Which Cruise Line Is Better Princess or Norwegian Revealed

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) edges out Princess with more inclusive pricing, vibrant onboard experiences, and greater flexibility in dining and entertainment, making it ideal for travelers seeking a dynamic, casual atmosphere. Princess excels in refined service, scenic itineraries, and premium enrichment programs, appealing to those who prefer a more traditional, elegant cruise vibe. Your choice ultimately depends on whether you value freedom and variety (NCL) or sophistication and consistency (Princess).

Key Takeaways

• Choose Princess for refined, traditional cruising with exceptional service and itineraries.
• Pick Norwegian for freestyle dining, vibrant nightlife, and innovative onboard activities.
• Princess excels in scenic destinations like Alaska and premium shore excursions.
• Norwegian wins for families with kid-friendly zones and relaxed dress codes.
• Budget travelers benefit from Norwegian’s frequent deals and inclusive packages.
• Couples favor Princess for romantic ambiance and curated enrichment programs.
• Consider priorities: structure (Princess) vs. flexibility (Norwegian) to decide best fit.

The Great Cruise Showdown: Princess vs Norwegian – Which One Wins?

Choosing your next cruise vacation can feel like navigating uncharted waters, especially when deciding between two of the industry’s biggest names: Princess Cruises and Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). Both brands boast decades of experience, expansive fleets, and global itineraries, but their approaches to cruising are as different as the destinations they sail to. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or planning your first voyage, the question remains: which cruise line is better – Princess or Norwegian?

This comprehensive guide dives deep into the core differences and similarities between these two giants. We’ll explore their onboard experiences, dining philosophies, family-friendly offerings, value propositions, and more. By the end, you’ll have the insights needed to choose the cruise line that best aligns with your travel style, budget, and vacation goals. From the elegant ambiance of a Princess ship to the freestyle freedom of an NCL vessel, we’ll reveal the strengths and trade-offs of each—so you can set sail with confidence.

Onboard Experience: Luxury vs Freedom

Princess Cruises: The Art of Refined Cruising

Princess Cruises positions itself as a premium, destination-focused cruise line, emphasizing elegance, comfort, and immersive cultural experiences. Their ships, such as the Discovery Princess and Enchanted Princess, are designed with a sophisticated, understated aesthetic. Think polished wood, soft lighting, and a calm, almost library-like atmosphere in many public spaces. The brand prides itself on creating a serene environment where guests can unwind and enjoy the journey.

One of Princess’s standout features is the Movies Under the Stars experience—a giant poolside LED screen showing first-run films, live concerts, and even Broadway-style shows. This unique amenity transforms the main pool deck into an open-air cinema and entertainment hub. Additionally, the Princess Theater offers high-quality production shows, including original musicals and tribute acts, often with professional choreography and lighting.

Princess also emphasizes destination immersion through its Discovery at SEA program, which partners with Discovery Channel and Animal Planet to offer onboard lectures, interactive exhibits, and shore excursions focused on wildlife, history, and local culture. For example, on an Alaska cruise, you might attend a talk by a naturalist about glacial ecosystems or join a guided whale-watching tour curated by the program.

Norwegian Cruise Line: Freestyle Freedom and Vibrant Energy

In contrast, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is all about flexibility, variety, and high-energy fun. The brand’s “Freestyle Cruising” concept eliminates traditional dining times, formal nights, and rigid schedules. Instead, guests can dine when they want, where they want, and how they want—whether that’s in a specialty restaurant, the main dining room, or even their stateroom.

NCL ships like the Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Prima are designed for excitement. Expect vibrant colors, dynamic lighting, and non-stop entertainment. The Broadway-style shows are a major draw, with NCL securing exclusive rights to perform hit musicals like Jersey Boys, Kinky Boots, and Six—a rare feat in the cruise industry. These productions rival land-based theaters in quality and scale.

Another hallmark of NCL is its thrill-seeking attractions. On newer ships, you’ll find go-kart tracks, virtual reality zones, ropes courses, and even water slides with loops. The Norwegian Prima introduced the “Ocean Boulevard,” a 44,000-square-foot outdoor promenade with infinity pools, a glass bridge, and a 10-deck-high dry slide. If you’re looking for adrenaline-pumping activities, NCL delivers.

Tip: If you value structure and a quieter atmosphere, Princess may suit you better. But if you crave spontaneity, late-night entertainment, and a party vibe, NCL’s freestyle approach is ideal.

Dining Options: Traditional Elegance vs Global Gourmet Freedom

Princess: Curated Menus and Themed Dining

Princess Cruises offers a hybrid dining model. Most guests are assigned to either traditional (fixed seating) or anytime dining in the main dining rooms, but specialty restaurants are also available for an additional fee. The main dining experience emphasizes refined, multi-course meals with rotating menus that highlight regional cuisines.

For example, on a Mediterranean cruise, you might enjoy a Tuscan-inspired menu with handmade pasta and local wines, while an Alaskan voyage could feature fresh seafood and Pacific Northwest flavors. The Chef’s Table Lumière is a highlight—an exclusive, behind-the-scenes dining experience where guests watch the culinary team prepare a multi-course gourmet meal with wine pairings.

