NORWEGIAN ENCORE
The final and most refined ship in the Breakaway-Plus class. Fresh from a major 2024 refurbishment that added a new Spice H2O and Mediterranean dining.
- Guests
- 3,998
- Tonnage
- 169,116
- Launch
- 2019
- Crew
- 1,735
The Prodigy Verdict
The Mega-Ship Standard.
The Norwegian Encore is the culmination of NCL's most successful ship class. It took the best features of the Joy and Bliss (Observation Lounge, Speedway, Waterfront) and perfected the mix. In late 2024, NCL corrected the ship's biggest flaw—a lack of adults-only pool space—by ripping out the Laser Tag arena to install a new Spice H2O. They also expanded the popular Cagney's Steakhouse and added the Mediterranean restaurant Palomar. It is a high-energy, crowded, but incredibly feature-rich vessel.
- Active families who want go-karts, VR, and slides.
- Solo travelers (excellent Studio complex).
- Premium dining enthusiasts (Onda by Scarpetta is a standout).
- Crowds: The pool deck is small for 4,000+ people. The new Spice H2O helps, but it gets busy.
- Upcharges: The Speedway, Galaxy Pavilion, and Vibe Beach Club all cost extra.
- Thermal Spa: The pass is expensive but offers the best views of any spa at sea.
The Zones
From the race track on the top deck to the Observation Lounge forward, the ship is zoned for high activity.
Encore Speedway
The largest race track in the fleet. It extends 13 feet over the side of the ship and features a covered viewing area where spectators can "boost" drivers.
Spice H2O
New for 2025. Replaced the Laser Tag arena. An adults-only outdoor lounge with hot tubs, a bar, and cooling pools. A critical addition.
The Waterfront
A quarter-mile oceanfront promenade on Deck 8. It features outdoor seating for most specialty restaurants and bars. The best place for a sunset drink.
Observation Lounge
A massive, forward-facing lounge on Deck 15 with 180-degree views. It has its own bar and buffet snacks. Perfect for Alaska glacier viewing.
Galaxy Pavilion
A dedicated VR complex. Features racing simulators, a 7D cinema, and escape rooms. It is immersive but expensive per game.
The Haven
Located forward on the top decks. Features a retractable roof pool, private restaurant, and lounge. The most exclusive "Ship within a Ship" on NCL.
Dining & Provisions
Encore excels in specialty dining. The 2024 refit expanded Cagney's and added Palomar, cementing its status as a foodie ship.
Onda by Scarpetta
Modern Italian
The land-based Scarpetta restaurant at sea. Famous for its spaghetti tomato basil and impeccable service. The best Italian on NCL.
Palomar
Mediterranean Seafood
Replaced Ocean Blue in 2024. Offers a more approachable, high-end seafood menu focusing on Greek and Spanish flavors.
Cagney's
Steakhouse
Expanded in 2024 to take over the Los Lobos space. Classic American steakhouse with outdoor seating on The Waterfront.
Q Texas Smokehouse
BBQ & Country
Authentic Texas BBQ with a live country band. The brisket is smoked onboard. A fun, rowdy atmosphere.
Food Republic
Asian Fusion Tapas
Order via tablet. Features pork belly baos, sushi, and Peruvian beef skewers. One of the most underrated spots on the ship.
The Local
24/7 Pub
The heart of the ship on Deck 7. Serves wings, fish n' chips, and Reuben sandwiches around the clock. Great for people watching.
Main Dining
3 Venues
Three main dining rooms: The Manhattan Room (live music, aft views), Taste, and Savor (modern, smaller venues).
Teppanyaki
Hibachi
Expanded in 2024. A fun, interactive dinner show where chefs cook steak and shrimp on a steel griddle in front of you.
Where It Sails
Norwegian Encore is a staple in the Caribbean during winter and Alaska during summer.
- 7-Night Alaska: Glacier Bay (Seattle)
- 7-Night Caribbean: Great Stirrup Cay (Miami)
- 21-Night Panama Canal Transit
The Alaska itinerary is one of the best in the industry because it includes Glacier Bay National Park, which not all cruise lines have permits for.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Norwegian Encore sailings.
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Cost Reality
NCL's "Free at Sea" promotion is great, but budget for the service charges. The Encore has many premium features that will tempt your wallet.
- Main Dining & Buffet
- The Local (24/7)
- Aqua Park (Slides)
- Choir of Man (Show)
- Speedway ($15/ride)
- Galaxy Pavilion
- Vibe Beach Club
- Specialty Dining
Don't miss "Choir of Man" in the theater. It is widely considered the best show in the NCL fleet. It's free, but you must reserve it.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is big, bold, and American.
It feels like a floating Las Vegas resort. There is always something happening, music playing, and people moving. Not for those seeking solitude (unless you are in The Haven).
Families, multi-generational groups, and couples. The Studio cabins also attract a large number of solo travelers.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
The Encore offers a massive variety of rooms, from solo studios to the exclusive Haven suites.
Studio
NCL's signature keycard-access complex for solo travelers. Small inside rooms but grants access to a private lounge with free espresso and snacks.
Club Balcony Suite
Formerly "Mini-Suites." Features a much larger bathroom with a double sink and a spa-like shower. Worth the upgrade for the bathroom alone.
The Haven
A true luxury experience. Access to a private courtyard, restaurant, and bar. It completely removes you from the crowds of the main ship.