Norwegian Breakaway vs Pride of America

Norwegian Breakaway

The Norwegian Breakaway, launched in 2013 and enhanced in a 2025 dry dock, radiates the energy of a contemporary mega-ship, often described as a floating Las Vegas resort with a water park. With a gross tonnage of 145,655, spanning 14 decks, it’s designed to keep guests of all ages engaged and entertained from morning to night. The ship’s philosophy is all about 'Freestyle Cruising,' offering flexibility and a vast selection of dining and activity choices, creating a dynamic and lively atmosphere where there’s always something happening, though some of the best experiences come with an additional charge.

Pride of America

The Pride of America, built in 2005 and significantly refreshed in 2016, offers a uniquely American, destination-focused experience, sailing year-round through the Hawaiian islands. As a mainstream cruise ship, it carries 2,186 passengers across its 14 decks, providing a comfortable and spacious environment. The ship’s vibe is more relaxed and geared towards cultural immersion, with no sea days, allowing guests to maximize their time exploring the rich beauty of Hawaii. While it has a variety of venues, the ship’s primary draw is its unparalleled itinerary and the serene backdrop of the islands.

Norwegian Breakaway

Onboard Norwegian Breakaway, you’ll find a great, fun, and easy-going vibe that appeals to all ages. With a capacity for 3,963 passengers and 1,657 crew, it's a bustling environment, akin to a lively resort. Families with children will appreciate the numerous kid-friendly offerings, while adults can enjoy dedicated spaces like Spice H2O and the Vibe Beach Club. The energy is high, with communal activities in the two-deck atrium often drawing large crowds. While the ship effectively blends a party atmosphere with family fun, popular areas can feel quite busy, especially on sea days.

Pride of America

The Pride of America offers a comfortable and spacious atmosphere, appealing to families and couples typically in their 30s and older, who are seeking a relaxed, destination-focused cruise. With 2,186 passengers and 950 crew members, the ship feels less crowded than larger vessels, fostering a more intimate experience. Evenings are generally tranquil, with the focus shifting to the unique Hawaiian itinerary rather than an intense party scene. This ship is particularly suited for those who prefer to explore ports by day and enjoy a calm, unhurried onboard ambiance by night, making it excellent for cultural enthusiasts and those seeking serenity.

Norwegian Breakaway

Norwegian Breakaway boasts a comprehensive 'Freestyle Dining' program with over 20 venues, offering remarkable culinary diversity. Complimentary options include the main dining rooms, Taste and Savor, which share identical menus, the supper-club style Manhattan Room with live music, and the 24-hour pub fare at O'Sheehan's. The Garden Cafe buffet, Shanghai's Noodle Bar, and American Diner offer more casual choices. For an additional fee, guests can indulge in specialty restaurants like the popular Cagney's Steakhouse, the Mediterranean Palomar (a 2025 addition), French Le Bistro, Japanese Teppanyaki, Italian La Cucina, and the unique Silver Screen Bistro dine-in movie theater.

Pride of America

The Pride of America offers a solid selection of dining experiences, blending complimentary and specialty options. Guests can enjoy American classics at the Liberty Restaurant and Skyline Restaurant, or explore Asian Fusion at East Meets West, all included. The 24/7 Cadillac Diner offers casual comfort food, while the Aloha Cafe provides a sprawling buffet with diverse choices. For an extra charge, the ship features popular specialty restaurants like Cagney's Steakhouse, Moderno Churrascaria, Jefferson's Bistro (French), Teppanyaki, and La Cucina (Italian), all providing elevated culinary journeys. Note that the Sushi venue is currently unavailable, but Starbucks and Dolce Gelato are also available for an additional fee.

Norwegian Breakaway

Entertainment on Norwegian Breakaway is designed for high energy. The main theater hosts Broadway-style productions like 'Burn the Floor' and 'Red, White, & British,' alongside the Fleetwood Mac tribute 'Rumours' and the interactive 'Famous Riffz' game show. Nightlife heats up at Howl at the Moon's dueling piano show and Syd Norman's Pour House, featuring live rock hits. The Breakaway Casino offers gaming, while Spice H2O transforms into an adults-only dance party under the stars. The ship also features a Skyy® Vodka Ice Bar for a unique chill, and various lounges like Shaker's Cocktail Bar and Bliss Ultra Lounge for different moods.

