Norwegian Getaway

    Norwegian Cruise Line

    Norwegian Getaway

    Norwegian Star

    Norwegian Cruise Line

    Norwegian Star

    vs

    Ship Comparison

    Norwegian Getaway vs Norwegian Star

    For cruisers weighing vibrant, action-packed experiences against a more intimate, classic journey, Norwegian Getaway and Norwegian Star offer distinct charms.

    The verdict

    Norwegian Getaway, a newer and larger vessel, is designed for those who crave a high-energy, resort-style vacation with a distinct Miami flair, offering an abundance of entertainment and dining. Its outdoor spaces truly come alive in warm climates. Norwegian Star, while older and more modest in size, provides a more relaxed and intimate setting, perfect for guests who appreciate a classic cruising experience with a good selection of amenities and a more personalized touch, especially after its recent refurbishment.

    Choose Norwegian Getaway if…

    Travelers seeking a lively, activity-rich cruise with a vibrant social scene, diverse dining, and thrilling outdoor attractions, particularly families and groups who enjoy a bustling atmosphere.

    Best for

    • The Active Adventurer
    • The Miami Vibe Seeker
    • The Culinary Explorer
    • The Social Night Owl
    • The Family Fun Seeker
    • The Exclusive Retreater (Haven Guest)

    Avoid if

    • You prefer a quiet, intimate cruise experience.
    • You are sensitive to smoke, as the casino smoke can drift to adjacent areas.
    • You prefer all-inclusive pricing, as many 'wow-factor' experiences come with extra fees.
    • You dislike crowds and bustling public spaces.

    Choose Norwegian Star if…

    Guests who prefer a more relaxed, intimate cruise experience with a balanced mix of dining and entertainment, suitable for couples and families looking for comfort and flexibility without the overwhelming scale of larger ships.

    Best for

    • The Social Explorer
    • The Wellness & Relaxation Enthusiast
    • The Freestyle Foodie
    • The Family Fun Seeker

    Avoid if

    • You are seeking a high-energy, mega-ship experience with the latest thrill rides.
    • You travel with infants who are not potty-trained, due to pool restrictions.
    • You prefer a completely smoke-free casino environment.
    • You expect extensive complimentary specialty dining options.

    Overall Vibe

    Norwegian Getaway

    Norwegian Getaway, at 146,600 gross tons and built in 2014 with a 2024 refurbishment, radiates a lively, contemporary Miami ambiance. Its design emphasizes outdoor connection with The Waterfront promenade, offering alfresco dining and ocean views. The ship feels energetic and social, appealing to those who enjoy a dynamic atmosphere with plenty of "wow-factor" activities, from thrilling waterslides to unique bars like the Skyy Vodka Ice Bar. It's built for cruisers looking for a vibrant, modern resort experience at sea.

    Norwegian Star

    The Norwegian Star, built in 2001 and refurbished in 2018, presents a more relaxed and intimate cruising experience at 91,740 gross tons. While still offering many signature Norwegian features, its mid-size scale fosters a calmer environment. The ship blends traditional cruise elements with modern touches from its refurbishment, appealing to guests who prefer a less overwhelming, yet well-appointed, vessel. It's a comfortable choice for those seeking a balanced blend of amenities and a more serene atmosphere.

    Atmosphere & Crowd

    Norwegian Getaway

    With a capacity for 3,969 passengers and a crew of 1,640, Norwegian Getaway thrives on a bustling, social energy. The ship’s Miami theme attracts a diverse mix of families, couples, and friends seeking a vibrant holiday. Public spaces, particularly the Aqua Park and Sports Complex, buzz with activity, while the adult-only Spice H2O provides a more exclusive, yet still lively, escape. It’s an environment where interaction and shared experiences are at the forefront, creating a lively, ever-changing social scene.

    Norwegian Star

    Norwegian Star cultivates a more relaxed and intimate atmosphere, accommodating 2,348 passengers with a crew of 1,100. This smaller scale often leads to a more laid-back vibe and a greater sense of personal space, appealing to both families and retirees. While still offering engaging activities and dedicated youth clubs, the overall pace feels less frenetic than its larger counterparts. Guests onboard often find it easier to connect with fellow cruisers and appreciate the ship's balanced blend of social opportunities and tranquil corners.

    Dining

    Norwegian Getaway

    Norwegian Getaway boasts an impressive 20 dining options, catering to a wide array of palates. Complimentary choices include the intimate Savor and Taste, the grand Manhattan Room, and the extensive Garden Cafe buffet. Specialty venues, often for an additional charge, range from French elegance at Le Bistro and premium cuts at Cagney's Steakhouse, to interactive Japanese Teppanyaki and Brazilian churrascaria at Moderno. The Waterfront offers unique alfresco dining experiences, enhancing the ship's vibrant culinary journey.

