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.
Bring your own reusable water bottle –
Update: Guests are no longer allowed to bring water and soda on board. Bring a reusable water bottle to fill it up on the ship and carry it around with you while exploring the port. You’ll need to fill cups provided at the beverage stations with water then pour it into your bottle.
“Guests are prohibited from bringing any beverages — including liquor, beer and non-alcoholic drinks such as water, soda and juices — on board either as carry-on or checked luggage, with the exception of purified or distilled water in factory-sealed containers for use in conjunction with medical devices or for the reconstitution of infant formula”
Water package for purchase –
If you prefer to have water in your stateroom, save up to 60% and pre-order water that will be delivered directly to your stateroom. This package is also subject to 20% gratuity. You can see current rates here.
Drink and eat anywhere –
There’s no “open container” rule on board the ship. You can walk around the vessel with drinks or bring drinks from your cabin to anywhere on the ship. You can do the same with food, so grab an extra cookie or 3 and take it back to your room for later.
Dining Monitors throughout the ship.
Download the NCL App prior to cruising –
You can use the NCL mobile app to checkin online and store your sailing e-docs, make shore and dining reservations, preview entertainment, track spending and more. There is also an option to call and message guests on board including Group Chat – there is a one-time fee for this option. If trading with older kids, this could be a great way to give the kids some space while still keeping in touch. Make sure you download the “new” NCL app.
*You must be logged into NCL’s ship wifi network to access all the features while onboard.
Learn the timeframe to pre-book dining –
Want to make dining reservations in advance? Dining can be pre-booked following the following criteria:
Suites and Haven – 130 days prior to sailing
Club Balcony Staterooms –125 days prior to sailing
All other staterooms
• For sailings that are 6 days or less and are not a holiday sailing, 90 days prior to sailing
• For sailings that are 6 days or less and are a holiday sailing, 120 days prior to sailing
• For sailings that are 7 days or more, 120 days prior to sailing
Getting to know Freestyle Cruising –
The concept of freestyle cruising is a more informal approach to cruising. Instead of having a set eating time each evening, you show up at the restaurant whenever you want to dine. It’s pretty much like restaurants off the ship. That being said, you can end up with a wait at peak times. If you know in advance what time you would like to eat, make a reservation. This can be particularly beneficial to large parties.
Use the flat screen TVs located throughout the ship to see which restaurants are open and the approximate wait times. This can help you determine where and when you want to eat.
Also, don’t be afraid to order what you want. You can order multiple appetizers, choose two desserts or get a steak and fish. You’re not tied down to ordering one starter, entree and dessert.
View menu’s in advance –
Ask to see the week’s dining menus ahead of time. This way you can plan specialty restaurants in advance. Once on board, view the weekly menu then book your dinners at the specialty restaurants based on the menus you don’t want to miss. However, popular times and restaurants can fill up quickly. If you know you want to eat at Teppanyaki, you should book this prior to the cruise as space is extremely limited.
Embarkation day specials –
See what specials are offered for booking specialty restaurants or getting a spa treatment. Keep your eyes peeled throughout the cruise for additional spa specials that often come up on port days.
Can I prebook entertainment?
Yes! If you want to ensure you get your desired show time, book your entertainment in advance. Those in the Haven can book 26 days prior to sailing. The in Suites, Club Balcony, Balconies, Oceanviews and Insides can book 21 days prior to sailing.
A great feature for Latitude Members is entertainment can be pre-booked 26 days prior to sailing for Platinum and above Latitudes members regardless of category booked.
Laundry discount –
Running out of clean laundry? See if the ship runs a mid week laundry promo. This can be a great savings, especially if you packed light for the trip. Even if you miss the deadline and didn’t put your laundry bag out on time, call and ask if you can still get the special price. On our last cruise I realized, after getting back on the ship in the evening, that clothes we due out by noon that day. I made a quick call and they gave me an extension.
*I can’t guarantee there will always be a discount, but it’s likely.
Don’t link your debit card as a method of payment –
A debit card is an option that you can choose if it makes sense for you, but a $300 hold will be placed on your debit card once you board. It will usually be removed within a few days of disembarking but some banks may take longer (up to 30 days). A credit card will still receive the hold but it’s not like a debit card where your available cash will be restricted.
