Ship Comparison
Norwegian Bliss vs Norwegian Sun
For travelers seeking a vibrant, amenity-rich experience with high-octane thrills, Norwegian Bliss delivers, while Norwegian Sun offers a charming, intimate journey with a classic cruise feel.
The verdict
Choosing between Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Sun truly boils down to scale and desired energy. Bliss, a larger, newer vessel, is a playground for those who love constant activity and cutting-edge attractions, offering a 'ship-within-a-ship' luxury experience with The Haven. Her expansive spaces and diverse entertainment, from go-karts to Broadway shows, cater to a dynamic crowd. Sun, on the other hand, provides a more classic, intimate cruise atmosphere, recently refreshed to feel modern without sacrificing its approachable size. It’s perfect for those who appreciate a relaxed pace, personalized service, and easy navigation, with a solid array of dining and entertainment that doesn't overwhelm. Both share Norwegian's commitment to Freestyle Cruising, allowing flexibility in dining and dress, but their core personalities are distinctly different.
Choose Norwegian Bliss if…
Norwegian Bliss is ideal for families and groups who crave high-energy activities and diverse entertainment, alongside those seeking an exclusive, luxurious retreat within a larger ship experience. It's also well-suited for travelers who enjoy a wide array of specialty dining and vibrant nightlife options.
Best for
- Families and multi-generational groups seeking abundant activities.
- Travelers who enjoy high-energy attractions like go-karts and water slides.
- Guests desiring diverse specialty dining and lively nightlife.
- Cruisers looking for an exclusive, luxury 'ship-within-a-ship' experience in The Haven.
- Those who appreciate modern design and expansive public spaces.
Avoid if
- You prefer a quiet, intimate cruise experience.
- You're on a strict budget for onboard activities, as many thrills incur extra fees.
- You dislike large ships and bustling environments.
- You seek extensive complimentary evening entertainment for younger children.
Choose Norwegian Sun if…
Norwegian Sun appeals to cruisers who prefer a more intimate, laid-back atmosphere without sacrificing a good range of dining and entertainment. It's a solid choice for couples and families looking for a classic cruise feel, with attentive service and diverse itineraries to explore.
Best for
- Guests who prefer a more intimate and manageable ship size.
- Travelers seeking a relaxed, classic cruise atmosphere.
- Families and couples desiring diverse dining and activities without feeling overwhelmed.
- Those who appreciate attentive, personalized service.
- Cruisers interested in unique, destination-focused itineraries like Alaska and Extraordinary Journeys.
Avoid if
- You're looking for mega-ship amenities like large water parks or go-karts.
- You prefer an ultra-modern, cutting-edge ship design.
- You dislike busy buffet areas during peak times.
- You expect extensive, high-production Broadway-style shows every night.
Overall Vibe
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Bliss, launched in 2018, presents a sophisticated yet undeniably fun ambiance across its 16 decks. As a large ship, she masterfully blends upscale design elements with a lively, high-energy spirit, evident from the quarter-mile Waterfront promenade to the expansive 20,000-square-foot Observation Lounge. The ship balances thrilling attractions like the go-kart racetrack and dynamic water slides with refined dining and ample quiet zones. Her overall feel is one of modern elegance mixed with exhilarating possibilities, offering a versatile holiday for those who appreciate both active days and relaxed evenings, all within a stylish setting.
Norwegian Sun
The Norwegian Sun, revitalized in 2021 as part of the Norwegian Edge program, exudes a bright, refreshed, and inviting atmosphere throughout its 12 decks. As a midsized ship launched in 2001, she offers a classic cruise experience with modern touches, embracing ocean-inspired decor in cool blues and turquoise. The ambiance is relaxed and friendly, making it easy to navigate and feel at home. Despite her smaller size, Norwegian Sun provides a rich array of amenities and dining options, appealing to guests who appreciate a more intimate setting, comfortable spaces, and a balance of engaging activities and tranquil moments without feeling overwhelmed.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Norwegian Bliss
With a passenger capacity of 4,004 and a crew of 1,716, Norwegian Bliss maintains a vibrant, bustling energy, yet manages to feel less crowded due to its thoughtful layout and numerous public spaces. The atmosphere is sophisticated and contemporary, attracting a diverse crowd from families enjoying the Aqua Park and Horizon Park to adults unwinding in the Vibe Beach Club. The generous staff-to-guest ratio ensures attentive service, even amidst the lively activity. Whether you're seeking social interaction in the Atrium or quiet reflection in the Observation Lounge, Bliss offers distinct zones to match every mood, balancing high-energy fun with pockets of tranquility.
