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Norwegian's Newest Cruise Ship Has a Go-kart Track, Infinity Pools, and an Open-air Food Hall

The Norwegian Viva is the line's newest mega-ship, slated to launch with a huge array of bells and whistles in summer 2023.

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

The newest ship from Norwegian Cruise Line will make its debut in the Mediterranean in June 2023, with room for more than 3,200 passengers, multiple infinity pools, an open-air food hall, and an outdoor go-kart track among its countless amenities.

Norwegian Viva was unveiled on Jan. 12, 2022, revealing details on summer itineraries that will take on iconic ports like Athens and Lisbon, along with gateways to Italy including Civitavecchia, near Rome, and Trieste, not far from Venice. After crossing the Atlantic in November, the Viva will home port in San Juan, Puerto Rico, beginning on Dec. 15, 2023.

"We at NCL visit more ports than any other contemporary cruise line, more than Royal [Caribbean], more than Princess, certainly more than Carnival," said Norwegian Cruise Line president and CEO Harry Sommer, in an interview with T+L. "This will just add to that reputation, if you will, that we keep on going to new and exciting places."

The newly announced ship will feature many of the same over-the-top amenities found on the previously announced Norwegian Prima , a sister vessel of Viva that sets sail this summer. That's no coincidence, Sommer told T+L.

"The Prima was off the charts fantastic for us," Sommer said. "It was the first new ship design for us in a decade, and the concepts of space, service, design, experience, [those] resonated tremendously well with our guests and, as you know, it was a record-breaking launch for us."

"So, I was like, 'Oh my God, we have a hit,' so we're not gonna change too much with [ Viva ]," Sommer added. "The big focus here is on itineraries. We have some nice itineraries on Prima, you know, around Iceland, Norway, Amsterdam, London (Southampton), which are really, really being well received. But on Viva, we're gonna notch it up. We're doing, basically, a tour of all the Mediterranean: Lisbon, Ibiza, Palma, Barcelona, Florence, Rome, Naples, Sicily, Dubrovnik, Venice, Santorini, Mykonos, Athens, Istanbul — and that's like a third of the ports we're visiting."

Guests aboard the 3,219-passenger vessel will have a huge range of options when it comes to staterooms, with budget-friendly choices as well as splurge-worthy suites. Among the most enviable choices will be 107 luxury suites in an exclusive area of the ship known as The Haven by Norwegian, reserved only for suite guests. In addition to the spacious staterooms, The Haven also offers a private restaurant, sun deck, outdoor spa, and infinity pool.

"We've found that, for slightly more affluent guests, Haven really is the perfect balance. They can have the big-ship experience," Sommer said, "plus all the benefits of the small ship where you get butler and concierge service, upscale decor, larger cabin sizes, really it's the best of both worlds." Sommer added, with a laugh, "It sounds like such a cliche but, you know, I've personally experienced it!"

Dining choices will include the Indulge Food Hall, with 11 distinct concepts, as well as an Italian restaurant, Onda by Scarpetta, that's already a favorite aboard the Norwegian Encore . "Everything that we've done on Prima, we're announcing for Viva as well," Sommer said. "We are going to have our next big reveal for food in early March."

In all, Viva will have more than 20 dining venues, Sommer indicated. The new vessel will also have a three-level go-kart track, the Viva Speedway, which can accommodate up to 15 racers, and a series of thrill rides first seen on Prima, such as The Drop and The Rush, that will offer pulse-quickening moments.

The Viva will also come with some features that will reduce the environmental impact of the vessel. Like its sister ship, Viva will have a selective catalytic reduction system to help eliminate many sulfur and nitrogen oxides, Norwegian says, something that's in line with current International Maritime Organization standards . Viva will also have shore power capabilities, which have the potential to dramatically reduce in-port emissions by letting the ship tap into cleaner energy from the grid.

Norwegian Viva will offer eight-, nine-, and 10-day trips beginning June 15, 2023. Rates start at $2,099 per person for the ship's first departure, a nine-day trip from Lisbon to Civitavecchia, Italy, near Rome.

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15 Must-Know Things About Norwegian’s Go-Kart Track at Sea

When Norwegian Cruise Lines debuted the first racetrack at sea with go-karts, it made big news. Even now a few years later, the speedways continue to be one of the more popular attractions on a cruise ship. They are also a perfect example of the kind of strides that today’s ships are making in entertainment while at sea.

If you’re about to sail on a Norwegian ship with one of the tracks, then you’re likely interested in some more details about the go-kart and what you can expect. We recently tried the racetrack at sea for ourselves and here is everything you need to know…

Go-kart Tracks Are Available on the Bliss and Joy

Will your ship have the racetrack? As of now, only two ships have the tracks at sea: Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy. These are NCL’s largest and newest ships. Given the popularity of the track, we could envision future ships being built with the track or older ships being refurbished to add the speedway. For now, however, only those lucky cruisers on these newer ships get to enjoy the experience.

The Laps Take About 30 Seconds

As you’d expect on a racetrack on a ship, the course isn’t that long. It only takes about 30 seconds to make a lap. That said, the layout is well-designed. In a compact space the track packs a lot in, including a ton of corners, twists and turns. It’s also a double-decker track, with a hill climb right at the start and a downhill section at the end to bring you back to the start/finish line.

One-Seaters and Two-Seaters Are Available

Want to drive with a smaller child? Or maybe you just want to share the experience with someone? You don’t have to drive alone. While most riders decide to drive a single cart, you can ride with two people in a double go-kart.

The Carts Are Electric with Gas Engine Sounds

With cruise ships trying to more “green” you might be wondering about fuel for the go-karts. They are actually electric and don’t emit exhaust as they zoom around the track. To help add to the ambiance, there are engine noises emitted by the cars to make them sounds like they are real race cars. It’s a little funny at first but really does make it feel like you are going faster.

Rides Cost $15 Per Person (Unlimited Passes Are Available)

If there is one bad thing about the racetrack on Norwegian, it’s that the activity isn’t free. In fact, it can be a bit pricey. While prices can change at anytime, as we go to press you’ll pay $15 per person for your turn on the track. Want to go three times during your trip? That’s $45. There are unlimited passes available that allow you to go the entire length of your trip. We’ve seen prices quoted around $200 for a week-long cruise.

Be Dressed for Racing

Due to safety concerns, you need to be dress appropriately to race the cars. That means closed-toe shoes. As well, you don’t want to wear anything loose or baggy that might catch on the wheels, such as a scarf or an open jacket. Also be sure to leave your bags in the room or with someone watching your race. There are no lockers available to store your bags while you drive.

There Are Height Requirements

If you want to drive alone, then you need to be at least 55 inches tall (4′ 7″). The good news is that there aren’t age requirements. As long as you are tall enough, you can drive. Note that some websites showing the minimum height of 48 inches, but on the ship it was in fact listed as 55 inches to drive alone. Smaller riders can go with larger drivers to also enjoy the track.

Reservations Are Highly Recommended

The racetrack is by far one of the most popular parts of the ship. While your cruise may be different, we’d highly suggest making some reservations for your spot the instant you get on the ship. You can reserve a spot via your stateroom television. You could also try to reserve during days in port when many people are off the ship (if the track is open during this time).

You May Not Go Fast… But It Feels Fast

We’ll be honest, you don’t go that fast in absolute terms in the carts. We’ve seen reports of up to 30-40 mph, but having raced on the ship firsthand, that’s not the case. We’d estimate you go more 10-15 mph. While that may not sound fast, given how low to the ground you drive and the number of curves, it really feels much faster. There are definite times when you have to let off the gas to make a corner cleanly. Bottom line, you won’t be disappointed with the speed.

Rides Last About 10 Minutes

The rides go by pretty quick. If you’re waiting in line, that’s a good thing. If you’re racing, you want it to last forever. We’d estimate that a turn takes about 10 minutes long. For $15, that’s not very long, but it is still a fun time. To be honest, racing any longer than that and the minimum wait would be unbearable.

A Helmet and Helmet Sock Are Provided For You

When you ride, you must wear a helmet. A helmet with a visor is provided to you, as is a helmet sock. The sock fits over your head like a thin ski mask. They are only worn once and then washed for the next person. This helps to keep things cleaner instead of people’s bare heads touching the actual helmet.

The Power Is Controlled by the Staff

You might be hoping you get a face car when you race. The speed of the cars is actually dependent on the staff. In fact, when you first start on the track you’ll be disappointed with the speed out of the gates and climbing the hill. It’s not until all the cars are on the track that the power is turned up and you can really start to drive quickly. As well, if there are any incidents on the track or when it’s time to pit at the end of the race, your speed will be cut.

The “Turbo” Button Doesn’t Do Anything

On the car’s steering wheel there is a beautiful button that says it’s a turbo boost. Don’t get your hopes up. We were told by the staff that it actually doesn’t do anything. We also tested it personally and there was no extra boost provided by it.

Getting Stuck Behind People Is an Issue

If there is one complaint about the racetrack on Norwegian, it’s that you can get stuck behind slow drivers. Given the turns and the width of the track, finding a spot to pass can be tough. If someone is going slow around the track, you could be going at a turtle’s pace behind them until things open up for passing.

Racing Is a Lot of Fun… You Should Do It at Least Once

It’s understandable if you don’t want to spend the extra money to take a ride on the carts. For instance, a family of four would spend $60 for about 10 minutes of entertainment. That’s a steep price to pay. Still, after having done the carts ourselves, we suggest that everyone take at least one turn. During our cruise it turned out to be one of the highlights of the entire trip and something we’ll remember for a long time.

Have more questions about racing on Norwegian ships? Let us know in the comments below.

