Whats Included in Norwegian Cruise Line A Complete Breakdown

Norwegian Cruise Line includes spacious accommodations, diverse dining options, and complimentary entertainment across all cruise packages, ensuring a high-value vacation experience. Most main dining rooms, fitness centers, and live shows are covered in your base fare, allowing you to enjoy premium amenities without extra charges—just pay for extras like specialty restaurants, spa services, and shore excursions.

Key Takeaways

• Accommodations: All staterooms include premium mattresses and modern amenities for comfort.
• Dining: Enjoy complimentary main dining rooms, buffets, and casual eateries onboard.
• Entertainment: Live shows, comedy clubs, and music venues are included in fares.
• Activities: Access pools, fitness centers, sports courts, and kids’ clubs at no extra cost.
• Service: Housekeeping and standard gratuities are covered, simplifying budgeting.
• Exclusions: Specialty dining, alcohol, and excursions require additional payment.

What’s Included in Norwegian Cruise Line: A Complete Breakdown

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has long been a trailblazer in the cruise industry, earning a reputation for innovation, flexibility, and a “freestyle cruising” approach that sets it apart from traditional cruise lines. Since its founding in 1966, NCL has redefined the vacation experience by offering travelers the freedom to dine when they want, wear what they want, and enjoy entertainment on their own terms. But with so many options and add-ons, one of the most common questions potential cruisers ask is: What’s actually included in a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation?

Unlike all-inclusive resorts or luxury cruise lines that bundle nearly everything into one price, NCL operates on a hybrid model. The base fare covers essential services and amenities, while many premium offerings—from specialty dining to shore excursions—are available for an additional fee. This model allows guests to customize their experience based on budget and preferences, but it also means understanding what’s included (and what isn’t) is crucial to avoiding unexpected costs. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this comprehensive breakdown will help you navigate NCL’s inclusions, uncover hidden value, and plan a vacation that’s both enjoyable and cost-effective.

Accommodations and Stateroom Amenities

Your stateroom is your home away from home during your NCL cruise, and the line offers a wide range of accommodations to suit every budget and travel style. From cozy interior rooms to spacious suites with private balconies, understanding what’s included in each category helps you make the most of your stay.

Standard Inclusions Across All Staterooms

Regardless of your room type—Interior, Oceanview, Balcony, or Suite—all NCL staterooms come with the following standard amenities:

• Private bathroom with shower, toilet, and sink (most include a hair dryer)
• Comfortable bedding with premium linens and duvets
• Flat-screen TV with on-demand entertainment, including movies, news, and live programming
• Climate-controlled air conditioning
• 24-hour room service (limited menu, with delivery fee of $7.95 per order)
• Daily housekeeping (turn-down service included)
• Mini-fridge (restocked at guest’s expense; complimentary for suite guests on select sailings)
• Safe for valuables
• Wi-Fi access (basic package included; premium upgrades available for a fee)

One standout feature is the “Freestyle Dining” concept, which allows guests to eat in the main dining rooms at any time during service hours—no assigned seating or formal nights required. This flexibility is a hallmark of NCL and is included in your base fare.

Suites and The Haven: Premium Accommodations

For travelers seeking elevated comfort and exclusive perks, NCL’s The Haven and suite categories (like Club Balcony and Penthouse) offer significant upgrades:

• Private keycard access to The Haven, a secluded enclave with a private pool, hot tub, and sundeck
• Dedicated concierge and butler service
• Complimentary mini-bar (restocked daily with soft drinks, beer, and water)
• Priority embarkation, disembarkation, and dining reservations
• Access to The Haven Restaurant, a private dining venue with gourmet menus
• Enhanced room amenities: upgraded toiletries, bathrobes, slippers, and premium bedding
• Complimentary Wi-Fi (unlimited data on most sailings)

Tip: If you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a more private experience, booking a suite can be worth the investment. For example, a 7-day Caribbean cruise in The Haven can cost $200–$400 more per person than a balcony stateroom, but the added privacy, service, and amenities often justify the price for many travelers.

Family-Friendly Staterooms

NCL offers family-friendly accommodations, including family balcony rooms and connecting staterooms, which are ideal for multi-generational travel. These rooms often feature pull-down bunk beds, additional storage, and expanded bathroom space. While these rooms cost more than standard interior or balcony options, they eliminate the need for two separate cabins, offering better value for families of four or more.

Dining: What’s Included and What’s Extra

Dining is one of the most important aspects of any cruise, and NCL’s “Freestyle Dining” model gives guests unprecedented control over when and where they eat. But with over 20 dining venues across most ships, it’s essential to understand which meals are included and which require an additional fee.

Complimentary Dining Options

Your base fare includes access to a wide variety of complimentary dining venues:

• Main Dining Rooms (2–3 per ship): Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner with rotating menus featuring international cuisine, seafood, steaks, and vegetarian options. No reservations required.
• Buffet (Garden Café): Open 24/7 for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late-night snacks. Offers a wide selection, including made-to-order omelets, pizza, pasta, and international dishes.
• Poolside Grills and Cafés: Burgers, hot dogs, fries, ice cream, and soft drinks are available throughout the day at venues like The Great Outdoors or O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill.
• Room Service: Limited menu available 24/7. A $7.95 delivery fee applies per order, but food itself is complimentary.
• Specialty Coffee and Snacks: Basic coffee, tea, and pastries are free at designated cafés (e.g., Starbucks on select ships).