    Norwegian Star

    Norwegian Star offers over 10 diverse dining options, balancing complimentary and specialty experiences. Guests can enjoy traditional main dining at Aqua and Versailles, or casual fare at the 24-hour O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill and The Garden Cafe. For a taste of something different, specialty restaurants like the interactive Teppanyaki, Italian classics at La Cucina, or the refined Le Bistro are available for an extra fee. Ginza also offers Asian fusion, including a sushi bar, providing variety for every meal.

    Entertainment & Nightlife

    Norwegian Getaway

    Entertainment on Norwegian Getaway is high-energy and diverse, centered around the Getaway Theatre with shows like "Famous Riffz" and "Bring Back the 90's." Headliners Comedy Club features Levity Entertainment Group's comedians and the lively Howl at the Moon dueling piano show. Nightlife heats up at Bliss Ultra Lounge, which turns into a nightclub, and the adult-only Spice H2O hosts vibrant themed dance parties. The unique Skyy Vodka Ice Bar offers a truly distinct chilling experience.

    Norwegian Star

    Norwegian Star provides a range of entertainment with a slightly more classic feel, primarily in the Stardust Theatre showcasing Broadway-style productions like "Women of Rock" and "The Broadway Cabaret." The Star Casino offers gaming excitement, while bars such as the sophisticated Gatsby's Champagne Bar and the cozy Proof Whiskey Bar provide excellent spots for evening drinks. Spice H2O offers adult-only relaxation by day and transforms into a dance venue by night, ensuring diverse options for all.

    Cabins & Suites

    Norwegian Getaway

    With 2,012 cabins, Norwegian Getaway offers a broad spectrum of accommodations, from compact Solo Studios (99 sq ft) for single travelers to luxurious Haven Deluxe Owner's Suites (up to 926 sq ft). Standard cabins feature modern decor, convertible queen beds, and ample storage, while Mini-suites offer upgraded bathrooms with body jets. The Haven, a ship-within-a-ship complex, provides exclusive access to private dining, lounge, pool, and sun deck, along with 24-hour butler and concierge service for its guests.

    Norwegian Star

    Norwegian Star provides a variety of accommodations designed for comfort, ranging from standard Oceanview staterooms with picture windows to expansive Garden Villas. Suites, including the Owner's Suites and Penthouse with Balcony, offer enhanced amenities such as whirlpool tubs in many, and personalized butler and concierge services. The enormous 3-Bedroom Garden Villas, accommodating up to seven guests, feature private gardens, hot tubs, and saunas, providing an unparalleled level of luxury and space for larger groups or those seeking ultimate indulgence.

    Service & Onboard Style

    Norwegian Getaway

    Norwegian Getaway embodies the "Freestyle Cruising" concept, emphasizing flexibility and choice without strict schedules or dress codes. Service is generally efficient and friendly, characteristic of Norwegian Cruise Line's mainstream offerings. For guests seeking an elevated level of care, The Haven provides a highly personalized experience with dedicated 24-hour butler and concierge services, ensuring a seamless and pampered journey within its exclusive enclave. This caters to those desiring both freedom and bespoke attention.

    Norwegian Star

    Norwegian Star also operates under the "Freestyle Cruising" philosophy, offering guests a relaxed and unregimented holiday experience. The smaller scale of the ship, compared to larger vessels, often translates to a more intimate and attentive general service, where crew members can get to know guests better. For suite guests, the inclusion of butler and concierge service further enhances this personalized touch, providing tailored assistance and exclusive amenities that elevate the onboard style to one of refined comfort.

    Best Itineraries

    Norwegian Getaway

    Norwegian Getaway is well-suited for warm-weather cruises, frequently sailing to the Caribbean, Bermuda, and offering convenient weekend escapes. Its robust outdoor activity deck, including the Aqua Park with its thrilling slides and the Sports Complex with a ropes course, truly shines in sunny climates. The ship also explores the scenic beauty and charming ports of Canada and New England, making it a versatile choice for those who appreciate an active cruise experience with diverse destinations.

    Norwegian Star

    Norwegian Star offers a broad range of itineraries, making it a flexible choice for various travel desires. It frequently sails to the culturally rich destinations of the Mediterranean and Northern Europe, allowing guests to explore historical ports. Additionally, it offers Caribbean and Transatlantic crossings, appealing to those who enjoy sea days and diverse regional explorations. Its mid-size nature is particularly advantageous for navigating a wider variety of ports, including some that larger ships cannot access.

    What reviewers say

    Norwegian Getaway

    4.5/5

    Norwegian 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.

    Norwegian Star

    4/5

    Norwegian Star delivers many of Norwegian's most beloved features on a more intimate scale. Its recent refurbishments have successfully kept this original Freestyle ship modern and appealing to a broad range of cruisers.

    Itineraries to compare

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    Norwegian Getaway

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