Turn off cellular data –
Make sure your cellular phone is in “Airplane Mode” or that the cellular data is turned off before you set sail. You could end up with hundreds of dollars in at sea roaming charges if your phone preforms an automatic update or downloads new emails.
Logout of the WiFi after using to preserve minutes –
A typical More at Sea promo is free wifi. The minutes received as part of the promo varies by sailing length. When you want to access the internet, social media, etc., you’ll need to login. Once you’re done, you must logout of the wifi. If you don’t, you’ll run up all your free minutes even if you’ve closed the browser window or app. Additional minutes and premium wifi are available for purchase, but the More at Sea wifi is adequate if you’re not trying to stream or work while sailing.
Free shampoo –
In the shower is a dispenser with free shampoo and body wash. I personally found the quality to be lacking, but if you aren’t picky about brands it’ll work for your trip. If you have a suite, the quality is much better.
Is room service free?
No, unfortunately there is a fee for room service. NCL has a $9.95 fee added to each order placed. There is a $4.95 room service breakfast fee for all breakfast room service orders. Guests sailing in the Haven & Suites staterooms are not subject to the service fee. We took advantage of room service a lot on our last cruise because we were staying in a suite.
Ask to have the stateroom fridge emptied –
In each cabin, there is a stocked mini fridge with beverage that are for sale. Ask your room steward to remove the items so you can stock your own fridge. And you don’t want to accidentally be charged for something that you pulled out and put aside. This is true even if you have the beverage package.
Free commemorative pin –
If you are a Latitudes Rewards member, a commemorative lapel pin is available on your sailing. The pins are available by request only.
Take advantage of the metal doors-
Bring magnets for hanging cruise planners or a white board to leave each other messages. These are great for hanging on your stateroom door – inside or out. Also suggest bringing along magnetic hooks to hang bags, jackets, lanyards, etc. There were a lifesaver on our Alaska cruise to hang our damp rain jackets on the back of the cabin door. It also kept them out of the way and didn’t clutter up the stateroom.
Daily Freestyle Guide
Pack highlighters –
Bring highlighters for kids to mark activities on the daily cruise planner. Having a specific color for each person in your group is also advantageous.
Pack tea lights –
Staterooms can be dark at night and there isn’t a lot of room to move around. Purchase battery operated tea lights or Motion Sensor LED Night Lights to place in the bathroom as a nightlight. This is particularly useful if you have kids. You can usually grab tea lights at Dollar Tree.
Don’t miss our Cruising Do’s & Don’t article if you’re a newbie cruiser.
Don’t lose your keycard –
Purchase lanyards for your kids key cards before you sail. That way, kids will always have their cards with them with little risk of leaving them lying around somewhere. You can also ask to have charging abilities removed from the kids cards. That will keep them from getting carried away in the arcade 😉
You can also purchase a lanyard for adults. I hate carrying around a purse while on the ship (through I’ve recently started carrying a wristlet), and my cruise clothes don’t always have pockets.
Bring a European adaptor –
The NCL cabins have both US and European adaptors. Maximize your charging capacity by bringing along a European plug adaptor.
Pack an extension cord for more charging capacity –
If you’re traveling with a lot of devices, consider bringing a non-surge protector extension power strip. I prefer strips that include power adaptors, USB ports and USB C ports. Pick whichever type fits your devices. Ships require power strips to be non-surge protector, so ensure that is what you’re purchasing.
Take a wrinkle releaser –
Don’t get stuck with wrinkled clothing. Hang your garment on a coat hanger and spray with wrinkle releaser. Hang the item in a steamy bathroom and your garment should look like it was just ironed. You can’t take irons or steamers onboard.
Don’t forget your watch and know your time zone –
It’s imperative that you pay attention to ship time and bringing a watch is ideal while cruising. It’s good to know what time it is on the ship, but even more important while off and in port. You don’t want to miss the boat!
You may change time zones during your cruise and your cellphone may not always keep up. On our most recent cruise, we were in Greece and didn’t have a watch. I couldn’t figure out if my cell phone displayed the right time or if it was still an hour behind. It was the wrong time for hours and when it finally changed, I panicked. What was the true time? Missing the ship would NOT be good.