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Onboard Obsession: The Thrill of Go-Karting on a Mega Cruise Ship

By Meena Thiruvengadam

Onboard Obsession The Thrill of GoKarting on the Norwegian Prima

Onboard Obsession is a new series that explores the can't-miss highlights of the best-loved cruises—from the shore excursions to book to the spa treatments too relaxing to pass up.

Eighteen decks above the cold Atlantic Ocean, I pulled on a balaclava and helmet and did something I hadn’t done in decades: stepped into a go-kart.

The last time I was behind the wheel of a go-kart was about 25 years prior, at a Six Flags amusement park. This time I was somewhere far more exciting—cruising between Iceland and Ireland on the Norwegian Prima .

The Norwegian Prima takes go-karting at sea to a whole other level—literally. Instead of two decks like other Norwegian ships, the Norwegian Prima’s 1,400-foot go-kart track is spread over the ship’s top three decks. And that third deck makes a huge difference.

The first time I accelerated up the hill to the track’s third deck, I was scared of flying off the top of the ship. Having lived in walkable cities for more than a decade, I rarely drive nowadays, let alone in miniature race cars on moving ships in the middle of the ocean.

It was the kind of cold and windy day you would expect off the coast of Iceland , and I couldn’t see anything but the ocean over the horizon. I hit the gas, hoped for the best, and breathed a sigh of relief when I made it to the top deck. It was so much more exhilarating than I remembered. It’s mind-bending to drive a go-kart on a moving cruise ship without a speck of land in sight. That alone is worth the price of admission.

Like many things on Norwegian ships, the race track isn’t included in the cruise fare . Rides are $15 each. For an extra $5, you can have the track to yourself for three laps and drive at faster speeds. For $199, you can buy unlimited rides for your cruise.

Norwegian Prima's go-kart track is the cruise line's biggest yet.

The cars can go up to 40 miles per hour, but Norwegian limits speeds to 27 mph during group drive times. Even with the speed limitations, the curvy track has enough sharp turns—14 of them, to be exact—to keep things exciting. And there’s no smell of gasoline.

Norwegian’s onboard go-kart fleet is electric, though that might be hard for drivers to believe because sounds mimicking gasoline-powered cars are pumped into driver’s helmets to mimic the traditional race car experience. I didn’t notice the go-karts were electric and the sounds I was hearing were fake until after my drive.

I was skeptical about go-karting at sea, but the eight laps, what Norwegian Cruise Line calls a “heat,” won me over. It turns out that zipping around in a miniature race car with nowhere to be and nothing but the ocean as far as you can see is ridiculous and fun. It’s also a great way to punctuate a sea day, especially if the spa is booked.

Including the Prima , Norwegian now has four ships with go-kart tracks. The Norwegian Joy was the first in the company’s fleet to offer a go-kart track, and each new Norwegian ship to debut since has featured a bigger, better race track.

The Norwegian Prima ’s race track is 22 percent larger than the track on the Norwegian Encore , for example. The Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Bliss also have their own race tracks, but neither makes quite the impression the Prima ’s does.

Norwegian’s three-level go-kart track was the first thing I noticed each time I returned to the ship from an excursion during a special inaugural sailing last year. Spectators can watch cars whiz by from a dedicated observation area, the pool, hot tub, or sun deck.

One ride was enough for me, but the teenage version of me would have stuck around for at least a few more heats. Next time, I’ll choose a warm weather itinerary and splurge for the private track time.

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Norwegian’s Newest Cruise Ship Will Have a Go-Kart Track and 10-Story Plunge Slide

The italian-designed 965-footer is due to hit the seas next year., rachel cormack.

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Norwegian Cruise Line ’s newest fleet member could turn out to be the ultimate playground for all ages.

The epic 965-footer, which is set to hit the seas in June 2023, can accommodate more than 3,200 guests and boasts a laundry list of amenities, including multiple swimming pools, restaurants, bars and even an outdoor go-kart track. Christened Norwegian Viva , the liner will built by renowned Italian shipbuilder Fincantieri and will mirror the upscale design of sister ship Norwegian Prima .

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Get ready for the ultimate joyride with Norwegian. Come aboard Norwegian Joy® and discover everything that awaits you on board. A variety of staterooms, adults-only Vibe Beach Club and the Thermal Suite at Mandara Spa — all dedicated to relaxation and rejuvenation. Zoom into fantastic vistas along the Norwegian Joy Speedway, which is just one of the ways the ship is custom-built to let the outside in. Enjoy a new favourite cocktail and 180-degree panoramic views in the Observation Lounge and savour fresh sea breezes and dining under the stars along The Waterfront. From mouth-watering ribs at Q Texas Smokehouse to French cuisine at Le Bistro to fresh seafood at Ocean Blue, there’s something for everyone on board. Find your happy place on board Norwegian Joy® when she cruises from the Miami to Panama Canal . Or join her in The Caribbean , Bahamas , and Bermuda from Miami, Port Canaveral and New York. Cruise to Alaska from Seattle and explore more of the Last Frontier in a ship built for non-stop memorable moments.

Find your happy place on board Norwegian Joy when she cruises from the Miami to Panama Canal . Or join her in The Caribbean , Bahamas , and Bermuda from Miami, Port Canaveral and New York. Cruise to Alaska from Seattle and explore more of the Last Frontier in a ship built for non-stop memorable moments. Enjoy a rush like no other as you race in the middle of the ocean on a thrilling two–level race track. Be pampered in luxury in our spacious and beautifully appointed accommodations. Enjoy vacation experiences that will delight your senses and calm your soul on Norwegian Joy.

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Serving a wide variety of culinary delights to please every palate, our complimentary dining options include two main dining rooms, a help-yourself buffet and a variety of casual cafés, grills and on-the-go choices. Plus, our Main Dining Rooms offer a menu that changes daily, Chef's Signature Dishes and carefully selected wine recommendations, guaranteeing a different culinary adventure with every visit.

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With so many bars and lounges to discover, finding your favourite may take a few days.

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From top to bottom and from bow to stern, Norwegian Joy has enough onboard activities to fill every minute of your cruise. Push the pedal to the metal as you race for the checkered flag on a two-level Racetrack at sea. Wanna get lucky? Bet it all at our award-winning Casinos at Sea®.

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Which Norwegian Ships Have Go Karts Tracks?

Unbelievable as it may seem, you can try Go Karting on a cruise ship and I did!

Some of Norwegian Cruise Line ’s newer, bigger ships have Go Kart Tracks on the top two – or sometimes the top three decks.

Which Norwegian Ships Have Go Karts?

There are five Norwegian ships that have Go Kart Tracks. These are:

Norwegian Joy
Norwegian Encore
Norwegian Prima
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Bliss

Are The Go Karts Free On Norwegian Ships?

The Go Karts aren’t free on Norwegian cruise ships, there is an additional charge.

How Much Does It Cost to Use the Karts on Norwegian Ships?

I was lucky enough to try out the three-deck Go Kart Course on Norwegian Prima .

I was pretty nervous before I started, but soon got into the swing of it and really enjoyed myself.

When I sailed on Norwegian Prima in 2023

The Go Kart Rides cost $15 each.
For an extra $5, you could have the track to yourself for three laps and drive at faster speeds. This is known as “You and the Track.”
You could pay $199 and have unlimited rides on your cruise during the scheduled track opening time. This is known as “The Ultimate Speedway Package.”

How Many Laps Do You Get For Your Money?

You can drive for eight laps for $15.

Norwegian Prima Go Kart Prima Speedway Emma Cruises

How Do You Book To Drive A Go Kart On Norwegian Ships?

You can book a Go Kart by:

Booking via The Norwegian App
At the designated desk onboard
On the Cabin interactive TV

Which of Norwegian’s Ships Has The Biggest Go Kart Track?

Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva are sister ships . They have the biggest Go Kart tracks at Sea.

Instead of being spread over two decks like some other Norwegian ships, the Norwegian Viva and Prima’s 1,400-foot go-kart track is spread over the ship’s top three decks.

How Fast Do Go Kart Go On Norwegian Ships?

The Go Karts can go up to 40 miles per hour, but Norwegian limits speed to 27 mph during group races.

Do You Need To Wear Protective Clothing to Drive The Go Karts on Norwegian Ships?

Wearing helmets is compulsory and everyone is given a clean ski mask to wear beneath the helmet.

For safety reasons, you need to be dressed appropriately to race on the Go Karts

Leave your bags in the cabin or with someone watching your race. There are no lockers available to store your things when you drive.

Flat, fully closed footwear required (no flip flops, Crocs, or heels). Riders must always wear a helmet. Loose clothing is not allowed. No age minimum, guests must only adhere to height requirements. Hair longer than shoulder length must be tied back and hidden inside helmet. Drug and alcohol consumption before driving are strictly prohibited. Norwegian Cruise Line Terms and Conditions

What Happens Before You Drive The Go Karts?

Before you are allowed on the Go Karts you will:

Watch a safety video
Get weighed – and height measured if you look like you might be too short
Get strapped in

Do Norwegian’s Go Karts Have Petrol or Electric Engines?

All Norwegian’s Go Kart’s are electric – but they mimic the sound of petrol/Gasoline powered Karts

Are There Height and Weight Restrictions for the Go Karts?

Yes, there are height and weight restrictions if you want to drive a Go Kart:

Minimum height is 55″(1.40m) The maximum height is 82″(2.08m)
The maximum weight allowed is 265lbs (120kgs)

What’s It Like To Go Kart On A Cruise Ship?

I had thought that the Go Karts would be a bit like bumper cars – you would just go round and round in circles – but how wrong I was!

The track is Eighteen decks above the Ocean, and around 166 feet above sea level. It felt very high up.

