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Choosing between Princess and Norwegian Cruise Line depends on your vacation style: Norwegian wins for flexibility and vibrant onboard experiences, while Princess excels in refined service and destination-focused itineraries. If you crave freestyle dining, high-energy entertainment, and modern amenities, Norwegian offers greater freedom and variety; however, if you prefer a more traditional, elegant cruise with enriching shore excursions and premium comforts, Princess may be the better fit.
Key Takeaways
- Choose Princess for traditional, elegant cruising with curated cultural experiences.
- Pick Norwegian for freestyle dining and vibrant onboard entertainment options.
- Budget travelers save more with Norwegian’s frequent deals and promotions.
- Princess excels in scenic destinations like Alaska and the Mediterranean.
- Norwegian wins for families with kids’ clubs and splash zones.
- Consider cabin size: Princess offers more balcony staterooms per ship.
📑 Table of Contents
Is Princess or Norwegian Cruise Line Better for Your Next Vacation?
Choosing the right cruise line can make or break your vacation experience. With so many options available, two names frequently rise to the top of travelers’ lists: Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). Both are industry giants, offering luxurious ships, global itineraries, and unforgettable onboard experiences. But which one truly delivers the better vacation for your preferences, budget, and travel style?
The answer isn’t as straightforward as it might seem. While both cruise lines boast impressive fleets and award-winning service, they cater to different types of travelers. Princess Cruises is often praised for its classic, refined atmosphere and immersive destination-focused experiences, while Norwegian Cruise Line is celebrated for its innovative, high-energy vibe and Freestyle Cruising concept that gives passengers maximum flexibility. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser, a family with kids, or a couple seeking romance, understanding the nuances between these two lines will help you make an informed decision. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Princess and Norwegian Cruise Line across key factors like onboard experience, dining, entertainment, destinations, pricing, and family-friendliness to help you determine which is better suited for your next vacation.
Onboard Experience: Atmosphere and Vibe
Princess Cruises: Elegant and Destination-Centric
Princess Cruises is known for its mature, refined atmosphere and a focus on destination immersion. The brand has built a reputation for offering a more traditional cruise experience with a modern twist. Ships like the Discovery Princess and Regal Princess feature elegant decor, spacious public areas, and a quieter, more relaxed vibe. The overall ambiance is sophisticated without being stuffy—think cocktail lounges with live piano music, art galleries, and serene outdoor promenades.
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One standout feature is the Princess MedallionClass experience. Introduced in 2017, the OceanMedallion is a wearable device that streamlines nearly every aspect of your cruise: contactless embarkation, keyless stateroom entry, personalized dining reservations, and even location-based services. For example, if you’re sitting by the pool and want a drink, the staff can find you instantly using the medallion’s tracking. This tech-forward approach enhances convenience without sacrificing the line’s classic elegance.
Princess also emphasizes destination-rich itineraries. On Alaska cruises, for instance, ships spend longer in port, allowing passengers to take full-day excursions to glaciers, wildlife sanctuaries, and cultural villages. The onboard enrichment programs—like the Discovery at Sea partnership with Discovery Channel and Animal Planet—include lectures, documentaries, and interactive activities that deepen your connection to the places you visit.
Norwegian Cruise Line: High-Energy and Flexible
In contrast, Norwegian Cruise Line embraces a vibrant, energetic, and youthful vibe. The brand’s Freestyle Cruising concept is its hallmark: no formal dining nights, no set seating times, and the freedom to wear what you want, when you want. This appeals to travelers who prefer spontaneity and flexibility over structure.
NCL ships, such as the Norwegian Prima and Encore, are designed to feel more like floating resorts than traditional cruise ships. You’ll find expansive outdoor spaces, multi-deck water slides, rope courses, and even go-kart tracks (on the Breakaway class). The atmosphere is lively, with music, games, and activities happening throughout the day. If you love a party scene, NCL delivers—especially on the pool deck, where DJs spin tunes and themed events like “Glow Party” keep the energy high.
While NCL has upgraded its tech offerings with the NCL app, which allows for mobile check-in, dining reservations, and itinerary management, it doesn’t yet match Princess’s OceanMedallion in terms of seamless integration. However, NCL’s focus on fun and flexibility makes it ideal for travelers who want to craft their own experience without rigid schedules.
Tip: If you’re seeking a relaxing, destination-focused cruise with elegant touches, Princess is likely the better fit. For a high-energy, activity-packed vacation with a party atmosphere, Norwegian Cruise Line wins.
Dining and Culinary Options
Princess Cruises: Gourmet and Globally Inspired
Dining on Princess Cruises is a culinary journey that emphasizes quality, variety, and destination-inspired menus. The main dining rooms offer a rotating menu with dishes from the regions you’re visiting—think fresh Alaskan salmon on Alaska cruises or Mediterranean meze on European itineraries. The food is consistently praised for its freshness and presentation, with ingredients sourced locally when possible.
Princess offers a mix of complimentary and specialty dining. Complimentary options include:
- Main Dining Rooms: Open seating or traditional fixed-time dining.
