Norwegian Cruise Line has been pushing the boundaries of ship design for decades, but nothing in its history quite matches what the Norwegian Prima Class has brought to the fleet. Launched in 2022, this new generation of NCL ships reimagines what a cruise ship can feel like, trading crowded decks for open-air promenades, raising the bar on suite luxury, and introducing dining and entertainment concepts that older ships simply don’t have. But with more than two dozen ships across several classes, how does the Prima Class actually stack up against the rest of the Norwegian fleet? Here’s everything you need to know.
What is the Norwegian Prima Class?
The Norwegian Prima Class is Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest family of ships. It includes six vessels: Norwegian Prima (2022), Norwegian Viva (2023), Norwegian Aqua (2025), Norwegian Luna (2026), Norwegian Aura (2027), and the upcoming Norwegian Bella, which debuts in May 2028 as the final ship in the class. The last four are “Prima Plus” ships. Each is larger than Prima and Viva, with added attractions and more room for guests.
What sets the Prima Class apart from other NCL ships is space. These ships carry fewer guests for their size than older classes like Breakaway and Breakaway Plus, so decks feel more open and less crowded. They also introduced Ocean Boulevard, an outdoor promenade that wraps around the ship. Infinity pools, glass-floored walkways, and expanded Haven suites raise the bar on design, while fresh dining concepts and headline attractions add new reasons to explore.
Older NCL ships still have plenty going for them. Breakaway Plus ships like Norwegian Bliss and Encore pack in go-kart tracks, laser tag, and Broadway shows. Smaller ships like the Jewel Class reach ports that the biggest ships can’t. Choose the Prima Class if you want the newest designs, more outdoor space, and modern luxury. Choose another NCL class if you want lower fares, high-energy attractions, or more port variety.
Related: Norwegian Bella: First look at NCL’s newest and final Prima Class ship
How does Prima Class size and capacity compare to other NCL ships?
Here’s where the Prima Class really shines. These ships aren’t the biggest in NCL’s fleet by guest count, but they offer some of the most space per person.
Norwegian Prima weighs in at about 142,500 gross tons and carries roughly 3,100 guests. Norwegian Breakaway is a similar size at about 146,600 gross tons, yet it carries nearly 4,000 guests. That gap means shorter lines, roomier pool decks, and quieter corners to claim as your own.
|
Ship |
Class |
Approx. Gross Tonnage |
Approx. Guests |
Approx. Length |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Norwegian Prima |
Prima |
142,500 |
3,100 |
965 feet |
|
Norwegian Aqua |
Prima Plus |
156,300 |
3,570 |
1,056 feet |
|
Norwegian Bella |
Prima Plus |
Largest in class |
3,901 |
1,129 feet |
|
Norwegian Encore |
Breakaway Plus |
169,000 |
4,000 |
1,094 feet |
|
Norwegian Getaway |
Breakaway |
146,600 |
4,000 |
1,068 feet |
|
Norwegian Epic |
Epic |
155,900 |
4,100 |
1,081 feet |
|
Norwegian Jewel |
Jewel |
93,500 |
2,400 |
965 feet |
Good to know: Guest counts are based on double occupancy. Ships can carry more people when families fill third and fourth berths.
What signature features make the Prima Class different?
The Prima Class introduced several design ideas that set it apart from older NCL ships. Some features also appear on earlier classes, but the Prima Class often takes them a step further.
What is Ocean Boulevard on NCL?
Ocean Boulevard is an outdoor promenade that wraps around the ship, and it’s one of the Prima Class’s defining features. Picture a breezy waterfront stroll lined with open-air restaurants, bars, and infinity pools. Along the way you’ll find Infinity Beach, a coastal-style retreat with views right from the water. Prima and Viva also have Oceanwalk, a pair of glass-floored bridges that let you walk out over the sea.
Breakaway and Breakaway Plus ships have a similar space called The Waterfront. It’s a lovely outdoor dining and bar area, but it doesn’t wrap around the whole ship or include the infinity pools and lounges of Ocean Boulevard.
Does every NCL ship have Vibe Beach Club?