There were Hairpin bends, hills and corners, and it was quite scary at first as I had no idea where the track would go next.

Because the Go Karts are so close to the ground it felt like we were going fast.

After two laps, I got to know the track better, and I relaxed and really enjoyed myself.

I definitely got $15 worth of enjoyment out of my Go Karts experience!

I lost count of the laps, but I think it was around eight. There was a checkered flag at the end, so I knew when to stop.

I wasn’t last! I came 18th – out of 19 people!

Watch me try out the Go Karts on Norwegian Prima in the video below:

Before You Go

When I sailed on Norwegian Prima, I had what I think was my favourite balcony cabin at sea. Find out all about it here:

I Stayed in a Balcony Cabin on The Norwegian Prima (Full Review)

Find out how to get the best cabin for your money, without downgrading the category here:

Get The Best Cabin for Your Budget! Hints, Tips and Examples of How to Save Money Without Downgrading Your Cabin Type

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Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

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I sailed on Norwegian Cruise Line's new $1.1 billion Prima cruise ship with two Starbucks, a 10-story slide, and a go-kart track — see what it was like

Norwegian Cruise Line's newest $1 billion Norwegian Prima ship is ready for revenue sailings in the US.
The cruise ship is the first of six "Prima class" vessels that'll be delivered from 2022 to 2027.
Let's take a look around the 18-deck cruise ship with amenities for travelers of all ages.

Norwegian Cruise Line's newest cruise ship — the Norwegian Prima — is finally ready for revenue sailings in the US five years after it was first announced.

Source: Insider , Norwegian Cruise Line

And while it's not the biggest new vessel we've seen over the last few years, the 18-deck cruise liner certainly has enough amenities to keep travelers of all ages entertained.

Source: Insider

In 2017, Norwegian announced its new Prima class, a group of six ships that will be delivered from 2022 to 2027 starting with this eponymous ship that cost more than $1 billion to build.

Source: Norwegian Cruise Line

And when it first opened for bookings in 2021, the Prima quickly became Norwegian's "most in-demand ship ever" after it saw record number of bookings within the first day and week, the cruise line announced in 2021.

Source: Norwegian Cruise Line

With all its onboard amenities, it's easy to see why travelers have flocked to this new ship.

So let's take a look around the 965-foot-long Norwegian Prima that can accommodate 3,100 guests and a little over 1,506 crew.

In a bid to attract families, the Prima has a long list of activities and amenities for travelers of all ages, whether it be the water park for children …

… the go-kart track for the whole family …

… or the spa and adults only lounge for parents.

The heart of the new ship is the Penrose Atrium on deck six, an airy and modern three-story gathering space that branches into bars, the casino, and the Prima Theater for live shows.

Nighttime shows are a staple cruise ship entertainment offering.

Here, the new ship brings travelers back in time with a "The Price Is Right Live" show and a Broadway-ready "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical" …

… while adding a modern and fresh flair with a tap dancing and beat boxing mashup in the "Noise Boys" show.

Back to the atrium and up its stairs, cruise goers will find themselves on deck seven, the home of one of Prima's Starbucks outposts and a glass walking bridge.

Drinks and entertainment flow throughout this deck with a comedy club, a cover band bar and venue, and a cocktail bar that uses syrups and liqueurs made — some of which are made with the ship's discarded food scraps.

Above this on deck 8, the outdoor walking path and lounges are the star of the show.

For warm days at sea, travelers can relax on the Ocean Boulevard ...

… an open-air stretch of lounge chairs, pools, and a sculpture garden.

The spa and gym are then located on deck 16 …

… the same deck as "The Haven," an exclusive lounge, restaurant, and sundeck for travelers staying in the higher-end Haven staterooms.

But the Prima's true leisure and entertainment showpieces are nestled on the ship's 17th and 18th deck.

Here, Norwegian's efforts to appeal to families truly shines through with the addition of a virtual reality arcade …

… tri-level go-kart track …

… a collection of outdoor games like a mini-golf course, a modern take on traditional darts, and a pickleball court ...

... and a glass-enclosed observation lounge with an adjacent bar.

Most cruise ships have at least one pool and hot tub.

But on the Prima, there are three pools, four hot tubs …

… a petite children's water park, and a waterslide, the latter an increasingly popular addition to cruise ships.

If the waterslide doesn't provide enough thrill, there's also a freefall slide — this one's dry — that drops passengers down ten decks in just a few seconds.

And what would be a cruise trip without an abundance of food?

There are several on board and specialty restaurants scattered throughout the ship for travelers to dine on sushi, Mediterranean food, and even teppanyaki at sea.

For hungry diners who thrive in the face of decision paralysis, the Prima also has an indoor-outdoor food hall with 11 restaurants and a touchpad ordering system …

… giving travelers the chance to try an international noodle bar, Indian restaurant, and rotisserie concept all in one meal.

The multiple kitchens and two food trucks turned this expansive hall into the Prima's most expensive and difficult dining concept to pull off, Wesley Cort, the cruise line's vice president of food and beverage operations, told Insider during a media panel.

But this effort may be worth it: With all the onboard restaurants, an additional buffet, and this food hall, guests could avoid having a repeat meal during their cruise.

"[This ship] is a huge investment but the return on investment is phenomenal," Simon Murray, Norwegian's vice president guest experiences and innovation, said during the panel.

"These ships are difficult to build," he continued. "There's only so much expertise in the planet that has the knowledge and the know-how to build these things."

Throughout 2023, the new ship will bring passengers to a wide variety of destinations and climates like the Caribbean and Iceland.

The popular cruise line has several itineraries sailing for under $80 a day in 2023, according to data compiled by Cruise Sheet.

Source: Cruise Sheet

But don't expect these low rates to apply to the new Prima.

Rates per person aboard the new ship in 2023 begin at almost $780 for a week-long roundtrip from Orlando, Florida to the Caribbean, a spokesperson told Insider in an email.

Main content

New cruise ship to offer twist on tried-and-true fun with 3-level go-kart track and freefall slide

Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, Norwegian Prima, will feature a slew of entertainment options, including the industry's first three-level go-kart track, freefall dry slides and a theater that transforms into a nightclub, putting new spins on amenities we've already seen at sea.

The first of NCL's six Prima-class vessels -- which will be significantly smaller than the line's largest vessels , marking a departure from current cruise line mega-ship trends -- 3,215-passenger Norwegian Prima will offer a racetrack that's nearly a quarter-mile long, allowing paying participants to reach speeds of up to 30 miles per hour.

After taking on more than 14 twists and turns -- including one that goes around the ship's funnel -- drivers can relax with a beverage at the Prima Speedway Bar, a new watering hole found underneath the track.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter.

The ship will also boast The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that, according to a statement from the line, provides more G-force than an accelerating F1 racecar.

Additionally, the vessel will be home to a list of interactive real-life gameshows, including at-sea versions of "The Price Is Right," "Supermarket Sweep," "Press Your Luck" and "Beat the Clock."

In terms of theater productions, Norwegian Prima will include a three-deck theater that converts to a Las Vegas-style nightclub, as well as Broadway-caliber performances of "Summer: The Donna Summer Musical."

What all of these have in common is that we've seen them before. Norwegian first introduced go-kart tracks on its ships beginning with Norwegian Joy, which debuted in Asia in 2017. Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Encore followed, adding tracks to their outer decks.

In 2016, Royal Caribbean's Harmony of the Seas debuted the Ultimate Abyss, a 10-deck dry slide that offers thrill-seekers a breathtaking ride, and Carnival has included live gameshows on its ships since Carnival Breeze began sailing in 2012 with "Hasbro, the Game Show." Carnival's new Mardi Gras also features live "Family Feud" competitions on its voyages.

Mardi Gras also houses a space that converts from an atrium by day to a secondary theater at night, and both Norwegian and Royal Caribbean have run Broadway-style theater performances for years, with Norwegian currently featuring "Kinky Boots," "Six" and "After Midnight" and Royal Caribbean putting on "Grease," "Mamma Mia!," "We Will Rock You," "Cats" and "Saturday Night Fever."

What does stand out, though, are the twists Norwegian has used to differentiate itself from its competition -- and from previous iterations of its own at-sea firsts. Its racetrack is longer with more turns, its dry slides have sharper drops, and its new Broadway-style offering provides theater buffs with another playbill from which to choose.

Contrasting slightly with these flashy entertainment options, the line previously announced that its six Prima-class vessels would focus less on size and more on luxurious suites , as well as a better crew-to-passenger ratio for enhanced service.

"We're not just elevating the guest experience, we're giving it an adrenaline rush and multisensory overload," said Harry Sommer, president and CEO of Norwegian Cruise Line. "When we launched Norwegian Prima, we aimed at going beyond expectations, providing our guests with more wide-open spaces, elevated service, thoughtful design and a variety of unforgettable experiences...."

Norwegian Prima is scheduled to begin sailing from Europe in August 2022 before relocating to Galveston, Texas.

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Norwegian Cruise Line to Have 3 Ships with Go-Kart Tracks

Photo: Pixabay

Contemporary cruise ships are known for being floating entertainment centers. From wave pools and rock-climbing walls to zip lines and skydiving simulators, there’s definitely an activity for everyone on most of these vessels.

If you’re planning your next trip with Norwegian Cruise Line, you’ll soon have one more activity to enjoy: go-karting . It’s just one way that cruise ships are starting to cater to gearhead passengers.

