
The NCL Cruise Spirit is a game-changer for travelers. With its modern design and sleek amenities, this ship is sure to impress.
The NCL Cruise Spirit offers a variety of onboard activities, including a rock climbing wall, a ropes course, and a water park. You can also enjoy a range of dining options, from fine dining to casual buffets.
One of the standout features of the NCL Cruise Spirit is its entertainment options. With multiple theaters and lounges, you'll never be short on things to do. The ship also features a variety of live shows, from musicals to comedy acts.
Whether you're looking to relax or stay active, the NCL Cruise Spirit has something for everyone.
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NCL Cruise Spirit Overview
The NCL Cruise Spirit is a Norwegian Cruise Line ship that offers a wide range of itineraries, from 7-day Caribbean cruises to 14-day Panama Canal cruises.
One of the standout features of the Spirit is its spacious staterooms, which range in size from 150 to 1,200 square feet, making it perfect for families or those who want to splurge on a luxurious getaway.
The Spirit has a capacity for 2,174 passengers and 1,124 crew members, ensuring a high staff-to-guest ratio for exceptional service.
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Introduction
This sailing on the Norwegian Spirit was significant to my family for three reasons.
The Spirit sails this itinerary one or two times a year and I HIGHLY recommend it.
The ship is relatively small, making it a good thing for my family.
Two of the three of us came home with Covid after this cruise.
The cruise was one of my favorites ever, despite the Covid chaser.
About
The NCL Cruise Spirit is a wonderful vessel that offers an unforgettable experience. With a capacity for 2,764 passengers, it's a great size for those who want to be part of a lively community without feeling overwhelmed.
The Spirit boasts 15 decks, providing ample space for entertainment, dining, and relaxation. Its length of 1,094 feet makes it a comfortable size for navigating the world's oceans.
One of the standout features of the Spirit is its wide range of accommodations, including studios, balcony staterooms, and suites. Whether you're traveling solo or with a large family, there's a room to suit your needs.
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The Spirit offers a variety of dining options, from fine dining to casual buffets. You can even enjoy a romantic dinner at the Cagney's Steakhouse or a family-friendly meal at the Garden Café.
The ship's entertainment options are just as impressive, with a casino, theater, and live music venues. You can also stay active with the Spirit's fitness center, jogging track, and sports complex.
The Spirit's crew is dedicated to providing exceptional service, with a staff-to-passenger ratio of 1:2. This means you'll always have someone to help you with any questions or concerns.
Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or simply a chance to disconnect from the world, the NCL Cruise Spirit has something for everyone.
Ship Specifications
The Norwegian Spirit is a ship with a rich history. It was built in 1998 and has a length of 268 meters (879 ft).
Here are some key specifications of the ship:
The ship has a gross tonnage of 75904 gt, making it a significant vessel in the cruise industry.
Specifications
The Norwegian Spirit is a impressive vessel with a rich history. It was built in 1998 and has been refurbished in 2025, which is a testament to its durability and versatility.
The ship's age is 27 years, which is still relatively young for a cruise ship. It's a great example of how well-maintained and updated these vessels can be.
The Norwegian Spirit is registered in the Bahamas, which is a common flag state for many cruise ships. This allows them to operate in international waters while still being subject to some regulatory oversight.
Here are some key specifications of the Norwegian Spirit:
The ship's size is quite impressive, with a length of 268 meters and a beam of 37 meters. This allows it to accommodate a large number of passengers and crew.

The Norwegian Spirit has a total of 13 decks, which is a lot of space for passengers and crew to move around. It also has 1006 cabins, which is a good mix of different room types to suit various needs.
The ship's passenger-to-space ratio is 31, which is a good indicator of how spacious the ship is. This means that there's plenty of room for passengers to relax and enjoy their time on board.
The Norwegian Spirit has a crew of 912 people, which is a significant number to ensure that all passengers are well taken care of.
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Vessel Class
The Norwegian Spirit is a Leo-class cruise ship. It was the first ship of this design, marking a unique beginning in the cruise ship industry.
The ship's class is notable for being a solo design, with no other ships of this particular class constructed. This sets it apart from other vessels in terms of its distinctive features and capabilities.
The Norwegian Spirit was followed by its sister ship, Resorts World One, which is now operated by Resorts World Cruises.
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Shipboard Amenities