Get back to the ship on time –
And speaking of not missing the ship, snap a picture of the “all aboard time” with your phone or camera in case you forget what time your supposed to be back on the ship.
The ship is virtually deserts early on Embarkation Day.
Plan in advance –
Prior to boarding, plan out your port and sea days. What do you want to see in each port? What excursions will you take? Get aquainted with the ship via the website diagrams, so you have some idea of where the “hot spots” are located. Where will you eat once you board the ship the first day? Then arrive early and take a tour. Cruise ships are HUGE so don’t spend your entire cruise walking around lost.
Be prepared for extra entertainment fees –
On select ships, Race Track, Laser Tag and Galaxy Pavilion are available. You can check the current rates here to factor into your cruising budget. You can also purchase an arcade package if you think the kiddos will spend a lot of time in the arcade. The current rate is $25 per person per day. More info can be found here.
Latitude rewards –
NCL has a program called Latitudes Rewards that provides special offers to members. You can enjoy exclusive on board benefits, special discounts and more. Once you have completed your first cruise, you are automatically enrolled in the program. You don’t have to do anything and your rewards are automatic.
Latitudes Rewards members will receive a monthly email with the Latitudes Insider Offer letting you know about special rates just for Latitudes Rewards members. Read all about the program HERE.
Take advantage of CruiseNext while onboard –
The CruiseNext program is a great way to lock-in your next cruise for $250 and get onboard credit. You don’t have to book the cruise while onboard. CruiseNext Credits are redeemable as payment towards all Norwegian sailings of 3 days or longer so purchase onboard and redeem towards your next cruise(s) of 3 days or longer whenever you are ready. The amount of onboard credit your receive will be based on the number of CruiseNext credit you purchase and is increased to $500 for Haven credits. Simply head to the CruiseNext desk in the atrium to get started.
Are you an NCL shareholder? –
Shareholders owning a minimum of 100 shares of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. at time of sailing will receive additional onboard credit. Check here to learn more and find the request form.
As with any cruise line, there are so many tips that are both specific to NCL and general cruising tips that are worth mentioning. I hope this article has helped provided you with a few NCL secrets that you didn’t already know. If you’re not sure what cruise to take, read these six simple steps to pick the perfect cruise ship for your next family vacation.
What other NCL secrets can you share? I’m sure that are more Norwegian Cruise Line tips and tricks that I have yet to discover.
More about cruising with NCL:
- Norwegian Jade Rooms – What Does a Balcony Room Look Like?
- Is the NCL Ultimate Beverage Package Right for You?
- NCL Alaska Cruise Seward to Vancouver Review
- Alaska Cruise Printable Packing List
- 24 Things to Pack for a Cruise: Plus Printable Packing List for Cruise Vacations
- FREE Printable Cruise Planner (another option)
- Cruising Do’s & Don’ts – Essential Tips for a Great First Cruise
- 5 Tips for Selecting Cruise Shore Excursions
if you own at least 100 shares of NCL stock, you get an on-board credit of $50 to $250 depending on cruise length.
We just booked our first cruise on the NCL Pearl for Nov 2023! We were debating on doing the free at sea unlimited open bar promotion when we booked and ended up not selecting the option. After some thought we have decided that we want to add it on. Does NCL allow you to add on a free at sea promotion after booking or only at booking?
Once you are booked, you are not entitled to any other promotions you want had when you booked.
If you are a latitude member the beverage package is 30% off when purchased on board
As long as you are outside final payment dates, you can double check prices and promo’s and call and have them cancel and rebook with the free at sea.
Remember the free drink package is not really free because they tips for the bartenders to your cruise costs and then when you order drinks on the ship they add more tips with every drink order you place so don’t ever add a tip to any drink order
Yes, the free at sea drink package does require that you pay an 18% gratuity on the package price. You don’t need to tip additional once onboard. However, we will usually give a little extra tip for great service or if we frequent the same bars and have the same bartender.
I am going on Ncl In August/Sept I am blown away the ships don’t have water with ice in your room 2x a day…That is not good news for me as I have meds to take at different times of the day. I don’t plan to buy water bottles so I am not going to be very happy. I have never sailed on other ships that water and ice isn’t provided…
Just tell the crew that you have medications to take. They are usually pretty accommodating.