Adrenaline Rush: Meet the dashing new 2020 Corvette

Live out your Mario Kart fantasies on this Norwegian cruise ship https://t.co/K3xGke3dMX #UAE #Tech #Global #Info #Knowledge #Blog — Zeeshan Sheikh (@XeeSheikh) September 17, 2019

Go-karting via Norwegian Cruise Line ships

Currently, Norwegian Cruise Line has two ships with go-kart tracks: Joy and Bliss. The first debuted back in 2017 and the latter debuted one year later. This November, the company will release a third track-equipped ship: Encore.

Per Car and Driver, the Encore will boast an 11,500-foot track that can accommodate up to 10 racers. Each kart can reach 30 mph and each racing session lasts around 8 minutes. The track itself includes 10 turns, as well as four portions that extend over the side of the ship for an enhanced thrill. There’s also a viewing track where observers can witness the race and give certain drivers a turbo boost by tagging that kart with a laser.

Be prepared to shell out $15 per person for a single ride on the track. Though, if you discover that you’re addicted to this attraction , you can also splurge on one of the $199.95 unlimited passes that NCL offers. If you do go this route, get an unlimited pass as early as you can due to their limited availability.

"Norwegian Encore, the fourth and final ship in NCL’s Breakaway-Plus class, has officially emerged from the Meyer Werft shipyard in Papenberg, Germany, as it readies for its November debut in Miami." #CruiseIndustry #JoinTheTravelRevolution https://t.co/bdDhnrSYjK — Legato (@legatohost) September 17, 2019

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News Source: Car and Driver

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A Cruise Ship With Go-Karts: Norwegian Cruise Line

When you think of cruise ships, you think of relaxation. You think of bars, lounges, shows and areas where you can spend the days with your loved ones – or alone too, if you’re traveling alone. Believe it not, there are two cruise ships that have something much more exciting and adrenaline-inducing than the usual activities or sipping a margarita overlooking the beautiful ocean – a go-kart race track! Here are some of the highlights:

Go-karts feature speeds of up to 30 mph
Features custom-built multi-level race track
$15 per race or 199.95 for the Unlimited Pass
Safety gear provided by Norwegian Cruise Line
Amazing racing experience with an unbeatable view

Inspired by the grandkids of the company’s CEO, these karting tracks are the first of their kind on any cruise ship. It’s important to note that they are not just amusement-park karting race tracks either – they feature an authentic racing experience similar to the one you can experience at indoor go-kart racing facilities on land.

Featuring a platform where people can sit and spectate, a covered pit lane, a system that times your laps, and even floodlights to let you race at night, this go-kart track on a cruise ship will give you an absolutely unique experience while being in the middle of the ocean! How exciting is that?

With all of this available on a cruise ship, your adventurous side will thank you for giving this thrilling activity a shot. Karting in itself is one of the most fun and challenging motorsport activities that you can experience. Doing that in the middle of an endless ocean brings this experience to a whole new level!

On What Cruise Ships Are Go-Karts Available?

At this point in time, you’re able to experience go-karting on the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy. Both of these cruise ships are part of the Norwegian Cruise Line. At sea, the Norwegian Bliss has the longest race track providing an unparalleled experience to anyone who loves motorsports.

If you’re the type who likes quiet and peace while at sea, don’t worry. The tracks are located towards the back of the ship so you’ll be able to enjoy and relax, as well as refuel your adrenaline.

What Kind of Race Tracks Are Available?

The race track featured on both cruise ships is named Encore Speedway and even for indoor karting standards, is relatively large. To be more specific, the race track is 1150 feet (350 m) long and features a track width of 18 feet (5.5 m). There are also plenty of turns and straight sections built into it that provide plenty of overtaking opportunities. The tracks are also multi-level so you can expect some inclinations at certain points to get an even better view of the ocean! How cool is that?

To add to the racing experience, the electric go-karts produce sounds of race car engines while you drive, making it feel even more authentic. And with a crowd cheering you on from the stands, you’re sure to get into the racing mood.

While the race track is 18 feet (5.5 m) wide, overtaking can be challenging in certain areas, so you’ll have to factor that in. However, this also makes the overall experience more fun and challenging. Slower drivers may also be enjoying the ocean views while racing, so you should always be mindful of that.

But with a little bit of patience, a positive attitude and some racing skills, you’ll be able to overtake them at strategic sections of the race track. The races last for about 8 – 10 minutes, with each lap taking up around 30 seconds, depending on how fast you are. That means that if you’re standing in line for your turn, you won’t have to wait that long.

What Type of Go-Karts Are Available?

The go-karts featured on the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy are all-electric SiNUS iONs that have been customized for corrosion-resistance, due to the saline environment. These go-karts are known to be of high-quality and are extremely fun to race with!

A lot of people on cruises are with friends or family. That’s one reason why there are two-seaters karts, as well as the standard one-seaters go-karts available. This allows you to share this amazing racing experience with someone else. Whether it’s your partner, your parent or your kid, being able to race a kart on top of a ship in the middle of an ocean is an experience not many things can beat.

Another cool thing about these go-karts is that they are fully electric. They’re extremely quiet but they do feature authentic engine sound effects to make you feel like you are going much faster than you actually are. With a top speed of up to 30 mph, you’re able to race at decent speeds, considering you’re on top of a cruise ship.

If you’re wondering who actually customized the go-karts, then you’d be happy to know that they’re custom-built for the tracks by none other than Alex Vega – a name that is sure to be recognized by car fans around the world who watch ‘The Auto Firm with Alex Vega’. If you’re interested, you should watch the episode of the show that features these exact go-karts.

To keep the karting experience safe for everyone, the staff has the ability to control the speed of the go-karts for passengers who require some assistance. At the start of the race, the speed may be throttled for a while, but eventually you’ll be able to fully control the speed yourself. This feature is also introduced for safety reasons and they will also reduce the speed of racers, if there are any incidents on the track to ensure everyone’s safety.

Does the Cruise Ship Provide Safety Gear?

Norwegian Cruise Line provides a helmet with a visor, as well as a balaclava to all racer. The helmet sock fits over your head like a ski mask and prevents the helmet from touching your bare head. Not only is this more hygenic, but it’s also much more comfortable. The helmet socks are also washed after every single use so the whole experience is very clean and sanitary.

How Much Does a Karting Session Cost?

If you want to have the experience of driving go-karts on top of a cruise ship, you can do that for $15 per race. This gets you one ride that will last for about 8 – 10 minutes. This is a great option for people who just want to try it out. If you’re into go-karting and enjoy the motorsport, the better option to go for multiple races, as you can bundle these up.

And if you fall in love with the experience and can’t get enough of it, you can also splurge for the Unlimited Weekly Pass that costs $199.95 and allows you to go to the track whenever and however many times you want for the whole week that you’re on the cruise. You’ll also get to use a priority line, which drastically reduces your waiting time!

What Are the Requirements to Race?

One of the best things about these tracks is that there is no age limit to drive karts on them. You just need to be at least 55 inches tall. It doesn’t matter how old you are! Another requirement to go on the tracks is to have the proper attire. This is very important, as it ensures the safety of the racers.

You shouldn’t be wearing sandals when going karting. You are required to wear closed-toe shoes, as well as clothes that are not loose. Items like an open jacket or a scarf are not allowed as they run the risk of getting stuck on the wheels which could cause potential accidents. Other than these standard karting rules that you should be following, there’s not much stopping you from being part of this amazing oceanic karting experience.

Do I Need a Reservation to Ride Go-Karts?

Do you need to get a reservation? No. But should you? Absolutely!

These tracks, as you may have assumed, are the most popular parts of these two ships so they are going to be pretty much always occupied. If you want to save yourself from the long lines, it’s best to have a reservation for a spot the moment you board the cruise.

Otherwise, you’re going to probably end up waiting for your turn for a much longer time than the actual lap will take. Alternatively, you can always opt for the Unlimited Weekly Pass for those extra queueing perks!

Is Go-Karting on a Cruise Ship Worth It?

If you’re going on a cruise, it’s great to do whatever you can to make memories that will last a lifetime. Usually, these experiences are more relaxing in nature but having an exciting option like being able to race go-karts on a custom-built race track in the middle of the ocean is something you’ll probably only do once in your life.

So the definitive answer is, yes! For larger families the karting experience can be a little pricey. But when you think about the fact that you’d be having this amazing experience in the middle of an ocean on one of the very first race tracks on top of a cruise ship, spending the money is worth it. Especially if you just intend to do it just for the experience.

In fact, most indoor karting arenas feature similar prices, although the length of a race may be a little longer. But who are we kidding? Of course, it will be an extremely awesome and thrilling experience. You’ll be racing on top of a cruise ship! Not only will you be able to get the thrill of racing go-karts but you’ll also have the thrill of that with the ocean right in front of you.

It’s like having the best of both worlds – you get the adventure of karting and you get to do it with a view! So, the answer is a definitive yes! Don’t miss out on this experience.

About Gerrit

Owner, Researcher, Writer & Editor at GoKartGuide.com

The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

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Some cruise lines — Viking , for instance — have fleets where many of the ships have the same basic design. Norwegian Cruise Line is not one of them.

If you’re thinking of booking a Norwegian cruise, an important thing to know is that there is a wide variation in the size and style of the vessels in the line’s fleet.

For more cruise guides, news and tips, sign up for TPG’s cruise newsletter .

Four of Norwegian’s 19 ships — Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Encore — are among the 30 biggest ships in the world. As such, they’re loaded with huge numbers of cabins, restaurants, bars, showrooms and deck-top amusements.

They are, in a nutshell, floating megaresorts .

The line also operates smaller vessels that barely crack the top 100 list of biggest cruise ships. These ships generally have fewer venues and attractions than the bigger ships. However, they still offer a lot for cruisers. Norwegian is a line known for packing oodles of restaurants, bars and entertainment on its vessels — even its smaller ones.

