Ship Comparison
Norwegian Star vs Norwegian Viva
For those seeking classic Freestyle Cruising with intimate touches, Norwegian Star is a solid choice, while Norwegian Viva offers a fresh, high-tech, and surprisingly sophisticated experience for modern adventurers.
The verdict
Choosing between Norwegian Star and Norwegian Viva comes down to your preference for a classic, established cruise experience versus a cutting-edge, new-build adventure. Norwegian Star, a seasoned vessel from 2001 with a substantial 2018 refurbishment, offers a comfortable, mid-sized environment that pioneered NCL's 'Freestyle Cruising' concept. It’s a ship that feels familiar and welcoming, blending relaxation with activity without overwhelming its 2,348 guests. On the other hand, Norwegian Viva, launched in 2023 as part of the innovative Prima Class, is designed for those who crave a modern, high-energy holiday. Despite accommodating 3,215 guests, it manages to feel intimate through clever design and an abundance of outdoor spaces. Viva pushes boundaries with its onboard thrills and diverse dining, presenting a more contemporary vision of cruising. Both ships uphold NCL's commitment to flexibility, but they deliver it with very different flavors, catering to distinct cruising styles.
Choose Norwegian Star if…
Travelers who appreciate a well-established ship with a relaxed, flexible atmosphere and a good mix of dining and entertainment options, suitable for families and retirees.
Best for
- Cruisers who prefer a mid-sized ship with a more traditional yet flexible atmosphere.
- Families and retirees looking for a balance of relaxation and activity.
- Those interested in diverse dining options with a mix of complimentary and specialty venues.
- Travelers seeking itineraries in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, or Caribbean.
Avoid if
- Guests desiring the very latest in high-tech thrills and cutting-edge attractions.
- Those who prefer a brand-new ship with ultra-modern design aesthetics.
- Travelers sensitive to noise, especially near the children's pool areas (Splash Down Kid's Pool excludes adults but is very lively).
- Parents of non-potty-trained infants/toddlers who want extensive pool access (no diapers allowed in any pools).
Choose Norwegian Viva if…
Cruisers seeking a modern, high-energy experience with cutting-edge attractions, diverse dining, and a sophisticated, ocean-connected ambiance, ideal for active families and couples.
Best for
- Guests seeking a brand-new, modern ship with high-tech entertainment and thrills.
- Active adventurers and families who enjoy go-karts, dry slides, and virtual reality experiences.
- Foodies looking for innovative complimentary dining options like the Indulge Food Hall.
- Travelers who appreciate sophisticated design and a strong connection to the ocean.
Avoid if
- Cruisers who prefer a quieter, more traditional cruise experience.
- Those sensitive to noise, as the Viva Speedway go-karts can be heard near the main pool area.
- Guests who rely heavily on the main buffet (Surfside Café & Grill) as it can be undersized and crowded.
- Budget-conscious travelers, as many of the ship's unique attractions incur additional fees.
Overall Vibe
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Star, launched in 2001 and thoughtfully refurbished in 2018, presents a classic, mid-sized cruise experience that balances a relaxed atmosphere with a good array of amenities. As one of NCL's original 'Freestyle Cruising' ships, it encourages flexibility in dining and dress. Its design, from the traditional European opera house-style Stardust Theatre to its cozy lounges, reflects a comfortable, familiar charm. The ship feels accessible and easy to navigate, offering a welcoming environment for guests who prefer a more intimate scale without sacrificing choice in their holiday.
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Viva, a vibrant new addition from 2023 and the second in the Prima Class, offers a decidedly modern and fresh take on cruising. Designed to 'live life to the fullest,' it boasts spacious accommodations and emphasizes a deep connection to the ocean through features like the 360-degree Ocean Boulevard and Infinity Pools. Despite being a larger vessel, it’s crafted to feel intimate and sophisticated, with high-tech attractions and innovative spaces. Viva's vibe is dynamic and forward-thinking, appealing to those who enjoy a lively, contemporary cruise with plenty of surprises.
Atmosphere & Crowd
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Star cultivates a casual and flexible atmosphere, drawing a mix of families and retirees who appreciate its blend of intimate and more exuberant public spaces. With a passenger capacity of 2,348 and a crew of 1,100, the ship maintains a comfortable guest-to-crew ratio, contributing to attentive service without feeling overly crowded. The ship's layout encourages mingling in venues like O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill, while also providing quieter retreats such as The Library, allowing guests to tailor their social experience throughout their voyage.
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Viva is designed for 'adult fun and casual sophistication,' creating a lively yet refined atmosphere. Its modern design and focus on high staff-to-guest levels contribute to a pampered feeling, even with a capacity of 3,215 guests. The ship's unique layout, including the expansive Ocean Boulevard, is intended to disperse crowds and foster a sense of intimacy across its decks. It attracts a crowd looking for high-energy activities and diverse social settings, from the thrilling Viva Speedway to the serene Vibe Beach Club, catering to a dynamic and varied demographic.
Dining
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Star offers over ten diverse dining options, blending complimentary favorites with enticing specialty venues. Guests can enjoy traditional main dining in Aqua and Versailles, or casual pub fare 24 hours a day at O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill, which is a popular meeting spot. Ginza provides complimentary Asian fusion, including a sushi bar. For an additional cost, options like La Cucina for Italian classics ($40), Moderno Churrascaria for Brazilian steakhouse fare ($50), and the elegant Cagney's Steakhouse ($60) ensure a varied and satisfying culinary journey.
