? A Family-Friendly Review

Planning a family vacation can feel like solving a puzzle with too many pieces. Between picky eaters, nap times, and keeping everyone entertained, choosing the right cruise line is no small task. If you’re considering Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), you’re probably wondering: Is Norwegian a good cruise line for kids? The short answer? It can be—but like any family adventure, it depends on your kids’ ages, interests, and your own travel style.

I’ll be honest: I was skeptical when we first booked an NCL cruise with our two kids—ages 6 and 9. We’d heard great things about their “Freestyle Cruising” concept, but I worried it might be too adult-focused or lacking in kid-centric activities. After a 7-day Caribbean cruise on the Norwegian Encore, I came away with real insights. NCL isn’t the most child-dominant cruise line out there (looking at you, Disney), but it offers a surprisingly balanced mix of fun, flexibility, and family-friendly perks. In this review, I’ll share what worked, what didn’t, and whether Norwegian truly stands out as a solid choice for families with kids.

Kids’ Clubs and Age-Appropriate Activities

Splash Academy: The Heart of NCL’s Kid Program

Norwegian’s Splash Academy is the backbone of their kids’ programming. It’s divided into age-specific zones, which is a big plus. Here’s how it breaks down:

• Junior (3–5 years): Focused on play-based learning, storytelling, and simple crafts. My 6-year-old, who was technically in the next group, still enjoyed the younger zone’s sensory activities.

< li>First Mates (6–9 years): This was our kids’ sweet spot. Daily themes like “Pirate Adventure” or “Space Explorers” kept them engaged. They loved the scavenger hunts and mini science experiments (think: baking soda volcanoes).

• Navigators (10–12 years): More independence here. Kids can choose activities like video game tournaments, movie nights, or even mocktail-making classes.
• Teens (13–17 years): Dedicated lounges with video games, dance floors, and late-night social events. Our 9-year-old was too young, but I noticed teens actually using the space—not just sitting on phones.

Pro tip: Sign up for Splash Academy early. Spaces fill up fast, especially on sea days. We registered online pre-cruise, which saved us from long lines at the onboard desk.

Flexibility and Parent-Child Participation

One thing NCL nails is flexibility. Unlike some lines with strict drop-off policies, NCL allows parents to join activities in the younger zones. We spent one afternoon making “underwater slime” with our kids—something we wouldn’t have done at home. For older kids, the “Parent-Child Challenge” (a trivia game) was a fun bonding moment.

But here’s the catch: **drop-off isn’t mandatory**. If your kids are shy or need extra attention, you’ll spend more time in the club than on other lines. We met a family whose 4-year-old cried daily because he missed his parents. NCL’s staff was patient, but the lack of structured “parent-free” time (common in Disney’s clubs) made it stressful.

Specialty Activities and Events

Beyond the clubs, NCL offers rotating events. Our cruise had:

• A Build-a-Bear Workshop (extra fee, but worth it—kids got to make a souvenir).
• Character meet-and-greets with Nickelodeon stars (SpongeBob was a hit).
• Mini Olympics with relay races and hula hoop contests.

One downside: Events are often short (30–45 minutes) and scheduled during lunch or nap time. We missed a few because of timing clashes. Tip: Check the daily schedule and plan meals around events.

Onboard Entertainment for All Ages

Shows and Live Performances

NCL’s entertainment leans toward adults, but there are kid-friendly options. On the Norwegian Encore, we saw:

• “Kinky Boots” (Broadway musical): Too mature for our kids, but they loved the “Legally Blonde” preview (shorter, more energetic).
• “The Choir of Man”: A high-energy, interactive show with singing and dancing. Our 9-year-old clapped along to the pop covers.
• Comedy Club: Family-friendly sets during the day (think: silly jokes, not edgy humor).

For younger kids, the Broadway Jr. Workshop let them perform short scenes. Our 6-year-old sang a song from Annie—a moment she still talks about.

Arcades and Game Zones

The arcade on NCL ships is a mixed bag. It’s well-stocked with games (racing, air hockey, claw machines), but it’s expensive. Tokens cost $1 each, and most games require 3–5 tokens. We set a $20/day budget to avoid sticker shock.

