Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is one of the most popular cruise lines in the world. People love their ships because they offer fun, freedom, and flexibility. If you are wondering how many ships does Norwegian Cruise Line have, you’re in the right place!
How Many Ships Does Norwegian Cruise Line Have?
As of June 2025, Norwegian Cruise Line has 20 cruise ships in its fleet. This number includes their newest ship, Norwegian Aqua, which started sailing in April 2025. NCL is also planning to add more ships in the future, with one more confirmed for 2026 (Norwegian Luna) and four mega-ships scheduled between 2030 and 2036. So, the fleet is growing, and NCL is always working to bring new experiences to their passengers.
These 20 ships are spread across different classes, each with unique features and sizes. Some are huge, like floating resorts, while others are smaller and feel more intimate. No matter what kind of vacation you want, NCL has a ship that fits your style.
The Norwegian Cruise Line Fleet
NCL’s fleet is diverse, with ships that range from massive megaresorts to smaller, cozier vessels. The 20 ships are divided into several classes based on their size, design, and features.
Here’s a quick breakdown of the classes:
- Prima Class and Prima Plus Class: These are the newest and most modern ships, known for luxury and innovative features.
- Breakaway Plus Class: These are the largest ships in the fleet, packed with activities like go-kart tracks and water slides.
- Breakaway Class: Slightly smaller than Breakaway Plus but still full of fun and dining options.
- Jewel Class: Mid-sized ships with a balance of activities and a more intimate feel.
- Dawn Class: Smaller ships that offer a cozy vibe and unique itineraries.
- Sun Class: Some of the smallest and oldest ships, great for a relaxed cruise.
- Unique Ships: Norwegian Epic, Pride of America, and Norwegian Spirit don’t fit into other classes but have their own special charm.
List of Norwegian Cruise Line Ships
Here’s a complete list of NCL’s 20 ships, sorted from newest to oldest, with some key details about each one. This list answers the question, how many cruise ships does Norwegian Cruise Line have, and gives you a sense of what each ship offers.
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Norwegian Aqua (2025)
- Class: Prima Plus Class
- Gross Tonnage: 156,300
- Passenger Capacity: 3,571 (double occupancy)
- Length: 1,056 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Aqua is the newest ship, debuting in April 2025. It’s part of the Prima Plus Class, which builds on the Prima Class with more space and features. It has the first hybrid rollercoaster at sea, an infinity pool, and the Indulge Food Hall with 12 restaurants. It sails to the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Northern Europe.
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Norwegian Viva (2023)
- Class: Prima Class
- Gross Tonnage: 143,535
- Passenger Capacity: 3,215
- Length: 981 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Viva is known for luxury, with over 43,000 square feet of outdoor space. It has a huge Haven area (a private suite section), Broadway-style shows, and a variety of dining options. It sails to the Caribbean and Europe.
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Norwegian Prima (2022)
- Class: Prima Class
- Gross Tonnage: 142,500
- Passenger Capacity: 3,100
- Length: 981 feet
- Highlights: The first Prima Class ship, Norwegian Prima offers upscale features like the largest suites on any new cruise ship. It has The Waterfront, an open-air promenade, and a Thai restaurant, a first for NCL. It sails to the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Northern Europe.
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Norwegian Encore (2019)
- Class: Breakaway Plus Class
- Gross Tonnage: 169,116
- Passenger Capacity: 3,998
- Length: 1,094 feet
- Highlights: The largest ship in NCL’s fleet, Norwegian Encore is like a floating resort. It has a go-kart track, water slides, and the Galaxy Pavilion for virtual reality games. It sails to the Caribbean, Alaska, Mexico, and Europe.
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Norwegian Bliss (2018)
- Class: Breakaway Plus Class
- Gross Tonnage: 168,028
- Passenger Capacity: 4,004
- Length: 1,094 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Bliss has a racetrack, water slides, and an Observation Lounge for stunning views. It’s perfect for Alaska and Caribbean cruises.
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Norwegian Joy (2017)
- Class: Breakaway Plus Class
- Gross Tonnage: 167,725
- Passenger Capacity: 3,804
- Length: 1,094 feet
- Highlights: Originally built for Asia, Norwegian Joy was refurbished for Western markets. It has a go-kart track, a casino, and tons of dining options. It sails to Alaska, the Caribbean, and Mexico.
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Norwegian Escape (2015)
- Class: Breakaway Plus Class
- Gross Tonnage: 164,998
- Passenger Capacity: 4,266
- Length: 1,069 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Escape has the largest ropes course at sea, with three stories of fun. It also offers Broadway shows and many restaurants. It sails to the Caribbean, Bermuda, and Europe.
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Norwegian Getaway (2014)
- Class: Breakaway Class
- Gross Tonnage: 145,655
- Passenger Capacity: 3,969
- Length: 1,068 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Getaway has The Waterfront promenade, live music at Syd Norman’s Pour House, and water slides. It sails to the Caribbean and Bahamas.
