Norwegian Cruise Line offers a diverse fleet of 21 cruise ships. From the newer Prima Class ships that offer the latest and greatest amenities to the older Sun Class ships that bring travelers to exotic destinations, there’s truly something for every type of cruiser.
This 2026 guide ranks every Norwegian Cruise Line ship by age, from newest to oldest. It’s a quick way to see how the fleet has evolved over time and to help you choose the ship that best fits your travel style.
| Ship name | Year |
|---|---|
| NCL Luna | 2026 |
| NCL Aqua | 2025 |
| NCL Viva | 2023 |
| NCL Prima | 2022 |
| NCL Encore | 2019 |
| NCL Bliss | 2018 |
| NCL Joy | 2017 |
| NCL Escape | 2015 |
| NCL Getaway | 2014 |
| NCL Breakaway | 2013 |
| NCL Epic | 2010 |
| NCL Gem | 2007 |
| NCL Pearl | 2006 |
| NCL Jade | 2006 |
| NCL Jewel | 2005 |
| NCL Pride of America | 2005 |
| NCL Dawn | 2002 |
| NCL Star | 2001 |
| NCL Sun | 2001 |
| NCL Sky | 1999 |
| NCL Spirit | 1998 |
Coming soon: NCL Luna (2026)
- Class: Prima Class
- Gross tonnage: ~156,300 GT
- Homeport: Miami, FL
- Norwegian Luna will feature attractions like the Aqua Slidecoaster, The Drop slide, Infinity Beach, and Indulge Food Hall. Guests will be able to enjoy a wide variety of dining experiences and entertainment options to suit every taste and interest.
NCL Aqua: 2025
- Class: Prima Class
- Gross tonnage: 156,300 GT
- Guest capacity: 3,571 (double occupancy)
- Norwegian Aqua redefines modern cruising with the first-ever Aqua Slidecoaster, cutting-edge LED courts at the Aqua Game Zone, expanded outdoor promenades, elevated dining, and spacious suites—debuting as NCL’s most thrilling and guest-centric vessel yet. Itineraries include the Bahamas, Bermuda, Eastern and Western Caribbean islands.
NCL Viva: 2023
- Class: Prima Class
- Gross tonnage: 142,500 GT
- Guest capacity: 3,195 (double occupancy)
- Norwegian Viva is designed to offer guests more space, luxury, and modern amenities. Highlights include the Indulge Food Hall with global dining options, the three-level Viva Speedway racetrack, and the Ocean Boulevard outdoor promenade that wraps around the ship. NCL Viva delivers a stylish, upscale cruising experience across the Caribbean and Europe.
NCL Prima: 2022
- Class: Prima Class
- Gross tonnage: 143,535 GT
- Guest capacity: 3,195 (double occupancy)
- Norwegian Prima introduced a new era of upscale cruising with spacious design and modern amenities. This ship features standout attractions like Ocean Boulevard’s wraparound promenade, infinity pools, the Indulge Food Hall, and the Prima Speedway go-kart track. The NCL Prima combines contemporary style with adventurous activities, making it a favorite for both families and couples.
NCL Encore: 2019
- Class: Breakaway Plus Class
- Refurbished: 2024
- Gross tonnage: 169,116 GT
- Guest capacity: 3,958 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Encore is Norwegian Cruise Line’s biggest ship. Guests can enjoy standout attractions like the two-level Speedway racetrack, immersive Galaxy Pavilion with virtual reality games, and a sprawling adults-only Spice H2O venue. With its mix of high-energy fun, diverse cuisine, and relaxing spaces, Norwegian Encore is built for travelers who want both excitement and comfort at sea.
NCL Bliss: 2018
- Class: Breakaway Plus Class
- Refurbished: 2025
- Gross tonnage: 168,028 GT
- Guest capacity: 4,010 (double occupancy)
- NCL Bliss quickly made waves by becoming the largest ship ever to transit the Panama Canal. Designed with thrilling experiences in mind, she boasts a nearly 1,000-foot two-level electric go-kart track, an open-air laser tag arena, and an Aqua Park for little ones. Guests can also enjoy upscale entertainment alongside a broad variety of dining options.
