Norwegian Star vs Norwegian Jade

Norwegian Star

Launched in 2001 and significantly refurbished in 2018, the Norwegian Star, at 91,740 gross tons and spanning 14 decks, embodies a classic Freestyle Cruising experience. It strikes a balance as a mid-sized vessel, offering a blend of relaxed spaces and lively activities. The recent updates have kept its interiors fresh, maintaining its appeal to those who appreciate a ship that feels both familiar and contemporary. It's designed to provide NCL's signature flexibility without the overwhelming scale of the newer mega-ships.

Norwegian Jade

The Norwegian Jade, launched in 2006 and recently refurbished, sails with a gross tonnage of 93,502 across 15 decks, providing a notably intimate and relaxed cruising atmosphere. Despite its age, the ship's modern décor and updated staterooms give it a refreshed feel, akin to a newer vessel. Its design encourages a free-flowing experience, balancing diverse offerings with comfortable public spaces, making it a solid choice for cruisers seeking a revitalized ship with a well-established reputation for service.

Norwegian Star

With a capacity for 2,240 guests and a dedicated crew of 1,100, Norwegian Star cultivates a casual and flexible atmosphere. The ship successfully balances intimate corners with more exuberant public spaces, making it welcoming for a mix of families and retirees. The passenger-to-crew ratio of roughly 2.03:1 suggests a good level of personalized attention, contributing to a comfortable and engaging environment where guests can choose to mingle or find quiet solitude as they prefer.

Norwegian Jade

Accommodating 2,402 guests with a crew of 1,100, Norwegian Jade fosters a relaxed, friendly, and attentive ambiance. Its recent refurbishments have injected a modern, vibrant feel throughout, creating an engaging environment. The passenger-to-crew ratio of approximately 2.18:1 supports attentive service. On European itineraries, the ship attracts a notably international crowd, from the U.K. and Australia to Japan and Korea, adding a cosmopolitan flair to its free-flowing social scene.

Norwegian Star

Norwegian Star offers a delightful culinary journey with over 10 diverse dining options. Complimentary choices include the contemporary Aqua and traditional Versailles Main Dining Rooms, 24-hour pub fare at O'Sheehan's, and the varied Garden Café buffet. For a fee, guests can savor premium cuts at Cagney's Steakhouse ($60), authentic Italian at La Cucina ($40), sophisticated French cuisine at Le Bistro ($60), or the lively Teppanyaki ($60). Ginza also offers Asian fusion with sushi (a la carte, $50 cover charge for general Ginza dining) and a teppanyaki room.

Norwegian Jade

Norwegian Jade presents more than 16 extraordinary dining experiences. Complimentary venues feature the colorful Alizar and elegant Grand Pacific Main Dining Rooms, the expansive Garden Café, and the casual outdoor The Great Outdoors. O'Sheehan's serves pub grub 24/7, and Jasmine Garden offers Asian fusion without an extra charge. Specialty dining includes Cagney's Steakhouse ($60), La Cucina ($40), Le Bistro ($60), Moderno Churrascaria ($50) with ocean views, and Teppanyaki ($60) for a theatrical meal. The Sushi Bar also offers individually priced rolls.

Norwegian Star

The Stardust Theatre is the heart of nightly entertainment, presenting "Broadway and Vegas-style shows" like "Famous Riffz," "Women of Rock," and "The Wild Cards." For evening drinks, Gatsby's Champagne Bar offers an elegant setting, while Proof Whiskey Bar caters to spirits enthusiasts. The Bliss Ultra Lounge provides an "electrifying, high-energy" dance scene. Guests can also try their luck at the Star Casino or participate in game shows like "Deal or No Deal" and "Wheel of Fortune." Spice H2O transitions from a daytime adult retreat to a lively dance spot after dark.

Norwegian Jade

Entertainment on Norwegian Jade centers around the Stardust Theatre, featuring vibrant production shows such as "FUSIÓN" and "Blazing Boots." For late-night revelry, the Bliss Ultra Lounge transforms into a clubbing scene, and the Spinnaker Lounge hosts game shows, trivia, and the popular White Hot Party. The Jade Casino & Bar offers gaming excitement. Guests can enjoy specialized drinks at Magnums Champagne & Wine Bar, Mixers Martini & Cocktail Bar, or Sugarcane Mojito Bar. The Vibe Beach Club provides an exclusive adults-only escape for those seeking a more serene, yet still social, experience.

Norwegian Star

Norwegian Star offers a broad selection of accommodations, from comfortable standard cabins to expansive suites. The luxurious 3-Bedroom Garden Villas, accommodating up to seven guests, boast private gardens, hot tubs, and butler/concierge service. Deluxe Owner's Suites feature two balconies and whirlpool tubs. Standard Balcony, Oceanview, and Inside staterooms are available, many with connecting options for families. Cabins include a "split bathroom" design, USB charging ports, and nautical-inspired decor. Be aware that mini-suite closets can be tricky to navigate due to their design.

Norwegian Jade

On Norwegian Jade, accommodations range from standard cabins to the opulent Haven complex. The Haven 3-Bedroom Garden Villas, sleeping up to eight, include a private courtyard, hot tub, and personalized services. Deluxe Owner's Suites offer large balconies and separate showers, with access to The Haven's exclusive amenities. Standard cabins, while generally smaller than the industry average, feature modern decor, new flat-screen TVs, and excellent shower water pressure. Connecting options are available across many categories, but some quiet areas like the library may experience noise from nearby lively venues.

Norwegian Star

The onboard style of Norwegian Star is defined by its "Freestyle Cruising" ethos, emphasizing flexibility and choice in dining and activities. The 2018 refurbishment brought modern touches, ensuring public spaces feel current and inviting. Service is attentive, particularly in specialty restaurants like Cagney's Steakhouse and Le Bistro, where the atmosphere is designed for a refined experience. Suite guests benefit from enhanced services, including butler and concierge, adding a layer of personalized care to their journey.

Norwegian Jade

Norwegian Jade prides itself on "excellent service from genuinely happy crew members," creating a warm and welcoming onboard style. Its "recently refurbished" interiors feature modern décor, contributing to a fresh, vibrant feel throughout the ship. The Freestyle dining concept underpins a flexible and relaxed approach to the cruise experience. Suite guests enjoy elevated services, including butler and concierge, along with exclusive access to areas like The Haven Courtyard, enhancing the sense of personalized luxury.

Norwegian Star

Norwegian Star is a versatile vessel, offering a range of captivating itineraries across diverse regions. Guests can explore the historic charm of the Mediterranean, the scenic beauty of Northern Europe, the sun-drenched shores of the Caribbean, and experience transatlantic crossings. Many of these voyages also include a stop at Norwegian Cruise Line's private island, Great Stirrup Cay, providing a dedicated beach day experience.

Norwegian Jade

Norwegian Jade boasts an impressive global reach with its itineraries, catering to a wide array of travel desires. It sails to the sun-soaked Caribbean, the wild landscapes of Alaska, the exotic wonders of Asia, the vibrant coasts of Mexico, picturesque Pacific Coast routes, the legendary Panama Canal, and the cultural richness of South America. Like its counterpart, it also offers calls at Great Stirrup Cay, further enhanced with the upcoming Vibe Shore Club and Silver Cove experiences.