- Horizon Court: A large buffet with global cuisine, including Asian, Italian, and American stations.
- International Café: Coffee, pastries, and light bites 24/7.
For a splurge, specialty restaurants like Sabatini’s (Italian), Steakhouse at Crown Grill, and Kai Sushi offer elevated experiences. The Chef’s Table experience—where guests enjoy a multi-course meal with wine pairing in the galley—is a favorite among foodies. Princess also partners with Chef Curtis Stone for his Share restaurant, which features family-style dining with modern Australian influences.
One unique feature is the “Dine My Way” program, which allows guests to choose between flexible dining times and locations. This gives the best of both worlds: structure and freedom.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Variety, Flexibility, and Themed Dining
NCL takes dining flexibility to the next level. With Freestyle Dining, you can eat whenever you want, wherever you want—no reservations required (though recommended for specialty venues). The main dining rooms, like Taste and Savor, serve a rotating menu of international dishes, while the Manhattan Room offers a more formal, elegant setting.
Complimentary dining options include:
- The Local: A 24/7 pub-style eatery with burgers, wings, and comfort food.
- O’Sheehan’s: Another 24/7 option with Irish pub fare.
- Great Outdoors: An outdoor buffet with BBQ, salads, and desserts.
NCL’s specialty dining scene is more extensive and diverse than Princess’s. Highlights include:
- Ocean Blue: A seafood-focused restaurant with lobster, oysters, and ceviche.
- Cagney’s Steakhouse: Premium cuts and a classic steakhouse ambiance.
- Teppanyaki: A lively Japanese hibachi experience.
- Le Bistro: French cuisine with escargot, coq au vin, and crème brûlée.
NCL also features themed dining nights like “Taste of the Caribbean” or “Italian Night” in the main dining rooms, adding a fun, interactive element. For families, the Kid’s Café offers a dedicated menu and play area.
Tip: If you value high-quality, destination-inspired cuisine with a touch of elegance, choose Princess. If you prefer maximum dining flexibility, themed experiences, and a wider variety of specialty options, NCL is the way to go.
Entertainment and Onboard Activities
Princess Cruises: Enrichment and Relaxation
Princess Cruises excels in educational and cultural enrichment. The Discovery at Sea program brings in naturalists, historians, and guest speakers to host lectures, workshops, and guided excursions. On Alaska cruises, for example, you might attend a talk on glacier formation or a wildlife photography workshop.
Evening entertainment includes:
- Princess Theater: Broadway-style productions, tribute shows, and comedy acts.
- Princess Live!: A TV studio where guests can watch live cooking demos or participate in game shows.
- Music and Dance: From jazz lounges to ballroom dancing, there’s something for every taste.
For relaxation, Princess offers the Lotus Spa, a serene retreat with massages, facials, and thermal suites. The Enclave (on select ships) is a premium spa area with a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, and aromatherapy showers. The outdoor Skywalkers Nightclub (on the top deck) offers panoramic views and dancing under the stars.
Norwegian Cruise Line: High-Energy Shows and Activities
NCL’s entertainment is bold, modern, and high-energy. The brand has invested heavily in Broadway-caliber productions, such as:
- “Jersey Boys” (on Norwegian Escape)
- “Burn the Boats” (a high-tech acrobatic show)
- “Six” (the hit musical, now on select ships)
Beyond theater, NCL offers:
- Comedy Club: Stand-up acts in a dedicated venue.
- Live Music: From rock bands to jazz trios in multiple lounges.
- Interactive Experiences: Escape rooms, karaoke, and themed deck parties.
Daytime activities are equally dynamic. On Norwegian Prima, you can race on the Ocean Boulevard Rooftop Track (go-karts), climb a rock wall, or zip down a multi-slide water complex. The Galaxy Pavilion features virtual reality games, simulators, and interactive exhibits.
Tip: For enrichment, relaxation, and cultural immersion, Princess is ideal. For high-energy shows, interactive games, and adrenaline-pumping activities, NCL takes the lead.
Destinations and Itineraries
Princess Cruises: Global Reach with a Focus on Immersion
Princess operates one of the most extensive global itineraries in the industry. With over 380 ports of call, the line sails to:
- Alaska (with land tours to Denali)
- Europe (Mediterranean, Northern Europe, British Isles)
- Asia (Japan, China, Southeast Asia)
- Australia & New Zealand
- South America
- Transatlantic and World Cruises
What sets Princess apart is its destination-focused programming. On Alaska cruises, ships often stay in port for 10+ hours, allowing time for full-day excursions like glacier hiking or wildlife tours. The “Local Connections” program partners with local guides and artisans to offer authentic cultural experiences.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Popular Routes with Unique Stops
NCL also offers a wide range of destinations, but with a focus on high-demand, resort-style itineraries. Key routes include:
- Caribbean (Bahamas, Mexico, Eastern & Western)
- Alaska (with land tours)
- Mediterranean (Italy, Spain, Greece)
- Canada & New England
- Hawaii (round-trip from Honolulu)
NCL’s itineraries often include private island stops like Great Stirrup Cay (Bahamas) and Harvest Caye (Belize), which feature exclusive beaches, water sports, and cabanas. The line also offers “Bucket List” cruises to places like Antarctica and the Arctic, though these are less frequent than Princess’s.