Princess also offers unique themed dining nights, such as “Taste of the Seasons” (featuring seasonal ingredients) and “Chef’s Table by the Sea” (a private dinner on the ship’s open deck). The brand’s partnership with Chef Curtis Stone brings his signature dishes to select restaurants, adding a celebrity chef touch.

Norwegian: Freestyle Dining and Global Flavors

NCL’s “Freestyle Dining” philosophy means no reservations are required in most restaurants. You can walk into any of the main dining rooms or specialty venues anytime between 5:30 PM and 9:30 PM. This flexibility is perfect for travelers with unpredictable schedules or families with kids.

NCL offers an unmatched variety of specialty restaurants, often included in the base fare (with some exceptions). For example, on the Norwegian Encore, you’ll find:

• Cagney’s Steakhouse: Premium cuts, dry-aged beef, and classic cocktails
• Ocean Blue: Upscale seafood with a modern twist
• Le Bistro: Authentic French cuisine
• Food Republic: Fusion street food from global destinations
• American Diner: Classic burgers, milkshakes, and retro vibes

NCL also introduced “The Local”, a 24-hour pub-style eatery serving comfort food like wings, nachos, and craft beers. For families, the “Kids’ Café” offers healthy, kid-friendly options in a colorful, interactive space.

Data Table: Dining Comparison (Per Ship, Average)

Dining Feature	Princess Cruises	Norwegian Cruise Line
Main Dining Rooms	2-3 (fixed or anytime)	3-4 (freestyle, no reservations)
Specialty Restaurants	3-5 (additional fee)	6-10 (most included in fare)
Buffet Options	1 main buffet + 1-2 casual cafes	1 main buffet + 2-3 themed cafes (e.g., sushi, pizza)
24-Hour Dining	Limited (snack bars only)	Yes (The Local, room service)
Celebrity Chef Partnerships	Curtis Stone	None (focus on in-house chefs)

Tip: If you love trying diverse cuisines without extra costs, NCL is the clear winner. But if you prefer a more curated, elegant dining experience with chef-led events, Princess excels.

Family-Friendly Features: Kid-Focused Fun vs Teen Zones

Princess: Balanced Family Offerings

Princess Cruises caters to families with a well-rounded approach. The Camp Discovery program (for ages 3-17) is divided into age groups, offering age-appropriate activities:

• Shark Squad (3-7): Arts and crafts, storytelling, themed parties
• Adventure Ocean (8-12): Science experiments, video games, scavenger hunts
• Teen Lounge (13-17): Dance parties, social media challenges, late-night hangouts

Princess also offers family-friendly staterooms with extra bedding (e.g., pull-down bunks, sofa beds) and connecting rooms. The “Family Movie Nights” by the pool are a hit, with kid-approved films and popcorn. However, Princess lacks dedicated water parks or high-thrill attractions, making it better for families with younger kids or those seeking a calmer vibe.

Norwegian: Thrills for All Ages

NCL is a top choice for families with older kids and teens. Their ships feature:

• Splash Academy: Supervised kids’ programs with themed activities (e.g., superhero days, science labs)
• Guppies (6 months-3 years): Parent-child playgroups with sensory activities
• Entourage (13-17): A dedicated teen zone with video games, karaoke, and dance floors
• Water Parks: Multi-story slides, splash zones, and lazy rivers (e.g., the “Aqua Racer” on Norwegian Escape)
• Family Suites: Spacious accommodations with separate kids’ rooms (e.g., the “Family Suite” on Norwegian Encore)

NCL also offers “Kids’ Sail Free” promotions, where children under 12 sail free on select sailings (you only pay taxes and fees). This makes NCL an incredibly budget-friendly option for families.

Tip: For families with toddlers or younger children, Princess’s structured programs may be preferable. But if you have teens or want non-stop action, NCL’s water parks and teen zones are unbeatable.

Value and Pricing: Inclusions, Deals, and Hidden Costs

Princess: Premium Pricing, Fewer Inclusions

Princess Cruises generally has a higher base price than NCL, reflecting its premium positioning. However, the fare includes:

• Main dining room meals
• Most entertainment (theaters, Movies Under the Stars)
• Fitness center access
• Some shore excursions (on select sailings)

But be prepared for add-on costs:

• Specialty restaurants ($$$)
• Premium drinks (e.g., wine, cocktails)
• Spa and salon services
• Wi-Fi (priced per day or per package)

Princess occasionally offers “Princess Plus” packages, which bundle drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities for a flat fee. This can save money if you plan to use these services heavily.

