Ranking Every Norwegian Cruise Line Ship: Best to Worst

Thinking about taking a cruise with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)? NCL offers a great mix of ships to suit different tastes. Whether you’re after a relaxing getaway on a smaller ship or an action-packed adventure on a modern mega-ship, NCL has something for you.

Three Norwegian Cruise Line ships at sea, featuring vibrant, artistic hull designs with marine motifs, symbolizing the lively and colorful experience offered aboard these floating resorts.

But which NCL ship is the best? We’ve looked at current review trends and ship features to rank the ships from top to bottom. This list will help you pick the perfect NCL ship for your next cruise.

Which Norwegian Cruise Ship Should You Choose?

Review-based rankings can shift depending on the source and the year, but the ships that tend to rise to the top are the ones with strong overall guest feedback, good dining, and lots to do onboard.

Newer ships like Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Aqua, and Norwegian Prima often score especially well in site rankings, while older ships can still be a great choice if you prefer a more classic cruise feel. That means the “best” ship really depends on what kind of cruise you want.

The Best NCL Ships According to Guest Feedback

1. Norwegian Bliss

The Norwegian Cruise Line Bliss sails through clear blue waters, with green islands visible in the distance. The ship's expansive decks are filled with amenities, including pools and lounging areas, showcasing its luxurious and spacious design against a stunning seascape backdrop.

If you’re after a ship that feels modern and has a lot to do, Norwegian Bliss is a great pick. It’s especially popular with cruisers who like a mix of entertainment, dining, and outdoor space. Guests also tend to like the ship’s bigger-ship feel without it being too overwhelming.

2. Norwegian Encore

A colorful Norwegian Encore cruise ship sailing on the blue ocean, featuring a vibrant, multicolored hull artwork, under a clear sky.

Norwegian Encore is a strong choice if you like the same general style as Bliss but want a ship with a few different features. It has plenty of dining, entertainment, and activity options, making it a good fit for both families and couples. It’s one of those ships that offers a lot without feeling boring at sea.

3. Norwegian Viva

This image features the Norwegian Viva cruise ship gliding through vast blue ocean waters under a clear sky. The ship's hull displays a sleek, wave-inspired design in shades of blue and white, complementing its modern and luxurious aesthetic. The open sea and vibrant sky enhance the sense of freedom and adventure associated with cruising.

Norwegian Viva is one of NCL’s newer ships and it delivers that polished, contemporary feel a lot of cruisers want. The ship is packed with modern design touches, lots of dining choices, and a strong entertainment lineup. If you like newer ships with a more upscale look, this one is worth a close look.

4. Norwegian Aqua

Norwegian Aqua cruise ship sailing through open blue water, viewed from above at an angle.

Norwegian Aqua is another newer NCL ship that has made a strong impression with cruisers. It brings a fresh layout, modern features, and plenty of space for relaxing and having fun. If you want one of the latest ships in the fleet, this is an easy one to consider.

5. Norwegian Prima

This image showcases the Norwegian Prima cruise ship cutting through the deep blue ocean under a pristine, clear sky. The ship’s hull features sleek, wave-inspired designs in shades of blue and white, emphasizing its modern and elegant aesthetic. Its expansive decks and luxurious build highlight the grandeur and innovation of this state-of-the-art vessel.

Norwegian Prima is known for its sleek design and more open, spacious feel. It gives off a more upscale vibe than some of NCL’s older ships, and many guests like the way it blends relaxation with new onboard experiences. If you want a newer ship that feels different from the older fleet, Prima stands out.

6. Norwegian Luna

Norwegian Luna cruise ship sailing across calm turquoise water under a clear blue sky, shown from an elevated angled view.

Norwegian Luna is one of NCL’s newest ships and sits in the Prima Plus class. It’s built to offer a spacious, modern cruising experience with lots of dining, entertainment, and activity options. If you want one of the very latest NCL ships, Luna is a strong contender.

7. Norwegian Joy

This image showcases the Norwegian Joy cruise ship sailing through serene, icy waters surrounded by towering mountains and a clear blue sky. The vibrant hull art contrasts beautifully with the pristine natural environment, emphasizing the ship's modern design amidst the rugged beauty of the landscape. The scene evokes a sense of adventure and luxury in a remote, picturesque setting.

Norwegian Joy is a great all-around ship with a lot to keep you busy. It’s a good option if you want plenty of dining and entertainment without feeling packed in. Many cruisers also like its more polished, resort-style atmosphere.

8. Norwegian Pearl

This image depicts the Norwegian Pearl cruise ship cruising through calm blue ocean waters under a clear, sunny sky. The ship is adorned with colorful pearl-themed hull art, giving it a vibrant and festive appearance. Its sleek design and expansive decks reflect the luxury and grandeur of this maritime vessel.