Pride of America

Pride of America’s entertainment focuses on complementing its Hawaiian itineraries, offering a more relaxed evening experience. The Hollywood Theater presents productions like 'Aloha Polynesia,' celebrating local culture, alongside magic shows and comedy. Nightlife is centered around lounges such as the New Orleans-inspired Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge & Nightclub, the Hawaiian-themed Waikiki Bar, and the intimate Pink's Champagne Bar with live piano music. The Gold Rush Saloon hosts karaoke and sports, while the Napa Wine Bar offers a quieter ambiance. Daily Hawaiian enrichment classes and scenic sailings, like past the Na Pali Coast, provide unique, destination-specific engagement.

Norwegian Breakaway

With 2,012 cabins, Norwegian Breakaway offers a wide range of accommodations. Standard cabins feature a light-colored palette with dark wood, queen-convertible beds, and modern amenities, though storage can be limited. The Haven, an exclusive suite complex, provides luxurious options like Deluxe Owner's Suites and 2-Bedroom Family Villas, complete with butler and concierge service, though some Haven balconies are noted as comparatively small. Solo travelers are well catered for with dedicated Studio cabins and an exclusive Studio Lounge. Guests should note potential noise from vibrant public areas or kids' clubs on certain decks.

Pride of America

Pride of America provides a comfortable selection of cabins, all with modern touches and cherry wood finishes. The ship features 1,093 cabins, including spacious suites like the Deluxe Owner's Suite and 2-Bedroom Deluxe Family Suites, offering butler and concierge service, some with private hot tubs on large balconies. Solo travelers have dedicated Studio cabins and access to a Studio Lounge, though it lacks windows. Standard accommodations include Inside, Oceanview (some with obstructed views), and Balcony staterooms, many designed to accommodate families with additional bedding. While cabins are well-appointed, guests should be aware that some ocean-view staterooms have lifeboat-obstructed views.

Norwegian Breakaway

Norwegian Breakaway embodies the line's 'Freestyle Cruising' ethos, emphasizing flexibility and choice in dining and activities. The service is generally attentive, supporting the ship's lively and often self-directed atmosphere. For those seeking elevated service, The Haven offers a truly personalized experience with 24-hour butler and concierge services, priority boarding, and exclusive access to private venues. The overall style is modern and contemporary, with a focus on vibrant public spaces and diverse offerings, allowing guests to tailor their vacation to their preferences, whether they seek constant engagement or quiet corners.

Pride of America

The Pride of America, being a U.S.-flagged ship, offers a distinct service style, often featuring an all-American crew, which can create a unique onboard dynamic. Customer service is consistently stellar, with a warm and friendly approach that complements the relaxed Hawaiian itinerary. Suite guests benefit from butler and concierge services, along with priority check-in and exclusive dining opportunities. The ship's onboard style is comfortable and elegant, reflecting its 2016 multimillion-dollar enhancement, with high-end furnishings and well-maintained public areas, all designed to enhance the destination-focused experience without being overly formal or flashy.

Norwegian Breakaway

The Norwegian Breakaway offers a diverse range of itineraries, including popular Caribbean cruises, historical Mediterranean voyages, and leisurely Transatlantic crossings. A significant highlight for guests on Caribbean routes is the opportunity to visit Great Stirrup Cay, Norwegian's private island in The Bahamas. This island offers an expansive new waterpark, a 28,000-square-foot pool with swim-up bars, and exclusive adults-only retreats like the Vibe Beach Club, providing a seamless extension of the ship's fun-filled, active vacation experience.

Pride of America

The Pride of America's primary allure lies in its unique, year-round Hawaiian itineraries. As the only U.S.-flagged cruise ship sailing from Honolulu, it offers a distinct advantage with seven-day cruises visiting four major Hawaiian islands and five ports, notably without any sea days. This allows guests to maximize their time exploring destinations like Maui, Kauai, and the Big Island. The itinerary is perfectly crafted for deep cultural immersion and active shore excursions, making it the ideal choice for travelers who want to experience the beauty and spirit of Hawaii thoroughly.