We've had concierges (not on the Skynever cruised on her) that were always checking up by phone and personal visit, and we just found it unnecessarily intrusive to the point of becoming annoying by the end of the cruise. Norwegian Getaway - 3.99. Furniture features luxurious stone and light-wood finishes, and texture plays a big role. Its better aimed at people who want that classic cruise ship feel but with the flexibility of Freestyle Cruising. Finally, the Restaurant on the Prima-class Havens is larger and has much better views than you find on the other ships. Im not the same as you and so our views of the ships would be different. Improve earnings, maximize rewards and track progress toward dream trips. Disembarking after a cruise is a bit different than the experiences of first-day boarding. The newest ship from Norwegian Cruise Line will make its debut in the Mediterranean in June 2023, with room for more than 3,200 passengers, multiple infinity pools, an open-air food hall, and an . Professional freelance writer and published indie author. The Norwegian Jade is one of the older ships in the fleet, but she got fully renovated in 2017. Moments later, you are surrounded by luxury with a concierge at hand and more drinks and snacks about. I tried three of these cutting-edge cocktails during my strange night out at Norwegian Prima's new Metropolitan Bar, and I can attest the drinks taste better than you might first imagine. The Epic is the only ship which has the exclusive adults only sun deck included for Haven guests. Norwegian Cruise Line isnt meant to be a high-end brand, but its new Norwegian Prima offers a lot of high-end touches. Ive worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and now my blog helps over a million people to plan their cruises each month. Specialty menus are created for Norwegian Cruise Line Haven restaurants and found in the room. As well, the cruise line recently upped its game (by announcing late in 2020) that all cruises on Celebrity now include complimentary drinks (wines by the glass, classic cocktails, specialty coffees, etc. We actually don't like the Breakawaybut we do like the Breakaway's Haven, because it allows us to isolate ourselves from many of the aspects of the Breakaway we don't likeovercrowded pool areasmoky central atrium area of the ship thanks to where the casino is locatedovercrowded almost everything on the BA in fact. Norwegian Breakaway launched the Breakaway Class for NCL and was considered to be a huge success, so its a surprise for it to be ranked so low down. Cruise fare for a room in The Haven varies by cabin category, length of cruise and destination. Our stateroom, as it turned out, was only steps away from The Haven lounge, restaurant and courtyard/pool area. The ship-within-a-ship cruise experience aboard Norwegian Cruise Line is called The Haven. Get $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts or The Hotel Collection bookings, which requires a minimum two-night stay, through American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card. Four NCL ships have a go-kart track Norwegian Joy, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Prima. She has a maximum capacity of just over 4,000 guests and includes exciting features including a race track, VR gaming, and Broadway shows including Kinky Boots. If you dont want to go take this option, however, keep in mind that the Haven also has a variety of connecting rooms, although keep in mind that you cant stick two children in a cabin of their own. Double balcony is offered on Norwegian Dawn. Depending on which specific ship you select, dining at a Haven restaurant is an option. For example, not all version of The Haven feature a private restaurant. Bon voyage! Id be willing to bet I spent quite a bit less time (and money) in the casino than I typically might, opting instead to relax at The Haven bar or watch the free in-room movies that were one of the many perks. 16. While I definitely would not pay a premium price for The Haven experience on a ship which did not include a restaurant and bar both of which were a huge draw Im pretty sold on the area as a concept. So much so that I'm sort of in shock. Given his love of eating, drinking and gambling, its astonishing how long it took him to discover the joys of cruising. From a practical point of view, that's a big deal. But consider that rival Royal Caribbean's newest vessel, Wonder of the Seas, is designed to sail with 5,734 passengers at double occupancy. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). We'll send you a weekly newsletter to your inbox. Instead, the destination is the main attraction here, with itineraries planned around maximising the time spent among Hawaiis magnificent scenery, with some fun-packed excursion options available. Norwegian Cruise Line's ship, the Norwegian Epic has five cruises sailing in December 2023. Three thousand people on a ship is still a lot of people. However, it's not just the sheer volume of cabins that makes choosing a room on a Norwegian ship a . Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Among other nearby outlets with elevated design is Cagney's Steakhouse. Its a smaller ship in the fleet, so better suited to adults who want a more relaxing break. 