No. Vibe Beach Club is an adults-only retreat with plush loungers, a private bar, and hot tubs, and access requires a separate pass. You’ll find it on Prima Class ships as well as Breakaway and Breakaway Plus ships. Prima Class versions add infinity hot tubs, and Norwegian Bella’s features a cascading waterfall. Smaller, older ships generally don’t have one.
How does the Norwegian Prima Class handle stateroom tiers?
Prima Class ships follow a clear three-tier design. Standard staterooms cover inside, oceanview, and balcony options. Suites, including Club Balcony Suites, add more space and perks. At the top sits The Haven, a private ship within a ship. This layered approach lets every traveler find the right fit, from budget-minded explorers to VIP-style vacationers.
How is The Haven different on Norwegian Prima Class ships?
The Haven by Norwegian is NCL’s most exclusive retreat, with a private entrance, 24-hour butler and concierge service, a Haven-only restaurant, and private sundecks. Haven guests also get preferred access across the ship.
The Prima Class takes The Haven to new heights. These ships have some of the largest Havens in the fleet, with aft-facing infinity pools, outdoor saunas, and glass-walled cold rooms. Norwegian Bella adds an entire extra deck of suites, including a two-bedroom duplex that sleeps up to six and a two-bedroom family villa.
On Breakaway Plus ships, The Haven centers on a courtyard pool with a retractable roof. It feels cozy and luxurious, but the Prima Class versions offer more space and those dramatic ocean views.
|
Feature |
Prima Class |
Breakaway Plus |
Breakaway |
Jewel and Older |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Ocean Boulevard |
Yes |
No (The Waterfront) |
No (The Waterfront) |
No |
|
Infinity pools |
Yes |
Limited |
No |
No |
|
Vibe Beach Club |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Generally no |
|
The Haven |
Yes, among the largest |
Yes |
Yes |
Select ships |
|
Haven infinity pool, sauna, and cold room |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
|
Glass walkways over the sea |
Prima and Viva |
No |
No |
No |
How does dining compare across NCL ships?
Every NCL ship offers complimentary main dining rooms, a buffet, and casual spots, plus specialty restaurants for an extra charge. The Prima Class adds new concepts that you won’t find on older ships.
What’s new for dining on Prima Class ships?
Norwegian Prima introduced the Indulge Food Hall, a lively hub of eateries where you can sample Indian curry, tacos, Vietnamese dishes, and more in one sitting. You can order from tablets at your table, which makes it easy for groups to try a little of everything.
The Prima Class also introduced Palomar, a Mediterranean seafood restaurant, and Hasuki, a Japanese hibachi spot. Onda by Scarpetta brings Italian dishes, and Nama serves sushi and sashimi. Plus, you’ll find NCL classics like Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Los Lobos.
What dining do older NCL ships offer?
Breakaway and Breakaway Plus ships have their own favorites. Highlights include Ocean Blue, Q Texas Smokehouse on Norwegian Bliss, La Cucina, Teppanyaki, and Moderno Churrascaria. Smaller ships have fewer venues but still offer specialty options like Cagney’s and Le Bistro.
|
Dining Feature |
Prima Class |
Breakaway Plus |
Breakaway |
Jewel and Older |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Complimentary main dining |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Food hall concept |
Indulge Food Hall |
Food Republic on select ships |
No |
No |
|
Mediterranean seafood |
Palomar |
No |
Ocean Blue |
No |
|
Steakhouse |
Cagney’s |
Cagney’s |
Cagney’s |
Cagney’s |
|
Teppanyaki or hibachi |
Hasuki |
Teppanyaki |
Teppanyaki |
Teppanyaki on select ships |
|
Number of venues |
Many |
Many |
Many |
Fewer |
Pro tip: Specialty dining fills up fast on new ships. Book a suite or use your cruise line app to reserve popular tables before you sail.
How does entertainment compare across NCL ships?
Entertainment is a highlight across the NCL fleet. The newest ships combine big shows with top-deck thrills.
What attractions do Prima Class ships offer?
Prima and Viva feature a three-level go-kart racetrack, along with The Drop, a 10-story free-fall dry slide, and The Rush, a pair of dueling dry slides. Norwegian Aqua introduced the Aqua Slidecoaster and Glow Court, a sports and gaming space that lights up at night. Norwegian Bella’s Ocean Heights adds the Moon Climber obstacle course, the Bella Ropes Course, a funfair, mini golf, and six slides throughout the ship.
