Who doesn’t love unlimited food, around the clock entertainment and almost daily visits to new countries?
These are just a few of the reasons why cruising has become one of the most popular ways to vacation with 31.7 million passengers cruising worldwide in 2023.
With all the sailing opportunities, it’s important to make the most of your time and money. That’s why we put together these 22 Norwegian Cruise Line Tips and Tricks. Don’t miss a chance to experience all that NCL has to offer!
NCL Secrets – Norwegian Cruise Line Tips and Tricks
Cruise savings –
I’ve written a more detailed article on ways to save on booking a cruise that is worth a read. Many of these tips are the same for all cruise lines, so it’s a great article to start off with before you book.
However, there are some tricks specific to NCL. First, sign up for the NCL newsletter and you will be notified of special offers. Each email will include any available discounts, point bonuses or specials available. It is common for NCL to run “More at Sea” offers. Depending on the promotion and the room category you book, you can get 1 to 4 free offers per cruise. These typically include a FREE Ultimate Beverage Package, FREE Specialty Dining Package, FREE Wifi Package or a cruise excursion credit. Pairing these offers with a cruise sale can add up to huge savings. The More at Sea promo replaced the Free at Sea promo on October 1, 2024.
**Please note that you will be required to pay the 20% gratuity for the price of the beverage package and specialty dining. While the package itself is free, you’re still responsible for the gratuity. However, you only pay gratuity on the drink package price, you don’t pay gratuity for every drink purchased on the ship assuming it falls within the package limits.
NCL also offers Military and AARP discounts for those that qualify.
Download my FREE Printable Cruise Planner to keep all your trip details organized!
Cork that bottle –
Alcohol can be expensive on board cruise ships. Purchase a bottle while on board and have the NCL staff cork it if you can’t finish the entire bottle. At dinner, they will label the bottle with your name and cabin number, so you can enjoy it the next night.
You can also bring your own bottle of wine. You’ll pay a $15 corking fee for a 750ml bottle upon boarding. No other alcohol can be brought on board. However, with the new More at Sea promotion, the corkage fee is waived. “Guests who have the beverage package as part of the More At Sea™ promotion, will not be charged a corkage fee if the guest brings a bottle(s) of wine onboard.”
Wine Policy – Yes, guests may bring sealed bottles of wine on board for personal consumption. They will be checked prior to embarkation and a corkage fee applied at that time of $15.00 USD for a 750 ml Bottle or $30.00 USD for a 1,500 ml Magnum bottle. Box wines are not allowed on board. If guests do not wish to pay the corkage fee, the wine will be held onboard and returned to the guests at the end of the cruise.