Norwegian Spirit

    Norwegian Cruise Line

    Norwegian Spirit

    Norwegian Luna

    Norwegian Cruise Line

    Norwegian Luna

    vs

    Ship Comparison

    Norwegian Spirit vs Norwegian Luna

    Norwegian Spirit offers a revitalized, intimate experience for adult explorers, while the brand-new Norwegian Luna promises grand-scale thrills and luxury for all.

    The verdict

    The choice between Norwegian Spirit and Norwegian Luna truly depends on your cruising priorities. Norwegian Spirit, having undergone a substantial $100 million refurbishment in 2020, feels like a brand-new ship despite its 1998 build. It's tailored for adults seeking a more intimate, destination-focused voyage without the constant buzz of larger, family-centric vessels. The food quality and service are consistently praised, offering excellent value. Conversely, Norwegian Luna, a forthcoming Prima Plus class ship, is designed for those who desire the latest innovations, expansive spaces, and a vibrant, activity-rich environment that caters to families and thrill-seekers alike. If you value a quieter, sophisticated, and adult-oriented escape, the Spirit calls. If cutting-edge entertainment and a bustling, modern atmosphere are more your style, the Luna is set to shine.

    Choose Norwegian Spirit if…

    Travelers seeking an adult-oriented, intimate cruise with a focus on destination immersion and high-quality dining, appreciating a ship that feels refreshed and offers excellent value without the mega-ship distractions.

    Best for

    • Adults seeking a quieter, intimate cruise experience.
    • Couples looking for a romantic or relaxed getaway.
    • Travelers who appreciate attentive service and a convivial atmosphere.
    • Guests desiring diverse and high-quality dining options, both complimentary and specialty.
    • Explorers interested in longer, eclectic itineraries to varied destinations.

    Avoid if

    • Families traveling with young children who require dedicated kids' clubs and facilities.
    • Guests looking for large-scale, high-thrill attractions like waterslides and go-karts.
    • Those who prefer brand-new ships with the latest design trends and technology.
    • Travelers seeking extensive shopping promenades or a bustling, mega-ship vibe.
    • Passengers who prefer a wide array of complimentary entertainment options for all ages.

    Choose Norwegian Luna if…

    Families and guests looking for a vibrant, modern cruise experience packed with innovative thrills, diverse entertainment, and luxury accommodations, including a dedicated Haven complex, on a brand-new, larger vessel.

    Best for

    • Families with children and teens seeking extensive youth programs and activities.
    • Thrill-seekers eager for innovative attractions like the Aqua Slidecoaster and The Drop.
    • Luxury travelers prioritizing spacious suites and exclusive amenities in The Haven.
    • Guests looking for a wide variety of modern dining and entertainment options.
    • Cruisers desiring a brand-new, large ship with cutting-edge design and technology.

    Avoid if

    • Adults seeking a quiet, intimate, and less crowded cruise experience.
    • Travelers who prefer smaller ships and a more traditional oceangoing feel.
    • Guests on a strict budget, as many innovative attractions and specialty dining venues incur extra costs.
    • Those who dislike bustling environments with a constant flow of activities and crowds.
    • Cruisers preferring a high crew-to-guest ratio for more personalized service outside of The Haven.

    Overall Vibe

    Norwegian Spirit

    The Norwegian Spirit, a 1998-built vessel, underwent a transformative $100 million bow-to-stern refurbishment in 2020, giving it the feel of a much newer ship. It now embraces a distinctly adult-oriented atmosphere, moving away from a family focus. This small-to-mid-size traditional oceangoing vessel, spanning 13 decks, is ideal for couples and individuals who appreciate a more intimate setting without the high-energy distractions of larger ships. The overall sense is one of laid-back luxury and a welcoming environment, perfect for those prioritizing relaxation and destination discovery over a theme park at sea.