On the NCL Cruise Spirit, you'll find a range of shipboard amenities to enhance your vacation experience.
The Spirit offers a variety of dining options, including the Garden Cafe, which serves breakfast, lunch, and snacks, and the Blue Lagoon, a casual buffet-style restaurant.
From morning till night, the Garden Cafe is a great spot to grab a bite to eat, with a diverse menu that includes everything from made-to-order omelets to pizza and pasta.
The Blue Lagoon offers a more laid-back atmosphere, perfect for a quick bite or a leisurely lunch, with a menu that changes daily and often features international cuisine.
Shipboard Entertainment Options
Shipboard entertainment options are plentiful on the Norwegian Spirit, making it easy to find something to suit your interests. The ship boasts an impressive number of lounges, bars, and entertainment venues.
One of the standout spots is the Maharini's Lounge & Nightclub, which is accessed only through the casino. It features an Indian-influenced decor with velvet curtains, plush daybeds, and fancy chandeliers.

If you're looking for a more laid-back atmosphere, English-style Henry's Pub is a great choice. It's a better spot to watch sporting events than the Shanghai sports bar, and at night, you can enjoy folk music.
For those who want to sing their hearts out without a crowd, Shanghai Bar offers 7 private karaoke rooms. Alternatively, you can head to Champagne Charlie's for live music in the evenings.
The ship also features a range of entertainment options, including the NCL's FIREWORKS show, "Rock of Ages", "Cirque Dreams", and "Illusionarium" (a magicians show).
Here's a rundown of some of the key entertainment venues on board:
- Stardust Theatre (800-seat; features Broadway-style musical productions; two grand shows per night)
- Cafe 49; The Cafe; Shanghai Bar (sports bar); Champagne Charlie’s Bar
- Maharini’s Lounge & Nightclub; Galaxy of the Stars Lounge & Disco; Celebrity Disco
- Maharajah’s Casino
- Art Gallery; Photo Gallery & Shop
- The Writing Room; The Card Room; Lifestyle Room & Internet Cafe; Library & Internet Cafe
- Galleria Shops & Boutiques (tax and duty-free shops)
- Roman Spa & Fitness Centre (gym with Aerobics Studio; Mandara Spa, treatment rooms, Steam and Sauna, Oscar’s Hair & Beauty Salon, relaxation area); Tivoli Pool, 5 Whirlpools, tennis tables
- Video Games Arcade; Buccaneer’s Wet & Wild (AquaPark, kids' pool); Charlie’s Child Care Centre; Splash Academy (complimentary kids program venue)
- Walking Promenade; Basketball Court; Jogging Track; Golf Nets.
Atrium
The atrium is a great place to relax and unwind on board. A fountain in the atrium sounds nice, but it's probably not very functional.
There's plenty of comfortable seating in the new atrium, making it a great spot to take a break. The atrium also features a giant screen, which is perfect for watching movies or sports.

The atrium is a great place for crew to host trivia and other events, making it a hub of activity on board. The glass staircase in the atrium allows for easy access to Magnum's bar and the shops one deck up.
The atrium has a beautiful glass staircase, which adds to its elegance.
Spice H20
Spice H20 is a fantastic spot to relax and soak up the sun's rays. Located aft on decks 10, 11, and 12, you'll find padded loungers with gorgeous wake views.
You can enjoy shaded loungers for much of the day, perfect for those who are a bit more sensitive to the sun. Many of the loungers are shaded, so you can still enjoy the views without getting too much sun.
This area is great for people-watching, and you'll have plenty of opportunities to see your own feet, so consider a pre-cruise pedicure for a more comfortable experience.
Wraparound Promenade Deck

A wraparound promenade deck is a must-have feature on any cruise ship. The Spirit had a great one, with a wide and perfect path for walking.
I'm obsessed with wraparound promenade decks, and the Spirit's is one of my favorites. It's great for getting some exercise or fresh air while on board.
The wraparound promenade deck on the Spirit had no seating, but that didn't deter me from enjoying it. I wish newer ships had similar features.
If you're a fan of wraparound promenade decks like I am, you'll love the Spirit's design. Just be aware that seating is limited.
The Spirit's wraparound promenade deck is a great example of how a well-designed feature can enhance your cruise experience.
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The Great Outdoors
The Great Outdoors is a fantastic spot to enjoy your meals while sailing. It's located just aft of the buffet.
You'll find numerous tables and a dedicated bar with full drink service, making it a great option for those who want to dine outdoors. The bar offers a wide range of drinks to enjoy with your meal.

