What You Need to Know About the NCL Prima: Ship Review
Cruising is a luxury experience that combines relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable destinations. But when it comes to choosing the right ship for your next voyage, the decision can be tricky.
That’s why we’re breaking down all the must-know details about Norwegian Cruise Line's (NCL) newest beauty, the Prima. Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or just dipping your toes into the cruising waters, you’ll want to know what this ship has to offer—and what’s missing.
Why the NCL Prima Should Be on Your Radar
When you think of cruising, what comes to mind? Sunny days, relaxing nights, and the promise of unforgettable memories. Norwegian Cruise Line’s Prima is here to take that experience to the next level. As the first of NCL’s new “Prima Class” ships, it’s designed to be sleek, innovative, and packed with luxury. But is it really as good as they say? You deserve the inside scoop before you book, so let’s dive into what makes the Prima shine, where it might fall short, and why you should care.
A Fresh Look at NCL’s Newest Ship
The Prima is the first ship to roll out from Norwegian Cruise Line's newest class, and it sets a new standard for modern cruising. From its contemporary design to the expanded offerings onboard, this ship is all about making your vacation feel extra special. This is no run-of-the-mill cruise ship; it’s a floating resort with style and sophistication. So, let’s talk about what makes this ship truly standout.
The Ship’s Design: Sleek, Modern, and Spacious
Walking around the Prima is like stepping into a luxury hotel, but better. This ship boasts stunning contemporary design that feels more like a chic, upscale city than a cruise ship. The public spaces are bright, airy, and full of modern touches that elevate the whole vibe of the experience. Think neutral tones with pops of color, smooth curves, and lots of glass to keep you feeling connected to the ocean.
What’s truly great about the Prima is the layout. It feels spacious with wide walkways, expansive deck areas, and a focus on open, airy spaces. Whether you’re strolling around or enjoying a cocktail at the bar, you never feel cramped or crowded. Plus, there are plenty of cozy spots to unwind, from outdoor lounges to intimate bars with panoramic views of the ocean.
Dining Options: A Feast for Your Tastebuds
If you’re a foodie, you’re in for a treat. The Prima offers an array of dining experiences that will keep your taste buds dancing. You can indulge in classic cruise ship fare, like buffet-style dining, but there’s so much more to explore. The ship features specialty restaurants that cater to a wide variety of tastes. From Cagneys Steakhouse (a must for all the steak lovers out there) to Ocean Blue (for an unforgettable seafood experience), you’ll never run out of delicious options.
One of the standout features of the Prima is the Indulge Food Hall, a space with a diverse selection of food stalls. Picture an elevated food court where you can sample a little of everything, from tacos to Asian fusion—perfect for anyone who loves variety. And let’s not forget The Commodore Room, a fine-dining spot where you can enjoy an intimate, refined experience with mouthwatering dishes.
The beverage selection doesn’t disappoint either. Whether you’re sipping cocktails on the deck, enjoying a craft beer at the Vibe Beach Club, or treating yourself to a wine tasting, the Prima makes sure you’re never far from your next drink.
Activities and Entertainment: Always Something to Do
On a cruise, you want to make sure there’s never a dull moment. The Prima delivers on this front with a whole array of activities to keep you entertained day and night. Whether you’re into high-energy fun or more laid-back experiences, this ship has something for everyone.
For thrill-seekers, the Prima offers a stunning three-level race track—a first for NCL—where you can feel the adrenaline rush as you zoom around in a go-kart. Or, if you’re more into something peaceful, take a dip in the Vibe Beach Club or enjoy a spa treatment at the Mandara Spa. There’s also an infinity pool that creates the perfect Instagram-worthy moment, looking out at the horizon while you relax.
And when the sun sets, the Prima brings the nightlife to life. Expect Broadway-style shows, live music, and themed parties that will keep you dancing till late. The ship also offers intimate spaces like The Social, a speakeasy-style bar, where you can enjoy unique cocktails and some quiet conversation.
The Itinerary: Explore the World, the NCL Way
The Prima sets sail on some seriously exciting itineraries. Whether you're looking to explore the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, or even Northern Europe, the ship’s routes are designed to make your vacation both relaxing and adventurous. These itineraries are packed with exciting ports of call, giving you plenty of opportunities to explore, discover, and indulge in new experiences.
Expect a mix of classic cruise destinations and a few hidden gems. You might dock at islands like Bermuda, or head to beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean. The flexibility in the ship’s offerings makes it a solid option for both first-timers and seasoned cruisers looking to mix things up.
Our particular sailing to us to Nassau, Bahamas and to Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas. It was our first time experiencing Great Stirrup Cay and it is beautiful!
What’s Missing? Areas for Improvement
Even though the Prima is a solid addition to the NCL fleet, it’s not without its areas for improvement. A few things may leave you feeling a bit underwhelmed, especially if you’re used to certain features from older ships.
The Pool Area: The main pool area feels a bit cramped, especially during peak hours. If you’re used to spacious pools with plenty of lounging areas, you might find this a little limiting.
Public Wi-Fi: The Wi-Fi on the Prima can be hit-or-miss, especially if you’re hoping to stay connected while at sea. It’s functional but not the best.
The Lack of a Larger Casino: If you’re into big-time casino vibes, you might find the casino a little on the smaller side compared to other ships. It’s still fun, but it doesn’t have that Vegas-style wow factor.
Is the NCL Prima Right for You?
So, should you book your next vacation on the Prima? If you’re into modern design, top-tier dining, and a variety of activities, this ship is a no-brainer. The Prima truly delivers on its promise of luxury, style, and a wide range of experiences for all types of travelers.
But if you’re looking for a massive pool deck, a Vegas-level casino, or a super quiet escape from it all, you might want to look elsewhere. Every ship has its pros and cons, and the Prima is no exception. But overall, this ship is a stellar choice for those looking to enjoy a fresh, fun, and luxurious cruise experience.
Are you ready to experience the NCL Prima for yourself? Let me know your thoughts—what excites you the most about this ship? Drop a comment below or hit me up on social media! And if you’re thinking about booking a cruise on Prima’s newest sister, NCL Aqua, I can help! Click below to join us onboard!