Frommer's Review
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) offers an informal and upbeat onboard atmosphere on the Norwegian Sun, sailing from Vancouver, and the Norwegian Sky and Norwegian Star, both sailing from Seattle. The line excels at activities, and its recreational and fitness programs are among the best in the industry. Though the onboard food has been described as unmemorable, NCL recently inaugurated what has become a very popular casual-dining policy that allows passengers to dine when they want pretty much any time between 5:30pm and midnight, with whomever they want, dressed however they want.
In Alaska, NCL offers an Alaskan lecturer, wine tastings, art auctions, trapshooting, cooking demonstrations, craft and dance classes, an incentive fitness program, and bingo, among other activities. Passengers can choose from a good selection of soft-adventure shore excursions, including hiking, biking, and kayaking. Entertainment is generally strong and includes Vegas-style musical productions. The top-notch kids' program includes an activity room, video games, an ice-cream bar, and guaranteed babysitting aboard, plus sessions with park rangers and escorted shore excursions. The line offers 7-night Inside Passage cruises.
Passenger Profile -- In Alaska, the demographic tends more toward retirees than on the line's warmer-climate sailings, but you'll find families as well, including grandparents bringing along the grandkids.
Ships -- The 2,050-passenger Norwegian Sun is the first ship built with NCL's new "freestyle" dining policy in mind, as evidenced by the nine separate onboard restaurants. An airy eight-story glass atrium welcomes visitors in the lobby. More than two-thirds of the guest rooms (about 650 in all) have ocean views, and closet space is more generous than on other NCL ships. The 2,240-passenger Norwegian Star has no fewer than 11 rooms in which people can eat -- depending on the time of day. The Star is well equipped for the sports-minded and active vacationer -- in addition to the fitness center, there are three heated pools, a jogging/walking track, and a wide array of sports facilities. The 2,466-passenger Norwegian Pearl is getting lots of attention from the company, and it shows. Sample rates per person: Lowest-price inside cabin $100, lowest outside cabin $122, lowest suite from $243 per day for a 7-night cruise.
Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without
notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before
planning your trip.