I totally agree with you about taking medications at certain times
I agree with Dana, you can also take a refillable water bottle with you.
That way you can have your water for your medication anytime you need it.
Enjoy, I love NCL!!!
I have the same problem with meds the water in faucet is just fine for drinking I even refilled my water bottle and have gone on many Norwegian ships not an issue
I also just booked a cruise and found out about the water or lack of for meds. I “bought” the water package so I would have water in my room at all times. Talk about nickel and diming people!
I like the pick four free at sea. We always pick Special Diners and $50 off shore excursions. To me that is the greatest value. Also bid on unused suites you may win one. Got a suite upgrade for about 1/4 the price.
Nice upgrade rate! I never win anything 🙂
You’re better off purchasing your shore excursions privately from companies like alaskashoreexcursions.com to save about 50% on your excursions. My wife and I saved about $1000.00 on our excursions this way. You’ll be using the same excursion companies that the cruise lines use but you will not be paying the up charge that the cruiseline charges.
Yes, you can save a lot of money booking excisions outside of the cruise line. Just be careful about return times. The cruise ship won’t wait for you if you’re late and not booked on an excursion through the ship..
Keep in mind, though, especially for newer cruisers, that it’s safer to book a shore excursion through the cruise lines. That way if there is a delay getting back to the ship, they will wait for you, otherwise they will take off without you.
Totally agree
Or just use your head, plan to return an hour early so that being late doesn’t bother you.
Personally I don’t cruise much, I usually plan trips completely alone so the biggest issue with cruises is that in a sense public transport is off because it’s too slow, gotta use taxis, car rentals which are my other favorite way to travel is completely impossible as well.
However getting a taxi app used locally in every port and finding out where you can get wifi close to the ship just works out well and most touristic areas will allow you to hitch a taxi without online ordering.
Private company tours are mostly overly expensive as well, excluding specific ones where it might be expensive but it’s likely the only effective way – like going to a location for kayaks, snorkeling, diving, rangers, private boats etc.
All of those are usually much harder to organize and time right completely on your own and because of the time limit it’s often best you book transport with the tour company as well.
However as many people simply do tours to go see something, just take a taxi.
And don’t be afraid of the ship leaving, you often have 6 or 8 hours at port, as long as you don’t get a 3 hours drive (which some do but you can usually find something closer) you should have any issue.
Plan – and the ship becomes a decent way to see places that would be hard to reach without many hours of driving around, at a very reasonable price.
Great tips! We’ve done taxi tours on past trips. Just make sure to get a rate in advance.
A Great tip. Sign up for the NCL Master Card. Charge $1000 in 3 month (yes you can charge the balance of you cruise cost) You will then receive. a $200 voucher to spend on a NCL cruise
I’ve been on 4 NCL cruises Escape, Epic, Bliss & Joy
I have a filter cup from REI that is a reusable water bottle. It is perfect for a cruis because it allows me to refill anywhere and filter my water at the same time.
REI also carries the Platypus water filtering system which I use to filter larger quantities of tap water when I travel. That way I eliminate the issue of plastic going to the landfill, differences in taste in tap water as well as chlorine and other contaminants. Great for my health, pocket book, & peace of mind. It takes up very little room in my luggage & the weight is negligible. A winner all the way around.
Check out REI for other useful items including packing cubes, Tilley hats, clothing, Keene hiking boots, Buffs, snacks etc etc. Join the Coop for a yearly rebate on your total purchases. It’s a great deal.
Thank you so much for sharing all of this information. I am in the planning stages for our first cruise. I have narrowed it to NCL and these tips are greatly appreciated.
Awesome! Enjoy your cruise!
NCL is by far the best choice
Going on the Norwegian Bliss. They have childcare 3years old and up. My kiddo will be 6 weeks shy of 3yo. Do you think they’ll let it slide? Or if I say he’s 3 they would check?
They tend to be pretty strict about age requirements, especially that young. If your child is fully potty trained, you can always ask
Is the tap water on the JOY drinkable? Any weird taste at all? Or should we just buy the bottled water? I noticed that bottled water was not included in our drink package. We are sailing July 6.
