Founded in 1966, Miami-based Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), part of global cruise company Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings (which also owns Oceania Cruises and Regent Seven Seas Cruises), is the third-largest cruise line in the world in terms of cruise passengers. NCL has become well-known for its colourful ships featuring a pop-icon style painted hull.
Welcome to Ponta Delgada, where the echoes of its maritime past whisper tales of exploration and discovery. Here, amidst the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean, cruise lines anchor to unveil the hidden gems of Portugal's Azores archipelago. Set against a backdrop of lush greenery and volcanic landscapes, Ponta Delgada offers a climate that dances between subtropical and temperate, creating an ideal setting for leisurely exploration. Cruise-goers seeking an authentic escape from the ordinary will find themselves immersed in the vibrant local culture, where quaint cobblestone streets lead to bustling markets and charming cafes. As the gateway to S Miguel Island, Ponta Delgada boasts a unique blend of Old World charm and modern allure. A testament to its volcanic origins, visitors can bathe in the natural hot springs of Ferraria, a rejuvenating experience unlike any other.
Day 8
At sea
Day 9
Lisbon
In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.
Day 10
Cádiz
Journey to Cadiz, where the echoes of ancient civilizations resonate through its cobblestone streets. This maritime marvel boasts a colorful past, once a haven for Phoenician traders and a strategic outpost during Roman rule. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, Cadiz offers balmy breezes and sun-kissed shores, perfect for leisurely exploration. Unlike bustling tourist hubs, Cadiz exudes authenticity, inviting travelers to savor its laid-back ambiance and discover hidden gems around every corner. As Spain's oldest continuously inhabited city, Cadiz proudly showcases its maritime heritage, including the renowned Carnival of Cadiz, a festive extravaganza dating back over three centuries.
Day 11
Motril
Day 12
Ibiza
Day 13
Palma de Mallorca
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca beckons with a captivating blend of history and charm. Its story unfolds through the ages, from Roman conquests to Moorish rule, leaving behind a tapestry of architectural wonders. Beneath the Mediterranean sun, Palma offers a mild climate, perfect for leisurely exploration year-round. Away from tourist traps, it reveals authentic Spanish life in its bustling markets and vibrant squares. As a showcase of the country's essence, Palma captures hearts with its traditional festivals and local delicacies like ensaada pastries. An interesting fact: Palma boasts one of Europe's largest Gothic cathedrals, La Seu, a testament to its enduring grandeur.
Day 14
Marseille
Nestled along the shimmering shores of the Mediterranean, Marseille beckons with a vibrant past steeped in maritime lore. Its bustling port has been a hub of trade and cultural exchange for centuries, with influences from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East converging in its bustling streets. Blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate, Marseille offers a haven for sun-seekers year-round, while its labyrinthine alleys and bustling markets promise an authentic taste of French life. Beyond the tourist hotspots, hidden gems await exploration, such as the secluded coves of the Calanques National Park, where azure waters meet rugged cliffs in a breathtaking tableau.
Day 15
Barcelona
Barcelona, a city defined by its innovative spirit from the architectural wonders of Gaudto the bustling medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, offers a vivid window into Spains artistic soul. The city benefits from a Mediterranean climate, ensuring pleasant weather perfect for leisurely explorations of its many districts. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian utilize Barcelona as a key port, giving travelers the chance to immerse themselves in a blend of modernist architecture and vibrant local life. An intriguing fact about Barcelona is its beach was artificially created in preparation for the 1992 Olympics, showcasing the city's ability to ingeniously reinvent itself while maintaining its historical roots.
Welcome to Ponta Delgada, where the echoes of its maritime past whisper tales of exploration and discovery. Here, amidst the gentle waves of the Atlantic Ocean, cruise lines anchor to unveil the hidden gems of Portugal's Azores archipelago. Set against a backdrop of lush greenery and volcanic landscapes, Ponta Delgada offers a climate that dances between subtropical and temperate, creating an ideal setting for leisurely exploration. Cruise-goers seeking an authentic escape from the ordinary will find themselves immersed in the vibrant local culture, where quaint cobblestone streets lead to bustling markets and charming cafes. As the gateway to S Miguel Island, Ponta Delgada boasts a unique blend of Old World charm and modern allure. A testament to its volcanic origins, visitors can bathe in the natural hot springs of Ferraria, a rejuvenating experience unlike any other.
