Remember when you had to pack a tuxedo for a cruise? Or when you were told exactly what time to eat dinner and who to sit with?
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) looked at those rules and threw them overboard.
They call it “Freestyle Cruising,” and it’s exactly what it sounds like. No schedules, no stuffy dress codes, and no “assigned seating.” This is the holiday for people who want the variety of a massive resort, the thrill of a theme park, and the chilled vibes of a beach bar—all on one ship.
If you want to race go-karts at sea, watch a Broadway musical, and then eat steak in your shorts at 10 pm, NCL is your line.
Destinations and Departures: No Flights Necessary
NCL loves the UK market. They base some of their best ships right here in Southampton, so you can start your holiday with a drive down the M3 instead of a stressful flight.
From Southampton: You can sail to the wild beauty of Iceland and Norway, or head south for a 10-14 night sunshine fix in France, Spain, and Portugal.
Fly-Cruises: Want to go further? NCL is arguably the best line for Hawaii (they are the only cruise line that sails there year-round) and Alaska.
Great Stirrup Cay: In the Caribbean, you’ll visit their private island. It’s a beach day without the hassle—snorkelling, paddleboarding, or just snoozing in a cabana.
Ships: Floating Playgrounds
NCL ships are designed to keep you busy. The fleet is split between the massive “Breakaway Plus” class and the stunning new “Prima” class.
The Prima Class: The newest ships (Norwegian Prima, Viva) are game-changers. They feel more upscale, with a massive outdoor deck called Ocean Boulevard that wraps around the ship, featuring glass bridges where you can walk over the ocean.
The Speedway: Yes, actual Go-Karts. On the top deck. You can race your family on a three-level track while looking out at the sea. It is exactly as fun as it sounds.
Galaxy Pavilion: A VR wonderland. Escape rooms, racing simulators, and flying theatres. It’s a hit with teenagers (and adults who refuse to grow up).
Rooms: From Solo to VIP
NCL is famous for fixing two of cruising’s biggest problems: solo travel and luxury privacy.
Studio Cabins: If you are travelling alone, NCL is the best in the business. They have dedicated “Studio” areas with cool, funky cabins designed for one—no “single supplement” penalty. Plus, you get access to a private Studio Lounge to meet other solo travellers.
The Haven: This is the “ship within a ship.” It’s a private, keycard-access-only area at the top of the ship. You get a 24-hour butler, a private pool, a private restaurant, and the best suites. It’s 5-star luxury, but you can still run out and play laser tag with the rest of the ship.
Things to Do
Boredom is not an option here.
The Slides: We’re talking Ocean Loops—a waterslide that drops the floor from under you and sends you shooting out over the side of the ship in a clear tube.
Entertainment: NCL has the best shows at sea, period. We aren’t talking tribute bands; we’re talking full Broadway and West End productions like Beetlejuice, Six, and Jersey Boys.
Syd Norman’s Pour House: A rock ‘n’ roll bar with a live house band that plays Fleetwood Mac and Eagles covers. It’s always packed and always a great night out.
Dining Options
“Freestyle Dining” means you eat where you want, when you want. There are no fixed times.
Complimentary: You have main dining rooms and the Garden Café buffet, but also 24-hour pubs like The Local (great for fish and chips or wings at midnight).
Specialty Dining: This is where NCL shines.
Cagney’s Steakhouse: A proper American steakhouse.
Le Bistro: Fancy French dining (the escargots are a must).
Teppanyaki: Japanese hibachi where the chefs put on a show.
Onda by Scarpetta: Serious Italian food on the newer ships.
Good to Know
Free at Sea: You will see this upgrade everywhere. For a set price (usually around £149-£249 depending on cruise length), you get the “Premium Beverage Package” (open bar), specialty dining meals, Wi-Fi minutes, and shore excursion credit. Get it. It is almost always cheaper than buying drinks separately.
Dress Code: There isn’t one. NCL calls it “Resort Casual.” Jeans, t-shirts, and polos are fine pretty much everywhere, even at dinner. If you want to dress up, you can, but you definitely don’t have to.
Service Charges: A daily gratuity is added to your account. It’s standard for the industry, but just factor it in.
Ready to ditch the schedule?
Browse our latest Norwegian Cruise Line deals below. Whether you want to race around a track in the Mediterranean or chill out in The Haven, do it your way.