Tip: If you’re planning a destination-focused, culturally immersive trip (especially Alaska or Europe), Princess is the better choice. For resort-style vacations, private island experiences, and shorter Caribbean getaways, NCL shines.
Pricing, Value, and Family-Friendliness
Princess Cruises: Premium Pricing with Inclusions
Princess is generally considered a mid-to-upscale line. Base fares are competitive, but the line often includes more in the price:
- Complimentary room service
- Enrichment programs (lectures, workshops)
- Basic beverage package (on select sailings)
- Wi-Fi minutes (on MedallionClass ships)
Families with kids will appreciate the Camp Discovery program, which offers age-appropriate activities (ages 3–17). Teens have their own lounge, while younger kids enjoy science experiments, crafts, and outdoor games. However, Princess is less kid-focused than NCL, with fewer high-energy attractions.
Norwegian Cruise Line: Competitive Pricing with Add-Ons
NCL is often seen as a better value for families and budget-conscious travelers. Base fares are lower, but many amenities are à la carte. For example:
- Specialty dining requires reservations and surcharges
- Wi-Fi is not included (packages start at $25/day)
- Drink packages are optional
However, NCL excels in family-friendly amenities. The Splash Academy offers kids’ clubs with themed activities (pirate adventures, science labs). Teens have access to a dedicated lounge with video games and movies. Ships like Norwegian Joy feature a water park with slides and a ropes course—perfect for families.
Data Table: Key Differences in Pricing and Family Amenities
| Feature | Princess Cruises | Norwegian Cruise Line |
|---|---|---|
| Avg. Base Fare (7-night cruise) | $1,200–$1,800 | $900–$1,400 |
| Kids’ Clubs | Camp Discovery (ages 3–17) | Splash Academy (ages 3–17) |
| Teen Lounge | Yes | Yes (with more activities) |
| Water Park | No | Yes (on select ships) |
| Wi-Fi Included | Yes (limited on MedallionClass) | No (packages available) |
| Room Service | Complimentary | Complimentary (limited hours) |
Tip: For families with young kids or teens, NCL’s lower base fares, water parks, and teen lounges make it the better value. For couples or solo travelers who prefer a quieter, more inclusive experience, Princess may offer better overall value.
Conclusion: Which Cruise Line is Right for You?
So, is Princess or Norwegian Cruise Line better for your next vacation? The answer depends on your travel style, priorities, and expectations.
Choose Princess Cruises if you:
- Prefer a refined, elegant atmosphere with destination-focused programming
- Enjoy educational enrichment and cultural immersion
- Value inclusions like Wi-Fi, room service, and enrichment activities
- Are traveling as a couple or solo and want a quieter experience
Choose Norwegian Cruise Line if you:
- Love a high-energy, party-like vibe with maximum flexibility
- Want dining freedom and a wide variety of specialty restaurants
- Travel with kids or teens and need family-friendly amenities
- Seek adrenaline-pumping activities like go-karts and water slides
Ultimately, both cruise lines deliver exceptional vacations—but in different ways. Princess excels in destination immersion, elegance, and enrichment, while NCL shines in flexibility, entertainment, and family fun. By aligning your preferences with the strengths of each line, you’ll ensure your next cruise is everything you dreamed of—and more.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which cruise line is better for families: Princess or Norwegian?
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is generally better for families, offering more kid-friendly activities like water slides, splash zones, and dedicated youth programs. Princess Cruises focuses more on relaxed, scenic cruising with fewer high-energy attractions for children.
Is Princess or Norwegian Cruise Line better for luxury and service?
Princess Cruises often edges out Norwegian in luxury and service, with a more refined onboard atmosphere and attentive, personalized service. NCL offers comfort but leans toward a casual, flexible vibe rather than upscale elegance.
Which cruise line has better dining options: Princess or Norwegian?
Norwegian Cruise Line wins for dining variety, with a wide range of complimentary and specialty restaurants (like Cagney’s Steakhouse and Teppanyaki). Princess Cruises offers quality dining but fewer included options, though its Chef’s Table and wine pairings are standout experiences.
Is Norwegian Cruise Line better for nightlife and entertainment than Princess?
Yes, NCL excels in nightlife and entertainment, with Broadway-style shows, lively bars, and themed parties. Princess Cruises offers entertainment like movies under the stars and live music but has a quieter, more low-key evening vibe.
Which cruise line is better for Alaska: Princess or Norwegian Cruise Line?
Princess Cruises is often preferred for Alaska, with a strong focus on nature and wildlife, plus exclusive rail and land tour packages. NCL also offers Alaskan itineraries but with fewer destination-specific enrichment programs.
Is Princess or Norwegian Cruise Line better for budget travelers?
Norwegian Cruise Line tends to be better for budget travelers, with more affordable base fares and frequent promotions. Princess Cruises can be pricier, though it often includes perks like premium beverages and gratuities in some fare packages.