NORWEGIAN BREAKAWAY
The NYC Icon. The ship that introduced "The Waterfront" promenade, now heavily modernized with the new Silver Screen Bistro and expanded Cagney's.
- Guests
- 3,963
- Tonnage
- 145,655
- Refurb
- 2025
- Crew
- 1,657
The Prodigy Verdict
The Original Gamechanger.
The Norwegian Breakaway is the ship that broke the mold for NCL. It was the first to introduce "The Waterfront," a quarter-mile oceanfront promenade that allows for outdoor dining at almost every specialty venue. Fresh off a major 2025 refurbishment, the ship feels brand new. The old "Spiegel Tent" is gone, replaced by the Silver Screen Bistro, and the dining portfolio has been updated to match the Prima Class standards (Palomar, expanded Cagney's). It remains a busy, loud, and fun ship designed for people who love nightlife.
- Night owls: Syd Norman's Pour House and the Bliss Ultra Lounge keep the energy high late into the night.
- Solo Travelers: Features the dedicated Studio complex with a private lounge.
- Outdoor Dining: The Waterfront makes it easy to eat al fresco.
- Crowds: The pool deck is small for a ship of this capacity. Vibe Beach Club passes are highly recommended.
- Reservations: You must book shows and specialty dining 21 days out (or 120+ for Havens) or you will miss out.
- Smoke: The casino on Deck 7 is open to the atrium, so smoke can drift to nearby areas (O'Sheehan's).
The Zones
Breakaway is designed around "678 Ocean Place," a three-deck central hub of bars, dining, and casino action.
The Waterfront
A quarter-mile oceanfront promenade on Deck 8. It features outdoor seating for Cagney's, Ocean Blue, and several bars.
678 Ocean Place
The internal heart of the ship spanning decks 6, 7, and 8. It flows from the Atrium to the Casino and up to the shops and dining.
Syd Norman's
The Pour House. A rock-n-roll club featuring a live house band that plays everything from 80s rock to a full Fleetwood Mac tribute.
Sports Complex
Located on the top deck, featuring a massive ropes course with "The Plank" (extending 8 feet over the side) and mini-golf.
Spice H2O
A complimentary adults-only escape at the back of the ship. By day it's a sun deck with waterfalls; by night it's an open-air dance club.
The Haven
The exclusive "Ship within a Ship" complex at the very top forward. Features a private pool, restaurant, and lounge.
Thermal Suite
One of the best thermal spas in the fleet, featuring a vitality pool, salt room, and heated loungers with forward-facing ocean views.
Aqua Park
Features five multi-story waterslides, including twin Free Fall slides where the floor drops out from underneath you.
Dining & Provisions
Breakaway offers a balanced mix of included and specialty options. The 2025 refit introduced Palomar and Silver Screen Bistro.
O'Sheehan's
Pub & Grill
The 24/7 neighborhood pub overlooking the atrium. Famous for wings, nachos, and pretzel bites. Completely free.
Silver Screen Bistro
Cinema Dining
New for 2025. Replaced the Spiegel Tent. A unique dining experience where you eat while watching movies. Great for families.
Palomar
Seafood
Taking over the Ocean Blue space. A high-end Mediterranean seafood venue focusing on whole fish and light, fresh flavors.
Shanghai's
Noodle Bar
A hidden gem near the casino. Serves complimentary dim sum, fried rice, and noodle soups. Often overlooked by new cruisers.
Cagney's
Steakhouse
Recently expanded during the refit. The signature steakhouse offering premium cuts, truffle fries, and outdoor seating on The Waterfront.
Teppanyaki
Hibachi
A high-energy dinner show where chefs cook steak and shrimp right in front of you. Extremely popular with families and groups.
The Manhattan Room
Main Dining
The largest of the three main dining rooms. Features a dance floor and live band, giving it the feel of a classic supper club.
Le Bistro
French
Elegant and intimate. Known for the mushroom soup and chocolate fondue. One of the few quiet places for a romantic dinner.
Where It Sails
Breakaway is a true "Northerner," often sailing from NYC and Boston, but repositions to New Orleans for winter seasons.
- New York to Bermuda & Caribbean
- Boston to Canada & New England
- New Orleans to Western Caribbean
The Canada/New England routes from Boston are visually stunning in the Fall. The NYC to Bermuda run is a classic, offering multiple overnight stays in Bermuda.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Norwegian Breakaway sailings.
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Cost Reality
NCL's "Free at Sea" pricing model is popular, but be aware of gratuities on beverage and dining packages.
- O'Sheehan's & Shanghai's
- Main Dining Rooms
- Aqua Park Slides
- Ropes Course
- Vibe Beach Club Passes
- Thermal Suite Passes
- Arcade Games
- Room Service (convenience fee)
Eat at The Waterfront early in your cruise. If you wait until the last sea day, everyone else will have the same idea and reservations will be gone.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is loud, proud, and unapologetically energetic.
Cosmopolitan hotel at sea. It feels more like a resort in Las Vegas or Miami than a traditional cruise ship. Dress codes are very relaxed.
Diverse mix of couples, families, and groups of friends. Skews younger than Holland America or Princess.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
Cabins are modern but can be compact. The "Studio" cabins for solo travelers were popularized on this class.
Studio
Designed specifically for solo travelers. These 100 sq ft cabins include mood lighting and keycard access to the exclusive Studio Lounge.
Family Oceanview
Surprisingly spacious. Located on Deck 5 near the kids' clubs, these often feature large picture windows and sleep up to 5 people.
The Haven
The ultimate splurge. Grants you access to a private courtyard with a pool, a dedicated restaurant, and priority embarkation/debarkation.