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Norwegian Breakaway (2013)
- Class: Breakaway Class
- Gross Tonnage: 145,655
- Passenger Capacity: 3,963
- Length: 1,068 feet
- Highlights: The first Breakaway Class ship, it offers Broadway musicals like “Million Dollar Quartet” and a sports complex. It sails to the Caribbean and Bermuda.
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Norwegian Epic (2010)
- Class: Epic Class (unique)
- Gross Tonnage: 155,873
- Passenger Capacity: 4,100
- Length: 1,081 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Epic is known for its entertainment, winning awards for shows like “Burn the Floor.” It has a huge casino and spa. It sails to the Caribbean and Europe.
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Norwegian Gem (2007)
- Class: Jewel Class
- Gross Tonnage: 93,530
- Passenger Capacity: 2,394
- Length: 965 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Gem offers a cozy vibe with a casino, wine bar, and live music. It sails to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Canada.
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Norwegian Pearl (2006)
- Class: Jewel Class
- Gross Tonnage: 93,530
- Passenger Capacity: 2,394
- Length: 965 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Pearl has a bowling alley, multiple dining options, and a spa. It sails to the Caribbean, Alaska, and Europe.
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Norwegian Jewel (2005)
- Class: Jewel Class
- Gross Tonnage: 93,530
- Passenger Capacity: 2,376
- Length: 965 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Jewel is great for families, with water slides and kids’ clubs. It sails to Alaska, the Caribbean, and Mexico.
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Norwegian Dawn (2002)
- Class: Dawn Class
- Gross Tonnage: 92,250
- Passenger Capacity: 2,340
- Length: 958 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Dawn feels like a yacht, with a wine bar and casino. It sails to Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean.
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Norwegian Star (2001)
- Class: Dawn Class
- Gross Tonnage: 91,740
- Passenger Capacity: 2,348
- Length: 965 feet
- Highlights: Norwegian Star offers a relaxed vibe with a spa and multiple dining options. It sails to South America, Antarctica, and Europe.
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Norwegian Sun (2001)
- Class: Sun Class
- Gross Tonnage: 78,309
- Passenger Capacity: 1,936
- Length: 848 feet
- Highlights: One of the smallest ships, Norwegian Sun is great for intimate cruises. It sails to Asia, Australia, and the South Pacific.
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Norwegian Sky (1999)
- Class: Sun Class
- Gross Tonnage: 77,104
- Passenger Capacity: 2,004
- Length: 848 feet
- Highlights: Recently refurbished, Norwegian Sky has a casino, spa, and lots of dining choices. It sails to the Bahamas and Caribbean.
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Norwegian Spirit (1998)
- Class: Spirit Class (unique)
- Gross Tonnage: 75,904
- Passenger Capacity: 2,032
- Length: 881 feet
- Highlights: The smallest and oldest ship, Norwegian Spirit is perfect for adults wanting a quiet cruise. It sails to Alaska, Asia, and Australia.
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Pride of America (2005)
- Class: Pride of America Class (unique)
- Gross Tonnage: 80,439
- Passenger Capacity: 2,186
- Length: 921 feet
- Highlights: The only NCL ship dedicated to Hawaii, Pride of America offers local cuisine and volcano views. It sails year-round in Hawaii.
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Norwegian Luna (2026)
- Class: Prima Plus Class
- Gross Tonnage: 156,300
- Passenger Capacity: 3,571 (estimated)
- Length: 1,056 feet
- Highlights: Set to debut in April 2026, Norwegian Luna will be similar to Norwegian Aqua, with modern amenities and eco-friendly features.
Why Does the Number of Ships Matter?
Knowing how many ships Norwegian Cruise Line has helps you understand the variety of experiences they offer. With 20 ships, NCL can sail to many destinations and cater to different types of travelers.
Here’s why the fleet size matters:
- More Destinations: A large fleet means NCL can offer cruises to places like Alaska, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, and even Asia and Australia. You have lots of choices for your dream vacation.
- Different Experiences: Big ships like Norwegian Encore have tons of activities, while smaller ships like Norwegian Spirit are quieter and more relaxed. You can pick the vibe that suits you.
- New Innovations: NCL’s newer ships, like Norwegian Aqua and Viva, have cutting-edge features like hybrid rollercoasters and huge outdoor spaces. A growing fleet means more exciting updates.
Where Do Norwegian Cruise Line Ships Sail?
With 20 ships, NCL covers a lot of the world. Here are some popular destinations:
- Caribbean and Bahamas: Most ships sail here, visiting places like Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island.
- Alaska: Ships like Norwegian Bliss and Encore offer stunning glacier views and wildlife experiences.
- Europe: Explore Greece, Italy, and Northern Europe on ships like Norwegian Prima and Viva.
- Hawaii: Pride of America is the only ship dedicated to year-round Hawaii cruises.
- Asia, Australia, and South Pacific: Smaller ships like Norwegian Sun and Spirit visit unique ports in these regions.
So, how many ships does Norwegian cruise lines have? As of June 2025, they have 20 cruise ships, with more on the way. From the massive Norwegian Encore to the cozy Norwegian Spirit, there is a ship for every type of traveler. how much is a Norwegian cruise