What Is the Cover Charge on Norwegian Cruise Line Revealed

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) does not charge a traditional cover fee for most onboard dining and entertainment, making it a standout choice for budget-savvy travelers. Instead, NCL uses a “freestyle cruising” model, where meals at main restaurants and shows are included, while specialty venues and premium experiences may have à la carte pricing. This transparent approach lets you enjoy the cruise without surprise mandatory charges.

Key Takeaways

• Cover charges vary by restaurant and menu on Norwegian Cruise Line.
• Specialty dining costs $20–$50 per person; book early for deals.
• Main dining rooms remain free, but premium items may have fees.
• Check your cruise fare for included dining packages or discounts.
• Kids’ cover charges are often reduced or waived at specialty venues.
• Happy hour specials can offset costs at select bars and eateries.

Understanding the Cover Charge on Norwegian Cruise Line: A Complete Breakdown

When planning a cruise vacation, especially with a line known for its flexibility and diverse dining options like Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), travelers often wonder: What is the cover charge on Norwegian Cruise Line? This seemingly simple question opens the door to a complex ecosystem of dining fees, specialty restaurants, and value-added experiences that can significantly impact your onboard budget. Unlike traditional cruise lines that include most dining options in the base fare, NCL operates on a “Freestyle Cruising” model, which grants guests the freedom to choose when, where, and with whom they dine—but often at an additional cost.

For first-time cruisers or even seasoned travelers unfamiliar with NCL’s structure, the term “cover charge” can be misleading. It doesn’t refer to a single flat fee but rather encompasses a range of pricing tiers across specialty restaurants, premium experiences, and optional add-ons. Understanding how these charges work is essential to avoid surprise bills at the end of your trip and to maximize the value of your cruise. Whether you’re eyeing a romantic dinner at Cagney’s Steakhouse, a sushi feast at Yakitori, or a family-style meal at Onda by Scarpetta, knowing the cover charges—and how to minimize them—can transform your vacation from a costly experience into a seamless, indulgent getaway. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll reveal everything you need to know about cover charges on Norwegian Cruise Line, from standard pricing to smart booking strategies and insider tips.

What Does “Cover Charge” Mean on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Defining the Term in the Context of NCL

The term cover charge on Norwegian Cruise Line is not a mandatory entrance fee to a venue, as the word might imply in a nightclub or concert setting. Instead, it refers to the per-person fee required to dine at any of NCL’s specialty restaurants—establishments that go beyond the complimentary main dining rooms and buffet options. These cover charges are essentially the price of admission to a higher-tier dining experience, featuring gourmet cuisine, premium ingredients, curated ambiance, and often enhanced service. Unlike traditional cruise lines where dining is largely included, NCL’s Freestyle Cruising model allows guests to choose à la carte, which means you pay only for what you want—making cover charges a central part of the onboard spending structure.

For example, dining at the Le Bistro, NCL’s French-inspired fine dining venue, incurs a cover charge of $39 per person. This fee covers your meal, including multiple courses, wine pairings (if selected), and dessert, but it is not included in your base cruise fare. The cover charge is mandatory for all guests at the table, even children, unless a dining package is applied. This model empowers guests to customize their culinary journey, but it also means that understanding these charges is crucial for budgeting.

Cover Charge vs. À La Carte Pricing: What’s the Difference?

It’s important to distinguish between a cover charge and à la carte pricing. A cover charge is a flat fee that grants you access to a full-course meal at a specialty restaurant. Once you pay it, you can order from the full menu without additional per-item costs (though premium add-ons like caviar or imported wines may carry extra fees). In contrast, à la carte pricing means you pay per dish—common in casual or fast-casual venues like Ocean Blue or Teppanyaki, where the total bill depends on what you order.

For instance, at Teppanyaki, the cover charge is $39 per person, and you receive a multi-course hibachi-style meal with soup, salad, entrée, and dessert. You don’t pay extra for the shrimp, steak, or vegetables—those are included. However, if you order a premium bottle of sake or a side of lobster tail, those will be additional. On the other hand, at Ocean Blue, while there is no cover charge, you’ll pay $18 for a lobster roll, $22 for a grilled salmon entrée, and $15 for a dessert. Over the course of a week-long cruise, à la carte spending can add up quickly, making cover charges a more predictable—and often more cost-effective—option for frequent diners.

