Norwegian Cruise Line passengers reveal why they’re loyal to NCL
Loyal passengers think the cruise line stands out in three key areas.
Besides cruise loyalty programs, what keeps cruisers choosing the same cruise line over and over for their vacations?
Answers vary greatly depending on the type of traveler and cruise line, but when it comes to Norwegian Cruise Line, loyal passengers are largely in agreement.
Related: Fan-favorite Norwegian Cruise Line ship just got better
A recent discussion in the NCL community on Reddit revealed three key parts of the cruise experience that passengers think Norwegian does better than other cruise lines.
One cruiser’s question prompted the enlightening discussion:
“What’s your favorite thing about NCL? Or something you like better compared to other cruise lines,” Reddit user CycIon3 asked.
To get the conversation started, the passenger highlighted something that’s a crucial, and often costly, part of the onboard experience for many cruisers. Recently, Norwegian Cruise Line made enhancements in this area to offer passengers even more value in their vacations.
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Norwegian passengers love its drink package, freestyle dining
“For me, it’s the drink package. I like that it’s unlimited alcohol/soda and even though you don’t get water/specialty coffee, it’s still a lot less per day than packages on other cruise lines,” CycIon3 noted.
Norwegian’s Unlimited Open Bar package, which is included with its recently introduced More At Sea cruise package, costs less than most cruise lines’ drink packages and offers a wide variety of premium beverage brands. Additionally, there’s no price cap on included drinks like some cruise lines’ packages stipulate. All of these aspects make it easier for passengers to find value in adding Norwegian’s drink package onto their cruise fare.
“I know this is based on the type of cruiser you are and how long your trip is as well, but I usually have a few drinks for Brunch, by the pool, for dinner, and then a few more while at the casino at night. That more than pays for itself,” CycIon3 explained.
Related: Norwegian Cruise Line improves a passenger perk
A number of passengers agreed that the drink package and overall More at Sea package are top Norwegian cruise perks.
Other passengers noted that the cruise line has always stood out to them for its longstanding focus on freestyle dining — a flexible cruise dining style with no set dining times, assigned seating arrangements, or formal nights.
“Freestyle dining. I like deciding when and where to eat when I'm hungry,” wrote CatttyCat. “And it's casual dress, for the most part.”
“I know other lines are moving towards this trend but eating anytime you want will always stick by me,” SarcasticBench agreed.
Other passengers underscored the quality of Norwegian’s specialty dining experiences too.
Cabins for solo cruisers add to the cruise line’s appeal
One passenger, who also noted that they like Norwegian’s freestyle and specialty dining, shared that the cruise line’s thoughtful approach to solo cruising keeps them loyal. Other cruisers seconded this.
“The feeling of being appreciated as a solo traveler, rather than an afterthought,” wrote IndependentBrick8075.
Norwegian Cruise Line was the first cruise line to create cabins and common lounge areas specifically for solo cruisers. The line offers solo studio staterooms as well as balcony, oceanview, and inside staterooms for solo travelers. All solo cabins come with access to Norwegian’s Studio Lounge, where solo cruisers can hang out and meet other passengers traveling alone.
Related: Norwegian Cruise Line passengers say pricey add-on is worth it
And while some cruise lines make solo travelers pay more by charging them a single supplement to book a cabin that accommodates two or more people, Norwegian prices its solo staterooms solely for solo cruisers.
While loyal passengers shared a variety of Norwegian Cruise Line advantages in the Reddit thread, one passenger pinpointed how the overall vibe on board Norwegian cruise ships leaves a lasting impression.
“I love the vibe on NCL. It fits my style like an old leather jacket. Not clingy. Not formal. Versatile,” explained lazycatchef.
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