Tip: To save money, take advantage of the Garden Café for breakfast and lunch, and use main dining rooms for dinner. The quality of food in these complimentary venues is consistently high, and you can enjoy multi-course meals without paying extra.

Specialty Restaurants: Upscale Dining for a Fee

NCL’s specialty restaurants offer elevated cuisine in unique settings, but they come with an additional cover charge. These are not included in the base fare and must be reserved in advance (often at an extra cost for priority booking). Examples include:

• Cagney’s Steakhouse: Premium cuts, seafood, and wine pairings. Cover charge: $39–$49 per person.
• Le Bistro: French fine dining with a romantic ambiance. Cover charge: $29–$39 per person.
• Teppanyaki: Japanese hibachi-style cooking with live entertainment. Cover charge: $49 per person.
• Ocean Blue: Seafood-focused with a modern, upscale vibe. Cover charge: $39–$49 per person.
• Los Lobos: Authentic Mexican cuisine. Cover charge: $24 per person.

While these restaurants require an extra fee, many cruisers find them well worth the cost—especially for special occasions. NCL often offers dining packages (e.g., 3-restaurant package for $99), which can save up to 30% compared to paying à la carte.

Kids Eat Free Program

NCL’s Kids Eat Free program allows children ages 3–12 to dine complimentary at select specialty restaurants when accompanied by a paying adult. This includes Cagney’s, Le Bistro, and Teppanyaki. It’s a great way to introduce kids to upscale dining without breaking the bank.

Entertainment and Onboard Activities

One of the biggest draws of a Norwegian Cruise Line vacation is the sheer variety of entertainment and activities available onboard. From Broadway-caliber shows to interactive games and relaxation zones, there’s something for every age and interest—and most of it is included in your fare.

Live Shows and Theater Productions

NCL is renowned for its high-quality entertainment, including:

• Broadway-style shows: Many ships feature licensed productions like Jersey Boys, Burn the Boats, and Footloose. These performances are free and take place in the main theater.
• Comedy and variety acts: Stand-up comedy, magic shows, and cabaret performances are offered nightly in lounges and bars.
• Live music: From jazz trios to rock cover bands, live music is available in venues like Bliss Ultra Lounge and The Cavern Club (a Beatles-themed bar).

Tip: Check the daily Freestyle Daily newsletter for showtimes and seating recommendations. Popular shows often fill up, so arrive 20–30 minutes early for the best seats.

Recreational Activities and Facilities

All guests have access to a wide range of free recreational options:

• Pools and hot tubs: Multiple pools, including adults-only and family-friendly zones.
• Sports courts: Basketball, volleyball, and mini-golf.
• Fitness center: Fully equipped gym with cardio and strength-training equipment. Group fitness classes (e.g., yoga, Zumba) are included.
• Rock climbing wall, ropes course, and zip line: Available on select ships (e.g., Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Bliss).
• Casino: Free entry; games include slots, blackjack, poker, and roulette (bets are paid separately).

Family and Kids’ Programs

NCL’s Splash Academy offers age-appropriate activities for kids and teens:

• Mini Club (ages 3–5): Storytime, crafts, and games.
• Kids Club (ages 6–9): Science experiments, scavenger hunts, and movie nights.
• Tweens & Teens (ages 10–17): Dance parties, video games, and social events.

All kids’ programs are complimentary and operate during daytime and evening hours, giving parents time to enjoy adult-only activities. Babysitting services (for ages 3 and up) are available for a fee ($12 per hour per child).

Onboard Services and Daily Operations

Beyond dining and entertainment, NCL includes several essential services in your base fare to ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise experience.

Housekeeping and Room Service

Daily housekeeping is standard, with turndown service each evening. Room service is available 24/7 with a limited menu (sandwiches, salads, desserts). As mentioned, a $7.95 delivery fee applies per order, but the food itself is complimentary.

Wi-Fi and Communication

All guests receive a basic Wi-Fi package (typically 150–300 MB per person, depending on the ship and sailing). This allows for light browsing, messaging, and social media. For heavy users (video streaming, video calls), NCL offers premium Wi-Fi packages with unlimited data for $24–$39 per day. Suite guests often receive complimentary unlimited Wi-Fi.

Medical Services and Safety

Each NCL ship has a fully equipped medical center staffed with licensed doctors and nurses. Basic medical consultations and medications are available for a fee, but emergency care is included in your fare. All ships also have safety drills (Muster Drill) and 24/7 security.

Port and Shore Excursion Support

While shore excursions are not included, NCL provides free port information sessions and self-guided walking tour maps at each destination. The cruise director and shore excursion team are available to help you plan activities, but booking and fees are separate.

What’s *Not* Included: Hidden Costs and Add-Ons

While NCL’s base fare covers a lot, several common expenses are not included and can add up quickly if not planned for. Being aware of these “extras” helps you budget effectively.

