42,000 tons
Passengers: 1,518
Crew: 630
700 feet long
93 feet at beam
9 passenger decks
Norwegian officers
International crew
Entered service: 1988
Major Refit: 2003
Registry: Bahamas
Quality Rating:
Value Rating:
Note: Norwegian Sea will be transferred from NCL to the fleet of parent company Star Cruises in spring 2005.
Best For People Who Want:
Open, restaurant-style dining; many dining options; casual evening attire; lots of open deck space; several pools; children's program; fitness facilities; cigar and wine bar; lots of onboard shopping; disco; two showrooms; casino; art auctions. Lots of daily activities.
Should Be Avoided By People Who Prefer:
Refined service; gourmet cuisine; elegant decor; cabins with balconies; no children; no intrusive all-ship announcements.
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Onboard Experience:
When she entered service in 1988 as the Seaward, this ship was one of the most elegant afloat. She underwent a major refit in January 2003 emerging with a more dramatic look. Those who love the sun will find masses of open deck space and extensive pool facilities. Instead of cramming everyone into one massive dining room, there are two main restaurants plus NCL's popular "Bistro", an alternative restaurant with fine cuisine and The Pasta Cafe, Italian restaurant. You'll find plenty of venues for nightlife and non-stop daily activities plus excellent children's programs and supervisors. Norwegian Sea was converted to NCL's new "Freestyle Cruising" concept in December, 2000, with increased dining and entertainment options.
Decor:
When she was built, Norwegian Sea's decor was beautiful, all pale pastels and light colors. In January 2003, the vessel received a major refurbishment with more vibrant color schemes added to public rooms. The multi-million dollar refit included new upholstery, carpet, granite flooring and drapes.
Cuisine:
NCL's cuisine is plentiful and standard cruise ship fare; food served in the "Bistro" is excellent and highly recommended; the "chocoholic" buffet is well worth waiting in line.
Service:
The Caribbean room stewards are friendly and competent; waiter service isn't polished but the staff is congenial.
Restaurants:
Open, restaurant-style dining has been introduced to the main restaurants with the implementation of "Freestyle Cruising". There are two main restaurants, The Seven Seas and the Four Seasons. Le Bistro is a small intimate restaurant with alternative evening dining and a limited, but outstanding, menu. Breakfast and luncheon buffet are served in the Big Apple Cafe, adjacent to the pool area and there is a limited 24-hour room service menu.
A fifth restaurant, the 40-seat Pasta Cafe was added during the refit in January, 2003. Here you'll find traditional Italian fare,
Entertainment:
NCL's resident performing troupe, the Jean Ann Ryan company, does a good job
with abbreviated versions of Broadway shows and revues. Other acts include comedians and magicians. Visit the Monte Carlo casino and later head for Boomers, the disco. During the days at sea on Norwegian Sea's itinerary, the ship offers a full spectrum of activities to keep you entertained.
Cabins:
On Norwegian Sea, cabins are ample in size, although they lack a separate sitting area and there are none with private verandas. Standard amenities include color TV with CNN and ESPN plus movies. Except in the highest categories, all staterooms have shower and cabins in the lowest categories are configured for three or four passengers (popular with families).
Fitness/Spa:
This ship boasts a great deal of open deck space plus a 42-foot pool; a second pool has sprinklers and a shallow side for lounging. There is a well-equipped fitness center and spa onboard. Aerobics and other fitness activities are scheduled throughout the day. The Dive-In Snorkeling program is featured on all Caribbean cruises. NCL also has a "sports afloat" program in which you earn tickets for specific activities throughout the week. At the end of the cruise these can be turned in for such items as tee shirts, hats or other ship paraphernalia.
Attire:
The designated dress code is "resort casual". Passengers have the option of not dressing up for formal nights as only some public areas will be designated formal. Those who do enjoy dressing up, expect one formal night during a one-week cruise. Most men opt for a dark suit instead of a tux while women don dressy pants suits, cocktail dresses or long gowns.
Rates:
NCL's Early Bird Fares offer up to 50 percent savings. See your travel agent for other promotions including 'Sale of All Sails' specials and Guarantees. Norwegian Sea fares, per person, double occupancy, with Early Bird discounts start as low as $499.
