Norwegian Encore

    Norwegian Cruise Line

    Norwegian Encore

    Norwegian Viva

    Norwegian Cruise Line

    Norwegian Viva

    vs

    Ship Comparison

    Norwegian Encore vs Norwegian Viva

    Norwegian Encore offers a high-energy, diverse experience, while Norwegian Viva provides a fresh, modern, and surprisingly intimate voyage with innovative design.

    The verdict

    Choosing between Norwegian Encore and Norwegian Viva largely depends on whether you seek a bustling, established ship with extensive options or a newer, design-forward vessel that feels more boutique. Encore, a recently enhanced Breakaway Plus class ship, delivers a vibrant 'big city' feel with numerous activities and dining venues, though many premium experiences come à la carte. Viva, a newer Prima Class ship, offers a refined, intimate atmosphere with a focus on spaciousness, high staff-to-guest levels, and unique, modern attractions, often feeling less crowded despite its considerable size. Both excel in their respective interpretations of a contemporary cruise, catering to different desires for scale and style.

    Choose Norwegian Encore if…

    Norwegian Encore is ideal for travelers who thrive in a lively, bustling environment, appreciate a vast array of dining and entertainment options, and don't mind budgeting for premium experiences. It's particularly well-suited for families with active teens and adults seeking a high-energy vacation with plenty of choices, including exclusive adult-only retreats and thrilling activities.

    Best for

    • Families with teens seeking diverse activities
    • Adults who enjoy a lively, high-energy environment
    • Thrill-seekers interested in go-karts and virtual reality
    • Travelers who appreciate varied dining options, including specialty restaurants
    • Guests looking for exclusive luxury within 'The Haven' enclave

    Avoid if

    • Travelers seeking a quiet, intimate cruise experience
    • Budget-conscious cruisers due to many extra-fee activities and dining options
    • Families with very young children, as some areas are adult-focused
    • Those sensitive to ship vibration (in aft-facing balcony cabins)
    • Guests who dislike crowded public outdoor areas

    Choose Norwegian Viva if…

    Norwegian Viva appeals to cruisers looking for a modern, sophisticated experience that feels more intimate than its size suggests. It's perfect for those who value innovative design, personalized service, and a diverse culinary journey, including unique complimentary dining halls. Guests who enjoy high-tech entertainment and spacious accommodations will find Viva particularly appealing.

    Best for

    • Cruisers seeking a modern, sophisticated and intimate atmosphere
    • Those who appreciate innovative design and spacious accommodations
    • Foodies looking for diverse complimentary dining options beyond a traditional buffet
    • Adults and couples who enjoy lively social scenes and unique bars
    • Luxury seekers desiring a private 'ship-within-a-ship' experience in The Haven

    Avoid if

    • Travelers on a strict budget, as many high-tech activities incur extra fees
    • Those sensitive to noise from go-karts on the main pool deck
    • Guests who prefer a traditional, expansive buffet experience
    • Cruisers who prefer a more classic, less contemporary ship aesthetic
    • Individuals seeking extensive dedicated solo-traveler social events beyond the Studio Lounge

    Overall Vibe

    Norwegian Encore

    Norwegian Encore, launched in 2019 and refreshed in 2024, exudes a sophisticated, high-energy 'big city' atmosphere across its 16 decks and 168,800 gross tons. It's a ship built for constant engagement, offering a wide array of activities and dining that blend seamlessly into a vibrant, modern setting. While providing a multitude of choices, many of its standout experiences are premium, encouraging guests to curate their vacation with an eye on additional costs. The overall feel is one of abundant options and lively spaces, catering to those who enjoy a dynamic cruise experience.