Inside, you’ll find Broadway-style productions, live music venues, comedy, and lounges like Syd Norman’s Pour House for rock fans.
What attractions do Breakaway Plus ships offer?
Breakaway Plus ships are high-energy and action-packed. Norwegian Joy, Bliss, and Encore have go-kart tracks and outdoor laser tag. Galaxy Pavilion virtual reality arcades appear on select ships. These ships have also hosted Broadway hits like Jersey Boys and Kinky Boots, plus comedy clubs and big aqua parks.
What about smaller NCL ships?
Older and smaller ships keep entertainment simpler. Expect production shows, live music, a casino, and pool deck fun. They’re a great fit if you’d rather spend your energy exploring ports.
|
Entertainment |
Prima Class |
Breakaway Plus |
Breakaway |
Jewel and Older |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Go-kart track |
Prima and Viva |
Joy, Bliss, Encore |
No |
No |
|
Free-fall dry slide |
Yes |
No |
No |
No |
|
Waterslides |
Yes, including hybrid coasters on select ships |
Yes |
Yes |
Limited |
|
Laser tag |
No |
Yes |
No |
No |
|
Ropes course |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
No |
|
Broadway-style shows |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Production shows |
How do outdoor spaces compare on NCL ships?
Outdoor space is the Prima Class’s biggest win. These ships were designed to connect you with the ocean at nearly every turn.
On top of Ocean Boulevard and its infinity pools, Prima Class ships offer expanded pool decks with infinity hot tubs. Norwegian Bella’s main pool deck is one of the largest in NCL’s fleet. Prima Plus ships also add family zones like the Kids’ Aqua Park, plus lawn spaces like Horizon Park for relaxing with panoramic views.
Breakaway and Breakaway Plus ships have plenty of outdoor fun too, especially their large aqua parks and sports decks. Their outdoor areas feel busier, though, because more guests share the space. Smaller ships offer classic pool decks with a more traditional cruise feel.
How do stateroom types compare on NCL ships?
All NCL ships offer inside, oceanview, and balcony staterooms. The newer the ship, the more modern the design and the wider the range of specialty rooms.
|
Stateroom Type |
Prima Class |
Breakaway Plus |
Breakaway |
Jewel and Older |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Inside, oceanview, balcony |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Club Balcony Suites |
Yes |
Select ships |
No |
No |
|
Suites with butler service |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Select ships |
|
Studios for solo travelers |
Select ships, including Bella |
Yes |
Yes |
Limited |
|
The Haven |
Yes, among the largest |
Yes |
Yes |
Select ships |
|
Multi-bedroom Haven villas and duplexes |
Yes |
Select ships |
Limited |
Limited |
Good to know: Club Balcony Suites let you prebook dining up to 125 days in advance on ships like Norwegian Bella. That’s a real advantage on a brand-new ship where popular venues fill quickly.
Where do Prima Class ships sail compared to other NCL ships?
Prima Class ships sail popular routes, including Caribbean cruises from Miami and Port Canaveral and seasonal European voyages. Norwegian Bella will spend her entire 2028 inaugural season in the Mediterranean, visiting Spain, Italy, France, and Malta. Picture sailing from Barcelona to Rome, then gazing out at the Amalfi Coast near Salerno.
Other NCL ships cover even more ground. Breakaway Plus ships often sail Alaska from Seattle, the Caribbean, and Europe. Breakaway ships run popular Bahamas and Caribbean trips from Florida. Smaller ships reach places big ships can’t, including Panama Canal transits, South America, and less-visited ports. Pride of America sails year-round around Hawaii’s islands.
|
Destination |
Prima Class |
Breakaway Plus |
Breakaway |
Smaller Ships |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Caribbean and Bahamas |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
Yes |
|
Europe and Mediterranean |
Yes |
Yes |
Seasonal |
Yes |
|
Alaska |
Select seasons |
Yes |
Select seasons |
Select seasons |
|
Hawaii |
No |
No |
No |
Pride of America |
|
Panama Canal and South America |
Limited |
Limited |
Limited |
Yes |
Itineraries change every season, so browse current sailings for the latest routes.