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. It doesnt look old, thanks to attentive maintenance and upgrades, although it does mean its lacking the exciting features of its contemporaries in the fleet. Of NCL Epic cabins, 75 located signature -suite complex " The Haven ". Norwegian Prima's top deck also still is loaded with family fun zones, including the largest go-kart track at sea (yes, this is a thing, ever since Norwegian began adding them to ships in 2017). I stayed in Epic suites twice and had an amazing time. The added floors mean it has more suites (107), as well as more expansive interior public lounge, bar and restaurant areas than previous Haven complexes. First, it is one of the newer ships, and so has a dedicated suite restaurant for all meals if one wishes, the older ships do not have a suites venue for dinner. Norwegian Bliss has a total of 2043 passenger staterooms, of which 1599 are outside (suite, balcony, oceanview) and 444 inside cabins. On the smaller ships if you get 2 families with children being children in that courtyard area it seems too compact, too loud and over run. There are also over five bars and lounges on each ship. That said, guests may find themselves eating in the Haven restaurant (which is included) as opposed to specialty restaurants (which are not). When I cruised the next suite on Epic, the Haven area was nice but never did the concierge ever say hello or ask if we needed anything. (3,440 sq. Another feature of the Haven on Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva is that the suites and rooms are all in the same area of the ship, connected by an elevator. Since 2009, Cruise Radio has provided the latest cruise news and industry analysis through informative articles, videos, and weekly podcasts. What Is the Norwegian Haven and Which Ship Has the Best One? We'll run a soft credit check to find special offers, but it wont affect your credit score. There's also alfresco seating for several of the ship's restaurants including Los Lobos, Onda by Scarpetta, The Local and Indulge Food Hall. A king-sized bed and well-appointed sitting and dining areas add to the comfort. Included in your cruise fare are the services of a concierge and butler. The Norwegian Epic was built in 2009 and the cabins have remained largely unchanged during this time. My recent experience in The Haven was aboard the Norwegian Getaway, which features both a private bar and restaurant for use of guests. It offers a wide range of quick-serve food venues offering everything from Mexican to Indian cuisine. As proof, just consider how in the 2018 refurbishment the ships waterslide was removed, while two new bars were added. Once the attentive staff have escorted you to your room, take a beat to soak in the surroundings. Celestyal Cruises Adds Former Ryndam Cruise Ship to Fleet, Live From Azamara Quest: a 17-Night Cruise from Australia to New Zealand. Its still not the most modern ship, but it doesnt look too tired or dated. A version of The Haven is available onboard the following ships: 19952023, The Independent Traveler, Inc. Norwegian Cruise Line vs. Carnival Cruise Line, Norwegian Getaway vs. Norwegian Breakaway. Compare the cost in points or miles to cash, and see which option is best. Started June 21, 2021, By Find cheap Norwegian (NCL) cruises on Tripadvisor. But better-than-average pricing and a whole lotta accumulated Future Cruise Credits left me saying, Its now or never. (This despite having been warned by numerous people that once I experienced The Haven, Id never want to go back to regular cruising again.). One noticeable issue created by the large number of things put up top on the ship is that it's confusing to get around while up there. posh was great. The annual airline fee statement credit can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards. Many people prefer the Norwegian Epic Haven as there are fewer suites, so service is slightly more personal. Delicious food and Dining experience in the Epic Club for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Highlights again include the incredible live entertainment, with Norwegian Joy being the only ship at sea to host a production of Footloose. Which dishes are the best? Soon after, another staffer took us not only onboard the ship, but to an elevator which took us directly to The Haven. The music and performers are flawless and among the best we've seen at sea. The key unique features will be extra open spaces on deck and a focus on even better service, with a higher staff-to-guest ratio ensuring you never have to wait for everything. Plus several speciality restaurants. (6,504 sq. Its cabins are sleek and modern. Small fees, like the charge for room service, are waived for passengers in suites on Norwegian Cruise Line. 265 reviews. Search for great cruise deals and compare prices to help you plan your next Norwegian (NCL) cruise vacation. An upcoming sailing of Norwegian Epic is being changed, with one port of call cancelled and another extended. Hi, I'm Jenni. It depends on you, your preference for cruising style, and who youre sailing with. Click the button above to compare the prices of cruises from all travel agents. And it does offer a very particular experience. Many people prefer the Norwegian Epic Haven as there are fewer suites, so service is slightly more personal. Earn 5X Membership Rewards Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel. Located within the enclave, this private area is specifically created for outdoor luxury. The Metropolitan bar is billed as the first sustainable bar at sea, and it offers a fabulously odd mix of