I read on a forum that yes the water is drinkable and we are planning on bringing reusable water bottles, we are also pre-purchasing one case of water bottles from the ship for at night in the room. we did get the ultimate beverage package also and are sailing the July 13 cruise.
The water is safe to drink. We bring reusable water bottles for off the ship. You can ask for tap water as well. Sadly NCL doesn’t include bottled water with their drink package.
On the Bliss will we need to bring an extension cord for CPAP machine?
I would bring an extension cord to be safe. You can request one from guest services but there isn’t a guarantee they will have enough available. If you need distilled water, call a couple weeks before your cruise to request this and an extension cord. They should offer it free. And it should be in your room upon arrival.
I would just warn to bring the extension cord as it’s better to be prepared.
YES! Bring extension cord for CPAP machines! It is an absolute necessity!
does personal hair blower/dryer allowed in Norwegian pearl ?going august next year 2019
Have cruised NCL and specifically the Pearl numerous times. I have always found the hair dryer in the room to be great…better than my own!
Hairdryers are not on the banned list, but are already provided in your cabin so you can save the space in your luggage.
Yes, I had a hairdryer but there was one in master bath and one in second bedroom?
Something new on NCL Bliss … Ultimate Arcade Pass. Does anyone know which video games will be included in the pass? My guess is not bowling, basketball, or ticket games. Thoughts?
I haven’t sailed on the Bliss yet BUT it’s “only valid with Green colored swipes”. These should be all the arcade type games with the exception of the type where you win something like the claw game or Stacker. Those are all red.
I’ve looked through photos online and it looks like air hockey is green and the basketball game is green. Skeeball looks red to me so I don’t think it’s included.
https://images.oyster.com/photos/video-arcade–v18444768-cc-960.jpg
https://images.oyster.com/photos/video-arcade–v18444339-cc-576.jpg
I watched a video and it APPEARS that the VR game is included. I also saw in a photo that looked like bowling was green too. Since it’s not located in the arcade, I can’t say for certain.
I’d love for you to let us know which ones are green after you sail.
Also, it’s cheaper to purchase before your cruise – $8 per day instead of $10. I’ve read that you can call and get it only for the kids too. But it’s not guaranteed this will work.
I paid for a “beverage promo” on a 7 day cruise from 12/29/2018 to 01/05/2019 on the NCL Epic and it is listed as the following on my vacation summary: “Adult Beverage Package, Adult Beverage Package – Promo”
I can’t find any information about what’s included/how many days, etc. on the NCL website, is this the same as the “ULTIMATE BEVERAGE PACKAGE $99.00, USD per person per day (adults age 21 and older).” which the only information I find regarding adult beverages.
Thank you.
It will be for your entire cruise duration.
When we sailed, our promo beverage package was the exact same as the Ultimate Beverage package. You’ll get soft drinks, beers, spirits, cocktails, wines by the glass and bottled or draft beer up to and including $15 USD during your entire cruise.
Here’s a link to my older post on the beverage package.
https://www.thetalkingsuitcase.com/is-the-ncl-ultimate-beverage-package-right-for-you/
It’s a fantastic value to get this as a promo
Hi going on a 7 day pearl cruise in nov 2018 going to mexico is it true not to drink the water should i bring my bottle with me when getting of thenship
You won’t want to drink the water while on shore in Mexico. You can fill a bottle up on the ship to take with you or purchase water bottles while exploring.
The water on the ship is safe to drink regardless of the destination.
If I have the unlimited adult beverage package, does that include bottled water?
Unfortunately, it doesn’t include bottled water
I am going on my first cruise in April 2019 on the Jade. It is a 2 week cruise. How do you know if your trip includes the free Offers? I can’t remember if I selected any during booking but I see that NCL is running the special on their website.
It should all be listed in your NCL account and on your printed documents. If you don’t see anything, I’d give them a call. They are usually running a special. Your room category will determine how many of the free offers you received.
Can I bring snacks like candies and chips onboard the ncl getaway? I’m going July 1
There usually isn’t a problem bringing on a small amount of snacks. You really shouldn’t need the snacks though as you can get food pretty much all day and into the night. However, we usually pack a few bars to throw in our bag on port days just in case the kids get hungry.