The Great Outdoors is usually less crowded than the indoor buffet area, giving you a more relaxed dining experience. You can breathe in some fresh air and take in the great views while you eat.
It's a great spot to enjoy your meals while still being part of the action on the ship.
Completely Reimagined Staterooms
The Norwegian Spirit's staterooms have been completely reimagined to provide a comfortable and stylish space for you to unwind. There are 1006 total staterooms on the ship, ranging from 150-170 square feet in size.
You can choose from a variety of options, including suites, balcony staterooms, oceanview rooms, and inside cabins. The largest accommodations are the Owner's Suite, which spans 530 square feet and features a 75 square foot terrace.
Each stateroom has been renovated with the world traveler in mind, featuring contemporary design inspired by Norwegian Cruise Line's newest and most sophisticated ships. You'll find stylish touches and excellent appointments throughout.
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The staterooms are designed to be spacious and comfortable, with some accommodating up to three people without the need for a pull-down bed. However, it's worth noting that the sofa bed may require some manoeuvring to access.
In terms of bathroom layout, some staterooms have a split bathroom, while others have a more traditional layout with all facilities in one room. And, as you'd expect on a cruise ship, the bathrooms are quite small, but very manageable.
The Norwegian Spirit's staterooms may not be as modern as some of the line's newer ships, but they're practical and comfortable, making them a great choice for your cruise.
Dining and Beverage
Dining on the Norwegian Spirit is a treat, with two main dining rooms, the Garden Room and Windows, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner at no extra cost. Windows is a romantic spot with classic ocean liner decor, while the Garden Room has a more modern look.

You can also try alternative dining venues, like Le Bistro, Cagney's Steakhouse, and La Trattoria, which offer specialty cuisine for a cover charge. The Blue Lagoon Cafe is a 24-hour fast-food option, and Henry's Pub serves up English pub fare.
If you're looking for a more unique dining experience, check out the Shogun restaurant, which offers Asian cuisine and a Teppanyaki Room with Japanese Hibachi specialties. Don't forget to try the Sushi Bar and Sake Bar, also located inside the Shogun complex.
Dining On Board
On the Norwegian Spirit, you've got plenty of options for where to grab a bite. The ship has two main dining rooms, the Garden Room and Windows, both of which are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner at no extra cost.
The Garden Room has a modern, casual vibe, while Windows is a bit more elegant, with a romantic atmosphere and classic ocean liner decor.
The cuisine in both dining rooms is a bit basic, so if you're a foodie, you might want to check out the alternative dining venues, which offer a range of specialties. Some of these include Le Bistro, which serves French cuisine, and Cagney's Steakhouse, which is perfect for prime steaks and gourmet seafood.
You can also grab a casual bite at the Blue Lagoon Cafe, which is open 24 hours a day, or head to Henry's Pub for some English pub fare. If you're in the mood for something Asian, Shogun is a great option, and it's even complimentary since 2015.
Here's a rundown of some of the other dining options on board:
- The Garden Restaurant (forward Dining Room, complimentary, with Your Time dining)
- Le Bistro (French specialty dinner-only restaurant; reservations-only; US$20 cover charge)
- Windows Restaurant (aft-location Dining Room; complimentary; Freestyle dining)
- Blue Lagoon Cafe (24-hour fast-food restaurant)
- Henry’s Pub (English pub/bar & grill)
- Shogun (Asian restaurant, complimentary since 2015)
- Teppanyaki Room (Japanese Hibachi specialty restaurant inside the Shogun restaurant)
- Sushi Bar; Sake Bar (inside the Shogun dining complex)
- Cagney’s Steakhouse (specialty dinner restaurant for prime steaks and gourmet seafood; reservations-only, US$30 cover charge per person and free Kids Menu)
- Raffles Court & Terrace (complimentary lido buffet restaurant)
- La Trattoria (Italian speciality restaurant, cover charge US$15 pp)
- Bier Garten (Bavarian-themed snack and beer bar).
Premium Beverage Package
The Premium Beverage Package is a great value, especially if you're on a long cruise like 16 days. You can order all your favorite drinks, like bushwackers, lemon drops, and mango meltdowns.
The package includes a wide range of drinks, so you can try new ones and have fun with it. You can even play games like ordering a drink starting with every letter of the alphabet.
One thing to keep in mind is that the package doesn't include espresso drinks, but it does include Irish or Spanish coffee, which can be a great option if you're looking for a spiked hot beverage.
If you're planning to take advantage of the Premium Beverage Package, consider ordering a Pepsi and throwing in some peanuts to jazz it up, like the author did on day 16.
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Things I Didn't Love