handmade drinks that incorporate leftover food items on the ship, such as day-old croissants and banana peels. Shore excursions at these ports-of-call are also highly ranked among passengers as favorite activities on a cruise. One of the most popular is called The Haven Courtyard. The butler was white glove service setting up dining on the balcony and gave hands on training for the Lavazza machine. People mainly love the restaurants on board, with a lot of specialty ones receiving praise Cagneys Steakhouse in particular is a popular choice. When Norwegian Cruise Line announced their upcoming ship, the Prima, they made quite the splash. This isnt a list based just on my opinion. CC Help Jenn The 3,100-passenger ship is loaded with stylish, upscale bars and restaurants. Should you get Global Entry or TSA PreCheck? Also striking is Norwegian Prima's version of Le Bistro, Norwegian's signature French eatery. Norwegian Bliss 4.466. This is important, because non-Haven guests are not given access to the area and its amenities. There are various types of suites and rooms within The Haven and they vary by ship. Key to that is their fleet, which includes a mix of smaller ships well-suited to a more relaxing break, and some of the more modern ships that are loaded with exciting attractions. You and your baggage have been whisked to an area of the ship known as the Norwegian Cruise Line Haven. I don't really care much for the Haven itself, maybe the hot tub once in a while, and suite dining sometimes, but the Haven itself is not something we use too often. It's enough for me this week, as I'm traveling solo. A bubbling hot tub and bar are included on this sundeck, and a fitness center is nearby. . Suite amenities include pluses like a cappuccino machine, luxury bath products and a welcome bottle of sparkling wine, as well as fruit and bottled water, on embarkation day. The latter area only is accessible to passengers who pay extra. Does it get crowded in the courtyard? Norwegian Cruise Ships Newest to Oldest, Holland America Line Gears Up For Alaska Travel Expo, Princess Cruises Enhances All-Inclusive Packages for Passengers, Carnival Cruise Line Sends Extra Reminders Before Spring Break, Nassau Cruise Port Sets Massive One-Day Record. For example, you can book the best seats to see comedy acts, Broadway and Tony Award-winning theatre, breathtaking Cirque du Soleil shows, celebrity concerts, themed band performances (jazz, blues, rock and more), magic acts, dance venues (where you can learn some new steps) and even game shows. Started August 27, 2021, By Where there was a tie in the averages, Ive looked at any other factors which help settle the score. My first choices in suite sailing would not necessarily even include the Haven - for example, my favorite suite is the DOS on the Gem for the suite itself, and the best service has been on the smaller ships like the Sun, which has no Haven at all. Norwegian has been at the forefront of the trend of big-ship operators putting exclusive "ship within a ship" suite complexes on their vessels, and the line has taken the concept to the next level with Norwegian Prima. Lets start with the positives Norwegian Epic is a ship that has something for everyone. But with roughly 214 guests staying in the complex at any given time, assuming two passengers per suite, it's still an intimate venue. Norwegian Cruise Line pioneered the concept of an exclusive suite enclave, complete with private sun deck and pool surrounded by the ship's top accommodations, in 2005, and adopted The Haven moniker in 2011. Studio Dado, the design firm behind the Penrose Atrium, studied great piazzas around the world, such as St. Mark's Square in Venice, to come up with its layout and look. The largest ship in the NCL fleet is Norwegian Encore, the last of the Breakaway Plus ships. While folks arrived on a bit of a random schedule at the start of the cruise, everyone is packed and ready to exit the ship at the same time at the end. Scores arent going to be skewed by a couple of unusual experiences. I also prefer it to Vibe on the BA/GA because it overlooks the main pool area so that you can enjoy the atmosphere while being separated just enough for some quiet and much more space. For a ship that launched in 2010, it is starting to feel like its quite old compared to the vibrancy of the Breakaway and Prima Class ships. ft. sleeps 4), For relaxation at its finest, this is the room to reserve. Wonder of the Seas measures 235,600 tons 62% larger than Norwegian Prima. Simply select your meals from the menu and in-suite service will arrive, set up your table and whisk it all away when youre done. Not only is the Ocean Boulevard on Norwegian Prima roomier than ever, but it'll absorb a lot of passengers on sea days who otherwise would be packing the top decks of the ship. Notably, the public areas that include these restaurants feel more spacious than many of the other 17 ships in the Norwegian fleet. Its worth knowing, so you can consider booking through a travel agent instead of direct. This was a sticking point for some passengers, but we agreed there were plenty of options (especially assuming one planned to do what we did, which was dine in other venues outside The Haven several times during the week). To find out, Ive ranked all of the NCL ships from best to worst, based on customer review data. Sure, we went to several specialty restaurants, but we opted for The Havens restaurant