Disabled Facilities
Guests with Special Needs:
- Information provided before booking indicates the suitability of the holiday for reduced mobility.
- Individual capabilities vary, so provide specific details about any medical conditions or disabilities.
- Guests with significant mobility impairments should travel with someone for assistance during the cruise and emergencies.
- Assistance provided doesn't constitute contracted services unless specified in writing or by legal regulations.
Wheelchair Accessibility:
- Limited wheelchair-accessible staterooms are available per ship with various accessibility features.
- Wheelchair users must bring collapsible wheelchairs; delivery service is available via Scooteround.
- Wheelchairs and scooters must be stored in staterooms, not in public areas.
- Certain activities or shore excursions may be limited for wheelchair users.
Hearing-/Vision-Impaired Guests:
- Limited staterooms equipped with vibrating alarms and flashing light systems for fire alarms.
- Registered guide dogs are allowed on Norwegian Cruise Line ships for vision-impaired guests.
Oxygen Requirements:
- Guests requiring oxygen are welcome but must bring their own supply.
- Special Needs at Sea is the authorized supplier for oxygen delivery.
Medical Conditions and Challenges:
- Report any physical challenge or medical condition at booking and provide medical declarations when needed.
- Norwegian Cruise Line reserves the right to refuse passage for safety reasons.
Specific Diets:
- Low-calorie diet options are available for all meals.
- Sugar-free, fat-free, gluten-free, lactose-free, sodium-free, Kosher, and dairy-free diets can be accommodated with advance notice.
Special Dietary Requirements
Dietary Requirements:
- Notify a Norwegian Reservations Agent or Travel Agent at booking if you have food allergies or dietary needs.
- Mention if you require Kosher meals or gluten-free products.
- 30-day notice before sailing is needed for many special requests to ensure fulfillment.
Kosher Meals:
- Kosher Meal requests made within 30 days of the sail date are not guaranteed.
Food Items Onboard:
- Guests cannot bring food requiring preparation by the ship's staff or cold storage in the kitchen.
Alcohol and Beverage Policy
Age Restrictions:
- On itineraries including the United States, Canada, or China ports, guests must be 21 years or older to purchase or consume alcohol.
- For itineraries excluding those regions, the age limit is 18 or above, except for guests from the United States, Canada, or China.
- In Alaska and Hawaii, guests aged 18 to 20 are permitted to purchase and consume wine and beer only.
Alcoholic Beverage Packages:
- Terms and conditions for alcoholic beverage packages may vary; check at the time of booking.
- Premium All Inclusive includes alcoholic beverages for guests aged 21 and above.
Young Adults (18-20) on Restricted Itineraries:
- Guests aged 18 to 20 can purchase and consume wine and beer only on itineraries, including US, Canada, or China ports (excluding Alaska and Hawaii).
- Parental consent is required.
- Accompanying parents must complete the Young Adult Alcoholic Beverage Waiver form.
- The form can be obtained and completed at the Guest Services Desk during embarkation.
Smoking Policy
Indoor Smoking Policy:
- Indoor public areas, except cigar lounges and the Casino, are smoke-free across all ships.
Cigar Lounge:
- Cigarette smoking is allowed in designated cigar lounges; no cigarettes, pipes, electronic cigarettes, or vapor devices.
- On Norwegian Sky, Norwegian Sun, Norwegian Star, and Pride of America, cigar and pipe smoking is only permitted in designated outdoor areas.
Casino:
- Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Joy, and Norwegian Encore have designated smoking rooms in the Casino.
- Active casino players on other ships can smoke cigarettes, electronic cigarettes, and vapor devices in the Casino during gaming hours.
- Cigar and pipe smoking are not allowed in the Casino.
Staterooms:
- Smoking (cigarettes, cigars, pipes, electronic cigarettes, vapor devices) is prohibited in staterooms and on balconies.
- Violations result in a $250 USD cleaning charge and possible damage charges.
- Garden Villa guests can smoke in private gardens and on private sun decks.
Outdoor Smoking Areas:
- Smoking, including cigars, pipes, electronic cigarettes, and vapor devices, is not allowed near food venues, jogging tracks, outdoor sports areas, children's pools, Vibe Beach Club, Posh Beach Club, or The Waterfront.
- On Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Joy, smoking is permitted at Spice H2O on the starboard side.
Packing Tips / Dress Code
Attire Options:
- Choose between resort casual and dressing up as you prefer.
- "Dress-Up or Not Night" offers photo opportunities with family, special someone, or the ship's Captain.
Cruise Casual:
- Cruise casual attire works for daytime, buffet, and most specialty restaurants.
- Women can wear summer dresses, skirts, pants, shorts, and tops.
- Men can wear khakis, jeans, shorts, and casual shirts.
- Swimwear is accepted at buffet and outdoor restaurants, with a shirt or cover-up and footwear.
- Bring a sweater for chilly air conditioning.
- Kids under 12 can wear nice shorts in restaurants.
- Avoid tank tops, flip flops, baseball caps, visors, overly faded jeans, torn jeans, and jeans below hips in main dining rooms or specialty restaurants.