I usually pack some canisters of potato chips, packs of trail mix, packages of cheese peanut butter crackers and hard candies and gum. We keep them in the cabin for midnight munchies.
We pack a few items like that to take off the ship. My kids have been known to grab an extra mini box of cereal at the buffet in the morning to keep in the room or a cookie from the buffet when they get hungry at night.
We’re travelling on the Norwegian Spirit in two weeks’ time. As we are in a different port each day, i plan to stay on board one of the days. Are there activities to do onboard even on port days? Is there afternoon tea?
We were on the Spirit earlier this year. Yes, there are things to do on the ship during port days. You’ll find the pool and hot tubs to be less crowded and there will still be activities planned throughout the day. Check the daily newsletter to see what is happening. If traveling with kids, you will have to check them in and out of the kids clubs.
There is not an afternoon tea.
Here are some ship specific articles: https://www.thetalkingsuitcase.com/category/cruising/ncl/
Enjoy!
Question last year I was on Carnival Vista they had 3 large bottles of water and each day replaced the used ones with new ones at no charge,does Norwegian Escape provided the same service?
No, water bottles will be available in the room but for a fee.
Hello, thank you for all the info provided! Do you know if they have an ironing room?
No irioning room. You can bring wrinkle spray and spray your clothing then hang in the bathroom while you shower. I just purchased on Amazon (deal of the day) a mini handheld steamer for $15. If it works well I’m going to bring it on our upcoming cruise.
Let me know how that mini steamer works out please! I’ve considered purchasing something like that, but wasn’t sure it was worth it.
Don’t know about NCL, our small one got taken by security on our last Royal Carib cruise in March.
Thanks Sarah!
I just looked back at NCL’s prohibited list. It might fall into the category of having a heating element. While not specifically mentioned, I’m thinking you will not be allowed to bring it on.
https://www.ncl.com/prohibited-items
Just got back of star
Our mini travel iron confiscated
But my hair straighteners not.
With regards to an iron
Dial 00 then will have an iron and ironing board sent up
Allow plenty of time at least 45 min
You need to be in your room to accept it – you then have it for 2 hours, when you have finished you leave both in corridor outside your room
As Marissa said there is no ironing room. We use the wrinkle releaser and steam from the shower trick. NCL offers a pressing service, but there is a fee of course.
is the arcade use by the room key only or can the kids use money?
Room key only.
Yep, as Marissa said, it’s room key only for the arcade. We give our kids a limit. They can also spend their allowance if they so choose.
Are there laundry facilities on the Gem?
You can send your laundry to be washed, for a fee. There are no self-serve laundry facilities. Be careful of what type of material you send to be cleaned. All laundry goes into high powered dryers.
I also read if u plan on having laundry done take your own little box of soap and a couple dryer sheets as there is like a 2.50 each charge on top of reg charge for the wash and dry
Nice- tip. Sometimes we do a bit of laundry in the sink.
What is the earliest flight can I booked for my return home?
NCL recommends allowing a minimum of 6 hours from the time your ship arrives. However, my upcoming cruise arrives at 5am and the ship still has to dock, clear customs and start unloading luggage. An 11am flight following that rule is still a risk.
I would plan that you won’t get off the ship until at least 8am. I would never book at flight before noon. You never know if the ship will dock late or clearing customs takes longer than normal. You don’t want to be rushing or miss your fight. You’ll be held responsible for missing the flight, not the cruise line.
Once you can finally can disembark – you have get your luggage, waiting the taxi line to get to the airport, check-in and get through security.
The ship was held up by customs on our last cruise and we didn’t disembark until 8:45am even though we were group #1.
If bringing a reusable water bottle onboard an NCL cruise, what kind of water am I filling bottle with? Is it filtered or out of the taps? Are there fill stations anywhere?
I just want to know what I’m drinking! Lol
Thank you
Tap but ships have their own treatment plants onboard.
There are filling stations at the bars for ice water, usually they have slices of lemon in them as well.
I actually ordered a Brita water bottle with a filter on Amazon. 6 cruises and a 14 night coming up in January. Amazon also sells the replacement filters. Great investment.