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Viva elevates the dining experience with modern flair and innovative concepts. Its complimentary offerings include the stunning Hudson's with 270-degree panoramic views and the tablet-driven Indulge Food Hall, which serves global street food and acts as a brilliant alternative to the traditional, often-crowded Surfside Café & Grill buffet. The Local Bar & Grill is a dependable spot for casual pub fare. For an additional cost, guests can savor exquisite Italian at Onda By Scarpetta, premium Mexican at Los Lobos, or Mediterranean delights at Palomar, ensuring a rich culinary adventure.
Entertainment & Nightlife
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Star provides a vibrant array of entertainment, centered around its 1,100-seat Stardust Theatre, which hosts Broadway and Vegas-style production shows, magicians, and comedians. Throughout the ship, guests can enjoy diverse live music, from jazzy piano to salsa, in various lounges and bars such as Gatsby's Champagne Bar and Bliss Ultra Lounge. The Star Casino offers gaming excitement, while interactive game shows like Deal or No Deal and Wheel of Fortune, alongside karaoke and deck parties, ensure there's always something engaging happening day and night.
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Viva pushes the boundaries of onboard entertainment with high-tech and immersive experiences. The Viva Theatre & Club transforms from a three-story performance space, featuring productions like 'Beetlejuice: The Musical', into a Vegas-style nightclub. Thrill-seekers can race on the three-level Viva Speedway go-kart track or brave the 10-story dry slides, The Drop and The Rush. The Galaxy Pavilion offers virtual reality games and escape rooms. For nightlife, Syd Norman’s Pour House hosts rock-and-roll live music, while The Improv At Sea delivers comedy and karaoke, catering to a dynamic and active crowd.
Cabins & Suites
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Star accommodates 2,348 guests across a wide range of cabins and suites, from comfortable Inside staterooms to the expansive 3-Bedroom Garden Villas. These villas are truly luxurious, boasting private gardens, hot tubs, and dedicated butler and concierge services. Owner's Suites and Penthouse categories offer generous living spaces, many with whirlpool bathtubs and private balconies. Standard rooms are thoughtfully designed with nautical touches, a 'split bathroom' concept, and modern conveniences like USB charging ports, ensuring comfort for every type of traveler.
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Viva provides spacious and elegantly designed accommodations for its 3,215 guests, emphasizing comfort and modern amenities. The Haven, a luxurious 'ship-within-a-ship' complex, features lavish Premier Owner's Suites exceeding 2,000 square feet, complete with multiple bedrooms, baths, outdoor hot tubs, and exclusive access to a private restaurant, lounge, and sundeck with an Infinity Pool. Club Balcony Suites offer upgraded décor and amenities, while Solo Studio cabins are tailored for individual travelers with access to a private Studio Lounge. Standard cabins include upscale finishes, glass shower doors, and an abundance of modern power outlets.
Service & Onboard Style
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Star’s onboard style leans towards a classic and casual elegance, reflecting its heritage as a pioneer of Freestyle Cruising. The ship's 1,100 crew members for 2,348 guests contribute to a personable and efficient service experience, making guests feel well-cared for without excessive formality. Suite guests benefit from personalized butler and concierge services, ensuring their preferences are met with attention. The overall atmosphere encourages a relaxed pace, allowing guests to enjoy their cruise on their own terms, whether seeking lively interaction or quiet moments.
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Viva boasts a contemporary and sophisticated onboard style, characterized by sleek design and an emphasis on connecting guests with the ocean. The ship is designed with 'high staff-to-guest levels' (though a specific crew count isn't provided), aiming for a Personalized and pampered experience. Haven guests receive butler and concierge services, elevating their stay. The ship's innovative features, from the vibrant Penrose Atrium to the tranquil Infinity Pools on Ocean Boulevard, are complemented by service that supports a dynamic yet comfortable holiday, appealing to those who appreciate modern luxury and thoughtful attention.
Best Itineraries
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Star offers a diverse range of itineraries, making it a versatile choice for exploring various parts of the world. Guests can embark on journeys through the sun-drenched Mediterranean, discover the historical charm of Northern Europe, or enjoy the vibrant warmth of the Caribbean. It also undertakes Transatlantic crossings, providing longer sea days for relaxation and onboard exploration. Many of its Caribbean sailings include a visit to Norwegian Cruise Line's private island, Great Stirrup Cay, offering a perfect beach day escape.
Norwegian Viva
Norwegian Viva, as a newer vessel, is positioned to explore a variety of global destinations, appealing to travelers eager for new experiences across breathtaking locales. While specific long-term itineraries are not detailed in the payload, its design for 'travel and explore the world' suggests a broad reach. A notable highlight for many NCL cruises, including Viva's, is a stop at Great Stirrup Cay, the cruise line's private island in The Bahamas, offering a dedicated day of relaxation and adventure in a tropical setting.
What reviewers say
Norwegian Star
4/5Norwegian 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.
Norwegian Viva
4.5/5After just four days aboard Norwegian Viva, we became converts to its fresh, modern take on the big-ship, mainstream cruise experience. It offers a considerable amount of surprise and delight, feeling smaller and more intimate than its size suggests.
Itineraries to compare
Pick an itinerary on either ship to see all available departure dates.
Norwegian Star
Norwegian Viva
Read our guides
In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.
Ship Guide
Norwegian Star: Modern Freestyle Cruising on an Intimate Scale
Discover Norwegian Star, offering a modern take on NCL's Freestyle Cruising with broad appeal.
Ship Guide
Norwegian Viva: A Modern Cruise Experience Unveiled
Experience innovative dining, thrilling entertainment, and a surprisingly intimate atmosphere.
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