We’ve just disembarked from a truly memorable week aboard the Norwegian Prima, and let us tell you, it’s a ship that sparks conversation! As seasoned travelers and dedicated cruise enthusiasts who live and breathe all things cruise vacation, we’ve spent countless hours on various vessels, and each new cruise ship offers a fresh perspective. This time, our journey took us to some incredible cruise port destinations, making our cruise booking experience even more exciting. So, grab a virtual mai tai, settle in, and let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of our Norwegian Prima cruise review: 20 things we loved, and a few things that left us scratching our heads.
From the moment we stepped onto the Norwegian Prima, we were struck by its contemporary and stylish design. It’s a departure from some of the more traditional cruise ship aesthetics, opting for a sleek, modern vibe that we found incredibly appealing.
A Breath of Fresh Air: Outdoor Spaces
One of the most significant highlights for us was the emphasis on outdoor living. Prima boasts some innovative and beautifully designed open-air spaces that truly set it apart. The Ocean Boulevard, a wrap-around promenade on Deck 7, is a game-changer. We spent hours here, soaking up the sun, enjoying the sea breeze, and watching the world go by. It’s wide enough to feel spacious, and dotted with comfortable seating, bars, and even an outdoor restaurant. It’s the perfect spot for a morning coffee or an evening stroll.
The Haven: A Sanctuary Within a Sanctuary
For those seeking an elevated experience, The Haven is Norwegian’s exclusive enclave, and it lives up to its reputation. It’s a private, ship-within-a-ship concept that offers unparalleled luxury and service. We had the pleasure of experiencing The Haven on a previous cruise vacation, and Prima’s iteration is, in our opinion, one of the best. The private pool, sundeck, and dining venues are meticulously maintained, and the butler service is impeccable. If you’re considering a splurge for your next cruise booking, The Haven on Prima is worth every penny. It’s a true escape where you can truly disconnect and recharge. The attention to detail here is remarkable, from the plush furnishings to the personalized service.
The Atrium: A Vibrant Hub
The main atrium on Prima is a departure from the sprawling, multi-level spaces you might find on other mega-ships. Instead, it’s more intimate and sophisticated, serving as a chic gathering spot. We loved the modern artwork and the central bar, which became a popular meeting point for pre-dinner drinks. It felt less overwhelming and more like a stylish lounge. It’s a space that encourages connection and conversation, rather than just being a thoroughfare. The lighting and ambiance are perfectly curated for different times of day, transitioning from bright and airy during the day to a more subdued and elegant feel in the evening.
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Culinary Delights: A Taste of Prima
Norwegian has always been known for its diverse dining options, and Prima continues that tradition with a range of restaurants to suit every palate. We made it our mission to sample as many as we could during our cruise vacation.
The Specialty Dining Scene: A Standout
This is where Prima truly shines. The specialty dining restaurants are exceptional. We indulged in a fantastic meal at Onda by Scarpetta, and the authentic Italian flavors were simply divine. The seafood was incredibly fresh, and the pasta was cooked to perfection. Another favorite was Cagney’s Steakhouse, a classic for a reason. The steaks were cooked exactly to our liking, and the sides were generous and delicious. Le Bistro, the French restaurant, offered a more intimate and romantic atmosphere, and the coq au vin was a revelation. We found that the quality and consistency across these specialty venues were very high, making them a worthwhile investment for your cruise booking.
Food Hall: A Casual Culinary Adventure
For a more relaxed and eclectic dining experience, the Food Hall is a fantastic addition. It’s a vibrant space offering a variety of international flavors in a casual, market-like setting. We enjoyed everything from delicious tacos to fresh sushi. It’s a great option for lunch or a quick bite, and it provides a welcome alternative to the main buffet. The variety here is impressive, catering to different cravings and dietary needs. We especially appreciated the option to grab a quick, healthy bite without committing to a full sit-down meal. It’s a testament to Norwegian‘s commitment to offering diverse dining experiences.
The Buffet: Room for Improvement
Now, while we raved about the specialty dining, the main buffet, Starboard Marketplace, was a bit of a mixed bag for us. While there was a decent variety of options, the quality didn’t quite match the standard set by the specialty restaurants. We often found ourselves returning to the specialty venues or opting for a la carte options in other venues. It wasn’t bad, by any means, but it didn’t quite reach the heights we’ve experienced on other cruise ships. Perhaps it’s a matter of taste, but we felt there was room for enhancement in this area. It’s a crucial part of any cruise vacation, and we hope Norwegian continues to refine this offering.
Entertainment and Activities: Keeping Us Engaged
A good cruise vacation isn’t just about the destinations; it’s also about what you do on the cruise ship. Prima offers a solid lineup of entertainment and activities designed to keep guests of all ages happy.
Live Music: A Constant Soundtrack
We were thrilled by the abundance of live music onboard. From acoustic sets in the bars to lively bands in the main entertainment venues, there was always music to be found. We particularly enjoyed the jazz trio that played in the evenings; it created a wonderfully sophisticated ambiance. The variety of genres ensured there was something for everyone, and it truly enhanced the overall atmosphere of the ship. It made transitioning between dinner and shows feel seamless and enjoyable.
The Improv at Sea: Laughter Guaranteed
One of the most unique and entertaining offerings on Prima is “The Improv at Sea.” We had an absolute blast at their comedy shows. The talented improvisers were quick-witted, engaging, and had us in stitches. It’s a fantastic way to spend an evening and a welcome addition to the typical cruise entertainment schedule. This is definitely a shore excursion you won’t find elsewhere, and it’s worth booking your cruise booking around. We highly recommend catching a show if you get the chance!