Norwegian Pearl is a solid mid-sized ship that appeals to people who like a more classic cruise experience. It has a loyal following because it feels comfortable, easy to get around, and still offers plenty to do onboard. If you want a ship with a relaxed feel, Pearl is a good fit.

9. Norwegian Gem

This image features the Norwegian Gem cruise ship cutting through calm ocean waters under a clear blue sky. The ship’s hull is decorated with colorful gem-themed artwork, enhancing its sleek and festive appearance. A distant shoreline is visible, adding depth to the scene and highlighting the ship’s journey toward or away from port.

Norwegian Gem is another mid-sized ship that many cruisers enjoy for its friendly atmosphere and easygoing layout. It may not have all the flash of the newest ships, but it still gives you a very comfortable cruise. This is the kind of ship people often return to because it feels familiar in a good way.

10. Norwegian Getaway

This image shows the Norwegian Getaway cruise ship sailing through turquoise waters under a partially cloudy sky. The ship's hull is adorned with vibrant tropical-themed artwork, reflecting the lively and luxurious experience it offers. Its sleek and expansive design stands out against the calm, open ocean, emphasizing its grandeur.

Norwegian Getaway is a strong choice if you care a lot about dining and entertainment. It offers a lively onboard experience with lots of things to do throughout the day and night. It’s a ship that works well for travelers who want a lot of variety.

11. Norwegian Jewel

This image features the Norwegian Jewel cruise ship gliding through calm, emerald-green waters, surrounded by lush green mountains and a cascading waterfall in the background. The ship's colorful hull art adds a striking contrast to the serene natural landscape, emphasizing its grandeur and modern design. The scene showcases a picturesque and tranquil cruising experience.

Norwegian Jewel is a smaller ship, but it still has a lot going for it. It tends to appeal to cruisers who like a more relaxed atmosphere and a ship that is easier to navigate. If you want a classic NCL feel without all the bells and whistles of the newest ships, Jewel can be a very nice choice.

12. Norwegian Escape

This image showcases the Norwegian Escape cruise ship sailing through open, deep-blue ocean waters under a cloudy sky. The ship's hull features vibrant marine-themed artwork, adding a touch of playfulness to its sleek, modern design. Its size and elegance emphasize a luxurious cruising experience in a serene maritime setting.

Norwegian Escape is a popular ship for both families and couples because it gives you a wide range of things to do. It has plenty of space to spread out, along with a good mix of dining, entertainment, and relaxing areas. If you like a bigger ship with lots of options, Escape should be on your list.

13. Norwegian Jade

The Norwegian Jade cruise ship docked in the picturesque port of Ålesund, Norway, with its distinctive colorful buildings and majestic mountain backdrop, highlighting the ship's global itineraries.

Norwegian Jade is another solid mid‑sized ship that falls into the “smaller NCL classic” category and is part of the Jewel‑class family. It benefits from updates and still offers a friendly, easygoing onboard atmosphere. If you like a more relaxed vibe than the big mega‑ships, Jade is a good option.

14. Pride of America

This image features the NCL Pride of America cruise ship navigating through the vast ocean under a partly cloudy sky during what appears to be golden hour. The ship's hull displays a patriotic design with red, white, and blue waves and a U.S. flag emblem, reflecting its American theme. The serene open-water setting emphasizes the ship's grandeur and its connection to leisurely exploration.

Pride of America is really about the destination. If Hawaii is your main goal, this ship is a fantastic way to see the islands with an itinerary built around the experience. The ship itself is more understated than some of NCL’s newer vessels, but that’s part of its appeal for many travelers.

15. Norwegian Sky

This image features the Norwegian Sky cruise ship cruising through calm waters at sunset, with a distant city skyline visible on the horizon. The ship’s hull is decorated with vibrant floral artwork, adding a touch of elegance and whimsy to its sleek design. The golden hues of the sky and water create a serene and picturesque atmosphere.

Norwegian Sky is a smaller ship that works well for shorter cruises and a more casual onboard vibe. It doesn’t have all the flashy extras of the big ships, but it still gives you a fun cruise experience. If you want a lighter, easygoing vacation, Sky can be a good match.

16. Norwegian Sun

This image showcases the Norwegian Sun cruise ship sailing through deep blue waters under a clear, vibrant sky. The ship’s hull features bright sun-themed artwork, reflecting its warm and inviting design. The scene exudes a sense of adventure and relaxation, with a distant shoreline visible in the background.

Norwegian Sun is a good option if you want a calmer cruise with a more laid-back feel. It’s a ship that tends to appeal to adults and couples who want to relax and enjoy the itinerary as much as the onboard experience. While it’s not packed with the newest features, it still offers a comfortable cruise.