Pro Tip: If you plan to visit specialty restaurants more than 2–3 times during your cruise, consider a dining package (discussed in detail later). These bundles can reduce your per-meal cost and eliminate the need to pay individual cover charges.

Complete List of Cover Charges Across NCL’s Specialty Restaurants

Standard Cover Charges by Restaurant (2024 Pricing)

Norwegian Cruise Line offers over a dozen specialty dining venues across its fleet, each with its own theme, cuisine, and cover charge. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the most popular restaurants and their current cover charges (as of 2024). These prices are subject to change, so always check your cruise’s specific itinerary and onboard announcements for updates.

• Cagney’s Steakhouse: $49 per person – Premium cuts of steak, seafood, and an elegant atmosphere. Includes a multi-course meal.
• Le Bistro: $39 per person – French haute cuisine with wine pairings. Features duck confit, escargot, and crème brûlée.
• Yakitori: $35 per person – Japanese teppanyaki and sushi bar. Interactive cooking with a show element.
• Onda by Scarpetta: $45 per person – Italian fine dining with handmade pastas and truffle dishes. Co-created by celebrity chef Scott Conant.
• Moderno Churrascaria: $49 per person – Brazilian-style all-you-can-eat meat experience with salad bar and rodizio service.
• Sugar Beach: $25 per person – Family-friendly dessert bar with ice cream, cakes, and candy. Great for kids and sweet tooths.
• Ocean Blue: À la carte pricing – No cover charge, but individual dishes range from $15–$30. Ideal for seafood lovers.
• La Cucina: $35 per person – Authentic Italian with wood-fired pizzas, pastas, and antipasti.
• Bayamo: $39 per person – Latin fusion cuisine with ceviche, empanadas, and mojitos. Available on select ships like Norwegian Encore.
• Food Republic: $35 per person – Global street food concept with small plates from Asia, Europe, and the Americas.

Additional Fees and Premium Upgrades

While the cover charge includes most menu items, some restaurants offer premium upgrades that come with an extra cost. For example:

• At Cagney’s Steakhouse, a 16-oz. ribeye or a lobster tail add-on may cost an extra $15–$25.
• At Moderno Churrascaria, a premium wine pairing can add $18–$35 per person.
• At Onda by Scarpetta, truffle oil or shaved black truffles are $12–$20 extra.

Additionally, beverage packages do not cover alcohol at specialty restaurants unless you’ve purchased a premium drinks package (e.g., Ultimate Beverage Package). A glass of wine or cocktail will be charged separately, so factor that into your budget.

Children and Cover Charges: Are Kids Exempt?

No, children are not exempt from cover charges at specialty restaurants. Even if a child orders a simple dish like pasta or chicken tenders, the full cover charge applies per person at the table. However, some restaurants offer kids’ menus at no extra cost, which can help reduce waste and ensure picky eaters are satisfied. For example, at Cagney’s, children can order grilled chicken, mac and cheese, or a burger from the kids’ menu, but the $49 cover charge still applies.

Tip: If you’re traveling with kids and want to enjoy specialty dining, consider booking a family-style dining package that includes multiple meals and can be shared. Alternatively, opt for restaurants like La Cucina or Food Republic, which offer kid-friendly dishes within the cover charge.

How to Save Money on Cover Charges: Dining Packages and Promotions

NCL’s Dining Package Options

One of the smartest ways to manage cover charges is by purchasing a dining package before your cruise. NCL offers several tiers, each designed for different dining habits and budgets:

• 3-Night Specialty Dining Package: $99 per person – Includes 3 meals at specialty restaurants (excluding Ocean Blue and Sugar Beach). Covers cover charges for Cagney’s, Le Bistro, Onda, etc.
• 5-Night Specialty Dining Package: $149 per person – Best for week-long cruises. Covers 5 meals with flexibility to mix and match restaurants.
• Unlimited Dining Package: $299–$349 per person (varies by ship and season) – Unlimited access to all specialty restaurants (excluding Ocean Blue). Ideal for foodies and frequent diners.

