Ship Comparison
Norwegian Encore vs Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Encore offers a cutting-edge, high-energy cruise with unparalleled thrills and sophisticated dining, while Norwegian Getaway provides a vibrant, Miami-inspired escape with abundant outdoor charm and classic cruise fun.
The verdict
Both Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Getaway deliver a robust Freestyle Cruising experience, but they cater to slightly different tastes. Encore, being newer and larger, leans into high-tech thrills and a more refined, upscale ambiance, offering unique attractions like its go-kart track and virtual reality pavilion, alongside award-winning Broadway shows. Many of its premium experiences, however, come with additional costs. Getaway, while slightly smaller, still packs a punch with its lively Miami theme, extensive outdoor promenade, and a classic array of waterslides and a sports complex. It offers a more traditional yet equally energetic cruise experience, with a focus on maximizing outdoor enjoyment. For those seeking the very latest in onboard innovation and a sophisticated edge, Encore is the choice. For a spirited, warm-weather focused cruise with a strong sense of place and plenty of activity, Getaway is a wonderful option.
Choose Norwegian Encore if…
Travelers seeking the latest in cruise ship innovation, high-tech thrills, and a sophisticated, modern ambiance with diverse dining and entertainment.
Best for
- Families with teens who love high-tech entertainment like go-karts and VR.
- Couples seeking upscale dining and Broadway-caliber shows.
- Guests who value exclusive, personalized service in The Haven.
- Travelers interested in diverse itineraries, from Alaska to the Caribbean.
- Adults looking for dedicated adult-only relaxation areas like Spice H2O.
Avoid if
- Budget-conscious travelers, as many premium experiences incur extra fees.
- Those preferring a quieter, more intimate cruise experience.
- Families with very young children, as the focus is more on older kids/teens.
- Guests sensitive to crowds in popular areas.
- Travelers who prefer a more traditional, less high-tech cruise.
Choose Norwegian Getaway if…
Guests who appreciate a vibrant, energetic, Miami-themed cruise with extensive outdoor spaces, classic waterslide fun, and a lively social atmosphere, ideal for warm-weather itineraries.
Best for
- Families who enjoy classic water park fun and a multi-level sports complex.
- Travelers seeking a vibrant, social atmosphere with a Miami theme.
- Couples and friends who appreciate diverse bars and live music venues.
- Guests looking for warm-weather itineraries in the Caribbean or Bermuda.
- Those who enjoy outdoor dining and strolling along The Waterfront.
Avoid if
- Guests sensitive to smoke, as the casino's central location can affect nearby areas.
- Travelers seeking cutting-edge, virtual reality-style attractions.
- Those preferring a quieter, more intimate ambiance on a larger ship.
- Guests expecting only complimentary premium dining.
- Individuals seeking extensive indoor kids' club facilities with natural light.
Overall Vibe
Norwegian Encore
Built in 2019 and refurbished in 2024, Norwegian Encore is a sleek, modern vessel weighing 168,800 gross tons and spanning 16 decks. It exudes a sophisticated, high-energy atmosphere, often compared to a vibrant city at sea, offering a wide array of activities and dining experiences. Its design focuses on contemporary luxury, with public spaces and decor that feel elevated. The ship promises an experience filled with diverse choices, appealing to those who appreciate a dynamic cruise with plenty of options for both exhilaration and relaxation.
Norwegian Getaway
Refurbished in 2024, Norwegian Getaway is a slightly smaller Breakaway-class ship, at 146,600 gross tons and 18 decks. It boasts a distinct Miami-inspired flair, reflected in its vibrant hull art and South Beach-esque public areas. The ship maintains a lively, social atmosphere with a strong emphasis on outdoor spaces, particularly its quarter-mile Waterfront promenade. It offers a balance of active fun and relaxation, aiming to deliver a "perfect getaway at sea" with a cheerful, energetic ambiance.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Norwegian Encore
Carrying 4,004 guests and supported by 1,735 crew members, Norwegian Encore fosters a lively, bustling atmosphere. It attracts a diverse crowd, including couples, families with teens, and groups of friends, who appreciate its extensive entertainment and dining choices. The ship's layout allows for both energetic social hubs and quieter retreats like the Observation Lounge or the adult-only Spice H2O. While there's always something happening, the sheer size helps distribute passengers, though popular areas can still feel quite active.
Norwegian Getaway
With a capacity for 4,028 passengers and a crew of 1,595, Norwegian Getaway maintains a vibrant, social energy. Its atmosphere is particularly appealing to those who enjoy a festive, warm-weather cruise. The ship effectively caters to families, couples, and friends, offering a blend of active pursuits and relaxed lounging. Public spaces, especially around the pool deck and The Waterfront, tend to be lively, encouraging interaction and a fun-filled vacation experience, though it's worth noting the casino's central location can sometimes lead to smoke drift in nearby areas.
Dining
Norwegian Encore
Encore offers a rich tapestry of dining, with 19 distinct venues. Complimentary options include the three main dining rooms: The Manhattan Room, Savour, and Taste, along with the expansive Garden Café buffet and the casual 24-hour American Diner and The Local Bar & Grill. Specialty dining is a highlight, featuring the acclaimed Italian fare at Onda by Scarpetta, interactive Teppanyaki, hearty BBQ at Q Texas Smokehouse, Mediterranean seafood at Palomar, and the classic Cagney's Steakhouse. The variety caters to refined palates and casual cravings alike, though many of the premium experiences incur additional costs.
Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Getaway provides a diverse culinary journey with 20 dining options. Guests can enjoy complimentary meals at the traditional Savor and Taste restaurants, the grand Manhattan Room, the extensive Garden Café, the 24/7 O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill, and Shanghai's Noodle Bar. For an additional fee, specialty choices abound, from the savory cuts at Cagney's Steakhouse and the French elegance of Le Bistro to the Brazilian rodizio at Moderno Churrascaria and fresh Italian dishes at La Cucina. Seafood lovers will appreciate Ocean Blue and The Raw Bar, ensuring a wide selection for every taste.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Norwegian Encore
Entertainment on Encore is bold and diverse, highlighted by Broadway-caliber shows like 'The Choir of Man' in the Encore Theatre. For thrills, guests can race on the Encore Speedway go-kart track or explore virtual worlds in the Galaxy Pavilion, which also hosts an escape room. Adults can unwind at the refreshed Spice H2O or the exclusive Vibe Beach Club, while evening options include comedy at Social Comedy & Night Club, live Beatles music at The Cavern Club, and various bars like the Sugarcane Mojito Bar. Many of the high-tech activities are extra-fee.
Norwegian Getaway
Getaway's entertainment is equally vibrant, featuring Broadway-style productions like 'Famous Riffz' and 'Bring Back the 90's' in the Getaway Theatre. The ship offers a large Aqua Park with five waterslides, including the exhilarating Free Fall, and a multi-level Sports Complex with a ropes course and climbing wall. Nightlife is energetic, with dueling pianos at Howl at the Moon, live rock at Syd Norman’s Pour House, and dancing at Bliss Ultra Lounge. The unique Skyy® Vodka Ice Bar provides a memorable, chilly experience, while Headliners Comedy Club offers laughs.
Cabins & Suites
Norwegian Encore
Norwegian Encore offers 2,040 cabins, including a broad range of options from 135 sq ft Interior cabins to luxurious suites. The Haven, an exclusive 'ship-within-a-ship' complex, features 50 suites inside and 25 outside the enclave, offering butler and concierge service, a private restaurant, lounge, and pool. Haven Premier Owner's Suites are particularly spacious at 1,458 sq ft with multiple bedrooms and bathrooms. Solo travelers have dedicated 99 sq ft Studio cabins with access to a private Studio Lounge. Club Balcony Suites offer enhanced bathrooms, and Spa Balcony/Mini-suites include complimentary thermal suite access.
Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Getaway features 2,012 cabins, designed with modern decor and ample storage. Standard cabins range from 119 sq ft Inside cabins to 194 sq ft Balcony staterooms, with many connecting options for families. The Haven offers an elevated experience with its own private courtyard, pool, sun deck, and exclusive dining, along with 24-hour butler and concierge service for its suites. Haven Deluxe Owner's Suites are the largest, up to 926 sq ft with expansive balconies. Solo travelers are catered for with 99 sq ft Studio cabins, providing access to a dedicated Studio Lounge.
Service & Onboard Style
Norwegian Encore
Norwegian Encore aims for a modern, refined onboard style, blending contemporary luxury with a dynamic atmosphere. The decor in public spaces is often described as elevated, creating a sophisticated ambiance. Service emphasizes personalization, especially within The Haven where guests receive dedicated butler and concierge service for a truly bespoke experience. Across the ship, the crew of 1,735 works to deliver a seamless and engaging Freestyle Cruising experience, allowing guests flexibility and choice in their vacation style, though the sheer size means interactions can vary.
Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Getaway presents a cheerful and spirited onboard style, heavily influenced by its Miami theme. The ship's layout, particularly The Waterfront, is designed to enhance guest flow and maximize ocean views, contributing to a relaxed yet social ambiance. The crew of 1,595 provides attentive service, upholding Norwegian's Freestyle Cruising philosophy which prioritizes flexibility in dining and activities. While the overall vibe is lively, dedicated adult-only areas like Spice H2O and Vibe Beach Club offer quieter retreats, providing a balanced experience for diverse guest preferences.
Best Itineraries
Norwegian Encore
Norwegian Encore is well-suited for diverse itineraries that leverage its wide array of onboard activities. Its routes include the sun-drenched Caribbean from Miami, the vibrant coasts of Mexico, journeys through the Panama Canal, and the scenic beauty of Alaska from Seattle. The ship's robust entertainment and dining options make it an excellent choice for sea days, ensuring guests are constantly engaged whether they're exploring glaciers or enjoying tropical waters. The Observation Lounge is particularly well-suited for scenic cruising.
Norwegian Getaway
Norwegian Getaway shines on itineraries that embrace its lively, outdoor-focused amenities and Miami-inspired design. It frequently sails to the Caribbean, Bermuda for its pink sand beaches, and the charming ports of Canada and New England. The ship is also popular for convenient weekend cruises through the Caribbean, offering quick escapes. Its abundant outdoor spaces, including The Waterfront and Aqua Park, are perfectly utilized on these warmer routes, providing ample opportunities for sun, sea, and social activities.
What reviewers say
Norwegian Encore
4.5/5Norwegian Encore is a sophisticated, high-energy ship offering a vast array of quality dining and entertainment options. While it provides choices for everyone, many premium experiences come with extra costs, requiring careful budgeting to fully enjoy its extensive offerings.
Norwegian Getaway
4.5/5Norwegian Getaway offers an abundance of dining and entertainment options with a Miami flair. While fees add up for wow-factor experiences, the ship makes the most of outdoor spaces like the Waterfront with its South Beach vibe.
Itineraries to compare
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Norwegian Encore
Norwegian Getaway
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.

Ship Guide
Norwegian Encore: High-Energy Cruises & Freestyle Fun
Enjoy a vibrant cruise on Norwegian Encore with diverse dining and thrilling entertainment for all ages.

Ship Guide
Norwegian Getaway: Miami Vibes, Endless Entertainment
Experience a vibrant cruise vacation with diverse dining, thrilling waterslides, and a South Beach atmosphere on Norwegian Getaway.
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