17. Norwegian Dawn

This image shows the Norwegian Dawn cruise ship cruising through deep blue waters with a distant shoreline faintly visible on the horizon. The ship’s hull is decorated with colorful wave and star-themed artwork, adding a dynamic and cheerful touch to its sleek design. The open sea and expansive sky create a serene and adventurous atmosphere.

Norwegian Dawn offers a more intimate cruise experience than the bigger NCL ships. It’s a good choice if you like a ship that feels easy to get around and has a friendlier, more personal atmosphere. For many cruisers, that smaller-ship feel is exactly the appeal.

18. Norwegian Spirit

This image shows the Norwegian Spirit cruise ship sailing across calm, deep-blue waters under a clear sky. The hull features elegant wave-themed artwork in shades of blue and green, complementing the maritime setting. The ship's streamlined design and the tranquil sea create a sense of elegance and peaceful travel.

Norwegian Spirit has had updates over the years and still offers a nice classic cruise experience. It’s a good fit if you care more about the itinerary and a relaxed onboard vibe than having the newest bells and whistles. Some cruisers really like the simpler feel of this ship.

19. Norwegian Breakaway

This image captures the Norwegian Breakaway cruise ship docked near the vibrant skyline of a city, with colorful, cloud-filled skies during sunset or sunrise. The ship's hull is adorned with lively, artistic designs, reflecting a fun and energetic vibe. The backdrop of tall buildings and a riverboat complements the modern ship, creating a striking blend of urban and maritime elements.

Norwegian Breakaway gives you a lively mix of dining, entertainment, and family-friendly activities. It’s a strong ship if you want a busy onboard experience with lots of choices. This one is a good all-around option for cruisers who want variety.

20. Norwegian Epic

This image shows the Norwegian Epic cruise ship cruising through calm blue ocean waters under a clear, sunny sky. The ship features vibrant, wave-like artwork on its hull and boasts colorful water slides on its top deck, showcasing its family-friendly and adventurous amenities. Its large and modern design emphasizes a luxurious and dynamic cruising experience.

Norwegian Epic is one of the more distinctive ships in the NCL fleet. It has unique cabin types and a layout that some cruisers love and others find a little quirky. If you enjoy a ship that feels different from the norm, Epic can be an interesting pick.

21. Norwegian Star

This image captures the Norwegian Star cruise ship sailing through deep blue ocean waters with a faint shoreline visible in the distance. The ship’s hull features colorful star-themed artwork, giving it a playful and festive appearance. Its sleek design and the surrounding serene seascape create an inviting scene of luxury and relaxation.

Norwegian Star offers a more traditional cruise experience with a relaxed pace. It doesn’t have the same wow factor as the newest ships, but that’s not necessarily a bad thing if you prefer a quieter sailing. Many cruisers appreciate the comfortable, easygoing atmosphere onboard.

Picking Your Perfect NCL Ship

Choosing the right Norwegian Cruise Line ship depends on what you like. Do you want a big ship with lots to do? Or a smaller, quieter one? Newer ships usually have more onboard activities and more modern features, while older ships tend to offer a more classic cruise experience.

Think about who you’re travelling with, too. Families might enjoy the bigger ships with more options. Couples could prefer the quieter feel of smaller ships. No matter what you pick, you’ll still find the friendly NCL vibe that keeps a lot of cruisers coming back.

Related Reading: Avoid These 16 Cabins on NCL

The Top NCL Cruise Ship Class

You’ll love sailing on NCL’s top-rated ships if you enjoy ships with lots of dining, entertainment, and outdoor space. The newer large ships tend to get the most attention from guests because they pack in so many features. That said, smaller ships still have a loyal following and can be a better fit if you want something more relaxed.

The Breakaway Plus Class is a good example of that bigger-ship appeal. These ships usually offer tons of restaurants and activities, so you never feel short on things to do. They’re a strong choice for travelers who want a busy vacation at sea.

Jewel-class ships also have a loyal fan base because they feel more intimate and easier to navigate. They may not have all the newest features, but they still offer a classic cruise experience that many repeat cruisers enjoy. In other words, the “best” class depends on what kind of cruise you want.

Wrapping It Up

NCL’s newer ships tend to be a hit with families and travelers who want the most onboard activities. They pack in more modern features and usually feel more polished than the older ships. If you like excitement at sea, the newer ships are usually a smart pick.

That said, don’t count out the older ships. They often offer great food, fun entertainment, and some of the best itineraries around. If you like a more classic cruise experience, one of the older NCL ships may be exactly what you want.

Be ready for extra costs, no matter which ship you pick. Many people are surprised by how much they spend onboard, which leads me to my final tip: You may want to think about a drinks package if you know you’ll be buying beverages throughout the cruise.