That’s a great idea! You can ask them to empty your mini fridge and have cold water in your room throughout the cruise.
say the more expensive rooms are not filled, do you think if I asked them, they would upgrade us with out any extra cost?
It never hurts to ask. Upgrades aren’t given very often but you could get lucky.
Is a small desk fan and a power strip allowed on NCL? We were able take them on a previous carnival cruise. Have not seen it addressed anywhere
I don’t see why it wouldn’t be. I haven’t read anything about it being excluded. As long as your not overloading outlets, I think you’ll be fine. We travel with a USB strip for our electronics and it wasn’t a problem on the ship.
As of 4/18 – they NCL confiscated many power bars and portable fans. We got the power bar back at the end of the cruise. We were on the Pearl and there was honestly no need for a power bar. Outlets and USB hubs were plentiful.
The power bar should have been allowed as long as they were sealed. We’ve taken a few bars on without a problem. Mostly to stick in our bag for port days.
Was the portable fan large? Those aren’t on the list of prohibited items either.
Thanks for letting us know about your experience on the Pearl!!
Lol, I think he was referring to electric power bars…
No surge suppression allowed… if it has a reset could cause fire.
can we bring water flavoring on the cruise with us?
I don’t think bringing the flavoring packets would be a problem.
Yes, NCL in particular does not frown on the powder, or liquid (Mio), options for flavoring your water.
My son is a picky eater, therefore I supplement his diet with Pediasure. Will I be able to bring plastic bottles of Pediasure onboard?
I don’t think this will be a problem. The cruise lines are pretty good about not giving you trouble bringing things on for the kids. I would pack it in your carry-on though. That way if they try to say something, you just tell them it’s for your child.
I realize this post was 2 and a half years ago, but for people looking at older posts, you cannot carry on liquids unless you get a waiver. Simply email the cruise line and explain what you want to bring on board and why. They may require a specific type of container… sealed, cans, whatever. It will be right on your boarding pass what you can bring on board. As a diabetic that cannot have sugar or caffeine, I like to bring a few cans of sugar free caffeine free mixer to use with my drink package that I always purchase in advance. They have always been gracious about waiving the liquid policy for my specific needs.
Does anyone know if you have the ultimate drink package if those drinks in the refrigerator are free in your room?
No mini bar purchases are not included. I always ask them to remove everything from the fridge for me. You can read more about the UBP here–> https://www.thetalkingsuitcase.com/is-the-ncl-ultimate-beverage-package-right-for-you/
Does anyone know what the preauthorization amount for your credit card is per person or is it a flat rate? Does it vary by length of cruise?
Someone else may be able to give you a definite answer, but my research shows a $300 preauthorization is typical.
The information for debit cards and cash can be found at the link below but it doesn’t specifically mention the amount for a credit card.
https://www.ncl.com/faq%2523onboard-expenses
Happy cruising!
Yes but becareful. If your card allows you to keep charging it will continue and go over your limit. I say put cash on ur acct and add as necessary.
I told them to only allow a certain amount on my card and they allowed me to go over.i askes how they told me once it was authorize it was open. I stopped my card and used cash. It was better and kept me from over spending. What you dont use you get back at end of cruise
Good point. If you’re concerned about overspending then paying in cash is a good idea. I usually check my account every couple of days to ensure I’m staying on track.
This is all so helpful. Thanks to everyone with their replies. I will be sailing for my first time in November on the Norwegian Getaway and I am very excited but also want to know the in’s and out’s of cruising as to not be overwhelmed or in debt.
I’m glad you’ve found the information helpful! Have an amazing cruise!
Others may be able to chime in with more info specifically on the Norwegian Getaway.
We have more cruising articles here –> https://www.thetalkingsuitcase.com/category/cruising
Many tips will be valid for all cruise lines.
Hi Tricia!! The bottled water on board is VERY expensive (6 large bottles for around $20!)
My hubby and I went on our 1st NCL cruise in September, and the one thing we couldn’t stress more…bring a reusable waterboottle!! Especially for when you go off ship…you might not want to drink the local water. And the mini fridge in your cabin will be fully stocked with alcohol and soda….have it removed unless you plan on purchasing it.