The good news for those of you trying to get a handle on all the options within the Norwegian fleet is that the line’s 19 ships can be bunched into just eight groups of vessels with similar amenities. If you know one member of the group, you know them all.

Each of these groups — known as “classes” in cruise industry lingo — is made up of ships that were constructed around the same time in the same basic design.

Related: Everything to know about cabins and suites on Norwegian ships

An introduction to Norwegian Cruise Line ships

Smaller only than Royal Caribbean , Carnival Cruise Line and MSC Cruises , Norwegian has become increasingly known for some of the biggest, most amenity-filled vessels at sea. As mentioned above, though, the line doesn’t just operate giant ships. More than half its fleet comprises vessels that, by today’s standards, are considered almost midsize.

Indeed, Norwegian is essentially two cruise lines in one. The line’s nine newest ships are big, bustling floating megaresorts that can carry upward of 3,000 to 4,000 passengers at double occupancy (even more with every berth filled). At around 144,000 to nearly 170,000 tons, all nine currently rank among the 50 biggest cruise ships in the world (although their rankings will shift downward as more big ships debut).

Norwegian’s 10 older ships, by contrast, are much more modest in size, measuring around 75,000 to 94,000 tons and carrying closer to 2,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Norwegian thus appeals both to cruisers who like a giant resort vibe and those who prefer a resort experience that is more modest. The key, depending on your tastes, is getting on the right ship in the fleet for you.

On the big-ship end of the spectrum, Norwegian’s four new Breakaway Plus vessels — Norwegian Encore , Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Escape — are the line’s premier offerings.

One step down in size from the Breakaway Plus ships are the still-quite-large Breakaway-class ships — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — and the one-of-a-kind Norwegian Epic.

The smallest of the line’s big ships are the recently unveiled Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima. They are the first two of a new series of six vessels that will transform the brand. Measuring about 143,500 tons a piece, these two new ships are about 17% smaller than Norwegian’s biggest vessels.

Norwegian’s 10 smaller vessels break down into five classes, though many are roughly the same size and offer similar amenities.

Prima class

Ships in class: Norwegian Prima (2022), Norwegian Viva (2023).

Size: 143,535 tons.

The Prima class of ships is the latest and greatest at Norwegian Cruise Line — the vessels that every NCL fan wants to book.

Only two ships in the series (Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima ) are currently in operation. Four more sister vessels are on order for delivery by 2027.

Under development since 2017, these ships mark Norwegian’s first new class of vessel in more than a decade. At 143,535 tons, they are notably smaller than the ships the line has been adding in recent years — a factor that will give them access to smaller ports around the world.

That said, Norwegian Viva, Norwegian Prima and their coming sisters still are relatively big ships that pack a lot of over-the-top amenities. Both Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima have ridiculously big go-kart tracks spread over three decks (a cruise industry first). The ships also boast The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that the line says provides more G-force than an accelerating Formula One race car.

Additionally, the vessels each are home to a three-deck theater that converts into a Las Vegas-style nightclub, along with a list of interactive, real-life game shows, including at-sea versions of “The Price Is Right,” “Supermarket Sweep,” “Press Your Luck” and “Beat the Clock.”

Related: I’ve been on nearly every Norwegian ship afloat; here are my first impressions of Norwegian Prima

Still, the new Prima class is about more than flashy entertainment and activities. It marks a more upscale turn for the line. Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima offer the largest variety of suite categories (13) for a large ocean ship, the largest three-bedroom suites of any new cruise vessel and the brand’s largest-ever inside, ocean-view and balcony cabins.

The entire back of each of the ships is dedicated to an upscale, “ship-within-a-ship” private suite area called The Haven that rises eight decks high and includes 107 suites, a sprawling private indoor lounge area, private outdoor lounge and pool areas, and a private restaurant. Other vessels feature The Haven areas, but none as big as this one.

In addition, the public areas of Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima feel more spacious than many of the other 17 ships in the Norwegian fleet. And, indeed, they are. The Prima-class ships are being built with a higher ratio of space to passengers, which itself is an upscale touch.

Norwegian Cruise Line also says the Prima-class vessels offer the most outdoor deck space of any new cruise ship — including more total pool deck space than any other ships in the brand’s fleet.

Note that the last four ships in the Prima-class series, due to debut between 2025 and 2027, are being redesigned to be bigger than the first two ships in the series.

Related: 11 venues, 32 dishes, four days: See what happened when I tried to test every dish at Prima’s new Indulge Food Hall

Breakaway Plus class

Ships in class: Norwegian Encore (2019), Norwegian Bliss (2018), Norwegian Joy (2017), Norwegian Escape (2015).

Size: 164,600 to 169,145 tons.

These are the Norwegian ships you go on if you’re a fan of megaresorts.

While not quite as big as Royal Caribbean’s giant Oasis-class ships , Norwegian’s Breakaway Plus-class vessels are firmly in the pantheon of the world’s cruising giants. They are the Norwegian ships most packed with restaurants, bars, entertainment and over-the-top attractions. There are so many of these things that you won’t be able to do it all in a single, weeklong cruise.

The Breakaway Plus ships are so big, in fact, that they have room for giant go-kart tracks and laser tag areas on their top decks (on all of the vessels in the series except Norwegian Escape). There’s also plenty of room to spare for multiple pools, waterslides and a kiddie splash zone.

Each of the vessels also offers real Broadway shows in big, state-of-the-art theaters, sprawling spas, casinos that fill half a deck, dedicated children’s play zones, and more than 2,000 rooms.

In addition, the two newest ships in this series, Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Joy, have large gaming and virtual reality zones called the Galaxy Pavilion.

For meals, you’ll find at least 20 venues on each of these ships, including multiple main dining rooms and a buffet that come with no extra charge and such extra-charge eateries as a teppanyaki restaurant, a steakhouse, a high-end French restaurant and a Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville at Sea.

With lots of family-friendly attractions such as the go-kart tracks and laser tag courses, these ships appeal heavily to families with children, particularly teens, but they draw a lot of couples, too. They are also popular with solo travelers, thanks to their unusually large complexes of cabins for one (something you’ll find on the Breakaway and Epic classes of ships, too).

Related: The ultimate guide to Norwegian’s Latitudes Rewards loyalty program

All four of the Breakaway Plus ships have large, private, two-deck-high suite enclaves called The Haven that come with their own pool areas, restaurants and lounges. They’re some of the most spectacular suite complexes anywhere at sea .

The biggest of these ships, Norwegian Encore, measures 169,116 tons, making it the 18th-biggest cruise ship in the world as of this story’s publishing (it will drop in the rankings over the coming years as additional megaships debut). That’s bigger than all but one Carnival ship and every Princess Cruises ship. Only Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises have a significant number of bigger vessels.

Norwegian Encore can hold more than 5,000 passengers with all berths filled.

Breakaway class

Ships in class: Norwegian Getaway (2014), Norwegian Breakaway (2013).

Size: 145,655 tons.

These vessels are similar to the Breakaway Plus-class ships but slightly smaller. Or, put another way, the Breakaway Plus-class ships are a stretched version of the Breakaway-class ships.

You’ll find many of the same eateries, bars, lounges and entertainment venues on the Breakaway-class ships that you’ll find on the Breakaway Plus-class vessels. The slightly smaller size of these vessels means there’s just a tad less “stuff” on board.

The top decks of the Breakaway-class ships have two pool areas and water parks with waterslides, for instance — just like the Breakaway Plus-class ships. However, they don’t have go-kart tracks or laser tag courses. Instead of the latter attractions, you’ll find an adults-only pool area called Spice H2O at the back of the vessels. At night, it transforms into a dance club.

Related: Every Norwegian Cruise Line ship ranked from biggest to smallest

The Breakaway-class ships also boast full-size ropes courses on their top decks. Indeed, they were the first cruise ships ever to have such a feature. Other deck-top features include miniature golf courses on both vessels and basketball courts that double as volleyball courts.

On the entertainment front, both ships offer Broadway shows in their main theaters and have a circuslike show in a secondary theater called “Cirque Dreams.” The latter is a dinner show that comes with an extra charge. They’re also home to “Howl at the Moon” dueling piano shows and a version of the Latin-themed dance show “Burn the Floor.”

Like the Breakaway Plus vessels, the Breakaway ships have large complexes for solo travelers, as well as large, private The Haven suite complexes.

In general, as with the Breakaway Plus ships, these vessels are best for vacationers who like a megaresort-type experience, and they appeal heavily to families with children who love all their deck-top attractions. Each of the two ships in this series — Norwegian Breakaway and Norwegian Getaway — holds about 4,000 passengers at double occupancy.

Related: The 5 best destinations you can visit on a Norwegian ship

Ships in class: Norwegian Epic (2010).

Size: 155,873 tons.

Norwegian Epic is an outlier in the Norwegian fleet. Unveiled in 2010, it was originally supposed to be the first of a series of up to three similar vessels. However, after disagreements with the shipyard that built it, Norwegian eventually canceled an order for a second ship in the series and an option for a third ship in the series, leaving Norwegian Epic in a class of one.

While roughly comparable in size to the Breakaway Plus- and Breakaway-class ships (it’s a bit smaller than the former vessels and a bit bigger than the latter vessels), Norwegian Epic has a notably different design that includes some unique features.

Perhaps most notably, balcony cabins on the ship have an unusual design that includes curved walls, rounded bed corners, and a sink and vanity area that is in the main living space (for all to see), separate from a closed-off toilet area. The toilet area is behind a translucent door that some cruisers find less private than they had hoped.

Norwegian Epic is also home to the only tube-and-bowl waterslide at sea and has such rare-for-cruise-ships attractions as a rappelling wall and a three-lane bowling alley. It also features an ice bar where customers wear parkas while sipping drinks.