    Norwegian Luna

    Launching in 2026, the Norwegian Luna is poised to be a cutting-edge Prima Plus class vessel, representing the latest in cruise innovation. This significantly larger ship, with 20 decks, boasts a modern, energetic, and luxurious atmosphere designed for a broad appeal. From its breathtaking hull art by Californian street artist Elle to its wide-open outdoor spaces, the Luna promises a vibrant experience for every phase of a holiday. It aims to deliver a blend of thrilling activities and sophisticated relaxation, catering to guests who seek a dynamic and entertainment-rich environment on a grand scale.

    Atmosphere & Crowd

    Norwegian Spirit

    With a capacity for 2,032 passengers and a crew of 975, the Norwegian Spirit offers a more intimate and convivial atmosphere. The ship's adult-oriented focus means fewer children onboard, fostering a relaxed environment that appeals particularly to couples and older travelers. Passengers tend to be those seeking longer, eclectic itineraries, valuing a traditional cruise experience. The generous crew-to-guest ratio ensures attentive service, contributing to a happy and welcoming ambiance where guests can easily connect and enjoy a quieter journey.

    Norwegian Luna

    The Norwegian Luna, with a passenger capacity of 3,550 and a crew of 1,388, is designed for a more energetic and vibrant crowd. As a brand-new Prima Plus class ship, it will attract families with its extensive kids' facilities like Splash Academy and Entourage, alongside thrill-seekers eager to experience the Aqua Slidecoaster. The atmosphere will be bustling and lively, offering numerous gathering spaces, from the expansive Ocean Boulevard to the Aqua Park, ensuring there's always activity and opportunities for socializing across all age groups.

    Dining

    Norwegian Spirit

    Norwegian Spirit impresses with 14 diverse dining options, many of which are complimentary. Guests can enjoy elegant main dining at Windows, offering stunning wake views, or the more intimate Taste. Casual options include The Garden Café buffet and The Local pub. Specialty dining, though an additional cost, features highly-rated venues like Onda by Scarpetta for Italian, Le Bistro for French, and Cagney's Steakhouse. The interactive Teppanyaki and a la carte Sushi bar also provide memorable experiences, with food quality often cited as outstanding across the board.

    Norwegian Luna

    Norwegian Luna will feature an extensive and innovative culinary landscape, including new specialty restaurants like Palomar for Mediterranean seafood and Sukhothai for authentic Thai cuisine. Complimentary options include Hudson's, offering scenic views, The Local Bar & Grill, and the expansive Indulge Food Hall with 10 stations, notably featuring Planterie for plant-based dishes. Guests can also savor returning favorites such as Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Onda by Scarpetta. The Haven guests also enjoy an exclusive restaurant, ensuring a wide array of choices to satisfy diverse palates.

    Entertainment & Nightlife

    Norwegian Spirit

    Entertainment on Norwegian Spirit caters to an adult audience with a focus on live performances and social spaces. The Stardust Theatre hosts Broadway and Vegas-style production shows like 'Blazing Boots' and 'Ignite the Night.' Nightlife thrives at the Social Comedy & Nightclub with stand-up and DJ sets, or the adults-only Spice H2O, inspired by Ibiza beach parties. Guests can also enjoy live music in the Spinnaker Lounge or Magnum's Champagne & Wine Bar, try their luck at the Spirit Casino, or unwind at Henry's Pub, offering a relaxed and convivial atmosphere.

    Norwegian Luna

    Norwegian Luna is set to be a hub of groundbreaking entertainment and vibrant nightlife. Thrill-seekers will flock to the Aqua Slidecoaster, the world's first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, and The Drop, a 10-story free-fall slide. The Aqua and Luna Game Zone offers virtual reality experiences, while the Glow Court transforms into an LED sports and lounge area. Production shows include 'Rocket Man: A Celebration of Elton John' and the mixed-reality spectacle 'HIKO.' Nightlife is lively with themed deck parties, LunaTique, Planetdisco, and various bars like the Bull's Eye Bar for interactive darts.