For non-arcade fun, check out:

• Bowling alley: Mini lanes for kids (no extra fee).
• Virtual reality (VR) experiences: Extra charge, but our kids loved the “space adventure” VR ride.
• Escape rooms: Family-friendly puzzles (great for older kids).

Pool Deck and Outdoor Fun

The pool area is where NCL shines for families. On the Encore, we found:

• Splash Zone: A shallow pool with water slides, fountains, and tipping buckets. Perfect for kids under 8.
• Water slides: The “Ocean Loops” slides are thrilling but require a height check (48 inches). Our 9-year-old loved them; our 6-year-old was too short.
• Hot tubs: Adults-only, but the kids didn’t mind.

One quirk: The main pool gets crowded by 10 a.m. We found the best spots by arriving early or using the “Family Beach” area (a quieter section with lounge chairs).

Dining Options for Picky Eaters and Foodies Alike

Main Dining Rooms: Kid-Friendly Menus

NCL’s main dining rooms (like Taste and Savor) have solid kid menus. Think mac-and-cheese, chicken tenders, and fruit platters. But the real win? Flexibility. You can order off the adult menu for kids (great for adventurous eaters) or request modifications. Our 6-year-old hates broccoli, and the staff happily swapped it for extra fries.

Tip: Request a high chair or booster seat when booking. They’re free but limited.

Specialty Restaurants: Worth the Splurge?

Specialty dining is a highlight of NCL’s “Freestyle Cruising.” For families:

• Coco’s: A chocolate-themed dessert bar. Our kids devoured the chocolate fondue.
• Teppanyaki: A lively Japanese grill. The chef made balloon animals and flipped shrimp into our mouths (a hit with kids).
• Ocean Blue: Seafood-focused, but they accommodated our kids’ chicken tenders request.

Prices range from $25–$50 per adult (kids under 6 eat free at some). We splurged on Coco’s and Teppanyaki—both were worth it for the experience.

24/7 Snacks and Quick Bites

NCL’s 24/7 buffet (The Garden Café) is a lifesaver for snack attacks. It has:

• Fresh fruit and yogurt parfaits.
• Pizza and grilled cheese (available all day).
• Soft-serve ice cream machines (a daily ritual for our kids).

For late-night hunger, Room Service offers free kids’ meals (burgers, pasta, etc.) with adult orders. We used this after a late show—no extra charge.

Cabin Comforts and Family-Friendly Staterooms

Room Types for Families

NCL offers several cabin options for families:

• Family Inside/Oceanview: Basic but functional. Our room had a pull-down bed (perfect for our 6-year-old).
• Family Balcony: Spacious with a sofa bed. We booked this and loved the extra room for luggage and play.
• Mini-Suites: Include a separate living area (ideal for families with teens).

All cabins have:

• Two sinks (one in the bathroom, one outside—great for getting ready).
• USB ports and power outlets.
• Complimentary bathrobes for kids.

Packing Tips for NCL Cabins

Space is limited. Here’s what we learned:

• Bring a hanging organizer: Fits on the closet door for shoes, toiletries, and toys.
• Pack a nightlight: Cabins are dark, and our kids needed a bathroom light.
• Use the under-bed storage: Perfect for suitcases and bulky items.

One downside: No mini-fridge in standard cabins. We requested one (free) for storing milk and snacks.

Itineraries and Ports: Balancing Fun and Downtime

Shore Excursions for Kids

NCL offers kid-friendly excursions, but they’re not always the best value. For example:

• St. Thomas: We did a “Sea Turtle Snorkel” tour. The crew had kids’ snorkel gear and taught marine biology—engaging and educational.
• Grand Cayman: A “Pirate Adventure” boat tour. Kids got to “steal” treasure and fire water cannons (a blast).

But prices add up. The snorkel tour was $99 per person (kids under 5 free). We booked a cheaper private tour ($70/person) with a local operator and saved $120 for a family of four.

Pro tip: Check NCL’s “Family-Friendly” excursions filter online. They highlight activities with age recommendations.

Sea Days: What to Expect

Sea days can make or break a cruise for kids. NCL’s schedule includes:

• Morning: Kids’ club, pool time, or arcade.
• Afternoon: Family games (trivia, bingo), movies, or workshops.
• Evening: Shows, dining, and deck parties.

