10 Things I Loved About Norwegian Cruise Line’s Newest Ship The Encore
If you love cruising, you need to check out Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship the Encore. Cruising is not typically my first travel choice, however, this ship blew me away and had me questioning my typical travel MO. One of my travel companions, Hope from ID90 Travel said “A cruise is like a sampler platter, allowing guests to experience new cities briefly to see if they would like to return for a longer stay.” Aboard this ship, I could completely see the draw.
The ship was docked in NYC so all of my time was spent on board, and after 2 full days I didn’t want to leave.
Boarding the Norwegian Encore with Megan
Megan (@themeganelizabeth) and ID90 Travel invited me to spend 2 days aboard the ship checking out the activities, food, drinks, entertainment, and more. The ship was docked in NYC so all of my time was spent on board, and after 2 full days I didn’t want to leave. I was hooked! Side note: Have you checked out ID90 Travel? They offer incredible deals on hotels, car rentals, and cruises beating out the competition almost every time. If you haven’t already signed up, snag this link for $10 off your first hotel booking and add them to your price checks before you travel.
The Norwegian Encore is in the breakaway plus class, meaning it boasts world class amenities throughout.
The Norwegian Encore is in the breakaway plus class, meaning it boasts world class amenities throughout and is one of the largest German built ships in the Norwegian fleet. After 2 days exploring on board, I still hadn’t made it to every area of the ship. But...it wasn’t for lack of trying, and I came away with a list of 10 reasons I love this ship and think you will too!
Check out my video of the Norwegian Encore features here.
Norwegian Encore Ship Features
#1 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
Pools, Waterslides, Splash Pads, Sun Lounge Decks, and Hot Tubs
The top decks are truly the place to be on the Encore. The main pool is front and center when you exit with a poolside bar close by. If you have youngsters along, you will find the kids pool equipped with life jackets, splash pad, and water slide access just past the main pool, along with another bar so parents can indulge while keeping a close watch on their children. If you are 18+ you will definitely want to check out the Vibe Beach Club.
If you are 18+ you will definitely want to check out the Vibe Beach Club!
There is a surcharge for this area, however here you will find additional hot tubs, a plethora of lounge chairs, views over deck 16, misting showers, fruit skewers, a full service bar, and incredible ocean panoramas. I absolutely loved the hot tubs here. Because it was a cold day, Megan and I had the hot tub all to ourselves with incredible views of the NYC skyline and some amazing bar service from Michael, our new friend.
Norwegian Encore Waterslide
#2 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
Silent Disco and Dancing
Have you ever heard of silent disco? I hadn’t either, but it was so much fun. Even the most reserved guests (that would be me) will end up dancing the night away. Upon entry, dancers are given light up headphones which means a few great things. Don’t like the song? Walk to another corner of the room and the song in your headphones will change. Each corner plays a different decade of music notated on the ceiling. No rhythm? No problem. Everyone is dancing to different songs and spectators don’t know which song is playing in your headphones. Yay! Need to talk to a friend or order a drink at the bar? Just take your headphones off and it’s easy to converse without yelling. Also, it’s pretty fun listening to everyone sing along to nothing.
I absolutely loved everything about silent disco and you have to try it when on board the Encore.
I absolutely loved everything about silent disco and you have to try it when on board the Encore. They also have more traditional dance options for those that love to dance the night away. When the party has ended, head up to The Local Bar and Grill for some fish and chips, pretzel bites, or a burger to satisfy your hunger before bed.
Silent Disco on the Norwegian Encore
#3 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
The Observation Lounge
This was one of my favorite areas on the ship.
No balcony off your room? No problem. On Deck 15 you’ll find the observation lounge with floor to ceiling windows and incredible views. The lounge spans over ⅓ of the ship and boasts live music, horduerves, a full service bar, plenty of chaise lounge chairs, and even a stocked book cabinet. This was one of my favorite areas on the ship. Grab a glass of champagne and enjoy the incredible views!
The Observation Lounge - Norwegian Encore (photo on the right taken by @themeganelizabeth)
#4 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
The Encore Speedway
I don’t know how many cruise ships have a race track on board, but I know the Encore boasts the largest speedway at sea with a track that extends 13 feet off the ship’s edge.
The Encore boasts the largest speedway at sea with a track that extends 13 feet off the ship’s edge.
There is an extra cost to enjoy the track, but I highly recommend taking a spin at some point during your time on the cruise. We chose to ride after dark, and I found the cool breeze paired with the night lights so invigorating that I managed to secure 3rd place. 10 riders compete at a time and spectators are able to view the racers from above and can even give a boost to their favorite driver by shooting them with a laser gun as they pass by. There is no cost to participate with the lasers so don’t be shy!
Norwegian Encore Speedway
#5 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
Dining Options
It’s no secret that when travelers hear the word cruise, they immediately think of the food. I am no exception, so I packed my one piece swimsuit and geared up for some serious indulgence. The Encore did not disappoint. If you love buffets, the Garden Cafe will keep you coming back time and again.
Don’t miss the special Seafood Extravaganza day at the buffet! It was definitely a food highlight.