For example, if you plan to dine at Cagney’s ($49), Onda ($45), and Le Bistro ($39) during a 7-day cruise, your total cover charges would be $133 per person. With the 5-night package at $149, you’d only pay $16 more—but you also get two additional meals for free. The Unlimited Dining Package becomes cost-effective if you plan to dine at specialty restaurants more than 6 times.

Early Booking and Onboard Discounts

NCL frequently runs pre-cruise promotions that offer discounts on dining packages. Booking your package online before your cruise (typically 60–90 days prior) can save you up to 25% compared to onboard pricing. For instance, the 5-night package might be $149 online but $189 onboard.

Additionally, during your cruise, keep an eye out for “Happy Hour” dining deals or “Buy One, Get One Free” offers at select restaurants. These are often advertised in the daily newsletter (Freestyle Daily) or via the NCL app. For example, on sea days, Yakitori might offer a 50% discount on cover charges from 5:00–6:00 PM.

Loyalty Program Perks: Latitudes Rewards

NCL’s Latitudes Rewards Program offers significant savings for repeat cruisers. At the Platinum, Platinum Plus, and Ambassador levels, members receive:

• One free specialty dining meal per cruise (up to $50 value).
• Discounts on additional cover charges (10–20% off).
• Complimentary access to select premium restaurants on short cruises.

For example, a Platinum member booking a 7-day Caribbean cruise might receive a free meal at Le Bistro ($39 value) and 15% off all other cover charges. Over a week, this could save a family of four over $100.

Specialty Dining Experiences: Are the Cover Charges Worth It?

Fine Dining vs. Casual: What You’re Paying For

The cover charge isn’t just about food—it’s about experience. At a restaurant like Onda by Scarpetta, you’re paying for:

• Chef-curated menus with seasonal, high-quality ingredients.
• Intimate, elegant ambiance with white-tablecloth service.
• Personalized attention from trained sommeliers and servers.
• Exclusive dishes not available in the main dining rooms.

Compare this to the complimentary dining rooms (e.g., Taste, Savor, or Manhattan Room), which offer rotating menus, buffet-style service, and a more casual vibe. While the main dining rooms are excellent, specialty restaurants provide a level of culinary artistry and atmosphere that justifies the cover charge for many guests.

Unique and Themed Experiences

Some NCL restaurants offer more than just a meal—they deliver entertainment and immersion. For example:

• Teppanyaki features a lively hibachi show with knife tricks, flaming onions, and interactive cooking. The $35 cover charge includes the performance, making it a family favorite.
• Moderno Churrascaria offers a rodizio-style meat parade, where servers circulate with skewers of beef, lamb, and pork. The $49 fee covers unlimited meat and a gourmet salad bar.
• Food Republic allows guests to order small plates from multiple global cuisines, creating a “food hall” experience.

For many cruisers, these experiences are worth the price, especially when celebrating anniversaries, birthdays, or simply treating themselves to something special.

When to Skip the Cover Charge

Not every specialty restaurant is a must-visit. Consider skipping the cover charge if:

• You’re on a tight budget and prefer to eat at the complimentary venues.
• You have dietary restrictions that aren’t well-accommodated at specialty restaurants (e.g., severe allergies).
• You’re traveling with young children who may not appreciate fine dining.
• You’re on a short cruise (3–4 days) and want to focus on excursions and onboard activities.

Insider Tips and Pro Strategies for Managing Cover Charges

Book Early and Reserve in Advance

Specialty restaurants—especially Cagney’s, Onda, and Moderno—fill up quickly, particularly on sea days and during peak dinner hours (7:00–9:00 PM). Use the NCL app or visit the Guest Services desk as soon as you board to secure reservations. Booking within the first 24 hours of embarkation increases your chances of getting preferred times.

