Ship Comparison
Norwegian Epic vs Norwegian Jewel
For a high-energy, entertainment-packed vacation, choose Norwegian Epic; for a relaxed, intimate journey with classic charm, Norwegian Jewel is your ideal sailing companion.
The verdict
Norwegian Epic, a larger vessel, brings a vibrant, Las Vegas-esque atmosphere with a wide array of innovative activities and diverse dining, ideal for travelers seeking constant engagement and unique experiences. Its dedicated solo cabins and extensive entertainment options cater to a broad audience, though its sheer size can lead to some crowding. Norwegian Jewel, while smaller, offers a recently refurbished and comfortable environment with a more traditional yet equally varied selection of dining and entertainment. It appeals to those who appreciate a more intimate setting and a casual pace, making it a versatile choice for various itineraries.
Choose Norwegian Epic if…
Travelers who thrive on a high-energy, bustling environment with a plethora of entertainment options and unique onboard attractions, including dedicated spaces for solo cruisers.
Best for
- Families seeking extensive activities and entertainment options
- Solo travelers looking for dedicated cabin categories and social spaces
- Guests who enjoy a lively, high-energy, and bustling atmosphere
- Cruisers interested in unique attractions like the Skyy Vodka Ice Bar and Epic Plunge
- Those desiring a 'ship-within-a-ship' luxury experience with The Haven
Avoid if
- Travelers who prefer a quiet, intimate, or less crowded cruise experience
- Guests sensitive to noise, especially in cabins near entertainment venues
- Individuals who dislike the unique, three-part bathroom design in standard cabins
- Those who prefer consistently fast service at all public bars
Choose Norwegian Jewel if…
Guests seeking a comfortable, laid-back cruise experience with a balanced mix of dining and entertainment in a more intimate setting, ideal for couples and families alike.
Best for
- Travelers preferring a relaxed, comfortable, and less crowded atmosphere
- Guests who appreciate modern, recently refurbished cabins and public areas
- Families seeking a balanced mix of activities without feeling overwhelmed
- Cruisers interested in diverse itineraries across multiple regions
- Those desiring a 'ship-within-a-ship' luxury experience with The Haven
Avoid if
- Guests seeking the largest, most bustling mega-ship experience
- Travelers looking for unique, high-thrill attractions like a bowl-shaped water slide or rappelling wall
- Individuals who prioritize extensive late-night party options over a more relaxed nightlife
- Those who expect all specialty dining to be consistently high quality
Overall Vibe
Norwegian Epic
The Norwegian Epic, launched in 2010 and benefiting from ongoing enhancements, presents a truly vibrant and high-energy atmosphere. As a substantial vessel weighing 155,873 tons and spanning 15 decks, she feels like a floating resort, embracing a Las Vegas-esque charm. Her design emphasizes unique features and extensive entertainment options for all ages, creating a lively backdrop for your holiday. From the first bowl slide at sea, the Epic Plunge, to the distinctive Skyy Vodka Ice Bar, the ship cultivates a dynamic and engaging environment for guests.
Norwegian Jewel
The Norwegian Jewel, launched in 2005 and thoughtfully refurbished in 2018, offers a distinctly comfortable and laid-back ambiance. While a smaller ship, her modern decor and updated public areas create an inviting feel across her 15 decks. The Jewel class is celebrated for its more intimate scale, allowing for a relaxed pace without sacrificing choice. She provides a balanced array of dining and entertainment, fostering a fun environment that feels both contemporary and classic, appealing to those who appreciate a relaxed and easygoing cruise experience.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Norwegian Epic
With a passenger capacity of 4,100 and a dedicated crew of 1,753, Norwegian Epic is a large ship that can feel quite active. The atmosphere is generally high-energy and social, often described as a party environment. While the sheer number of guests contributes to a lively buzz, it can also mean longer waits for elevators and during port tendering. Service at bars might occasionally feel unhurried. This ship is best suited for those who enjoy being amidst a crowd and appreciate a bustling, resort-like feel throughout their voyage.
Norwegian Jewel
Norwegian Jewel, with a more modest passenger capacity of 2,376 and a crew of 1,100, offers a notably more relaxed and intimate atmosphere. The smaller scale inherently leads to less crowding, providing a comfortable and easygoing experience. Guests often find the ambiance to be fun and casual, making it simpler to navigate public spaces and enjoy quieter moments. This ship fosters a friendly environment where interactions feel more personal, appealing to those who prefer a less overwhelming, yet still engaging, cruise experience.
Dining
Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Epic boasts an expansive array of dining experiences. Complimentary options include the elegant Manhattan Room with its live band, the versatile Garden Café buffet, and the 24-hour O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill. Specialty dining, available at an additional cost, truly shines with options like the theatrical Teppanyaki, sophisticated French fare at Le Bistro, the Brazilian rodizio at Moderno Churrascaria, and premium steaks at Cagney's Steakhouse. Even a Starbucks and a paid Room Service cater to diverse preferences, with The Haven Restaurant offering an amplified culinary experience for suite guests.
