It seems like so many luxury resorts and cruise lines have all added concierge-level amenities that offer everything from butler services to elevated experiences. I sailed on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima, one of the brand’s new luxury class cruise ships, to experience their concierge offering, The Haven. I’m not a fan of the mega-cruise ships but the Prima is different. Even though it accommodates 3,100 guests, it feels much more intimate because of some cool new design concepts coupled with the highest staff-to-guest ratio. As the first in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima Class, this ship sets a new standard for upscale cruising. From elegant accommodations to world-class dining and endless entertainment options, the Norwegian Prima is truly a floating resort designed for modern travelers.
READ MY ARTICLE ON ISLANDS.COM ABOUT MY TRIP ON THE NORWEGIAN PRIMA!
About Norwegian’s Prima Cruise Ship
Launched in 2022, the Prima is one of the newest ships in Norwegian Cruise Line’s fleet. It offers modern luxury with a sleek design and a variety of amenities and experiences for guests. The ship provides a range of staterooms from affordable inside cabins to luxurious suites, many of which come with balconies. On the Norwegian Prima deck plans, there are smaller gathering areas and cozy seating lounges spread around the ship to create more personal spaces.
Stretching 965 feet in length and weighing approximately 143,535 gross tons, the ship can accommodate 3,100 guests across 1,646 staterooms. It features 20 decks, offering spacious common areas and innovative venues, ensuring there is plenty of room to relax and explore. With an impressive crew-to-guest ratio, service is attentive and personalized. The Prima boasts expansive outdoor spaces, including the Ocean Boulevard promenade, which wraps around the entire ship, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the ocean. Its thoughtfully designed layout combines elegance and functionality, making it one of the most luxurious and spacious ships in its class.
The Haven: An Exclusive Retreat Worth Upgrading To
Trust me on this one. You’ll want to upgrade to The Haven, the ultra-luxury level of the ship. For guests seeking the ultimate in luxury, The Haven by Norwegian is a private enclave within the ship that offers an elevated cruising experience. Accessible only by keycard, The Haven features exclusive accommodations, including penthouse suites and spa-inspired staterooms. These suites boast floor-to-ceiling windows, marble-clad bathrooms, and expansive balconies, creating a sense of opulence and privacy.
It’s got top-notch amenities and service, with 107 upgraded guest rooms that are so spacious, you’ll forget you’re on a ship. The Haven takes up eight floors of the aft section of the ship and has private elevators. Guests get 24-hour butlers, concierge service for booking dining and activities, priority seating at restaurants and shows, a private pool and sundeck area, and more exclusive features. The staterooms range from a massive 6,694 square foot 3-bedroom garden villa to 378 square feet spa suites, all decked out and roomy. Haven guests have access to their own restaurant and lounge or can have in-suite white tablecloth dining. If you prefer small ship sailing, The Haven’s ship-within-a-ship concept is the way to go.
Guests of The Haven enjoy access to a private sundeck with a secluded infinity pool, hot tubs, and loungers overlooking the ocean. The décor is sophisticated, with modern art pieces, plush seating, and ambient lighting that create a serene environment.
The Haven’s 24-hour butler service and dedicated concierge ensure that every need is met, whether arranging shore excursions or delivering breakfast in bed. The private restaurant and bar in The Haven offer gourmet cuisine and craft cocktails in an intimate setting. With its quiet atmosphere and personalized service, The Haven is an oasis of tranquility, perfect for travelers who prefer privacy and pampering while still enjoying all the ship’s amenities.
Read how The Haven compares to upgrading to my experience on the butler level on Regent Seven Seas.
Standard Accommodations on the Prima
Don’t worry if The Haven is not available or if it doesn’t fit your budget. The standard accommodations on the Norwegian Prima also cater to all tastes, from luxurious suites to cozy interior cabins. The spacious balcony staterooms are a popular choice, providing private outdoor spaces and modern furnishings. Each room is designed with soothing color palettes, premium bedding, and ample storage, ensuring maximum comfort. Bathrooms feature sleek fixtures, spacious showers, and spa-quality amenities.
For families and groups, the ship offers interconnected rooms and multi-bedroom suites. The Studio Staterooms cater to solo travelers, providing compact yet stylish spaces with access to the Studio Lounge, a private area for solo guests to socialize.
