Is this a good last minute deal?

Sorry, I want to help you but not up to date with NCL.

Congfratz on trying a cruise. They are awesome. The timing of your cruise unfortunately is not the best as the current logistics with coming from Canada is troublesome. It can be done but there are hoops to go through. I wish you luck.

Not familiar with studio or inside cabins as we are spoiled and have always gone with a balcony. The current prices and promotions that NCL offers have been around for some time. The offers keep running out but the next offer always seems the same. The overall bottom line does not change much.

We prefer to book direct with NCL but it depends on how much research you want to do on your own. Being a first time cruiser I would suggest using a TA that specializes in cruises at least until you are familiar with things. Then consider booking on your own if you wish.

I think you have alot of homework to do before committing to a big ticket item. nowadays, theres no guarantee it'll actually go where the itinerary says.....I've never booked an inside cabin, but basically its just a place to sleep, shower and stash your stuff. TV on all the lines suck, although I don't think you want to spend time in a steel box watching TV anyway. Just be careful where you wind up...whats above and below you...noise etc...Learn to read the deck plans..its a good habit to get into...Those offers are always out there from NCL, seems like...we cruise them alot, and those "free" offers are baked into the price. If I remember right, they may have specific cabins for solo travelers. That "single supplement" can be an ugly thing... We have always done the booking and dining reservations etc ourselves, but I vaguely remember way back when we were newbies and wish we had professional help. Sorry I can't recommend anyone. The days of "sitting down" with a travel agent are over. Usually its just a voice on the phone or sometimes not even that. I've found the reps at NCL are pretty pleasant and helpful, by comparison to others. You cruise enough, you'll get a "personal" cruise consultant...ours is like an old friend...and yes, get the s/a insurance...you don't want to be exploring the inside of an ambulance dockside while they "negotiate" your fees if you're unfortunate enough to need an evac...

As far as tours go, ignore the hype from the lines...make your reservations yourself, AFTER reading reviews of what other passengers have said about the tours. That way you'll get a realistic picture of what you're spending your $$ on...and you can do it from home, instead of onboard with 1,000 of your newest friends in line looking over your shoulder. Cruising can still be a grand experience, even now. GOOD LUCK!!!!!

I wish I could be of help. But unfortunately, I have no experience with NCL nor being a single cruiser. Hopefully, some will answer you that has some information.