    Cabins & Suites

    Norwegian Spirit

    The Norwegian Spirit's 1,016 cabins, ranging from inside to ocean view and balcony staterooms, were completely refurbished in 2020. They now feature modern fixtures, elegant decor, USB ports, and glass-door bathrooms. For those seeking more space, the 18 suites on Decks 9 and 10, including Owner's, Deluxe Penthouse, and Penthouse categories, offer luxurious amenities like separate living areas, larger balconies, and butler and concierge service. While there are no Haven or Studio cabins, over 300 interconnecting options are available for groups.

    Norwegian Luna

    Norwegian Luna boasts some of the most spacious accommodations in the fleet, including a wide array of inside, oceanview, and balcony staterooms. A standout feature is its 'Largest Haven' complex, with 123 suites located at the top of the ship, offering exclusive access to private amenities. This includes luxurious three-bedroom Duplex Haven Suites with multiple bathrooms and expansive balconies. The Haven guests benefit from 24-hour butler and concierge service, a private sun deck with an infinity pool, and an exclusive Haven Restaurant. The ship also caters to solo travelers with dedicated solo inside, oceanview, and balcony categories.

    Service & Onboard Style

    Norwegian Spirit

    Following its extensive refurbishment, Norwegian Spirit maintains a reputation for a happy and welcoming onboard atmosphere, largely attributed to its attentive crew. With a passenger capacity of 2,032 and 975 crew members, the service feels more personalized due to the ship's smaller scale. Suite guests enjoy enhanced services like 24-hour butler and concierge assistance, including priority reservations and exclusive dining access. The overall style is refined and comfortable, appealing to guests who prefer a more traditional and less overwhelming cruise experience where staff can often remember preferences.

    Norwegian Luna

    As a new Prima Plus class vessel, Norwegian Luna is designed with a focus on modern, innovative service and style, particularly highlighted within its expansive Haven complex. With 3,550 passengers and a crew of 1,388, the service aims to be efficient and high-tech, while still offering personalized touches, especially for Haven guests who receive 24-hour butler and concierge attention. The onboard style is contemporary and luxurious, featuring grand, open spaces like Ocean Boulevard and specialized venues, creating a dynamic and engaging environment where guests can expect a seamless and amenity-rich experience.

    Best Itineraries

    Norwegian Spirit

    The Norwegian Spirit is particularly well-suited for longer, eclectic itineraries, offering an appealing option for travelers who enjoy extended periods at sea and diverse destinations. Its smaller size allows it to access a wider range of ports, providing unique and immersive experiences. The ship often sails to varied regions, with mentions of journeys 'Down Under,' suggesting a focus on itineraries that allow for deeper exploration and a more relaxed pace, aligning with its adult-oriented vibe.

    Norwegian Luna

    Norwegian Luna is slated to sail Caribbean itineraries from Miami, making it an excellent choice for those seeking sun-drenched escapes and vibrant island hopping. Its modern amenities and extensive family-friendly features, including the Aqua Slidecoaster and Aqua Park, are perfectly aligned with the lively atmosphere of Caribbean cruises. These itineraries typically offer a mix of sea days to enjoy the ship's innovations and port calls to explore popular tropical destinations, catering to guests looking for an active and fun-filled vacation in warmer climates.

    What reviewers say

    Norwegian Spirit

    4.5/5

    Norwegian Spirit, despite being an older and smaller ship, has been completely revitalized with a massive 2020 refurbishment, offering excellent value for its high-quality food, service, and eclectic itineraries. It proves that good things can indeed come in small packages, delivering a welcoming and happy cruise experience.

    Norwegian Luna

    Norwegian Luna is poised to be a next-generation Prima Plus class vessel, mirroring its sister ship Norwegian Aqua with innovative features and expanded spaces. It promises a blend of luxury, thrill, and diverse entertainment, catering to a wide array of travelers.

    Itineraries to compare

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    Norwegian Spirit

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    Norwegian Luna

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