Norwegian Sun
Norwegian Sun, accommodating 1,936 passengers with a crew of 906, offers a distinctly more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. This midsized vessel fosters a sense of community, where guests often encounter familiar faces and service feels notably personalized. The crowd tends to be a mix of couples and families who appreciate the ship's manageable size and easy flow, avoiding the sensation of being lost in a mega-ship. While days can be active with poolside fun and sports court activities, evenings maintain a comfortable, unpretentious charm, perfect for those who prioritize a friendly, easygoing ambiance and highly visible, approachable service.
Dining
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Bliss boasts an extensive and varied culinary landscape. Complimentary options include the stylish Manhattan Room, Taste, and Savor main dining rooms, the Garden Cafe buffet, the casual 24/7 Local Bar & Grill, and lighter fare in The Observation Lounge. Specialty dining, available for an additional charge, is a highlight, featuring diverse choices such as the Texas Smokehouse Q, Teppanyaki, upscale Mexican at Los Lobos, fine dining at Cagney's Steakhouse, seafood at Ocean Blue, Italian at La Cucina, and French cuisine at Le Bistro. Haven suite guests also enjoy the exclusive Haven Restaurant, ensuring a tailored culinary journey.
Norwegian Sun
Norwegian Sun offers a comprehensive dining experience that balances complimentary favorites with enticing specialty venues. Guests can enjoy included meals at the elegant Four Seasons and Seven Seas main dining rooms, the bustling Garden Cafe buffet, the popular outdoor Great Outdoors grill, and casual pub fare at the Sports Bar. For a quieter complimentary option, Moderno Churrascaria offers breakfast and lunch. Specialty dining, available for an extra fee, includes the refined Cagney's Steakhouse, Italian classics at La Cucina, French elegance at Le Bistro, fresh sushi at Ginza Sushi, interactive Teppanyaki, and modern Mexican at Los Lobos Cantina, providing a rich array of global flavors.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Bliss delivers a robust entertainment program, highlighted by Broadway-caliber productions like 'Jersey Boys' and 'Icons' in the Bliss Theatre. The ship offers unique attractions such as the two-level Bliss Speedway go-kart track and a laser tag course. For live music, The Cavern Club features a popular Beatles tribute band, while the Social Comedy & Night Club offers comedy and DJ sets. Adults can unwind at Spice H2O or the Vibe Beach Club, and various bars like Sugarcane Mojito Bar and The District Brew House provide diverse evening venues, ensuring a dynamic nightlife with options for all ages and interests.
Norwegian Sun
Norwegian Sun's entertainment and nightlife offerings, though not as grand in scale as larger ships, provide a lively and engaging experience. The Stardust Lounge hosts nightly stage shows, comedians, and interactive game shows like 'Wheel of Fortune' and 'Deal or No Deal.' The Spinnaker Lounge transforms from a scenic daytime spot to a dance floor with live music at night. For those seeking a vibrant dance scene, the Bliss Ultra Lounge is a popular choice. Guests can also try their luck at the Sun Casino, enjoy piano music at the Windjammer Bar, or catch a game at the Sports Bar, offering a fun and social atmosphere.
Cabins & Suites
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Bliss provides 2,206 cabins, ranging from standard Inside, Oceanview, and Balcony staterooms to luxurious suites in The Haven. Standard cabins feature queen beds, mini-fridges, and ample bathrooms with glass shower doors. Storage, while generally sufficient, can be tight in Inside rooms. The Haven offers an exclusive 'ship-within-a-ship' experience, with Premier Owner's Suites, Two-Bedroom Family Villas, and various Penthouses. These come with butler and concierge service, private dining at The Haven Restaurant, and access to a dedicated lounge, pool, and sundeck, offering a truly elevated and Personalized cruise experience.