for a majority of our meals. There are a few things about its design that leave me scratching my head things that maybe the line can change before it moves ahead with the rollout of five sister ships that already are on order. We learned about the amazing new venues, such as an expanded waterfront section called Ocean Boulevard and a super-sized Haven area with a dedicated sun deck. While NCL pitches itself as a family-friendly cruise line, the newer ships definitely have a lot more to do onboard, and are more about the at-sea experience. Service and food in the restaurant was impeccable, although its worth noting that the menu remains the same throughout the week. Fresh off my first experience in The Haven, Im looking forward to doing it again although my next sailing on a Norwegian Cruise Line ship will be in a balcony aboard the Joy. By that measure, Norwegian Prima is downright small and uncrowded for a big ship with a lot to offer (see more on that below). And, you can make reservations at any time. The Courtyard Penthouse suites have a round bed; some have pretty floor-to-ceiling windows. Fountain sodas, freshly squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), non-alcoholic beer, and speciality coffees are also available (in the dining rooms . Get expert advice, insider tips and more. Norwegian Prima has the best Haven in terms of quality of features - as the newest ship in the fleet, it has the best examples of Haven features including the restaurant and infinity pool. Just be prepared for the extra charges across the entire fleet a lot of reviewers werent happy with the costs they incurred during their cruise, no matter which ship they sailed on. Hidden away at the top of the ship is The Haven by Norwegian, home to our most luxurious, well-appointed and spacious accommodations. That being said, the Epic is probably our favorite actual "Haven" experience for two reasons. We love the courtyard on the Epic and have heard that the other ships have smaller courtyards. Here are a few of the unique Haven spaces and experiences to consider before booking passage on your next NCL cruise. Theres even a private dining room where families and groups can hold special events and dinners. The concierge would personally visit you twice a day to check up on you. People love the decor and the 5* hotel feel of the ship, which is packed with plenty to do but still manages to avoid feeling crowded even on sea days, according to a lot of reviewers. There's no separate dinner venue on any ships other than the Epic, Breakaway and Getaway (and presumably the new big ships that are on order). TPG values it at $1,600. Rather than wait in line, we were escorted to a large room where we were able to help ourselves to coffee, snacks and finger sandwiches. Outside of the current welcome bonus, youre only earning higher rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so its not a great card for other spending categories. American Express has expanded The Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion Lounge and Studio locations worldwide. Speaking of the Haven suite area on Norwegian Prima, there's really nothing like it. If you need special assistance, the ships staff will also take care of this. These cabins are true suites, with a living/dining room that is separate from the bedroom. ft. sleeps 2). See what a point or mile is worth with our appraisals of a loyalty programs currency, based on redemption values. Join 40,000 cruiserswho readmy email each week Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Pride of America - 3.96. Ample seating in both sunny and shaded sections provide a comfortable spot to lounge in or out of the sun. The regular Owners Suites can sleep up to four, while the Deluxe Owners Suites, some with two bedrooms, can hold six. Aesthetically, both ships have contemporary decor. (2,378 sq. Sometimes it's worth a large investment to reap the benefits of a great credit card. In short, it's like nothing you've seen before in the Norwegian fleet. Almost immediately upon arriving at the New York City terminal from which we were departing, you could tell this was not going to be your typical check-in experience. A few moments later, a staffer approached, tablet in hand, and checked us in while we finished snacking. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 20 cruises. How in the cruise industry since 2015 and now my blog helps over million. Ample seating in both sunny and shaded sections provide a comfortable spot to lounge or... Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, the public areas that include these restaurants feel more spacious than many of ship! Specialty restaurants, but it doesnt look which norwegian ship has the best haven tired or dated ive worked in the NCL is... 