The Norwegian Spirit wasn't perfect, and I have to admit, I was a bit disappointed with the dining options. The Norwegian Dining and Restaurant Menus 2022 were limited, to say the least.
I missed having a variety of restaurants to choose from, like specialty restaurants or buffets. The lack of options made mealtime feel repetitive.
The service in the main dining room was sometimes slow, which was frustrating when I was hungry. I've had better experiences with faster service on other cruises.
The menu itself was also a letdown, with not enough variety or creativity. I was hoping for more international flavors and dishes, but it was mostly the same old stuff.
Itinerary and Sailing
The Norwegian Spirit's itinerary is a 12-day round-trip adventure that begins on April 14, 2025, and ends on April 26, 2025. This themed cruise is called "Easter".
The ship departs from Yokohama, Tokyo, Japan on April 14, 2025, at 17:00. Here's a breakdown of the ship's stops:
Current Itinerary

The Current Itinerary of Norwegian Spirit is a 12-day, round-trip Asia cruise themed as "Easter" and begins on April 14, 2025, ending on April 26, 2025.
The cruise departs from Yokohama, Tokyo, Japan on April 14, 2025, at 17:00.
Here's a breakdown of the ports the Norwegian Spirit will visit:
Cruises
The Norwegian Spirit has a history of itinerary changes due to the COVID-19 pandemic. It was originally meant to sail in Asia in 2020, but that program was cancelled in February 2020.
The ship was then scheduled to operate cruises to the Greek Isles for the summer 2020 season. However, this plan was also cancelled due to Norwegian Cruise Line's decision to suspend all sailings in response to the pandemic.
The ship is currently slated to resume operations in May 2022, with cruises in the South Pacific and Hawaii.
7 Extra Credit Tips
If you're lucky enough to be booked on the Norwegian Spirit, here are some extra tips to help you make the most of your time onboard.
The ship tour for guests who are platinum status or higher still wasn't available on our sailing, but you can receive $25 in onboard credit if you ask for it at the Cruise Next desk on embarkation day.
Refurbishment and Tour

The NCL Cruise Spirit has undergone several refurbishments over the years, and each one has brought significant changes to the ship. The most recent drydocking was in 2025, where routine maintenance and classification works were done in Singapore.
The Spirit's previous drydock refurbishment in 2020 was a major overhaul, costing USD 100 million and lasting 40 days. This project added 14 new venues, including dining options like Taste, The Local Bar and Grill, and Garden Cafe, which offer complimentary food and drinks.
One of the notable additions is the Spice H2O outdoor relaxation complex, which features two large whirlpools and a poolside bar. In the evenings, it transforms into a disco nightclub.
Mandara Spa was also expanded, doubling in size to around 650 square meters. The wellness complex now includes a Relaxation Lounge, Jacuzzi Room, Sauna Room, Steam Room, and Thalassotherapy Pool.
The ship's drydock refurbishment in 2011 included upgrading Wi-Fi internet coverage to shipwide, renovating all accessible staterooms, and adding new carpeting and tiling to all cabins and public areas.
Here are some of the key changes made during the 2020 refurbishment:
- Taste (3rd Main Dining Room / complimentary restaurant)
- The Local Bar and Grill (24-hour complimentary food bar)
- Garden Cafe (all-day complimentary restaurant)
- The Great Outdoors Bar and Grill (complimentary)
- Waves Pool Bar (poolside complimentary fast-food venue)
- Onda by Scarpetta (Italian specialty restaurant / at fee)
- Bliss Ultra Lounge and Spinnaker Lounge (part of which is the Humidor Cigar Lounge)
- Spice H2O - adults-only outdoor relaxation complex
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norwegian Spirit a good ship?
Norwegian Spirit has a 3.6 out of 5 rating based on 1824 guest reviews, indicating a generally positive experience. However, opinions may vary, and we recommend reading reviews from Cruiseline.com for a more detailed understanding.
What happened to NCL spirit?
NCL Spirit's remaining 2024-2025 schedule was canceled in mid-June 2023 due to fleet redeployment moves. The ship's new deployment schedule starts in 2026 with a January 4th departure from Auckland to Sydney.
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