Still, Norwegian Epic also offers a lot that will be familiar to Norwegian fans, including many of the line’s signature restaurants, bars and entertainment.

Standout features on Norwegian Epic include a water park with some of the most over-the-top waterslides at sea (including the aforementioned tube-and-bowl slide). It also offers a version of the Burn the Floor dance show that played on Broadway and on the West End in London, as well as a Howl at the Moon piano bar and a recreation of the Cavern Club nightspot in Liverpool, England, where The Beatles got their start (complete with a The Beatles cover band).

In addition, Norwegian Epic has the line’s biggest solo cabin complex (with 128 rooms for one) and a giant The Haven private suite complex.

At 155,873 tons, Norwegian Epic currently ranks as the 34th biggest cruise vessel in the world. Notably, it was the world’s third-largest ship when it debuted in 2010. That tells you just how much the cruise industry has grown in recent years.

Norwegian Epic carries 4,100 passengers at double occupancy.

Jewel class

Ships in class: Norwegian Gem (2007), Norwegian Jade (2006), Norwegian Pearl (2006), Norwegian Jewel (2005).

Size: About 93,500 tons.

Are you unsure if you want to sail on a megaship with 4,000 or more people but still want a vessel with a good amount of features and activities? The Jewel-class ships may be the perfect solution.

At 93,500 tons, the four vessels in the series are nearly 50% smaller than the line’s Breakaway Plus-class ships but still big enough that they have a lot to offer.

Each of the vessels has more than a dozen food venues, including three main restaurants, a casual buffet, a steakhouse, a French restaurant and a teppanyaki eatery.

You’ll also find multiple pools on each of the ships, along with whirlpools, basketball courts and golf driving nets. Each of the ships also has a theater, spa, casino, and multiple bars and lounges.

What you won’t find on the ships, because of their smaller size, are all the gee-whiz attractions such as go-kart tracks, laser tag courses and large water-park areas that Norwegian has put on its bigger vessels. If you can’t live without those sorts of features on a cruise ship, then the Jewel class probably isn’t for you.

Note that Norwegian Gem does have a climbing wall and a single waterslide. Norwegian Pearl has a climbing wall but no waterslide. Norwegian Jewel and Norwegian Jade have neither of the attractions.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line ships listed from newest to oldest

Each of the Jewel-class ships holds around 2,400 passengers at double occupancy (plus a few hundred more with every berth filled). That’s about 40% fewer passengers than you’ll find on the biggest Norwegian ships.

That makes them perfect for cruisers who want to get away from the sort of crowds that are on the biggest megaships without giving up many of the amenities that big ships have to offer.

Pride of America class

Ships in class: Pride of America (2005).

Size: 80,439 tons.

Like Norwegian Epic, Pride of America is an outlier in the Norwegian fleet. In fact, it’s perhaps an even bigger outlier than the former vessel.

Sporting a patriotic U.S. theme (you’ll find venues named after Thomas Jefferson and John Adams) and a distinct array of lounges and entertainment, it’s a ship specifically designed to sail year-round in Hawaii — the only one of its kind at any line.

Pride of America notably flies a U.S. flag and operates with a mostly U.S. crew, in keeping with regulations governing cruise itineraries that only include U.S. ports. That’s a big difference from any other big cruise vessel in the world.

Related: The best Hawaii cruises for every type of traveler

It’s also the only Norwegian vessel without a casino, in keeping with local Hawaii regulations.

If you sail on Pride of America, you’ll find such one-of-a-kind eateries as the classic American car-themed Cadillac Diner. You’ll also find some of Norwegian’s signature offerings, including a Cagney’s steak house and Italian eatery La Cucina. The ship’s other onboard attractions include a showroom, lounges, bars and a top deck with extensive open-air pool and sun lounging areas.

Thanks to its ownership of Pride of America, Norwegian is the undisputed leader in Hawaii cruises. Most cruise lines that offer sailings to Hawaii only offer a limited number of such trips during a few months each year. Norwegian, by contrast, offers sailings around the Hawaiian Islands every week of the year — the only cruise line in the world to do so.

An iconic presence in Hawaii, Pride of America has been permanently dedicated to the archipelago since its debut in 2005. It offers a repeating seven-night itinerary that begins each Saturday in Honolulu and brings the chance to visit four different Hawaiian islands on a single, seven-night trip.

Beginning and ending on the island of Oahu, the itinerary includes two days each on Maui, Kauai and Hawaii. The two-day visit to Maui involves an overnight stay at the port of Kahului. The two-day visit to Kauai involves an overnight stay at the port of Nawiliwili. The two-day visit to Hawaii is split between a call at Hilo and a call at Kona.

Ships in class: Norwegian Dawn (2002), Norwegian Star (2001).

Size: 92,250 and 91,740 tons.

The Dawn-class ships are similar to the Jewel-class ships in size and amenities, with a few differences.

Like the former vessels, the Dawn-class ships have around a dozen food-serving venues, including three main restaurants, a casual buffet, a Brazilian churrascaria (barbecue) restaurant, a French restaurant and a teppanyaki eatery.

You’ll also find multiple pools on each of the ships, whirlpools, basketball courts and golf driving nets. Each of the ships also has a theater, spa, casino, and multiple bars and lounges.

Like the Jewel-class ships, the Dawn-class vessels lack the sort of big attractions such as go-kart tracks and large water parks found on bigger Norwegian vessels. In addition, there are no Broadway musicals on Dawn-class ships, and they don’t have a private The Haven suite area (though they do have several giant suites called Garden Villas that measure more than 6,000 square feet).

If you can’t live without those sorts of features on a cruise ship, then the Dawn class probably isn’t for you.

Ships in class: Norwegian Sun (2001), Norwegian Sky (1999).

Size: 78,309 and 77,104 tons.

Dating to 2001 and 1999, respectively, Norwegian Sun and Norwegian Sky are among the smallest ships at Norwegian. They offer fewer onboard attractions and amenities than is typical for the line’s vessels.

In general, they appeal to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience on a cruise ship than what you’ll find on the big Norwegian ships. They also draw cruisers who care more about the destinations that they visit on a cruise than onboard attractions.

On each of the vessels, you’ll find more than half a dozen eateries, including several main dining rooms, a casual buffet, a diner-style pub, a steakhouse, an Italian trattoria and a French bistro.

On their top decks, the ships have pools (one on Sun, two on Sky), whirlpools, a basketball court that doubles as a volleyball court, golf driving nets and a jogging track. The ships also have casinos and theaters with nightly shows.

Unlike most bigger Norwegian ships, neither of the vessels has a private The Haven suite complex or solo cabins.

Ships in class: Norwegian Spirit (1998).

Size: 75,904 tons.

Dating to 1998, Norwegian Spirit is Norwegian’s smallest and oldest ship, and — like the line’s Sun-class ships — it generally appeals to cruisers looking for a more intimate experience than you’ll find on the big Norwegian ships.

At 75,904 tons, Norwegian Spirit is less than half the size of Norwegian’s biggest ships, and it carries just 1,966 passengers — more than 2,000 fewer than the Norwegian biggies.

It also offers fewer (but still quite a few) venues and attractions. In all, you’ll find 13 food outlets on board, including two main restaurants, a casual buffet eatery, and versions of the line’s signature Cagney’s steakhouse and French eatery Le Bistro. There are more than half a dozen bars and cafes.

Deck-top attractions include several pools, whirlpools, waterslides, a basketball court and a jogging track. The ship also has a casino, spa, nightclub and theater.

Of note, Norwegian Spirit originally was built for Asia-based Star Cruises (where it was called SuperStar Leo).

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
15 ways cruisers waste money
15 best cruise ships for people who never want to grow up
What to pack for your 1st cruise

SPONSORED: With states reopening, enjoying a meal from a restaurant no longer just means curbside pickup.

And when you do spend on dining, you should use a credit card that will maximize your rewards and potentially even score special discounts. Thanks to temporary card bonuses and changes due to coronavirus, you may even be able to score a meal at your favorite restaurant for free.

These are the best credit cards for dining out, taking out, and ordering in to maximize every meal purchase.

Editorial Disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airlines or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.

The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained

FEATURE STORY

Cruise Ships are Revving up

It looks like 2023 is the year that vacations take to the ocean again en masse. The vessels are larger and more decked out than ever

By Fran Golden

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas

Cruise ships are on a mission to recapture the seas. The COVID pandemic forced cruise lines to pull their ships into port, but now that health concerns have eased, passengers are returning. They are finding an industry reborn.

As a longtime travel journalist, I have been on 170 ships, and I have seen how cruise lines can engage in a hospitality arms race. Before the pandemic struck, many new megaships were already on order, but the delay in launching means that 2023 will feel even more momentous for the industry. Come with us as we look at the crazy-huge world of cruises.

An adults-only deck on Carnival’s Mardi Gras

SHIP DESIGN

Making Big Ships Feel Less Big

THERE’S AN interesting paradox about megaships. The extreme sizes mean that cruise lines can add more and more things to do, but at some point, ships may become too large for passengers to easily enjoy. And so Royal Caribbean has divided its Icon of the Seas ship, to launch next year, into eight “neighborhoods,” the idea being that you choose the section that suits your interests and mostly stay in that area. One neighborhood caters to families with children, for example, while another is meant for young singles and couples.

Carnival Cruise Line has “adults-only spaces,” where passengers can enjoy some peace and quiet around hot tubs, pools and bars, away from the family crowd.

Royal Caribbean has a show with superhero characters.