    Norwegian Viva

    Norwegian Viva, debuted in 2023 as the second ship in the Prima Class, presents a fresh, modern, and surprisingly intimate vibe. Despite its size, it’s designed to feel more exclusive, focusing on open spaces and a strong connection to the ocean, notably with its 360-degree Ocean Boulevard. Viva offers a refined casual sophistication, emphasizing comfort and innovative features. Its design choices, from the Penrose Atrium to the unique Indulge Food Hall, create a sense of discovery and a contemporary ambiance that feels special without being overly formal, perfect for those seeking a fresh take on cruising.

    Atmosphere & Crowd

    Norwegian Encore

    With a passenger capacity of 4,004 and a crew of 1,735, Norwegian Encore maintains a lively, bustling atmosphere, especially in its public areas. The ship caters well to a diverse crowd, including adults and teens who appreciate its high-energy offerings like the Encore Speedway and Galaxy Pavilion. While there are dedicated adult-only spaces like Spice H2O and the exclusive Vibe Beach Club (for a fee), the overall vibe is one of constant activity. Guests should anticipate a vibrant, often crowded environment, particularly around the main pool and popular entertainment venues.

    Norwegian Viva

    Norwegian Viva, accommodating 3,215 passengers, aims for a more intimate feel, despite being a large vessel. The design prioritizes open spaces and a strong connection to the sea, contributing to a less crowded ambiance than some larger ships. The presence of high staff-to-guest levels is intended to ensure a pampered experience, where guests feel prioritized. The atmosphere is casually sophisticated, appealing to those who enjoy adult-oriented fun, diverse dining, and innovative entertainment without the overwhelming feeling of a mega-ship, fostering a surprising sense of spaciousness and tranquility.

    Dining

    Norwegian Encore

    Norwegian Encore boasts an extensive and diverse dining scene, featuring complimentary options like the elegant Taste, Savour, and The Manhattan Room, alongside the expansive Garden Cafe buffet and the 24-hour pub fare at The Local. For a fee, guests can indulge in upscale Italian at Onda by Scarpetta, interactive Japanese at Teppanyaki, hearty BBQ at Q Texas Smokehouse, Mediterranean seafood at Palomar, or classic steakhouse fare at Cagney's. The variety ensures something for every palate, though the most celebrated culinary experiences typically incur an additional cost, offering flexibility for varied budgets.

    Norwegian Viva

    Norwegian Viva offers an impressive array of dining, with a focus on innovative complimentary venues. Hudson's stands out as a main dining room with stunning 270-degree ocean views, providing an elevated experience. The Indulge Food Hall is a highlight, offering a tablet-driven, global culinary journey from Indian to Latin American cuisines, providing a welcome alternative to the often-crowded Surfside Café & Grill buffet. Specialty options like Onda by Scarpetta, Hasuki, Le Bistro, Los Lobos, Nama Sushi, Palomar, and Cagney's promise diverse, high-quality experiences, all contributing to a rich gastronomic adventure at sea.

    Entertainment & Nightlife

    Norwegian Encore

    Norwegian Encore's entertainment is dynamic and varied, featuring Broadway-caliber shows like 'The Choir of Man' in the Encore Theatre. For thrills, there's the Encore Speedway go-kart track and the immersive Galaxy Pavilion with virtual reality experiences and an escape room. Adults can unwind at Spice H2O or the exclusive Vibe Beach Club (extra fee). Evening options include comedy shows, a Beatles tribute band at The Cavern Club, and various themed bars like Sugarcane Mojito Bar and The District Brew House, ensuring lively nightlife for diverse preferences.

    Norwegian Viva

    Norwegian Viva elevates entertainment with cutting-edge attractions and immersive experiences. The Viva Theatre & Club hosts Broadway's 'Beetlejuice The Musical' and transforms into a Vegas-style nightclub. Thrill-seekers will enjoy the three-level Viva Speedway go-kart track and the 10-story dry slides, The Drop and The Rush. The Galaxy Pavilion offers high-tech mini-golf and immersive escape rooms. Live music thrives at Syd Norman's Pour House, alongside comedy shows at The Improv At Sea. The ship's focus on innovative, interactive, and transformative venues ensures a vibrant and engaging experience from day to night.