Amenities on the Norwegian Prima
The Norwegian Prima boasts a wide array of amenities that cater to every type of traveler. The ship’s multi-level Prima Speedway, the first-ever go-kart track at sea, offers adrenaline-pumping excitement with ocean views, providing a thrilling ride on a track that winds around multiple decks. For thrill-seekers, the Drop and Rush slides provide high-speed adventures with a heart-pounding free-fall experience, while the Wave surf simulator is perfect for water sports enthusiasts who want to test their skills.Guests looking for relaxation can unwind at the Mandara Spa, a haven of tranquility featuring a thermal suite, salt room, and detoxifying saunas. The infinity pools on Deck 16 blend seamlessly with the horizon, offering breathtaking views of the open sea. Plush loungers and cabanas surround the pools, creating a resort-style atmosphere. The Observation Lounge, with its panoramic floor-to-ceiling windows, provides a quiet retreat for reading or admiring the passing scenery.
Entertainment options abound, with Broadway-caliber shows at the Prima Theater, including fan-favorite productions like “Summer: The Donna Summer Musical.” The theater transforms into a nightclub in the evenings, complete with cutting-edge sound and lighting. Live music venues, comedy clubs, and the unique outdoor Ocean Boulevard promenade ensure there’s always something to enjoy. The ship also boasts a state-of-the-art casino and multiple lounges for evening cocktails and live music.
Dining onboard Norwegian Cruise Lines
Norwegian Prima offers a diverse selection of restaurants, including specialty dining options with international cuisine, casual eateries, and buffet-style dining. Dining is an exceptional experience aboard the Prima. With more than a dozen eateries, including the upscale Mediterranean-inspired Palomar and the contemporary sushi bar Nama, foodies will delight in the diverse options. The Indulge Food Hall provides a marketplace-style setting with flavors from around the world, featuring food stations for tacos, Indian cuisine, noodle bowls, and more. The airy design and communal seating make it a lively dining hub.
For those seeking a fine-dining experience, Onda by Scarpetta offers Italian classics with a modern twist, while Le Bistro delivers French culinary elegance. Cagney’s Steakhouse provides premium cuts of meat in a warm and inviting atmosphere, and Food Republic showcases international fusion dishes ideal for adventurous eaters.
Norwegian Cruise Lines Ports of Call: A Global Adventure
The Norwegian Prima sails to a variety of breathtaking destinations, from the Caribbean to Europe and beyond. Popular itineraries include stops in Bermuda, Cozumel, and the Bahamas, offering sun-soaked beaches and vibrant marine life. The ship’s design makes it easy to transition from ocean journeys to land explorations, with streamlined disembarkation processes.
For European travelers, the ship explores iconic ports like Reykjavik, Amsterdam, and Lisbon, providing cultural experiences and historic sightseeing. Guests can marvel at Iceland’s geysers, stroll through Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, or explore Lisbon’s cobblestone streets and historic landmarks.
Shore excursions range from snorkeling in crystal-clear waters to guided tours of ancient ruins and culinary adventures in bustling marketplaces. Wine-tasting tours in Italy, glacier hikes in Alaska, and wildlife safaris in Costa Rica provide once-in-a-lifetime memories. Whether you’re hiking through Norwegian fjords or sipping wine in Italian vineyards, each destination offers unforgettable moments to complement your time at sea.
Booking a Vacation on Norwegian Cruise Lines
I recommend that you book directly with Norwegian Cruise Lines or through your travel agent. Before booking, it’s important to understand their unique Freestyle Cruising concept, which offers flexible dining options, no fixed schedules, and a relaxed dress code, making it ideal for travelers who value freedom and spontaneity. Research the ship’s amenities, as NCL is known for its entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, water parks, and specialty dining. Be sure to review the available itineraries, as Norwegian offers destinations worldwide, from the Caribbean to Alaska and Europe. Check the fine print for additional costs, such as gratuities, beverage packages, and shore excursions, which may not be included in the base fare. Finally, consider booking early for the best cabin selection and promotions, as NCL frequently offers deals like free upgrades, onboard credits, and specialty dining packages.
Do You Need Travel Insurance Before a Cruise? Read my article here.
What do you think about upgrading to the premium level on your vacations? Do you see the benefits? Drop a comment below.