ENTERTAINMENT

Broadway Shows and Ways to Play Onstage

THE OLD Las Vegas–style revues are long gone. Now singers and dancers recruited from Broadway and London’s West End appear in slightly truncated versions of Broadway shows such as Summer: The Donna Summer Musical, which on the Norwegian Prima morphs into a big disco party with the audience.

Daytime entertainment likewise has been updated. While the old belly flop and hairy chest contests are out, a replacement has emerged: On Carnival’s Mardi Gras and its sister ships, you can watch—or play!— Family Feud Live .

Carnival Cruise Line’s Bolt roller coaster

Board a Floating Theme Park

ROLLER coasters are thrilling enough, but one at sea gives you the sensation of flying above the vast ocean blue. Melisa Colby, 62, has ridden the coaster on Carnival’s 5,282-passenger Mardi Gras. “The first time, I screamed,” says the preschool teacher from Jacksonville, Florida. “The second, third and fourth times, I was smiling and putting my arms up in the air.”

On Royal Caribbean’s Icon, travelers will enjoy a water park with six slides. Nearby, on an attraction that’s a combination skywalk, ropes course and thrill ride, you’ll be able to strap on a harness and walk a plank. At the end of the plank, the bottom drops out, and you’ll swing 154 feet above the ocean.

The Norwegian Prima Speedway

Norwegian Cruise Line’s new 3,100-passenger Norwegian Prima is topped with a go-kart track. Another attraction is a 10-deck drop in a waterless tube slide mostly suspended off the side of the ship.

Food on Celebrity Beyond

Eat Your Way Around the World

FOOD HAS always been a cruising calling card, and it has gotten better and more varied to reflect the growing “foodie” culture. Global flavors and vegan and vegetarian options are getting more play, and cruise companies have finally realized that their passengers might like to taste food from the destinations they’re visiting, such as jerk chicken when they sail to Jamaica.

To satisfy a whole lot of tastes, the Norwegian Prima has a complimentary Food Hall where you can choose from counters featuring Southern comfort food, Spanish tapas or Indian chicken tikka, to name a few options. “They are leading in trends that we are seeing on land and doing it so well,” says Colleen McDaniel, editor in chief of the leading website Cruise Critic.

From left: Emeril Lagasse; Celebrity Beyond ’s Magic Carpet restaurant

Some cruise lines are adding new specialty restaurants that charge extra for upgraded choices, such as sushi and aged steaks. Big culinary names may be involved. Emeril Lagasse has New Orleans–style bistros on Carnival’s latest ships (a shrimp po’boy won’t break the bank at $6), while the 3,260-passenger Celebrity Beyond and sister ship Celebrity Ascent (debuting in December 2023) will boast restaurants by renowned chef Daniel Boulud (from $75 per person for three courses; $125 for five).

Over the years that traveler Jill Dill Vincent, 78, has cruised with Carnival, she has seen more sophisticated menus in the main dining rooms. “I love the lobster,” she says. Her husband, Ken, 74, favors the desserts, especially the “melting chocolate cake.”

Drinks on the Carnival Mardi Gras, left , and the Norwegian Prima

Brewing Up Refreshment

THE CRAFT beer boom can’t be contained by land. The latest Carnival ships have onboard breweries. Also in vogue: molecular cocktails that smoke and change colors. At a bar on Carnival’s Mardi Gras, you can order the Crystal Ball, a tequila drink that arrives in a foggy orb. Norwegian Prima has a “sustainable” bar featuring drinks made with ingredients that might otherwise be discarded, as well as earth-friendly biodynamic wines.

Sea kayaking in Alaska, on a Holland America excursion

PORTS OF CALL

Beyond the Beach

THE CARIBBEAN and Bermuda together represent 44 percent of the world cruise market, according to the Cruise Lines International Association, making them by far the world’s most popular cruise destinations. For North American travelers, cruises to Alaska and the Mediterranean are also expected to be popular this year as passengers regain their sea legs.

From left: Wildlife in the Caribbean; salmon fishing on a Princess cruise stop in Alaska.

That’s fairly typical. But what is changing is what travelers do when on shore: “more sustainable and local experiences,” says Roberta Jacoby, a hospitality and travel industry consultant. Cruise lines are fulfilling demand with cultural, adventure, multigenerational, lifestyle and wellness addon shore excursions via local operators. On Holland America Line and Princess Cruises ships in Alaska, you can go salmon fishing with a local fisherman and, after you reel in “the big one,” have your catch cooked by the ship’s chefs. On a Caribbean cruise, you might visit an ecopark and farm that promotes environmental education on St. Kitts or skip the beach in favor of a green monkey encounter at a wildlife reserve in Barbados.

Fran Golden is an award-winning travel journalist and the author of numerous travel books, including 100 Things to Do in Alaska Before You Die.

COMPARE THE COSTS*

Visit the Caribbean by sea, or stay at a resort? Sample trips for a couple from Chicago:

MIDRANGE Seven-night cruise aboard Royal Caribbean’s Symphony of the Seas from Miami

February 25 to March 4

PRICE: $2,070 for Oceanview Cabin, including food and many activities

NOTES: Alcohol, onboard Wi-Fi, tipping and shore excursions are extra, plus $200 for hotel on night before departure.

AIRFARE: $225 round trip per person

TOTAL: About $2,720 plus onboard extras

MIDRANGE Seven-night cruise aboard Oceania Cruises’ Vista from Miami

March 9 to 16

PRICE: $6,698 for a Veranda Stateroom, including food and onboard activities

NOTES: Wi-Fi included; alcohol and excursions are extra, plus $200 for hotel on night before departure.

AIRFARE: $380 per person

TOTAL: About $7,660 plus onboard extras

LUXURY Seven nights at Secrets Aura Cozumel

PRICE: $4,981 for a Junior Suite at this Mexican oceanfront resort, spa and dive center. That includes unlimited dining, drinking and tips.

NOTES: Off-resort trips and activities are not included.

AIRFARE: $206 per person

TOTAL: About $5,395 plus off-resort extras

LUXURY Seven nights at Sandals Grande St. Lucian

PRICE: $7,299 for a Caribbean Honeymoon Walkout room at this oceanfront resort on a Caribbean island. That includes unlimited dining and drinking.

AIRFARE: $536 per person

TOTAL: About $8,370 plus off-resort extras

*Sources: royalcaribbean.com , amrcollection.com , oceaniacruises.com , sandals.com , kayak.com . Prices are as of December 5, 2022.

STAY HEALTHY WHILE AT SEA

IN THE WAKE of the pandemic, cruise ships have upgraded their health and safety systems, from hand sanitizers throughout the ship to medical-grade air filters in the ventilation systems to robots that shoot ultraviolet rays to kill bacteria.

But you’ll no longer need to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination to board many ships, though unvaccinated travelers are still encouraged to provide a negative COVID test result. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, which shut down cruising in North America from March 2020 to June 2021, ended its intense monitoring of the industry in July 2022, saying that cruise passengers “can make their own risk assessment when choosing to cruise, much like they do in other settings.”

Here’s what to expect:

→ Cruise ship medical centers have been upgraded with equipment to test for COVID-19, and medical teams have added personnel to better treat anyone who falls ill, even severely ill.

→ When a passenger tests positive, contact tracing commences. On some ships, security cameras will use facial recognition to aid in this task; on the big ships with thousands of passengers you may be traced via an app on your smartphone or a smart wristband provided at check-in.

→ Passengers who get sick will be confined to their cabins or cabins set aside for quarantine purposes. Meals will be delivered to those rooms.

→ Wearing a mask is a personal choice.

SHIP SIZE REALLY DOES MATTER

TRANSATLANTIC OCEAN LINERS

1911 RMS Titanic

882.9 feet 2,435 passengers

RMS Queen Mary 1,019.5 feet

2,038 passengers

RMS Queen Elizabeth 2 964.5 feet

2,081 passengers

PLEASURE SHIPS

1971 Pacific Princess (the “Love Boat”)

550 feet 750 passengers

1972 TSS Mardi Gras 650 feet

1,240 passengers

1988 Royal Caribbean Sovereign of the Seas (first “megaship”)

2,690 passengers

1996 Carnival Destiny 893 feet

3,350 passengers

2009 Royal Caribbean Oasis of the Seas 1,187 feet

6,771 passenger

2020 Royal Caribbean Wonder of the Seas 1,188 feet

7,084 passengers

ETA 2024 Royal Caribbean Icon of the Seas 1,198 feet

7,600 passengers

Aboard Wind Surf , a Windstar Cruises ship, in Majorca, Spain

ANOTHER ROUTE

Small Ships Can Come Up Big

THE AVERAGE ocean cruise ship carries about 2,125 passengers. But sharing a boat with so many people isn’t for everyone, which is why many smaller-ship excursions have become available.

“People who think that cruise ships have not changed since The Love Boat or that all ships are built for 5,000 of your closest friends are simply wrong,” says Rob Clabbers, president of Q Cruise + Travel in Chicago.

Small ships that carry fewer than 1,000 passengers don’t have amusement park attractions, but they have other benefits, especially for older travelers, including a more adult crowd. Viking bans anyone under age 18 on its 930-passenger ocean ships and on its riverboats.

A trio performs in the Wintergarden on a Viking cruise, which also offers tea service.

With their shallow drafts, small ships can navigate into more out-of-the-way places. It’s the difference between, say, docking next to other megaships in bustling St. Thomas and then getting passengers to shore via shuttle boats, and anchoring next to the superyachts of the rich and famous in trendy St. Barts. Since small ships don’t need to keep track of thousands of passengers, they also tend to stay longer in port, giving passengers more time to enjoy local dining and nightlife.

The Evrima , a 149-suite ship that is part of the Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection fleet.