And, don’t miss the special Seafood Extravaganza day at the buffet! It was definitely a food highlight. Prefer a more relaxing dining experience? Check out The Manhattan Room. The surf n turf here paired perfectly with a glass of wine. An addition of bread pudding for dessert completed this unforgettable meal. Savor and Taste are directly across from each other and serve the same food, so choose carefully based on the side of the ship with the best views that day.
Onda, sushi, and the American Diner on the Norwegian Encore
The buffet offers food from various regions, however if you would like a more specialized option check out one of the specialty restaurants onboard for an additional cost. You can enjoy the steakhouse, indulge in some sushi, have your own fiesta at the Mexican restaurant or peruse the list for your personal favorite.
#6 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
Virtual Reality
Oh my goodness, we had so much fun in the Galaxy Pavilion. I had never done VR before and this was such a great time. Rides are $8 each, so you definitely want to choose carefully. My personal favorite was the Jurassic Park ride. We were screaming, laughing, and having a blast on this ride.
We were screaming, laughing, and having a blast on this ride.
The hang gliding ride made me feel a little nauseous so I personally wouldn’t choose that one. The Descent is one of the scariest virtual reality games. I tried this one, but didn’t make it far enough to be scared. Apparently, some shooting video game experience is helpful here. One guest was at it for over 15 minutes entering new levels and conquering domains.
Galaxy Pavilion - Virtual Reality on the Norwegian Encore
#7 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
Laser Tag
The laser tag course on the Encore depicts a movie set of ruins with a giant snake slithering it’s way throughout. I was so excited to play laser tag here. Unfortunately, due to high winds and cold weather we didn’t get to play, but I did walk around the set and imagine my epic maneuvers assuring sweet victory. This space is hands down the ultimate laser tag course and a must visit when on the ship.
Laser Tag Course on the Norwegian Encore
#8 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
Kids Areas
The kids spaces on the Encore impressed me so much. They have three sections. Guppies for the babies, Splash Academy for elementary kids, and Entourage for the teens. The Guppies area is so beautifully done and provides a nursing room for the mommies as well. In Splash Academy, kids will have a blast running around expunging all that built up energy while the parents enjoy a little alone time on or off the ship. Pagers are provided if your child isn’t old enough to use the bathroom by themselves. So, you just need someone in your party available to take the bathroom calls. In Entourage, the teens are able to come and go as they please after the initial check in process, allowing them the freedom they crave with a space they will love!
The Entourage Teen Lounge on the Norwegian Encore
#9 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
Bars, Cafes, Dessert Shops, Shopping, & More
Typically, the words cruise and great food go hand in hand. So, it’s no surprise that in addition to all of the restaurant venues, the Encore offers many bar options, cafes, and ice cream shops for your enjoyment. The entire side of the ship is a foodie dream and provides unbeatable views as well. Looking for a good drink? Check out the Whiskey Bar, Mojito Bar, Winery, or Brewhouse to satisfy your cravings.
The entire side of the ship is a foodie dream and provides unbeatable views as well.
The Bake Shop and Brewhouse on the Norwegian Encore
#10 Reason to Love the Norwegian Encore
The Arcades and Casino
Arcade games are great for a healthy dose of adrenaline and competition. Guests who prefer the casino will be excited to wander next door and try their luck at the slot machines, blackjack or even some high roller options. The ship offers two arcades. One is adjacent to the casino and the other is down by the teen lounge. Both offer plenty of excitement. Be sure to stop by and try out skeeball, air hockey, basketball, racing, guitar hero, virtual reality, and more!
Norwegian Encore Video Arcades
The Encore also boasts amazing shows, however, I can’t seem to sit still long enough to enjoy theatre so I can’t comment on these. But, if you do enjoy musicals, broadway, and the like, you’ll want to be sure to check them out.
Don’t forget to soak in the views! Take advantage of the various viewing areas and times of day. Wake early to capture the sunrise, snag a glass of champagne and toast to the sunset, or go for a night stroll with your loved one and steal a kiss at midnight.
Wake early to capture the sunrise, snag a glass of champagne and toast to the sunset, or go for a night stroll with your loved one and steal a kiss at midnight.
Hot Tub at Sunset - Norwegian Encore
I know this may be controversial, but please don’t waste time in the gym. The Encore has a very nice gym with great viewing windows, but you don’t need to go there. We had over 17,000 steps a day just wandering the ship and dancing the night away. In my opinion, this is a better way to spend your vacation! And, don’t waste stomach space on salad at the buffet. There are far too many amazing options to enjoy. Save the salad for your daily life back home and enjoy the incredible food that you didn’t have to prepare!
Enjoying a glass of wine - Norwegian Encore (wine photo strip by @themeganelizabeth)
They are working on an app to help you find your way around the ship, and interactive maps are found by every elevator. But, if you exit your room and can’t quite get your bearings, just remember that the fish on the carpet swim toward the front of the ship. Hope, from ID90 Travel pointed that out, and I thought it was a great tip. Ready to book this cruise? Give her a call at 1-877-214-5485 x3. She will take great care of you!
What feature most excites you about this ship? Which destination would you cruise to? Bahamas, Bermuda, Alaska, Canada, Carribean, or the Panama Canal? I would love to take the Alaskan cruise on the Encore!
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