Which NCL ship is best for your travel style?
|
Traveler Type |
Best Pick |
Why |
|---|---|---|
|
Families with young kids |
Prima Plus ships |
Kids’ Aqua Park, family zones, and spacious suites |
|
Teens |
Prima Class or Breakaway Plus |
Go-karts, slides, and dedicated teen spaces |
|
Couples |
Prima Class |
Ocean Boulevard, infinity pools, and Vibe Beach Club |
|
Luxury seekers |
Prima Class |
Some of the largest Havens in the fleet |
|
Thrill-seekers |
Prima Plus or Breakaway Plus |
Hybrid coasters, free-fall slides, and laser tag |
|
Budget travelers |
Breakaway or older ships |
Lower fares with plenty of included fun |
|
Solo travelers |
Breakaway, Breakaway Plus, or Bella |
Studio staterooms and private lounges |
|
Port-focused explorers |
Jewel and older ships |
More unique ports and longer itineraries |
|
Hawaii lovers |
Pride of America |
Year-round inter-island sailings |
Is the Prima Class worth the higher price?
Prima Class fares often run higher than older NCL ships, especially on new ships during their first seasons. What you get in return is more space per guest, fresh restaurants, modern staterooms, and some of the most striking outdoor spaces at sea.
If a calm, open feel and upscale design matter most, the Prima Class is well worth it. If you mostly want sunshine and fun at a lower price, Breakaway and Breakaway Plus ships still deliver a fantastic vacation. And no matter which ship you choose, NCL’s Freestyle Cruising lets you dine, play, and relax on your own schedule.
Tips for choosing between NCL ships
Use these quick tips to narrow down your options:
- Start with your dates and departure port. Then compare which ships sail when and where you want to go.
- Book early for new ships. Inaugural seasons on Prima Plus ships tend to sell out fast.
- Compare total costs. Add drinks, gratuities, and specialty dining to the base fare for a true picture.
- Check ship-specific features. Not every Prima Class ship has the same attractions, so confirm before booking.
- Consider suites for groups. Haven duplexes and family villas keep everyone together in comfort.
Frequently asked questions
What is the Norwegian Prima Class?
The Norwegian Prima Class is NCL’s newest ship class. It includes Norwegian Prima, Viva, Aqua, Luna, Aura, and Bella, which debuts in 2028 as the final ship in the class.
Which ships are Prima Plus?
Norwegian Aqua, Luna, Aura, and Bella are Prima Plus ships. They’re larger than Prima and Viva and add new attractions like the Aqua Slidecoaster and Ocean Heights.
How is the Prima Class different from other NCL ships?
Prima Class ships carry fewer guests for their size, so they feel more spacious. They also feature Ocean Boulevard, infinity pools, new restaurants, and some of the largest Havens in the fleet.
Are Prima Class ships bigger than Breakaway Plus ships?
Not always. Breakaway Plus ships like Norwegian Encore carry more guests, while the largest Prima Plus ships rival them in length. The Prima Class focuses on more space per guest rather than packing in more people.
Do Prima Class ships have go-karts?
Norwegian Prima and Viva have a three-level go-kart track. Breakaway Plus ships Joy, Bliss, and Encore also have go-kart tracks. Prima Plus ships focus on other thrills, like hybrid coaster slides and top-deck playgrounds.
Which NCL ships have The Haven?
The Haven appears on Prima Class, Breakaway Plus, and Breakaway ships, plus select older ships. Prima Class Havens are among the largest and include infinity pools, saunas, and cold rooms.
Are older NCL ships still worth booking?
Yes. Older NCL ships often have lower fares, unique itineraries, and plenty of included fun. They’re a great choice for budget travelers and port-focused explorers.
Which NCL ship is best for families?
Prima Plus ships are excellent for families, with kids’ aqua parks, age-based play zones, and multi-bedroom suites. Breakaway Plus ships are also a strong pick for active kids and teens.
When does Norwegian Bella debut?
Norwegian Bella begins sailing in May 2028, with a full inaugural season in the Mediterranean.
Compare NCL ships side by side and unlock exclusive rates on Cruises.com today. Browse itineraries, choose your stateroom, and book the Norwegian adventure that fits your style.