Our kids loved the “Family Karaoke” night. We also used the onboard app to track activities and set reminders.

Port Tips for Families

When exploring ports:

• Bring water shoes: Many beaches have rocky areas.
• Pack sunscreen and hats: NCL sells these onboard, but prices are high.
• Use the “Kids’ Passport”: NCL gives kids a passport to collect stamps in each port—a fun keepsake.

Comparing Norwegian to Other Cruise Lines

How does NCL stack up against family-focused lines? Here’s a quick comparison:

Feature	Norwegian Cruise Line	Disney Cruise Line	Royal Caribbean
Kids’ Clubs	Splash Academy (age-based)	Oceaneer Club (themed zones)	Adventure Ocean (interactive)
Entertainment	Broadway-style shows, arcades	Character meetups, Disney shows	Ice skating, rock climbing
Dining Flexibility	High (Freestyle Dining)	Medium (rotational dining)	High (My Time Dining)
Water Slides	Ocean Loops (48″ height)	AquaDuck (42″ height)	Perfect Storm (48″ height)
Best For	Families who value flexibility	Families wanting Disney magic	Families seeking adventure

NCL isn’t the most “magical” or “adventurous” line, but it wins on flexibility. You’re not tied to set dining times, and kids’ clubs have fewer restrictions. If your family craves structure, Disney or Royal Caribbean might be better. But if you want freedom to explore (and let the kids have fun on their terms), NCL is a solid choice.

Final Verdict: Is Norwegian a Good Cruise Line for Kids?

So, back to the original question: Is Norwegian a good cruise line for kids? The answer is a qualified “yes.” Here’s the breakdown:

• Best for: Families with kids ages 3–12 who want flexibility, diverse dining, and a mix of activities.
• Not ideal for: Toddlers (under 3) or teens who want nonstop socializing (NCL’s teen scene is quieter than Royal’s).
• Biggest perk: The “Freestyle” concept. You can skip a kids’ club day and explore ports together—or let the kids play while you relax.
• Biggest drawback: Some activities feel rushed, and the teen zone isn’t always buzzing.

Our family’s experience? We’d book NCL again—but with adjustments. Next time, we’ll:

• Choose a ship with more water slides (like the Norwegian Bliss).
• Book specialty dining earlier (spots fill fast).
• Pack more snacks to avoid arcade costs.

At the end of the day, NCL won’t give you Disney-level immersion or Royal Caribbean’s adrenaline rush. But it offers something just as valuable: a cruise where everyone gets to enjoy their vacation—on their own terms. Whether your kids are splashing in the pool, building bears, or singing karaoke, NCL has enough magic to make it memorable. And isn’t that what family travel is all about?

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Norwegian Cruise Line a good choice for families with kids?

Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is a solid option for families, offering kid-friendly activities, flexible dining, and accommodations. Their award-winning youth programs and family suites make cruising with children stress-free and fun.

What age groups do Norwegian’s kids’ programs cater to?

NCL’s youth programs, like Splash Academy, divide kids into age groups (3–5, 6–9, 10–12, and 13–17) with tailored activities. Teens also enjoy exclusive hangouts, ensuring age-appropriate entertainment for all.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line have family-friendly dining options?

Absolutely! NCL’s freestyle dining lets families eat when and where they want, with kid-approved menus and casual buffets. Specialty restaurants also offer family-style meals, making dining flexible and enjoyable.

Are there enough onboard activities to keep kids entertained?

Yes, Norwegian Cruise Line for kids includes water slides, ropes courses, arcades, and live shows. Daily schedules feature crafts, games, and themed events, ensuring non-stop fun for all ages.

Does Norwegian offer family cabins or connecting rooms?

NCL provides family suites, interconnecting staterooms, and spacious balcony cabins to accommodate larger groups. Many ships even have kid-friendly cabin layouts with separate sleeping areas for parents and children.

How does Norwegian compare to other cruise lines for kids?

NCL stands out with its freestyle approach, offering more flexibility than traditional lines. While competitors may have more water parks, NCL balances affordability, diverse activities, and relaxed policies for a great family experience.