NCL Joy: 2017
- Class: Breakaway Plus Class
- Refurbished: 2024
- Gross tonnage: 167,725 GT
- Guest capacity: 3,776 (double occupancy)
- NCL Joy offers an exciting blend of entertainment, innovation, and luxury. Highlights include the world’s first racetrack at sea, immersive VR gaming, and expanded Vibe Beach Club. Her itineraries include Alaska, the Caribbean, Panama Canal, and South America.
NCL Escape: 2015
- Class: Breakaway Plus Class
- Refurbished: 2022
- Gross tonnage: 164,998 GT
- Guest capacity: 4,218 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Escape offers a wide array of amenities, including specialty dining at Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, Teppanyaki, and casual options like O’Sheehan’s. Multiple entertainment options include a water park with thrilling slides, a three-story ropes course, a spa, and a fitness center. Ports of call include Alaska, Europe, the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada, and New England.
NCL Getaway: 2014
- Class: Breakaway Class
- Refurbished: 2024
- Gross tonnage: 145,655 GT
- Guest capacity: 3,903 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Getaway is a modern, vibrant cruise ship known for its dynamic hull artwork, expansive outdoor promenade, varied dining, and entertainment. Ports of call include the Caribbean, Canada, and New England.
NCL Breakaway: 2013
- Class: Breakaway Class
- Refurbished: 2025
- Gross tonnage: 145,655 GT
- Guest capacity: 3,903 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Breakaway is known for its vibrant, resort-style atmosphere and wide variety of activities. Guests can stroll along The Waterfront, an open-air promenade lined with restaurants and bars, or enjoy Broadway shows, live music, and comedy performances. Adventure seekers can try the ropes course, water slides, and sports complex. Norwegian Breakaway offers something for every taste.
NCL Epic: 2010
- Class: Epic Class
- Refurbished: 2025
- Gross tonnage: 155,873 GT
- Guest capacity: 4,070 (double occupancy)
- NCL Epic is a one-of-a-kind ship in the fleet, celebrated for its bold design and wide range of entertainment. Guests can experience Broadway shows, enjoy non-stop nightlife at bars and clubs, or relax at the adults-only Spice H2O. Families will find plenty to do with water slides, pools, and kids’ programs, while food lovers can choose from over 20 dining options.
NCL Gem: 2007
- Class: Jewel Class
- Refurbished: 2022
- Gross tonnage: 93,530 GT
- Guest capacity: 2,344 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Gem offers a warm, mid-sized cruise experience with plenty of amenities. Guests can enjoy a wide range of dining and entertainment options, while those seeking relaxation can unwind at the Mandara Spa or by the pool. NCL Gem also features sports courts, kids’ programs, and lively bars and lounges, making it a versatile choice for families, couples, and solo travelers.
NCL Pearl: 2006
- Class: Jewel Class
- Refurbished: 2021
- Gross tonnage: 93,530 GT
- Guest capacity: 2,344 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Pearl offers guests numerous dining venues, bars, and lounges. Entertainment options abound, featuring Broadway-style shows, a vibrant casino, and themed parties. With itineraries in the Caribbean, Bermuda, Canada and New England, Alaska, Panama Canal, and Europe, the NCL Pearl offers a blend of comfort and adventure, catering to diverse traveler preferences.
NCL Jade: 2006
- Class: Jewel Class
- Refurbished: 2022
- Gross tonnage: 93,558 GT
- Guest capacity: 2,352 (double occupancy)
- Norwegian Jade delivers a well-rounded cruise experience, combining modern comforts, diverse dining, engaging entertainment, and versatile itineraries. She is a great option for both families and seasoned travelers looking for flexible cruising without sacrificing service or variety. Itineraries include the Mexican Riviera, South America, Alaska, Panama Canal, and Asia.