Norwegian: Lower Base Fare, More Inclusions

NCL’s base fares are often 10-20% cheaper than Princess, but the savings come with trade-offs. The standard fare includes:

• Freestyle dining (main restaurants + most specialty venues)
• Entertainment (Broadway shows, live music)
• Fitness center access
• Basic kids’ programs

However, NCL is known for “nickel-and-diming”:

• Premium drinks ($$$)
• Wi-Fi (expensive per-day rates)
• Spa services
• Gratuities (automatically added, ~$20/day per person)

To combat this, NCL offers “Free at Sea” promotions, which include one or more of the following perks:

• Free open bar
• Free specialty dining
• Free shore excursion credits
• Free Wi-Fi

Tip: Compare total costs, not just base fares. If you plan to drink alcohol, dine at specialty restaurants, or use Wi-Fi daily, NCL’s “Free at Sea” deal may offer better value.

Itineraries and Destinations: Global Reach and Specialization

Princess: Destination Experts

Princess Cruises is renowned for its extensive global itineraries, particularly in:

• Alaska: 7-day Inside Passage cruises with glacier viewing, wildlife tours, and Denali excursions
• Europe: Mediterranean, Scandinavia, and British Isles routes with longer port stays
• Asia: Cruises to Japan, Vietnam, and Thailand with cultural immersion programs
• World Cruises: 100+ day journeys with over 30 destinations

Princess’s “MedallionClass” technology enhances the experience. The wearable medallion allows keyless stateroom entry, contactless payments, and personalized service (e.g., crew members greet you by name).

Norwegian: Caribbean Focus and Exotic Routes

NCL excels in Caribbean and Bahamas cruises, with frequent 3-7 day sailings from Florida and Texas. They also offer unique itineraries, such as:

• Private Island Experiences: Great Stirrup Cay (Bahamas) and Harvest Caye (Belize) with water sports, beaches, and dining
• Exotic Routes: South America, Australia, and Hawaii cruises
• Transatlantic Crossings: 10-14 day voyages with multiple sea days and cultural stops

NCL’s “Norwegian Edge” initiative modernizes older ships with new dining, entertainment, and tech upgrades, ensuring consistency across the fleet.

Tip: For Alaska, Europe, or world cruises, Princess is the expert. For quick Caribbean getaways or private island fun, NCL shines.

Final Verdict: Which Cruise Line Is Better?

So, which cruise line is better—Princess or Norwegian? The answer depends on your priorities:

• Choose Princess Cruises if you:
  • Prefer a refined, elegant atmosphere
  • Love destination-focused experiences (e.g., Alaska, Europe)
  • Enjoy structured dining and cultural enrichment
  • Travel with young kids or want a quieter vibe
• Choose Norwegian Cruise Line if you:
  • Crave flexibility and spontaneity (freestyle dining, no formal nights)
  • Want high-energy entertainment (Broadway shows, thrill rides)
  • Have teens or want family-friendly thrills (water parks, teen zones)
  • Seek budget-friendly options with “Free at Sea” deals

Ultimately, both lines offer exceptional value, but their strengths cater to different travel styles. Princess Cruises is the destination connoisseur, perfect for cruisers who want to immerse themselves in culture and nature. Norwegian Cruise Line is the entertainment powerhouse, ideal for those who want non-stop fun, freedom, and variety.

Before booking, ask yourself: Do I want to relax and explore, or party and play? Your answer will guide you to the cruise line that’s truly better—for you.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which cruise line is better, Princess or Norwegian, for first-time cruisers?

For first-time cruisers, Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) often stands out with its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, offering flexible dining and entertainment schedules. Princess Cruises, while more traditional, excels in structured activities and scenic itineraries, making both great but NCL slightly more adaptable for newbies.

What are the key differences between Princess and Norwegian cruise lines?

Princess emphasizes classic cruising with enrichment programs like Discovery at Sea and a refined onboard atmosphere, while Norwegian focuses on casual freedom with open dining and high-energy entertainment. Norwegian’s ships tend to be larger with more onboard attractions like go-karts, whereas Princess prioritizes destination immersion.

Which cruise line is better for families: Princess or Norwegian?

Norwegian Cruise Line is generally better for families, thanks to its dedicated kids’ clubs, water parks, and family-friendly accommodations like The Haven. Princess offers family activities but leans more toward multi-generational travel with educational programs and relaxed family zones.

Which cruise line offers better dining options, Norwegian or Princess?

Norwegian Cruise Line wins for variety with its “Freestyle Dining” offering 20+ specialty restaurants (e.g., Cagney’s Steakhouse). Princess focuses on curated experiences like Chef’s Table and included dining, ideal for travelers who prefer consistency over choice.

Is Princess or Norwegian better for budget-conscious travelers?

Norwegian often has lower base fares and frequent promotions, but its add-on costs (e.g., dining packages) can add up. Princess includes more amenities upfront (e.g., gratuities in premium fares), making it a smarter pick for transparent budgeting.

Which cruise line is better for luxury experiences: Princess or Norwegian?

Princess Cruises’ “MedallionClass” service and exclusive areas like The Sanctuary offer a more refined, personalized luxury vibe. Norwegian’s luxury tier, The Haven, provides private suites and a pool, but Princess’s overall ambiance leans more toward understated elegance.