On most of these cruises, you will pay a premium. Want a weeklong trip on a Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection ship that carries 298 passengers? That goes for $7,000 to $25,000 for most seven-night cruises. A cruise to Antarctica on equivalent lines costs about that much too. But some small-ship companies will reduce prices to less than $3,000 per person for seven-night sailings in the competitive Caribbean and during quieter seasons, such as fall and winter, in Europe.

SOME LEADING SMALL-SHIP CRUISE LINES

→ Windstar Cruises This line has a fleet of three 148- to 342-passenger sailing ships and three all-suite 312-passenger motor yachts. The informal environment on voyages features a lavish buffet served under the stars.

→ Viking Ocean ships These ships follow the same all-inclusive model as the company’s riverboats in Europe. Viking in 2022 topped award lists by both Travel + Leisure and Condé Nast Traveler.

→ Azamara cruises The line’s four upscale ships top out at around 700 passengers and include cultural events with local performers.

→ Other premium lines Also consider Celebrity Cruises, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises. Or look for older ships on mass-market lines, some of which carry fewer than 3,000 passengers. —F.G .

From top: Courtesy Royal Caribbean Cruises; Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line; Courtesy Royal Caribbean Cruises; Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line; Courtesy Norwegian Cruise Line; Courtesy Celebrity Cruises; (from left) John Lamparski/Getty Images, Courtesy Celebrity Cruises; (from left) Courtesy Carnival Cruise Line, Courtesy Gene Sloan/The Points Guy; (from left) Courtesy Princess Cruise Lines, Adrian Davies/NPL/Minden Pictures; Courtesy Michael Nalley/ Windstar Cruises; Courtesy Charissa Fay/Viking Cruises (2); Courtesy Jack Hardy/The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection; Courtesy Windstar Cruises; Courtesy Charissa Fay/Viking Cruises; Courtesy Jenna Lyn/Azamara; Courtesy Holland America

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IMAGES

Norwegian Encore
A Cruise Ship With Go-Karts: Norwegian Cruise Line
The ‘Norwegian Bliss’ Cruise Ship Features A Two-Level Go Kart Track
Norwegian Encore Features
Go-Karts on Norwegian Cruise Line
This Incredible Cruise Ship Has A Go-Kart Track On It’s Top Deck!

COMMENTS

Norwegian Cruise Line's Newest Ship Has a Go Kart Track ...
Norwegian's Newest Cruise Ship Has a Go-kart Track, Infinity Pools, and an Open-air Food Hall. The Norwegian Viva is the line's newest mega-ship, slated to launch with a huge array of bells and ...
Go-Karts on Norwegian Cruise Line
The go-karts on Norwegian Cruise Line are electric-powered racecars. They are not, as you will be repeatedly told, bumper cars. No more than 10 cars can be on the track at once, and while drivers ...
Norwegian Cruise Line's new ship has a ridiculously big go-kart track
A few years ago, when there only were go-kart tracks on Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Bliss, a single ride cost $7. With demand sky-high, the line soon raised that fee to $9.95, and with the debut of Norwegian Encore in 2019, the cost shot up to $15 per ride.
15 Must-Know Things About Norwegian's Go-Kart Track at Sea
When Norwegian Cruise Lines debuted the first racetrack at sea with go-karts, it made big news. Even now a few years later, the speedways continue to be one of the more popular attractions on a cruise ship. They are also a perfect example of the kind of strides that today's ships are making in entertainment while at sea. If you're about to sail on a Norwegian ship with one of the tracks, then ...
Is Norwegian's go-kart racing on a cruise ship worth $15?
When Norwegian Cruise Line introduced its Breakaway Plus class of ships, it introduced a revolutionary new onboard form of entertainment to the cruise line industry - the Norwegian Speedway.. Norwegian Cruise Line's Speedway is the first of its kind; a real life race track at sea. This completely unique experience allows guests to drive a go-kart-like car around tight turns and speed down ...
Onboard Obsession: The Thrill of Go-Karting on the Norwegian Prima
Norwegian Prima's go-kart track is the cruise line's biggest yet. Norwegian Cruise Line The cars can go up to 40 miles per hour, but Norwegian limits speeds to 27 mph during group drive times.
Prima Speedway POV
The Prima Speedway is the only three-level go-kart race track at sea. You can race other passengers for a fee on the Norwegian Prima cruise ship. First we'll...
Norwegian's New Cruise Ship Will Have a Go Kart Track
Norwegian Cruise Line's newest fleet member could turn out to be the ultimate playground for all ages. ... can accommodate over 3,200 guests and boasts a go-kart track and 10-story plunge slide.
Norwegian Joy Cruise Ship
Find your happy place on board Norwegian Joy® when she cruises from the Miami to Panama Canal. Or join her in The Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda from Miami, Port Canaveral and New York. Cruise to Alaska from Seattle and explore more of the Last Frontier in a ship built for non-stop memorable moments. Ship.
Norwegian's Prima Cruise Ship Has Go-Kart Track, Giant Slide: Images
Norwegian's new Prima cruise ship will feature a 10-story slide and 3-level go-kart racetrack. Here's how the vessel will look. Zahra Tayeb. Oct 2, 2021, 8:08 AM PDT. The stern of the Norwegian ...
Which Norwegian Ships Have Go Karts Tracks?
The Go Karts aren't free on Norwegian cruise ships, there is an additional charge. ... All Norwegian's Go Kart's are electric - but they mimic the sound of petrol/Gasoline powered Karts. Are There Height and Weight Restrictions for the Go Karts? Yes, there are height and weight restrictions if you want to drive a Go Kart: ...
What it's like to ride the longest go-kart track at sea
Just last year, when Norwegian Bliss first debuted, its go-kart track cost $7 per ride. With demand sky high, the line quickly raised that fee to $9.95 per ride. Now, the cost is up to $15 per ride. That's for an eight-lap race that, typically, lasts about six to eight minutes. If you're the kind of person who just can't get enough of go ...
Photos: See Inside Norwegian Cruise Line's New $1.1 Billion Cruise Ship
I sailed on Norwegian Cruise Line's new $1.1 billion Prima cruise ship with two Starbucks, a 10-story slide, and a go-kart track — see what it was like. Brittany Chang.
New cruise ship to offer 3-level go-kart track and freefall slide
Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information. Norwegian Cruise Line's newest ship, Norwegian Prima, will feature a slew of entertainment options, including the industry's first three-level go-kart track, freefall dry slides and a theater that transforms into a nightclub, putting new spins on amenities ...
Norwegian Cruise Line to Have 3 Ships with Go-Kart Tracks
Go-karting via Norwegian Cruise Line ships. Currently, Norwegian Cruise Line has two ships with go-kart tracks: Joy and Bliss. The first debuted back in 2017 and the latter debuted one year later ...
Cruise Line Offers a Shipboard Go-Kart Track
Norwegian Cruise Line will soon offer three ships with go-kart tracks on board, including a two-story track on its new ship Encore that goes into service in November. The karts may not be the ...
Norwegian Prima Cruise Ship Go-Kart Track: The Biggest Race Track at
This is the largest Go-Kart track at sea. The Norwegian Prima race track is called Prima Speedway and it is three levels from Deck 18 to Deck 20. We hopped i...
A Cruise Ship With Go-Karts: Norwegian Cruise Line
Go-karts feature speeds of up to 30 mph. Features custom-built multi-level race track. $15 per race or 199.95 for the Unlimited Pass. Safety gear provided by Norwegian Cruise Line. Amazing racing experience with an unbeatable view. Inspired by the grandkids of the company's CEO, these karting tracks are the first of their kind on any cruise ...
Does Norwegian Aqua have a Go Kart Racetrack?
Embark on a journey where innovation meets the high seas, only on Norwegian Aqua. Discover the latest thrill on the Norwegian Aqua, the new gem in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, which replaces the go-kart racetrack with the pioneering Aqua Slidecoaster. Dive into the details of this innovative attraction and find out what else sets the ...
New cruise ship to feature world's first free-fall dry slide at ...
Norwegian installed the world's first cruise go-karts track on the Norwegian Joy (which debuted in 2017), followed by its Bliss (2018) and Encore (2019) ships. More world firsts Thrill-seekers ...
For $100, Norwegian Bliss guests get unlimited go-kart rides during cruise
Norwegian Cruise Line has introduced a go-kart package on the new Norwegian Bliss. The go-kart package, which is only available for purchase onboard, allows unlimited riding for a day or week. An ...
Norwegian Cruise Line Launches Ship with Go-Kart Track
Countless swimming pools, bars and restaurants live within this wonderland on water. If that doesn't get your engine revving, there's also a full-size go-kart track. Scheduled to hit the sea on June 2023, Norwegian Cruise Line recently gave viewers an inside look at their latest fleet member. You'll also love:Project Sama is 600-ft Luxury ...
9 Things You'll Love About Norwegian Joy
Cruisers curious about Norwegian Joy, the line's high-tech ship that was the first to boast such intriguing options as an at-sea go-kart racetrack and virtual reality pavilion, will find more than ...
The 9 classes of Norwegian Cruise Line ships, explained
Both Norwegian Viva and Norwegian Prima have ridiculously big go-kart tracks spread over three decks (a cruise industry first). The ships also boast The Drop, a 10-story dry slide that the line ...
Go-Karts? Giant Slides? Roller Coasters? Cruise Ships Are Now ...
Norwegian Cruise Line's new 3,100-passenger Norwegian Prima is topped with a go-kart track. Another attraction is a 10-deck drop in a waterless tube slide mostly suspended off the side of the ship. Another attraction is a 10-deck drop in a waterless tube slide mostly suspended off the side of the ship.