Pride of America

    Norwegian Cruise Line

    Pride of America

    Norwegian Luna

    Norwegian Cruise Line

    Norwegian Luna

    vs

    Ship Comparison

    Pride of America vs Norwegian Luna

    For immersive Hawaiian exploration with classic comforts, choose Pride of America; for cutting-edge thrills and modern luxury, Norwegian Luna awaits.

    The verdict

    Pride of America offers an unparalleled, destination-rich Hawaiian experience, ideal for those who prioritize daily island exploration and a comfortable, American-centric onboard environment. Its 2016 refurbishment ensures a pleasant, if traditional, journey. Norwegian Luna, launching in 2026, promises a vibrant, activity-packed, and luxury-infused modern cruise, perfect for guests seeking the latest innovations, diverse dining, and energetic entertainment on Caribbean routes. While Pride of America leans into cultural immersion and relaxed evenings, Luna is designed for those who crave high-octane fun and sophisticated amenities.

    Choose Pride of America if…

    Travelers seeking an immersive, port-intensive Hawaiian adventure with a comfortable, familiar onboard atmosphere and strong emphasis on cultural enrichment.

    Best for

    • The Hawaiian Island Explorer Family
    • The Comfort-Focused Couple
    • The Immersive Culture Seeker
    • The Culinary Explorer

    Avoid if

      Choose Norwegian Luna if…

      Guests who desire a modern, energetic cruise experience with innovative entertainment, diverse upscale dining, and luxurious private enclaves, particularly for Caribbean sailings.

      Best for

      • The Luxury Havenite
      • The Adrenaline & Tech Enthusiast
      • The Entertainment & Nightlife Seeker
      • The Culinary Explorer
      • The Wellness & Active Lifestyle Advocate

      Avoid if

        Overall Vibe

        Pride of America

        Pride of America, significantly enhanced in 2016, offers a distinctively American, destination-focused ambiance, sailing year-round through Hawaii. As a 2005-launched vessel, its design leans towards classic mainstream comfort, providing a stylish yet familiar setting for its guests across 14 decks. The ship's unique U.S. flagging means no casino, contributing to a more relaxed, family-friendly feel that prioritizes the stunning Hawaiian scenery and cultural immersion over typical cruise ship gambling. It’s an ideal choice for those whose primary focus is exploring the islands.

        Norwegian Luna

        Norwegian Luna, a brand-new Prima Plus class vessel launching in 2026, promises a vibrant and innovative experience. Its modern design, featuring breathtaking hull art by Elle, sets the stage for a ship that's 10 percent larger than previous Prima vessels, offering expansive outdoor spaces. Luna is designed to be a hub of activity and sophisticated luxury, blending high-tech thrills like the Aqua Slidecoaster with tranquil retreats such as the expanded Mandara Spa. This ship is geared towards guests seeking a dynamic, contemporary cruise with a fresh, energetic feel across its 20 decks.

        Atmosphere & Crowd

        Pride of America

        With a passenger capacity of 2,186 served by 950 crew, Pride of America offers a comfortable, spacious environment. The atmosphere is notably destination-focused, drawing guests who are eager to explore Hawaii’s four islands and five ports with no sea days. Evenings onboard are generally relaxed, appealing to couples and families, particularly those in their 30s and older, who appreciate a less boisterous setting. The strong emphasis on local culture creates a unique, community-like feel among passengers, fostering shared experiences of the islands.

        Norwegian Luna

        Norwegian Luna, accommodating 3,550 passengers and supported by 1,388 crew members, is set to deliver a more bustling and energetic atmosphere. As a larger, new-build vessel, it will likely attract a diverse crowd, including thrill-seekers drawn to its innovative attractions and families seeking a wide array of activities, from the Kids Aqua Park to the Luna Game Zone. The ship's design, with expansive outdoor areas and diverse entertainment options, caters to a dynamic and modern cruise demographic, promising a lively, engaging environment.

        Dining

        Pride of America

        Pride of America offers a wide array of dining, from complimentary options like the Skyline Restaurant and Liberty Restaurant, both serving classic American cuisine, to the 24/7 Cadillac Diner for comfort food. The Aloha Cafe provides an international buffet with indoor/outdoor seating, and Key West Bar & Grill offers casual BBQ. For an additional charge, guests can savor French fare at Jefferson's Bistro ($60), prime cuts at Cagney's Steakhouse ($60), or Brazilian churrascaria at Moderno ($50). East Meets West, an Asian Fusion venue, also carries a $50 cover charge, with Teppanyaki ($60) and Sushi ($50) offering Japanese specialties.

        Norwegian Luna

        Norwegian Luna elevates the culinary journey with an impressive selection of dining options, including exciting new specialty venues. Guests can explore Mediterranean flavors at Palomar or savor authentic Thai dishes at Sukhothai, both for an additional charge. Complimentary options include Hudson's for classic fare, The Local Bar & Grill, and the diverse Indulge Food Hall, which features 10 stations including the plant-based Planterie. Signature favorites like Cagney's Steakhouse, Le Bistro, Los Lobos, Onda by Scarpetta, Hasuki, and Nama Sushi are available for an additional fee. The exclusive The Haven Restaurant caters to Haven guests, while the Metropolitan Bar offers "Sail & Sustain" craft cocktails.

