NORWEGIAN SPIRIT
The "Adult-Centric" Rebirth. Following the most expensive renovation in NCL history ($100M+), this ship trades go-karts for expanded spa suites and upscale dining.
- Guests
- 2,018
- Tonnage
- 75,904
- Re-Launch
- 2020
- Crew
- 912
The Prodigy Verdict
The Anti-Mega Ship.
The Norwegian Spirit is effectively a new ship inside an older hull. In 2020, NCL stripped it down to the steel in a massive $100M+ refurbishment. The most significant change was the removal of the children's "Buccaneer's Wet and Wild" splash area to create a massive, tiered, adult-only sundeck called Spice H2O. There are no go-karts, no laser tag, and limited facilities for children. It is designed for couples and adults who want the "Freestyle" dining concept but dislike the chaos of 4,000-passenger vessels.
- Adults seeking a sophisticated, quieter NCL experience.
- Port-intensive itineraries (Alaska, Asia) where the ship is a retreat.
- Dining enthusiasts wanting access to Onda by Scarpetta.
- Families: This is arguably the least kid-friendly ship in the fleet (by design).
- No Haven: Unlike newer ships, Spirit does not have a "Haven" ship-within-a-ship complex.
- Cabins: Staterooms were refurbished but remain smaller than modern industry standards.
The Zones
The renovation removed cluttered 90s decor and opened up the flow. The ship is easy to navigate and centered around the Atrium.
Spice H2O
The crown jewel of the renovation. Located aft, this tiered, adults-only sundeck features hot tubs, a dedicated bar, and a massive outdoor screen.
Mandara Spa
Doubled in size during the 2020 refit. It features a new Thermal Suite with heated loungers and a thalassotherapy pool—rare for a ship this size.
Stardust Theater
A classic two-story show lounge. While it lacks the high-tech wizardry of the Prima class, the sightlines are excellent and the seating is plush.
Spirit Casino
Located midship. It features a distinct Maharaja-themed decor that was preserved/updated, giving it a bit more character than the generic modern casinos.
Bier Garten
A unique holdover from the original design. Located high on Deck 13, it offers Bavarian snacks, beer, and shelter from the wind while viewing the pool.
Bliss Lounge
The late-night hub. Replaced the old Maharaja's nightclub. It hosts parties, karaoke, and serves as the primary dance club on board.
Dining & Provisions
A balanced mix of complimentary classics and high-end specialty dining, highlighted by the addition of Onda by Scarpetta.
Windows
Main Dining
The grand aft dining room. Famous for its massive two-story arched window offering spectacular wake views. A truly classic cruise dining experience.
Onda by Scarpetta
Modern Italian
The star of the 2020 renovation. It brings the critically acclaimed Scarpetta menu to sea. The spaghetti tomato and basil is legendary.
The Local
24/7 Pub
Added during the refit to replace the "Blue Lagoon." Serves comfort food (wings, fish 'n chips, Reuben sandwiches) around the clock.
Cagney's
Steakhouse
An NCL staple. Premium cuts of Angus beef, truffle fries, and a robust wine list in a dimly lit, upscale setting.
Bier Garten
Outdoor Grill
Located on the pool deck level. Serves complimentary pretzels, bratwurst, and snacks to accompany your beer.
Le Bistro
French
Elegant French dining featuring escargots and Coq au Vin. The venue is intimate and feels distinctly separate from the rest of the ship.
Garden Café
Buffet
The main buffet. Extends outdoors to "The Great Outdoors" aft deck, which is the perfect spot for breakfast during scenic cruising.
Teppanyaki
Hibachi
Shared tables where chefs perform knife tricks while cooking steak and shrimp. A high-energy option that requires reservations.
Where It Sails
Norwegian Spirit is an "explorer" ship, often assigned to longer, open-jaw itineraries rather than 7-day loops.
- Alaska (Seward/Vancouver)
- Hawaii & South Pacific
- Asia & Australia Repositioning
The Spirit is perfect for Alaska because of the "Great Outdoors" aft decks and the forward observation lounge. It offers better connection to the sea than the mega-ships.
Check Availability
See current pricing for Norwegian Spirit sailings.
Check DatesAffiliate disclosure: outbound booking links may earn CruiseProdigy a commission.
Cost Reality
Older ships often have lower base fares, but the amenities (Onda, Mandara Spa) are priced at premium fleet-wide standards.
- Windows & Taste MDRs
- The Local (24/7)
- Spice H2O Access
- Bier Garten Snacks
- Thermal Suite Pass
- All Specialty Dining
- Starbucks (Atrium)
- Room Service (fee varies)
The Spirit does not have a "Vibe Beach Club" pass to buy because the main adult area, Spice H2O, is complimentary. This saves you money compared to newer NCL ships.
The Vibe Check
Is this ship for you? It is quiet, refined, and lacks the adrenaline features of the Breakaway class.
It feels like a boutique hotel. The 2020 renovation replaced the colorful, garish decor of the 90s with muted greys, creams, and modern lighting.
Skews older than the rest of the NCL fleet. You will find fewer families and more couples celebrating anniversaries or retirees on long voyages.
Ready to explore? Check pricing below.
Cabin Recon
While completely modernized aesthetically, the physical steel structure is from 1998. Expect smaller bathrooms and tighter fits than new ships.
Porthole Oceanview
Some lower-deck oceanview rooms have classic round portholes rather than picture windows, adding a nautical touch (but less light).
Aft-Facing Balcony
Located on the back of the ship. These offer the best views of the wake and are generally quieter than mid-ship locations.
Owner's Suite
Since there is no "Haven" complex, these forward-facing suites (some with hot tubs on the balcony) are the premier accommodations on board.