Norwegian Sun
Norwegian Sun features 968 staterooms, all recently upgraded with new decor, smart flat-screen TVs, and USB ports, creating a fresh, ocean-inspired ambiance. Accommodations range from comfortable Inside, Oceanview (with porthole or picture window), and Balcony staterooms to larger suites. Family options are available across categories, sleeping up to five guests. Mini-suites offer more space and a larger bathroom with a tub. Penthouse and Owner's Suites provide additional luxury with features like whirlpool tubs, walk-in closets, and the enhanced service of a butler and concierge, catering to guests desiring more space and elevated amenities.
Service & Onboard Style
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Bliss maintains a high standard of service that is generally efficient and attentive across its many venues. The onboard style is contemporary and sophisticated, with modern decor and upscale touches that contribute to its refined yet fun atmosphere. The crew, numbering 1,716, is adept at managing the flow of a large ship, ensuring that guests feel well-cared for. For those in The Haven, the service escalates to a highly Personalized level with dedicated butler and concierge assistance, providing an exclusive and seamless experience within the ship's grand scale.
Norwegian Sun
Norwegian Sun prides itself on providing spot-on, friendly service that often feels more Personalized due to the ship's midsized nature. The crew of 906 creates a welcoming and approachable atmosphere, making guests feel like valued individuals. The onboard style is classic and elegant, recently refreshed with modern elements as part of its 2021 refurbishment, featuring bright, open spaces and cozy nooks. This blend of traditional charm and contemporary comfort, coupled with attentive staff, ensures a relaxed and enjoyable journey where guest satisfaction is visibly prioritized.
Best Itineraries
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Bliss is custom-built for destinations that highlight spectacular views, making her an excellent choice for Alaska cruises, where the massive Observation Lounge with 180-degree panoramic windows truly shines. She also sails extensively in the Caribbean, offering a blend of thrilling days at sea and calls to sun-drenched ports. Her diverse range of activities, from the go-kart track to the various water slides, means she’s well-suited for itineraries with a mix of sea days and port calls, providing ample opportunities for both adventure and relaxation on board and ashore.
Norwegian Sun
Norwegian Sun is a versatile vessel, known for her diverse global itineraries, including voyages to the frozen wilderness of Alaska and various 'Extraordinary Journeys.' Her midsized nature allows her access to a wider array of ports than larger ships, appealing to travelers eager to explore unique destinations. The comfortable onboard atmosphere and array of dining options make her suitable for longer, immersive cruises where the journey is as important as the destination. Her itineraries often focus on scenic beauty and cultural immersion, catering to guests who prefer discovery over constant high-octane thrills.
What reviewers say
Norwegian Bliss
4/5Norwegian Bliss offers an unexpected blend, feeling like a large ship that has adopted the refined trappings of a smaller, more upscale vessel. It provides a perfect mix of high-energy fun and quiet relaxation, though some family-friendly evening options come with extra costs.
Norwegian Sun
4/5Norwegian Sun offers a great overall experience with a plethora of dining and activity choices, alongside diverse itinerary options. Its recent refurbishment provides modern, clean spaces, though buffets can be congested and it lacks water slides.
Itineraries to compare
Pick an itinerary on either ship to see all available departure dates.
Norwegian Bliss
Norwegian Sun
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.

Ship Guide
Norwegian Bliss: A Blend of Grand Scale & Refined Cruising
Enjoy a diverse cruise on Norwegian Bliss, where high-energy fun meets quiet relaxation for all travelers.

Ship Guide
Norwegian Sun: Modern Cruising & Diverse Itineraries
Enjoy recently refurbished spaces and a wealth of choices on your next voyage with Norwegian Sun.
Compare different ships
Swap either side to generate a new side-by-side comparison.
Ship A
Ship B