Safe travels!
Thanks so much for the reply Jenn! The ships way overcharge for water bottles.
we went on an NCL in October 2017 and were provided with free water, 6 large bottles each.
Thanks!! This is the first I’ve heard of this. I hope we’ll get the free water next month.
That’s great. We sail in 3 weeks and hope we get that too! Can I ask what ship you sailed on? I know sometimes ships can differ in what the guests receive.
I was told that there is SOME complementary juice and water but the cruise rep
We didn’t get free water bottles in our room on the Spirit. The juice and water from the dispensers is complementary. You can also request juice in the dining rooms. We always got ice water with dinner.
This sounds like a great thing. Travel NCL and always bring a water bottle with us–this would be a nice bonus. We always ask our steward for ice deliver twice a day–that way we always have ice for cold water. Leaving in two weeks for back to back cruises–can hardly wait to get away from Snowmageddon 2018 in the Midwest!
Have a great cruise! You definitely need to get away from the snow. It’s been a mess this year!
Awesome. We go July 1 this year. So ready
So fun! July is coming up fast!
Don’t they have bottled water on board? What is the need to bring a reusable water bottle? Also one of the other tips was to have the mini refrigerator emptied so you can stock it with your own stuff. I’ve never cruised so this is all new to me. What would you use it for? Thanks!
The price for bottled water on board is ridiculous. This year they “reduced” the price to around $28 per 12-pack for bottled water. The water is still way over priced.
On emptying the mini fridge, You can put in any wine you’ve brought on board, water bottles you filled up to keep cold and sometimes we even put an extra glass of OJ from breakfast in there to drink later.
Previously you were allowed to bring on nonalcoholic beverages but that has changed.
We always have them empty the mini-fridge, suggest they put bottles in a sealed bag under the bed to save them time and effort.
We fill our own water bottles (not multiple) and keep them cold, along with any unopened beers from a bucket of beers ordered by us or other members of our group. You can also bring food back to the room and snack later, or for a midnight balcony visit.
We like having a snack and drink on the balcony in the evening once the kids are in bed too
If you bring your own water bottle, it will save you money and also be much better for the environment since all that plastic won’t be going to a land fill
I definitely agree with being more environmentally conscience
Going on our first cruise. So when the ship says be back at 5pm – that means 5 pm ship time, and not local port time????
Amanda, yes. You should actually plan on being back before final call- they will not wait for you.
Yes! Be back on time. The ship will leave you!
They will have a time for everyone to be back on board. It will be posted in your cruise planner and on a sign when you disembarked at the port. I always plan to get back at least an hour prior to the all-aboard time. It’s not worth missing the ship.
It’s 2 hours before so if it says 5 then be back by 3 or 4
Yes!!! I’ve seen a man and his 3 kiddos left standing at the gate because they wer not there when supposed to be
You do want to make sure you’re back on time.
Are we aloud to bring our own water
No, guests are no longer allowed to bring their own water. The exception is for medical requirements or formula. I suggest bringing a reusable water bottle.
Guests are no longer permitted to bring bottled water (except to reconstitute formula), milk, juice boxes/pouches or soda on board. Very recent.
I’ve just updated the post – thank you!
My Mom just recently cruised with Norwegian in 2018 and she said they allowed 2 drinks per person when you return to the ship.
Was she actually implying that that individuals are allowed to bring 2 bottled or 2 canned drinks (water or soda) on board when you return to the ship. Or is it that the ship provides 2 bottles of water to each person in order to quench their thirst as they return to board the ship??
These are fantastic tips… many I wasn’t aware of. Like I am always shy if my hubby wants to order an extra appetizer- Not anymore! Didn’t realize we could buy a bottle of wine and have it corked- so cool! And, I will be packing a euro adapter and highlighters on our upcoming sailing this May. Thank you!!!
I used to be the same way about ordering extra food too. Now I look at it as a way to try foods I might not normally since I have a backup.
Common knowledge
You can also order a second meal, which they didn’t mention..if your greedy like me order 1-2-3 try different options !!!
We like to order extra too. I usually try to make sure it’s something my husband will eat because it always ends up being too much food 🙂