Smart Casual:
- Dress smart casual for formal dining rooms or upscale specialty restaurants.
- Women: slacks, jeans, dresses, skirts, and tops.
- Men: jeans or slacks, collared shirt, and closed-toed shoes.
- Kids under 12 can wear nice shorts in restaurants.
Shore Excursions:
- Pack for shore excursions, including comfortable walking shoes.
- Closed-toed shoes are recommended for kids and adults.
Special Events:
- "Norwegian's Night Out" is an occasion for dressing up for cocktails, fine dining, and entertainment.
- Consider packing an all-white ensemble for the iconic White Hot Party.
Sail & Sustain - Our Commitment
Commitment to Sustainability:
- Norwegian Cruise Line prioritizes ocean preservation, environmental protection, and community well-being.
- Sustainability is integrated into all aspects of the company's operations, enhancing the guest experience.
Environmental Stewardship:
- Operating with consideration for safety, security, health, and environmental protection is outlined in the company's policy.
- Core values include preventing pollution, minimizing environmental impact, proper waste disposal, recycling, and continual improvement.
Innovative Practices:
- Implemented pioneering environmental policies and technologies in the cruise industry.
- Adherence to international, national, and local regulations, including MARPOL, USCG, and EPA.
- Accredited with ISO 14001 for Environmental Management Systems, showcasing adherence to high environmental standards for efficiency and impact reduction.
Water Conservation & Management
Onboard Water Usage:
- Water is utilized in staterooms, galleys, laundry, pools, and cleaning.
- Focus on increasing onboard water production using seawater sources to reduce fresh water needs.
Water Production Methods:
- Reverse Osmosis (RO) creates fresh and technical water from seawater using advanced filters and high-pressure pumps.
- Evaporators use heat sources like Exhaust Gas Boilers, Fired Boilers, or Main Engine Heat to produce fresh water from seawater.
- Bunkered Water: Potable water acquired in port for onboard use.
Wastewater Treatment Systems:
- Ships equipped with Advanced Wastewater Purification systems (AWPs).
- Wastewater undergoes treatment before discharge, meeting international and municipal standards.
- New ships feature leading AWP tech meeting stringent Baltic Standards.
- Regular third-party and internal water quality tests maintain compliance.
Bilge Water:
- Bilge water from machinery and engine spaces is stored and discharged after meeting regulations.
- Ships are equipped with automatic stopping devices and oil content meters.
- Non-compliant bilge water is recirculated until standards are met; the remaining water is properly disposed of ashore.
Ballast Water:
- Ballasting maintains ship stability and structural integrity.
- Ocean water is filled in ballast tanks for stability and comfort.
- Discharged water during fuel consumption can transfer species globally.
- Treating ballast water before release safeguards local ecosystems by removing organisms.
Waste Mitigation
Leadership in Sensitive Areas:
- Ships visit sensitive global areas, setting an example for environmental stewardship.
- Strict zero-tolerance policy against items being thrown overboard.
- An environmental hotline is available for reporting incidents.
Waste Management and Sustainability:
- Progressive waste management program reduces environmental impact, promotes recycling, conserves resources, and saves energy.
- Reuse and recycling contribute to waste reduction; clear benchmarks measure waste minimization.
- Utilizing recycling programs and partnerships, such as the Waste Management partnership in 2010.
Live Load Offload Operation:
- Collaborated with Waste Management for the Live Load offload operation, reducing waste offload time, costs, and port congestion.
- Ships following this model in 2017 achieved significant conservation benefits.
Employee Involvement:
- Shoreside and shipboard employees participate in food and clothing drives.
- Beach clean-ups and community clean-ups are undertaken by shoreside employees and crew.
- Exploration of recycling and donation options for technical equipment and hotel furniture during ship refurbishment.
Fuel & Energy Efficiency
Climate Change Commitment:
- Climate change is a significant issue with long-lasting consequences for current and future generations.
- As cruise industry leaders, Norwegian Cruise Line takes responsibility for mitigating climate-influencing actions.
Emission Abatement:
- Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS) reduces sulphur oxide and particulate emissions by scrubbing them before release.
- EGCS-equipped ships can decrease SOx emissions by up to 99%.
- Multiple ships, including Norwegian Bliss, Norwegian Encore, and others, have been equipped with EGCS technology.
Port Operations:
- Ships generate their own power in port for guest and crew needs.
- Cold-Ironing (onshore electrical grid connection) reduces docked ship emissions.
- A small percentage of ports offer cold ironing; Norwegian Cruise Line ships like Bliss and Encore are equipped for it.
Energy Efficiency Focus:
- Data collection identifies major energy consumers, guiding energy efficiency improvements.
- The goal is to optimize energy-intensive areas and operations for efficiency gains.
- Shipboard Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP):
- SEEMP customizes energy efficiency plans per ship.
- Measures include improved voyage planning, optimal engine operation, air conditioning system optimization, and propulsion system upgrades.
Wasted Heat Recovery (WHR):
- WHR captures engine heat and transfers it to freshwater piping.
