Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Bliss is one of Norwegian’s newest ships and one of the largest in the world, yet it strikes a magical balance between full-on fun and relaxing tranquility. Recently launched in June 2018, Bliss takes many of the familiar amenities of a Norwegian ship, from the nightlife and specialty restaurants to the fully equipped sports deck, and brings them to the next level. While it spends much of the year sailing to tropical destinations in the Caribbean and the Mexican Riviera, Bliss truly shines in the summer when it sails week-long cruises to Alaska from Seattle.

In 2019, Norwegian Bliss scored the top spot for overall quality in our roundup of the Best Norwegian Ships. Despite its impressive array of activities and first-rate entertainment, the ship received some of its best reviews for its cabins, restaurants, and bar scene, which is fronted by Mixx and The District Brew House. If your ideal cruise involves a comfortable lounge chair and a cocktail, you'll enjoy the adults-only Spice H20 sundeck and the upscale Vibe Beach Club. Another highlight is the full-service Mandara Spa and Thermal Suite.

For the kids, Norwegian has developed a bigger, better water park featuring the Aqua Racer waterslide. There's also miniature golf, laser tag, and go-kart racing on the world's largest track at sea. Families can take advantage of complimentary activities provided by Splash Academy, the Guppies Nursery, and the Entourage Teen Club. One of NCL's strengths is its top-rated entertainment, including live bands, stand-up comedians, and award-winning musicals like Happy Hour Prohibition.

Norwegian Bliss cruises depart from homeports in Miami, New York City, Los Angeles, Seattle, and Vancouver, British Columbia. The Alaskan cruise season for Norwegian Bliss begins in May and runs through September. At the beginning and the end of the season, Bliss sails to the Mexican Riviera from L.A. before repositioning to the East Coast, and itineraries leaving from Miami and New York City visit ports of call in the Bahamas and the Caribbean.

This Ship is Best For

With family fun zones, adult tranquility spaces, and diverse dining, Norwegian Bliss is a top choice for a value-oriented family vacation, along with couples and solo travelers.

Norwegian Bliss Ship Highlights

• Three swimming pools and nine whirlpools
• Five waterslides, including the Aqua Racer
• Go-kart racing, miniature golf, and laser tag
• Childcare at the Guppies Nursery
• Splash Academy kids' activities
• Entourage Teen Club and video arcade
• Freestyle dining and entertainment
• Thirteen specialty restaurants and cafes
• Five complimentary dining venues
• Broadway shows, including Jersey Boys and ¡Havana!
• More than a dozen bars and lounges
• Live bands at The Cavern Club
• Comedy and dance venues
• Exclusive Vibe Beach Club
• Adults-only Spice H20
• Full-service Mandara Spa
• Salt room and thermal suite
• Pulse fitness center

Things to Consider

Although NCL is known for its competitive fares and Free at Sea promotions, the line charges for many onboard activities, such as go-kart racing and laser tag.