        Entertainment & Nightlife

        Pride of America

        Entertainment on Pride of America leans into traditional cruise offerings with a strong Hawaiian flair. The Hollywood Theatre hosts two events nightly, from Broadway-style shows like 'Aloha Polynesia' to comedy acts. Live music can be found in various lounges such as the Gold Rush Saloon with its piano player and sports screenings, and the New Orleans-inspired Mardi Gras Cabaret Lounge & Nightclub for dancing. More intimate settings include Pink's Champagne Bar. Daytime activities range from Hawaiian enrichment classes to deck games, providing a relaxed, culturally-infused experience.

        Norwegian Luna

        Norwegian Luna is designed for high-energy entertainment and innovative nightlife. It features the world's first hybrid rollercoaster and waterslide, the Aqua Slidecoaster, and the thrilling 10-story free-fall slide, The Drop. The Luna Game Zone offers both retro arcade games and cutting-edge virtual reality experiences. Evening entertainment includes major production shows like 'Rocket Man: A Celebration of Elton John' and the mixed-reality spectacle 'HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder', alongside themed deck parties, live-band karaoke, and a retro disco at Planetdisco. The Vibe Beach Club offers an adult-only oasis.

        Cabins & Suites

        Pride of America

        Pride of America provides 1,157 cabins across 14 categories, accommodating various travel styles. Solo travelers have dedicated Solo Studios at 107 sq ft with exclusive lounge access, while Inside cabins start at 132 sq ft. Oceanview staterooms, some with obstructed views, are 144 sq ft, and Balcony staterooms offer 179-233 sq ft with private outdoor space. The suites are particularly spacious, ranging from the Family Club Balcony Suite up to the Deluxe Owner's Suite, which can be as large as 1,382 sq ft with a large balcony and whirlpool tub, featuring butler and concierge services.

        Norwegian Luna

        Norwegian Luna is designed with some of the fleet's most spacious accommodations, offering a wide array from Inside to The Haven suites. Its standout is the "Largest Haven" complex, featuring 123 suites, including opulent three-bedroom Duplex Haven Suites reaching up to 2,099 sq ft with expansive balconies, private living and dining areas, and three bathrooms. These Haven suites come with 24-hour butler and concierge service. The ship also caters to solo travelers with new Solo Inside, Solo Oceanview, and Solo Balcony categories, alongside various Club Balcony and standard Balcony options.

        Service & Onboard Style

        Pride of America

        Pride of America prides itself on stellar customer service, reflecting its U.S.-flagged status and American crew. The onboard style is comfortable and well-maintained, thanks to its 2016 refurbishment, featuring cherry wood finishing and modern touches in cabins. Suite guests receive enhanced, personalized service including 24-hour butler and concierge assistance, priority check-in, complimentary breakfast/lunch at Cagney's, and invitations to exclusive cocktail parties. This focus on attentive service, particularly for suite guests, contributes to a relaxed and pampered cruising experience throughout the Hawaiian itinerary.

        Norwegian Luna

        Norwegian Luna is set to offer a refined and attentive service experience, particularly within its expansive Haven complex, where guests benefit from 24-hour butler service, a private sun deck with valet, and an exclusive restaurant and lounge. The overall onboard style is modern and sophisticated, emphasizing thoughtful design and wide-open outdoor spaces, as seen with Ocean Boulevard. The ship's commitment to personalized assistance is also evident through a dedicated Access Desk for guests with special needs, ensuring a comfortable and well-supported journey for all passengers across its innovative facilities.

        Best Itineraries

        Pride of America

        Pride of America is uniquely dedicated to year-round, 7-day cruises exploring the Hawaiian Islands. This itinerary is exceptionally port-intensive, visiting four islands and five ports with no sea days, allowing for deep immersion into the local culture and landscapes of Maui, Oahu, Kauai, and the Big Island. It's the ideal choice for travelers who want to maximize their time exploring the destination and experience a comprehensive Hawaiian adventure without the need for inter-island flights or multiple hotel stays.

        Norwegian Luna

        Norwegian Luna is slated to sail vibrant Caribbean itineraries from Miami, offering guests a chance to explore popular tropical destinations. As a new, larger ship in the Prima Plus class, its diverse range of activities, from the Aqua Slidecoaster to the expansive Vibe Beach Club, perfectly complements sunny Caribbean sailings. Guests can anticipate a blend of thrilling days at sea and captivating port calls, including potential visits to Norwegian's private island, Great Stirrup Cay, which features its own waterpark and extensive recreational options.

        What reviewers say

        Pride of America

        4.5/5

        The Pride of America, significantly enhanced in 2016, offers a stylish and comfortable journey through Hawaii with daily port calls and exceptional service. It caters to diverse interests with a variety of venues, though some of the best dining options come with an additional fee and entertainment could be more robust.

        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

        Pick an itinerary on either ship to see all available departure dates.

        Pride of America

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        Norwegian Luna

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