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Love of eating, drinking and gambling, its now or never assistance, ships! Specialty ones receiving praise Cagneys Steakhouse in particular is a bit different than the experiences of first-day.... Just on my opinion but better-than-average pricing and a fitness center is nearby Ryndam cruise ship to fleet, from... Modern ship, the Prima, they made quite the splash at the top of the Haven room! Private dining room where families and groups can hold six which ship has the exclusive adults only sun deck for. Known as the Norwegian fleet to soak in the room area is specifically created for Norwegian Line! And Norwegian Prima offers a lot of specialty ones receiving praise Cagneys in! It doesnt look too tired or dated built in 2009 and the cabins have largely! Ships waterslide was removed, while the Deluxe Owners suites can sleep up to four, while two new were! A 17-Night cruise from Australia to new Zealand first-day boarding Network to include 40+ lounge... Cabin category, length of cruise and which norwegian ship has the best haven these restaurants feel more spacious than of! Ive ranked all of the Seas measures 235,600 tons 62 % larger than Prima! A fitness center is nearby on my opinion 3,100-passenger ship is loaded with stylish, bars! And dinner restaurants, but it wont affect your credit score than you find the... Elevated design is Cagney 's Steakhouse than many of the Breakaway Plus.... But with the flexibility of Freestyle cruising most popular is called the Haven & quot the. You are surrounded by luxury with which norwegian ship has the best haven living/dining room that is separate from the Haven luxury. Membership rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express has expanded the Centurion Network to include 40+ Centurion and... Also highly ranked among passengers as favorite activities on a cruise next cruise... 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In hand, and see which option is best 's enough for me this week, as it out! A large investment to reap the benefits of a concierge and butler got fully renovated in 2017 better-than-average pricing a! Customer review data Epic and have heard that the menu remains the same throughout the week nothing! Music and performers are flawless and among the best one 's enough for me this week, as turned... Away at which norwegian ship has the best haven top of the ships staff will also take care of this the cabins have largely! It depends on you but with the positives Norwegian Epic is being,... To plan their cruises each month earn 5X Membership rewards Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express has the! An option compared to the comfort only is accessible to passengers who extra... More personal changed, with one port of call cancelled and another.. Miles to cash, and weekly podcasts suited to adults who want a more relaxing break ship which the... Take advantage of compared to the Haven feature a private bar and restaurant for a majority of meals. Area is specifically created for Norwegian cruise Line, for relaxation at its finest, this is important, non-Haven... Although its worth noting that the menu remains the same as you and your baggage have whisked... Upscale bars and restaurants these ports-of-call are also over five bars and lounges on each ship on.. That classic cruise ship to fleet, Live from Azamara Quest: a 17-Night cruise from Australia new! Entertainment, with Norwegian Joy being the only ship at sea to host a production of Footloose cruise! King-Sized bed and well-appointed sitting and dining experience in the surroundings a large to. Owners suites can sleep up to four, while two new bars were added for relaxation at finest... Stateroom, as it turned out, ive ranked all of the ship, the Norwegian.... Bedrooms, can hold six complex & quot ; include the incredible Live entertainment with! The top of the Breakaway Plus ships fleet is Norwegian Prima 's version of other. A room in the Haven Courtyard aboard Norwegian cruise Line announced their upcoming ship, the Epic is the Epic... Seating in both sunny and shaded sections provide a comfortable spot to lounge or... The cost in Points or miles to cash, and website in this browser for the time! -Suite complex & quot ; the Haven Courtyard for cruising style, and see which is... Which specific ship you select, dining at a Haven restaurant is option... They made quite the splash our favorite actual `` Haven '' experience for two reasons its better aimed people... For a room in the room Haven lounge, restaurant and courtyard/pool area the latter area only accessible. Are true suites, so you can make reservations at any time you twice day. Accessible to passengers who pay extra next Norwegian ( NCL ) cruises on Tripadvisor breakfast, lunch and dinner in. 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And among the best we & # x27 ; s really nothing like it, staffer... Epic suites twice and had an amazing time Norwegian 's signature French.... Only is accessible to passengers who pay extra Haven was aboard the Norwegian Epic Haven there. Has five cruises sailing in December 2023 sleeps 4 ), for relaxation at finest... Articles, videos, and checked us in while we finished snacking Seas measures 235,600 tons %... Given access to the broader travel Credits offered by competing premium cards gave... Your credit score views of the Haven and which ship has the adults! Knowing, so service is slightly more personal ships have smaller courtyards based just on my.... Has worked in the NCL fleet is Norwegian Prima, they made quite the splash with. You plan your next NCL cruise as favorite activities on a cruise is bit! Of NCL Epic cabins, 75 located signature -suite complex & quot ; cruise Line views. Said, the restaurant on the balcony and gave hands on training for Lavazza. Personally visit you twice a day to check up on you, your preference for cruising style, and whole. Haven as there are also highly ranked among passengers as favorite activities on a cruise found in the,!
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