Norwegian Jewel
Norwegian Jewel offers a rich selection of dining venues, balancing complimentary favorites with enticing specialty restaurants. Guests can enjoy traditional cuisine at Tsar's Palace or the contemporary flair of Azura, both main dining rooms. The Garden Café provides a comprehensive buffet, while O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar & Grill serves pub favorites 24/7. Specialty options, at an additional cost, include Le Bistro for French elegance, Teppanyaki for interactive Japanese dining, Cagney's Steakhouse for premium cuts, and Moderno Churrascaria for a Brazilian feast. La Cucina offers Italian, and Chin Chin provides Asian fusion, alongside a Starbucks and a Sushi bar for lighter bites.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Norwegian Epic
Entertainment on Norwegian Epic is designed for high impact and variety. The Epic Theatre hosts Broadway Series: 80s Edition and the energetic 'Burn the Floor' dance show. Live music thrives at Headliners Comedy Club, featuring 'Howl at the Moon' dueling pianos, and The Cavern Club with a Beatles cover band. For late nights, Bliss Ultra Lounge offers DJ sets and themed parties like the Glow Party. Unique attractions include the extra-fee Skyy Vodka Ice Bar and bowling at O'Sheehan's. Outdoor fun is plentiful with the Aqua Park's Epic Plunge, a rock climbing wall, and a rappelling wall.
Norwegian Jewel
Norwegian Jewel presents a dazzling variety of entertainment options, ensuring there's always something to captivate. The Stardust Theatre showcases productions like 'Motor City Moves' and 'Rock You Tonight,' featuring aerial acts and magic. For nighttime revelry, Bliss Ultra Lounge offers an electric clubbing scene. Guests can enjoy sophisticated drinks at Shakers Martini & Cocktail Bar or Magnums Champagne & Wine Bar, or a lively atmosphere at Sugarcane Mojito Bar. The Jewel Casino provides gaming excitement, while game shows like 'Deal or No Deal' and 'Wheel of Fortune' offer interactive fun. Sports enthusiasts can enjoy the Basketball/Volleyball/Tennis Court on deck.
Cabins & Suites
Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Epic features 2,114 cabins, with a large proportion of balconies. Standard cabins are known for their curved walls and a unique three-part bathroom setup with a detached sink and translucent sliding doors for the toilet and shower, which offers limited privacy. For solo travelers, there are 128 dedicated Solo Studio cabins at 97 sq ft, offering a full-sized bed and exclusive access to The Studio Lounge. The Haven, a 'ship-within-a-ship' complex, houses 75 luxurious suites ranging from 312 to 850 sq ft, providing butler and concierge service and private amenities like a pool and sundeck.
Norwegian Jewel
Norwegian Jewel's 1,190 cabins and suites underwent a significant refurbishment in 2018, receiving refreshed decor, new televisions, USB outlets, and artwork. Standard cabins are thoughtfully designed with two lower beds convertible to a queen, ample storage, and bathrooms that are perfectly sized with separate toilet and shower areas, providing good privacy. Minisuites (284 sq ft) offer more space and larger bathrooms. The Haven provides an exclusive experience with butler and concierge services in its Penthouses (up to 572 sq ft), Two-Bedroom Family Villas (572 sq ft), and the expansive Three-Bedroom Garden Villas (4,891 sq ft), which include private whirlpools and sunning areas.
Service & Onboard Style
Norwegian Epic
On Norwegian Epic, with a crew of 1,753 serving 4,100 passengers, the service can sometimes be a bit slower, particularly at busier bars. Communication from the crew has also been noted to be occasionally delayed. The onboard style is largely cruise casual, encouraging guests to feel free in their attire, with options for 'Dress-Up or Not Night.' While the ship offers a vibrant, energetic atmosphere that can feel less personal due to its size, guests in The Haven receive personalized butler and concierge services, ensuring a more attentive and exclusive experience.
Norwegian Jewel
Norwegian Jewel, with a crew of 1,100 attending to 2,376 passengers, generally maintains a warm and attentive service standard. The atmosphere is consistently laid-back and comfortable, fostering a friendly environment. The dress code on board is 'Freestyle Cruising,' meaning guests can opt for resort casual attire during the day and in most dining venues, or choose 'Smart Casual' for more upscale evenings. Guests in the exclusive Haven suites benefit from a high level of personalized service, including dedicated butler and concierge assistance, enhancing their onboard style and comfort.
Best Itineraries
Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Epic is a versatile vessel that sails to a variety of sought-after regions. She frequently embarks on itineraries exploring the rich history and beautiful coastlines of the Mediterranean. Additionally, she offers transatlantic crossings for those seeking longer sea days, and cruises to the sun-drenched destinations of the Caribbean. Her diverse offerings make her a suitable choice for travelers looking to experience different cultures and climates on a single, dynamic ship.
Norwegian Jewel
Norwegian Jewel offers a broad range of compelling itineraries across multiple continents. Her voyages include the cultural hubs of the Mediterranean and the scenic beauty of Northern Europe. She also frequents the warm waters of the Caribbean, the charming shores of Canada & New England, and has explored the unique landscapes of Alaska and Hawaii. Her size and recent refurbishment make her a comfortable and efficient choice for exploring diverse ports of call, appealing to guests who prioritize destination variety.
What reviewers say
Norwegian Epic
4/5Norwegian Epic stands out with its unique, Las Vegas-esque vibe and extensive entertainment, making it a fun choice for diverse travelers. Despite some navigational challenges and quirky cabin designs, its recent refurbishments keep it spry and appealing for cruises to highly desirable destinations.
Norwegian Jewel
4/5Norwegian Jewel offers a comfortable and fun cruising experience, thanks to its attractive refurbishment and a wide array of dining and entertainment options. It serves as an excellent base for exploring various ports of call, appealing to those who appreciate a laid-back atmosphere.
Itineraries to compare
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Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Jewel
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.

Ship Guide
Norwegian Epic: Entertainment & Unique Vibe Reviewed
Experience the Las Vegas-esque entertainment and diverse dining options on Norwegian Epic, designed for an unforgettable voyage.

Ship Guide
Norwegian Jewel: Comfortable, Refurbished Cruise Fun
Discover a fun cruising experience with attractive refurbishments and diverse dining and entertainment onboard.
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