Useful Things to Know About Norwegian Bliss Cruise Ship

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.