Share Meals or Order Strategically

To stretch your cover charge:

• Share an appetizer or dessert between two people (some restaurants allow this).
• Order a main course and skip the extras (e.g., skip the truffle oil at Onda).
• Choose restaurants with family-style or all-you-can-eat formats (e.g., Moderno).

Use Onboard Credit Wisely

If you’ve received onboard credit (from a promotion, past cruise, or credit card perk), apply it directly to cover charges. This reduces your out-of-pocket cost and maximizes value. For example, $100 in onboard credit could cover two meals at Cagney’s.

Monitor Your Spending with the NCL App

The NCL app allows you to track all onboard charges, including cover charges, in real time. Set a budget, monitor your dining spending, and adjust your plans accordingly. This prevents surprise bills at the end of your cruise.

Summary Table: Cover Charges and Value Comparison

Restaurant	Cover Charge (Per Person)	Best For	Value Rating (1–5)
Cagney’s Steakhouse	$49	Romantic dinners, meat lovers	4.7
Le Bistro	$39	French cuisine, wine pairing	4.5
Onda by Scarpetta	$45	Italian fine dining, truffle dishes	4.8
Moderno Churrascaria	$49	All-you-can-eat meat, family groups	4.6
Yakitori	$35	Entertainment, teppanyaki show	4.3
Food Republic	$35	Foodies, global street food	4.2
Ocean Blue	À la carte (avg. $20/meal)	Seafood, casual dining	4.0

Conclusion: Mastering the Cover Charge for a Stress-Free Cruise

Understanding the cover charge on Norwegian Cruise Line is not just about knowing the numbers—it’s about making informed choices that align with your vacation goals, budget, and dining preferences. From the $35 teppanyaki show at Yakitori to the $49 Brazilian feast at Moderno Churrascaria, each cover charge represents a unique experience that can elevate your cruise from ordinary to extraordinary.

By leveraging dining packages, booking early, using onboard credit, and choosing the right restaurants for your travel style, you can enjoy NCL’s gourmet offerings without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a food enthusiast, a budget-conscious traveler, or a family seeking memorable moments, the key is to plan ahead and embrace the flexibility that Freestyle Cruising provides.

Remember, the cover charge isn’t a hidden fee—it’s your ticket to culinary adventures at sea. With the insights and strategies shared in this guide, you’re now equipped to navigate NCL’s dining landscape with confidence. So go ahead, book that table at Onda by Scarpetta, savor the truffle pasta, and toast to a cruise experience that’s as delicious as it is unforgettable. Bon voyage and bon appétit!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the cover charge on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The cover charge on Norwegian Cruise Line refers to mandatory daily gratuities (also called service fees) added to your onboard account, typically $16–$25 per person, per day, depending on cabin category. These fees cover dining, housekeeping, and other crew services.

Are cover charges optional on Norwegian Cruise Line?

No, the cover charge (daily gratuities) is automatically added to your account and is not optional unless you pre-paid gratuities or received a promotion waiving them. You can adjust the amount at guest services, but it’s rarely waived outright.

How much is the cover charge for suites on Norwegian Cruise Line?

For suite guests on Norwegian Cruise Line, the cover charge ranges from $20–$25 per person, per day, reflecting the higher level of service. This is higher than standard stateroom rates ($16–$20).

Does the cover charge include specialty dining on Norwegian Cruise Line?

The cover charge (gratuities) applies to standard dining room and buffet services. Specialty restaurants may have additional cover charges or à la carte pricing, which are separate from the daily gratuity fee.

Can I prepay the cover charge on Norwegian Cruise Line?

Yes, you can prepay the cover charge (daily gratuities) when booking or before your cruise via the Norwegian Cruise Line website or app. Prepaying often locks in lower rates and avoids last-minute adjustments.

What does the Norwegian Cruise Line cover charge actually pay for?

The cover charge funds gratuities for dining room staff, housekeeping, and other service crew. Norwegian Cruise Line distributes these fees to crew members to ensure consistent service quality throughout your voyage.