Specialty Dining and Beverages

As detailed earlier, specialty restaurants require a cover charge. Additionally:

• Alcoholic beverages: Not included. A drink package (e.g., Ultimate Beverage Package) starts at $89 per person per day and includes cocktails, wine, beer, and premium coffee.
• Premium coffee and smoothies: Starbucks, gelato, and smoothie bars charge à la carte.

Shore Excursions and Tours

NCL offers a wide range of guided shore excursions (snorkeling, cultural tours, adventure activities), but they are all priced separately. Costs range from $50 for a walking tour to $300+ for private excursions. Tip: Compare NCL’s prices with local operators—sometimes booking independently saves 20–30%.

Spa and Wellness Services

The Mandara Spa offers massages, facials, acupuncture, and salon services, all at an additional cost. Prices start at $129 for a 50-minute massage. However, the spa often runs promotions (e.g., “Buy One, Get One 50% Off”) during the first and last days of the cruise.

Gratuities (Service Charges)

Gratuities are not included in the base fare. NCL automatically adds a daily gratuity charge:

• $16.50 per person, per day (standard staterooms)
• $19.50 per person, per day (suites)

This covers dining, housekeeping, and bar staff. Guests can adjust or remove gratuities at any time, but most choose to pay them for convenience.

Other Potential Costs

• Photography: Professional photos taken onboard are available for purchase.
• Retail shopping: Duty-free shops sell souvenirs, luxury goods, and NCL merchandise.
• Internet upgrades: As mentioned, premium Wi-Fi costs extra.
• Gambling: Casino games require real money bets.

Value Comparison: NCL vs. Competitors

To understand the true value of NCL’s inclusions, it helps to compare them with other major cruise lines. Below is a simplified table highlighting key differences:

Feature	Norwegian Cruise Line	Carnival Cruise Line	Royal Caribbean	Princess Cruises
Dining Flexibility	Freestyle Dining (no set times)	Assigned seating (early/late)	My Time Dining (flexible)	Traditional & flexible options
Specialty Dining	10+ venues, cover charge $24–$49	5–7 venues, $20–$40	12+ venues, $25–$50	8+ venues, $25–$45
Kids Eat Free	Yes (select restaurants)	No	Yes (limited)	Yes (limited)
Wi-Fi	Basic included; premium $24–$39/day	Basic included; premium $20–$35/day	Basic included; premium $25–$40/day	Basic included; premium $22–$38/day
Gratuities	$16.50–$19.50/day	$14.50–$17.50/day	$14.50–$18.50/day	$14.50–$17.50/day
Entertainment	Broadway shows, comedy, live music	Comedy, live music, game shows	Broadway, ice shows, aqua theater	Production shows, live music

This comparison shows that NCL stands out for its dining flexibility, broad entertainment options, and family-friendly perks. While drink packages and specialty dining are comparable across lines, NCL’s “Kids Eat Free” program and The Haven suites offer unique value for families and luxury seekers.

Conclusion

Norwegian Cruise Line offers a compelling mix of included amenities and à la carte options, making it a versatile choice for travelers of all types. From the freedom of Freestyle Dining to the luxury of The Haven, NCL provides a customizable cruise experience that balances value with indulgence. Understanding what’s included—and what’s not—is key to maximizing your vacation and avoiding surprise costs.

At its core, NCL’s base fare covers essential services: comfortable accommodations, diverse complimentary dining, top-tier entertainment, and a wide range of onboard activities. Add-ons like specialty restaurants, drink packages, and shore excursions enhance the experience but require careful budgeting. By taking advantage of included perks—such as free kids’ programs, daily shows, and flexible dining—you can enjoy a rich, fulfilling cruise without overspending.

Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family adventure, or a solo escape, Norwegian Cruise Line delivers a well-rounded vacation with the freedom to choose your own adventure. With this complete breakdown, you’re now equipped to make informed decisions, prioritize your must-haves, and sail away with confidence—knowing exactly what you’re getting for your money.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s included in Norwegian Cruise Line’s base fare?

NCL’s base fare covers your stateroom, most dining options (excluding specialty restaurants), onboard entertainment, fitness centers, and kids’ clubs. Gratuities, alcohol, and specialty dining are typically extra.

Are drinks included in Norwegian Cruise Line packages?

Standard drinks like water, coffee, and select juices are included. For alcoholic and premium beverages, you’ll need to purchase a beverage package or pay à la carte.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line include gratuities in the price?

No, gratuities aren’t included in the upfront price. Norwegian automatically adds daily service charges (typically $15-$20 per person) to your onboard account.

What dining options are included with Norwegian Cruise Line?

Your fare includes access to main dining rooms, buffets, and casual eateries. Specialty restaurants (like steakhouses or French cuisine) require a reservation fee or à la carte payment.

Are shore excursions included in Norwegian Cruise Line cruises?

No, shore excursions aren’t included. Norwegian offers curated tours at an additional cost, but you can explore ports independently without booking through the cruise line.

Does Norwegian Cruise Line include Wi-Fi in their packages?

Wi-Fi isn’t included in the base fare. Norwegian offers various internet packages for purchase, ranging from social media-only plans to full unlimited access.