Norwegian Spirit
Norwegian Spirit / Norwegian Cruise Line
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Inside Cabin
Inside Cabin / Norwegian Cruise Line
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Balcony Cabin
Balcony Cabin / Norwegian Cruise Line
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Atrium
Atrium / Norwegian Cruise Line
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Spinnaker Lounge
Spinnaker Lounge / Norwegian Cruise Line
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Norwegian Spirit Review

Our Ship Review
Deal Expert / Travel Blogger

As the smallest and oldest ship in Norwegian Cruise Line's fleet, the 2,032-passenger Norwegian Spirit is in a class by itself, literally – it's the only ship in the Spirit class. Although it was built in 1998, Spirit underwent a massive $100 million refurbishment and a recent refresh that gave it the gloss of a brand-new ship. Technical parts were updated in 2017 and a bow-to-stern interior transformation in 2020 has made it a haven for cruisers seeking a grown-up onboard ambiance. While Norwegian Spirit doesn't have the amusement park-style attractions of the line's newer vessels, its modernized staterooms, redesigned bars and lounges, fresh dining concepts, and expanded Mandara Spa deliver a solid mid-to-large-size ship experience without the megaship crowds.

What We Love

Updated Staterooms: From the budget-friendly Family Oceanview and Family Inside staterooms (sleeping three or four) to the Penthouse Suites and Owner’s Suites that feature whirlpool tubs and can join with other suites and staterooms to accommodate multi-generational families or groups of friends, all accommodations on Norwegian Spirit have been refreshed with contemporary decor in a sophisticated neutral palette.

Compelling Itineraries: Travelers seeking an easy way to explore the South Pacific, Australia & New Zealand, Asia, and Alaska can with Norwegian Spirit’s 2024 and 2025 itineraries.

Six New Restaurants: Guests aboard Norwegian Spirit can now dine at six new restaurants – including Onda by Scarpetta for elevated Italian cuisine (extra a la pricing applies) and The Local for complimentary 24-hour comfort food – among the ship’s 13 dining venues.

Best Known For

Themed Parties: The cruise director gets everyone involved in Norwegian’s once-per-sailing signature event. And while you can plan ahead and pack appropriate outfits, the real fun happens when the DJ starts playing and the glow sticks come out. 

Freestyle Dining: With its array of restaurant options and eat-when-you-want “Freestyle Dining” concept, Norwegian Spirit makes it easy to mix it up cuisine-wise night after night. Besides the two main dining rooms, Taste and Windows, there are five other complimentary options, such as Silk (for Chinese cuisine) and The Bier Garten (for Bavarian-style specialties like knackwurst), plus six specialty restaurants offering French, Japanese, Italian, and American steakhouse specialties. 

Bars and Lounges: There's no shortage of nightlife venues on this ship (there are 10, in fact) where you can kick back with a cocktail — whether you prefer sipping an icy Mojito, a frothy pint or a freshly poured glass of bubbly. Favorites include Magnum’s Champagne & Wine Bar; Henry’s, a traditional English pub; and Spinnaker Lounge, where panoramic views and dancing are on the menu, too.

Who It's Best For

Couples & Friends: This ship’s refurbishment definitely made it most appropriate for adults, whether you’re a couple, a group of friends, or adult siblings traveling together. 

First-Time CruisersNorwegian Spirit’s manageable size and renewed polish also make it feel less overwhelming for cruise newbies looking to see if this vacation style is for them.

Don't Say We Didn't Warn You

There Are No Bells or Whistles: Don't expect to find twisting waterslides, a race track, a ropes course, or a laser-tag maze. There are sports courts, but this is an updated vessel without the family-friendly action or adventure of the line's newest ships.