NORWEGIAN BLISS
The "Alaska Specialist." Custom-built to maximize scenery, this ship defined the Breakaway Plus class with its massive Observation Lounge.
- Guests
- 4,004
- Tonnage
- 168,028
- Launch
- 2018
- Crew
- 1,716
The Prodigy Verdict
The Scenic Giant.
The Norwegian Bliss was a turning point for the brand. While it shares the massive footprint of the Breakaway Plus class, it was specifically designed to sail Alaska. This is most evident in the massive, 20,000-square-foot Observation Lounge at the front of the ship—arguably the best indoor public space in the fleet. It perfectly balances indoor comfort with outdoor thrills like the two-level go-kart track. It remains one of the most popular ships in the fleet because it handles cold weather and tropical weather equally well.
- Alaska cruisers who want guaranteed views regardless of the weather.
- Active families who will utilize the Go-Karts and Laser Tag.
- Solo travelers (excellent Studio complex).
- Pool Deck: The main pool area is small for 4,000+ guests, as space was given to the track.
- Elevators: The aft elevators can be a bottleneck during dinner rush hours.
- Venue Costs: Most of the "headline" features (Karts, Laser Tag, Food Republic) cost extra.
The Zones
Bliss is massive. The flow relies on "678 Ocean Place" for nightlife and the upper decks for activity.
Observation Lounge
The crown jewel of the ship. A 180-degree indoor lounge on Deck 15 forward. Features snacks, a bar, and massive floor-to-ceiling windows.
Bliss Speedway
A two-level electric go-kart track. It is competitive and fast (up to 30mph). Costs extra per ride or via a weekly pass.
The Waterfront
A quarter-mile oceanfront promenade on Deck 8. It allows you to dine al fresco at almost all specialty restaurants. A rare feature on mega-ships.
Laser Tag
An open-air laser tag arena themed as an abandoned space station. Located on the top deck, playing at night under the stars is best.
678 Ocean Place
The three-deck central atrium hub connected by a massive LED chandelier staircase. This is where the casino, bars, and main dining meet.
The Haven
Located forward at the very top. Features a retractable roof pool courtyard, private restaurant, and the exclusive Horizon Lounge.
Thermal Suite
Located aft with floor-to-ceiling windows. It features heated tile loungers, a salt room, and a snow room. Vital for Alaska itineraries.
Bliss Theater
Home to the Broadway production "Jersey Boys." It is a full-scale theater production included in your cruise fare (reservations required).
Dining & Provisions
NCL pioneered "Freestyle Dining." You eat when you want. There are no set times or assigned tables.
Q Texas Smokehouse
BBQ & Live Country
Authentic Texas BBQ (brisket, ribs, jalapeno cornbread) served while a live country band plays. It gets rowdy and fun at night.
Los Lobos
Mexican
Upscale Mexican dining on The Waterfront. The guacamole is made tableside. Far superior to the buffet tacos.
Ocean Blue
Seafood
The premium seafood venue. Elegant nautical decor. The "Fisherman's Platter" is the go-to dish here.
Cagney's
Steakhouse
An NCL staple. Certified Angus Beef, truffle fries, and heavy leather chairs. Located on Deck 8 with outdoor seating options.
Food Republic
Global Fusion
Asian-Latin fusion ordered via iPad. It operates à la carte. The pork belly buns and sushi rolls are highlights.
The Local
24/7 Pub
Located above the atrium. Serves pub fare (Reubens, Fish & Chips, Wings) around the clock. The best spot for a casual lunch.
Main Dining
3 Venues
Three venues: The Manhattan Room (Live music, Supper Club vibe), Taste, and Savor (more modern, intimate). Same menu at all three.
Coco's
Dessert Bar
Massive, Instagram-worthy milkshakes and crepes. Located on Deck 6, it attracts a crowd just to look at the desserts.
Where It Sails
Norwegian Bliss was purpose-built for Alaska, but it spends its winters chasing the sun in the Caribbean and Mexican Riviera.
- 7-Night Alaska (Seattle Roundtrip)
- 7-Night Mexican Riviera (Los Angeles)
- Caribbean (Miami)
For Alaska, the Bliss is arguably the best "Big Ship" option due to the Observation Lounge. You get the amenities of a mega-ship without missing the view.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Norwegian Bliss sailings.
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Cost Reality
NCL's "Free at Sea" looks great on paper, but know the math. The drink package gratuities and specialty dining service charges add up.
- Main Dining Rooms
- The Local (24/7)
- Observation Lounge (Access)
- Jersey Boys (Show)
- Race Track ($15/ride)
- Laser Tag ($10/game)
- Thermal Suite Pass
- Starbucks
The Observation Lounge has a "secret" buffet for breakfast and lunch. It is much quieter than the Garden Cafe and offers the best views on the ship.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is big, bold, and American in style.
Casual and energetic. There is no dress code ("Freestyle"). The decor is contemporary hotel chic—lots of blues, creams, and carpeted corridors.
Heavy on families during holidays. Couples and groups of friends dominate the off-season. Very popular with multi-generational groups.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
Staterooms are modern with USB ports by the bed. The Studio complex for solos is a standout feature.
Studio
NCL's famous keycard-access corridor for solos. Includes a full-size bed, mood lighting, and access to a private lounge with free espresso.
Club Balcony Suite
Formerly "Mini-Suites." These offer a larger bathroom with a double sink and a spa-like shower. Worth the upgrade for the bathroom alone.
The Haven
The "Ship within a Ship." On Bliss, this complex features a 2-story forward view lounge (Horizon Lounge) that rivals the bridge view.