    Cabins & Suites

    Norwegian Encore

    Norwegian Encore offers 2,040 cabins, including a broad range from economical Inside and Oceanview to Balcony and Club Balcony Suites. Solo travelers are well-catered for with 82 Studio cabins, complete with access to a private Studio Lounge. The Haven, a luxurious 'ship-within-a-ship' complex, features 75 opulent suites, including the Premier Owner's Suite and various Penthouses, offering butler and concierge service and exclusive amenities. Guests in Spa Balcony and Mini-suite cabins also enjoy complimentary thermal suite access, adding a touch of tranquility to their stay.

    Norwegian Viva

    Norwegian Viva emphasizes spacious and elegantly designed accommodations across its various categories. The Haven enclave provides the most luxurious experience with lavish suites, including the Premier Owner's Suite with Large Balcony, featuring private dining, lounge, bar, and an exclusive sundeck with an infinity pool. Standard cabins, from Inside to Balcony, are noted for their comfortable design, ample storage, and modern power outlets. Cleverly-articulated shower doors and upscale balcony chairs enhance the experience. Solo travelers also have dedicated Studio staterooms with private lounge access, ensuring comfort and convenience for all.

    Service & Onboard Style

    Norwegian Encore

    Norwegian Encore's onboard style is one of polished modernity, with decor and public spaces that often feel luxurious. The service ethos supports a 'Freestyle Cruising' experience, offering guests the freedom to dine and engage as they please. While the ship is large and bustling, service is generally efficient, especially within The Haven, where butler and concierge services provide a highly Personalized touch. The crew works diligently to manage the diverse offerings and ensure a smooth, if energetic, guest experience throughout the ship.

    Norwegian Viva

    Norwegian Viva prides itself on a refined onboard style and high staff-to-guest levels, designed to make every guest feel pampered and prioritized. The ship's aesthetic is sleek and contemporary, with thoughtful design elements that enhance comfort and sophistication. Service is attentive and efficient, particularly for guests in The Haven, who benefit from 24-hour butler and concierge service. Even outside of The Haven, the crew aims to deliver a seamless experience, reflecting the ship's commitment to modern luxury and a personalized approach to cruising, ensuring a comfortable and elevated journey.

    Best Itineraries

    Norwegian Encore

    Norwegian Encore offers a diverse range of itineraries that cater to various preferences. Guests can explore the warm waters of the Caribbean, departing from Miami, or venture to Mexico's vibrant coasts. For those seeking grander voyages, the ship also sails through the historic Panama Canal. Additionally, Norwegian Encore provides opportunities to discover the wild beauty of Alaska, with cruises setting sail from Seattle, making it a versatile choice for both sun-seekers and adventure enthusiasts across different regions.

    Norwegian Viva

    The provided information for Norwegian Viva focuses on the ship's design and onboard experience, rather than specific itineraries. However, as a new and innovative vessel in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, it is designed for guests to 'live life to the fullest' across various destinations. While specific routes are not detailed here, guests can expect a premium experience on any voyage, emphasizing the ship's unique features and elevated service, regardless of the geographic region it sails.

    What reviewers say

    Norwegian Encore

    4.5/5

    Norwegian Encore is a sophisticated, high-energy ship offering a vast array of quality dining and entertainment options. While it provides choices for everyone, many premium experiences come with extra costs, requiring careful budgeting to fully enjoy its extensive offerings.

    Norwegian Viva

    4.5/5

    After 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 Encore

    No upcoming itineraries listed. Ask our concierge to source private inventory →

    Norwegian Viva

    No upcoming itineraries listed. Ask our concierge to source private inventory →

    Read our guides

    In-depth guides on the ships and cruise lines in this comparison.

    Compare different ships

    Swap either side to generate a new side-by-side comparison.

    Ship A

    Ship B

    More comparisons