Specialty Shows: A Visual Feast
The main stage productions on Prima were also quite impressive. We saw a dazzling show that combined acrobatics, singing, and dancing, leaving us thoroughly entertained. The production values were high, and the performers were incredibly talented. These shows are a staple of any cruise vacation, and Prima delivers a polished and enjoyable experience. The choreography and costumes were particularly noteworthy, adding to the overall spectacle.
Casino: A Glamorous Escape
For those who enjoy a bit of gambling, the casino on Prima is well-appointed and offers a good selection of games. It has a sophisticated, albeit somewhat smoky, atmosphere. We found ourselves popping in for a few hands of blackjack and enjoyed the lively buzz. It’s a classic cruise ship amenity that continues to be a popular draw for many. It’s a great place to try your luck and perhaps win enough to fund a future shore excursion.
The Cruise Port Experience: Making the Most of Our Stops
Our itinerary included some fantastic cruise port destinations, and Prima provided a comfortable and convenient base from which to explore them.
The Convenience of Tender Ports
On this particular cruise vacation, we encountered a couple of tender ports. While tendering can sometimes add a slight delay to your day, we found the process on Prima to be relatively efficient. The ship had ample tenders available, and the crew managed the boarding process smoothly. It’s always a relief when tendering doesn’t feel like a bottleneck to your shore excursion plans. We’ve been on cruises where tendering felt chaotic, so this was a pleasant surprise.
Shore Excursion Planning: A Seamless Integration
Norwegian offers a wide range of shore excursions, and we found their booking process to be straightforward. Whether you prefer organized tours or independent exploration, the cruise port information provided onboard is helpful. We booked a fantastic historical walking tour at one of our stops, and it was a highlight of the trip. The guides were knowledgeable, and the itinerary was well-paced. For first-time cruisers, booking shore excursions through the cruise line can offer peace of mind, especially when navigating unfamiliar territories.
Independent Exploration: Freedom to Roam
Of course, for those who prefer a more independent approach to cruise port exploration, Prima makes it easy to disembark and discover on your own. The cruise ship is well-located in most ports, allowing for easy access to local transportation or simply a pleasant stroll into town. We enjoyed wandering through the local markets and sampling street food at our leisure. This flexibility is one of the great advantages of a cruise vacation.
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The “Could Be Better” List: Minor Grievances
No cruise ship is perfect, and Prima is no exception. While our overall experience was overwhelmingly positive, there were a few aspects that we felt could be improved.
The Layout of the Casino: A Confusing Maze
As mentioned, we enjoyed the casino, but its layout felt a bit confusing. It’s not a vast space, but the placement of the tables and machines made it feel like a bit of a maze. We found ourselves a little disoriented at times, which isn’t ideal when you’re trying to relax and enjoy yourself. This is a minor point, but for a cruise booking where you plan to spend time here, it’s worth noting.
The Main Buffet Seating: Cramped Quarters
During peak times, the seating in the Starboard Marketplace buffet could feel quite cramped. We often had to circle for a table or squeeze into a smaller spot. We understand that buffets can get busy, but we’ve seen more efficient use of space on other cruise ships that offer a more comfortable dining experience, even during rush hour. This made it less appealing to frequent the buffet for every meal.
The Wi-Fi: A Pricy Proposition
Like many modern cruise ships, the Wi-Fi on Prima comes at a cost, and it’s not inexpensive. While we understand the operational expenses, the price point felt a bit steep for the speed and reliability we experienced. For those who need to stay connected for work or to share their amazing cruise vacation moments, this can be a significant consideration when making your cruise booking. We opted for a limited package, and it was sufficient for essential communication, but for heavy usage, it would be a considerable expense.
Limited Seating at Outdoor Bars: A Sunseeker’s Struggle
While we loved the Ocean Boulevard, we did notice that seating at the outdoor bars could be limited, especially during peak hours. If you’re looking to grab a drink and soak up the sun at one of these popular spots, you might find yourself standing for a while. This is a minor inconvenience, but something to be aware of if you’re a fan of al fresco cocktails.
The Water Slides: A Big Kid’s Delight, But…
Prima boasts some impressive water slides, and we saw many families thoroughly enjoying them. While we appreciate the fun factor, as seasoned cruisers, we found ourselves less inclined to participate. For those traveling without children, or for adults who prefer a more relaxed poolside experience, the prime real estate occupied by the water slide complex could perhaps have been utilized for additional loungers or a quieter adults-only pool area. It’s a matter of target audience and maximizing space for all types of cruisers.
Final Verdict: Is Norwegian Prima Worth Your Cruise Booking?
Absolutely! Despite a few minor critiques, our experience on the Norwegian Prima was fantastic. It’s a beautiful, modern cruise ship with a strong emphasis on design, excellent specialty dining, and a vibrant atmosphere. It’s a ship that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler looking for a fresh perspective. The innovative outdoor spaces are a definite highlight, and the culinary offerings are top-notch. We highly recommend considering Prima for your next cruise vacation, especially if you appreciate contemporary design and a focus on quality dining and entertainment. It truly provides a memorable experience, and we wouldn’t hesitate to book another cruise vacation on her. The blend of exciting shore excursion opportunities with the onboard amenities makes for a well-rounded and enjoyable trip.