- Utilizes this heat for water production and fuel savings.
Accessibility
Inclusive Cruising:
- Norwegian Cruise Line believes in making Freestyle cruising accessible to everyone.
- Committed to offering the freedom of choice for all guests to cruise their way.
Dedicated Assistance:
- A team of skilled cruise professionals is trained to assist with special requirements.
- Access Coordinators at the Access Desk handle accessible travel needs.
Access Desk Support:
- Access Desk Coordinators discuss guests' needs and expectations for an accessible cruise experience.
- Contact established with guests or their travel agents to accommodate needs before the cruise.
- Special Accommodation Requirements Information form available from the Access Desk.
Getting Assistance:
- Guests can reach the Access Desk at 01 541 0297 (voice), fax (305) 468-2171, or email accessdesk@ncl.com.
- Travel agents can also contact the Access Desk on behalf of guests.
Service Charges
Service Charge and Gratuity:
- A discretionary service charge is automatically added per guest per day for guests three years and older.
- Amounts per day: $16 for Studios, Inside, Oceanview, and Balcony Staterooms; $18 for Club Balcony Suites; $20 for Suites, The Haven Suites, and Concierge Staterooms.
- Service charges shared among staff enhance the overall cruise experience, including restaurant and stateroom staff.
Advance Payment Option:
- Guests can pay service charges in advance of the cruise.
Addressing Concerns:
- If service concerns arise, inform the onboard Guest Services Desk for prompt resolution.
- Service charges can be adjusted on board if issues remain unresolved.
Refunds and Pre-Paid Charges:
- Pre-paid service charges are non-refundable on board.
- Refund requests for pre-paid charges must be submitted to the Guest Relations department after returning home.
Additional Gratuities:
- Certain staff positions (e.g., concierge, butler, youth program staff, beverage service) are not covered by service charge; guests are encouraged to offer gratuities.
Gratuities for Specific Services:
- 20% gratuity and spa service charge for spa and salon services.
- 20% gratuity and beverage service charge for beverage purchases.
- 20% gratuity and specialty service charge for specialty restaurant dining and entertainment-based dining (exceptions for Free at Sea dining and drinks packages).
Medical Facilities
Medical Care on Board:
- Each ship is equipped with a physician and nurse to offer medical care and services.
- Medical care is provided at customary charges.
Medications Onboard:
- Commonly used medications available on board.
- The ship's doctor can prescribe medications as needed.
Wi-Fi & Internet Access
Internet Access:
- 24-hour Internet Cafés available on all ships.
- Wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is accessible across the entire fleet.
- Rates and service information are available at the provided link.
Central Telephone Number:
- Central ship telephone number: 001 732 335 3280.
- Calls cost from US$ 7.95 per minute.
- Keep the ship name and credit card number ready.
Mobile Phone Usage:
- Use your compatible mobile phone at sea.
- International roaming charges apply and are billed to your home account.
- The service provider determines final rates; refer to your provider for details.
Services
Beauty Parlor and Spa Services:
- Mandara Spa Salon offers hair styling, manicures, pedicures, facials, and massages.
Duty-Free Shopping:
- Gift shops provide duty-free shopping opportunities.
- Selection includes fine jewelry, perfumes, clothing, cosmetics, and limited drug store items.
Laundry & Dry-Cleaning Services:
- Onboard laundry and dry-cleaning services available.
Internet Café:
- Internet access is provided through 24-hour Internet Cafés.
Art Auctions:
- Art auctions for art enthusiasts.
Photography Services:
- Photographs are taken throughout the cruise for memories.
Age Restrictions
Infant Age Requirement:
- Infants sailing must be at least six months old.
- For voyages with three or more consecutive days at sea, infants must be at least 12 months old.
Minor and Young Adult Definitions:
- Minor: Individuals under 18 years of age at embarkation.
- Young Adult: Individuals between 18 and 20 years of age.
- Note: Not related to child pricing (2-17 years old).
Accompaniment Policy:
- On itineraries including US, Canada, or China ports, guests under 21 must be accompanied by someone 21 or older (same/connecting/side-by-side staterooms).
- For all other cruises, this policy applies to guests under 18 (except US, Canadian, and Chinese citizens).
Parent/Guardian Release Form:
- Guests under 18 traveling with non-parent/legal guardian require a Parent/Guardian Release Form for travel and medical treatment authorization.
- Failure to provide the form may result in denied boarding with no refund.
Canadian Port Requirement:
- Guests under 18 traveling with a single parent to a Canadian port need a letter of approval from the absent parent (preferably notarized).
Traveling Together Under 21:
- Two people under 21 can share a stateroom if married and provide proof of marriage.
Age Restrictions:
- Children under 16 are not allowed in the fitness centre.
- The minimum age for Casino and Thermal Spa use is 18.
- Certain bars and lounges on specific ships are adult-only (18+).
- Lifeguards monitor family pools during scheduled hours, but adult supervision is recommended for children under 12.
Unattended Children:
- For safety reasons, children must not be left unattended on board when adults go ashore.