NCL Jewel: 2005
- Class: Jewel Class
- Refurbished: 2022
- Gross tonnage: 93,502 GT
- Guest capacity: 2,330 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Jewel offers a classic cruising experience with a friendly, mid-sized feel. Guests can enjoy a wide variety of dining and entertainment options, with kids’ and teens’ clubs, sports courts, and lively lounges. NCL Jewel is known for her relaxed atmosphere, wide variety of specialty dining, and immersive itineraries that often explore destinations like Northern Europe, Panama Canal, and Bermuda.
NCL Pride of America: 2005
- Class: Pride of America Class
- Refurbished: 2025
- Gross tonnage: 80,439 GT
- Guest capacity: 2,180 (double occupancy)
- Homeport: Honolulu, HI
- This Pride of America is the only U.S.-flagged vessel in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. This distinction allows it to operate year-round inter-island cruises within Hawaii without the need for foreign port calls. Guests can enjoy multiple dining venues, Broadway-style entertainment, pools, a fitness center, sports courts, and the Mandara Spa. Its U.S. flag allows extended port stays and schedules aligned with local Hawaiian time, providing a unique experience compared to foreign-flagged vessels.
NCL Dawn: 2002
- Class: Dawn Class
- Refurbished: 2024
- Gross tonnage: 92,250 GT
- Guest capacity: 2,290 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Dawn offers a welcoming, mid-sized cruise experience with a balance of comfort and variety. Guests can choose from multiple dining and entertainment options, including live music, Broadway-style shows, comedy, and themed parties. With kids’ programs, sports activities, and lively bars and lounges, Norwegian Dawn delivers a versatile vacation suited to both families and couples.
NCL Star: 2001
- Class: Dawn Class
- Refurbished: 2021
- Gross tonnage: 91,740 GT
- Guest capacity: 2,298 (double occupancy)
- NCL Star boasts the Los Lobos Cantina and The Bamboo restaurant, enhancing its dining diversity. For travelers seeking a cruise experience that combines the amenities of larger ships with a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere, the Norwegian Dawn offers a compelling choice.
NCL Sun: 2001
- Class: Sun Class
- Refurbished: 2024
- Gross tonnage: 78,309 GT
- Guest capacity: 1,878 (double occupancy)
- The NCL Sun offers an intimate, relaxed cruising experience with a variety of dining and entertainment options. Guests appreciate its compact design, which allows for quick access to amenities and a less crowded atmosphere. NCL Sun provides an appealing choice for adventurous travelers looking to visit Africa, Asia, Australia, and beyond.
NCL Sky: 1999
- Class: Sun Class
- Refurbished: 2024
- Gross tonnage: 77,104 GT
- Guest capacity: 1,944 (double occupancy)
- Norwegian Sky features a variety of amenities, including outdoor swimming pools, hot tubs, a spa, a theater, a casino, and numerous bars and restaurants. NCL Sky offers a more intimate cruising experience compared to larger ships, which allows for more personalized service and a relaxed atmosphere.
NCL Spirit: 1998
- Class: Spirit Class
- Refurbished: 2022
- Gross tonnage: 75,904 GT
- Guest capacity: 1,972 (double occupancy)
- NCL Spirit’s highlights include diverse dining, bars, and entertainment options. With its stylish redesign, varied amenities, and balance of sophistication and comfort, Norwegian Spirit is perfect for travelers seeking a refined yet relaxed cruise without the crowds of a mega-ship.
Norwegian Cruise Line ships by age: Choosing the best ship for your vacation
Whether you prefer mega ships or the charm of an older, smaller ship, Norwegian Cruise Line has an option for everyone.
Newer ships in the Prima and Breakaway Plus Classes deliver the most innovative features, while mid-sized and older vessels can offer unique itineraries, lower fares, and a cozier onboard vibe.
No matter which ship you choose, Norwegian’s “Freestyle Cruising” philosophy ensures flexibility and freedom to vacation exactly how you want.