In the annals of maritime lore, Lisbon stands as a testament to resilience, having weathered centuries of conquest and exploration. Its labyrinthine streets whisper tales of Moorish conquests and Age of Discovery triumphs, each cobblestone a silent witness to the city's rich past. Beneath the warm Mediterranean sun, Lisbon exudes an undeniable charm, drawing travelers seeking an authentic escape from the beaten path. From its vibrant neighborhoods to its serene waterfront, Lisbon offers a glimpse into Portugal's soul, where fado music reverberates through alfresco cafes, and the aroma of freshly baked pasts de nata fills the air, tempting even the most seasoned voyagers.
Journey to Cadiz, where the echoes of ancient civilizations resonate through its cobblestone streets. This maritime marvel boasts a colorful past, once a haven for Phoenician traders and a strategic outpost during Roman rule. Blessed with a Mediterranean climate, Cadiz offers balmy breezes and sun-kissed shores, perfect for leisurely exploration. Unlike bustling tourist hubs, Cadiz exudes authenticity, inviting travelers to savor its laid-back ambiance and discover hidden gems around every corner. As Spain's oldest continuously inhabited city, Cadiz proudly showcases its maritime heritage, including the renowned Carnival of Cadiz, a festive extravaganza dating back over three centuries.
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Mallorca, Palma de Mallorca beckons with a captivating blend of history and charm. Its story unfolds through the ages, from Roman conquests to Moorish rule, leaving behind a tapestry of architectural wonders. Beneath the Mediterranean sun, Palma offers a mild climate, perfect for leisurely exploration year-round. Away from tourist traps, it reveals authentic Spanish life in its bustling markets and vibrant squares. As a showcase of the country's essence, Palma captures hearts with its traditional festivals and local delicacies like ensaada pastries. An interesting fact: Palma boasts one of Europe's largest Gothic cathedrals, La Seu, a testament to its enduring grandeur.
Nestled along the shimmering shores of the Mediterranean, Marseille beckons with a vibrant past steeped in maritime lore. Its bustling port has been a hub of trade and cultural exchange for centuries, with influences from Europe, Africa, and the Middle East converging in its bustling streets. Blessed with a mild Mediterranean climate, Marseille offers a haven for sun-seekers year-round, while its labyrinthine alleys and bustling markets promise an authentic taste of French life. Beyond the tourist hotspots, hidden gems await exploration, such as the secluded coves of the Calanques National Park, where azure waters meet rugged cliffs in a breathtaking tableau.
Barcelona, a city defined by its innovative spirit from the architectural wonders of Gaudto the bustling medieval streets of the Gothic Quarter, offers a vivid window into Spains artistic soul. The city benefits from a Mediterranean climate, ensuring pleasant weather perfect for leisurely explorations of its many districts. Cruise lines such as Royal Caribbean and Norwegian utilize Barcelona as a key port, giving travelers the chance to immerse themselves in a blend of modernist architecture and vibrant local life. An intriguing fact about Barcelona is its beach was artificially created in preparation for the 1992 Olympics, showcasing the city's ability to ingeniously reinvent itself while maintaining its historical roots.
Ship was spotless and crew were fabulous. Entertainment lacklustre, food only OK. Itinerary 8 out of ten, however port timings disappointing. Booked complete package including hotels and transfers, these were all very good. Also had more at sea which worked very well for us, very good value for money overall
This was our 5th cruise with NCL (all on different ships) and whilst we had a good time, we were slightly disappointed with the Joy. The food was not as good as we have had on previous NCL cruises and the entertainment on offer was decidedly "underwhelming"
Having only cruised once before NCL was top of my list for our next cruise and it did not disappoint. But of a hairy start due to a flight delay but once we arrived at the terminal it was nothing but plain sailing from there. Beautiful ship couldn't tell that it was one of the older ones in the fleet. We had a balcony stateroom which was a lovely size. Pool area was great obviously got busy but there were plenty of beds on the other decks that it was never a problem finding one. Food was great in all the restaurants if you get the chance try the speciallity ones, but have to say the buffet was one of the best I've ever experienced and never had to queue. What made the cruise particularly special was the crew always friendly and helpful with the exception of guest services ironically!
Would love to sail on the Pearl again to see the changes after the scheduled refurb.
Norwegian Prima lived up to her name, providing us a great cruise experience from New York through the Carribean and back. Entertainment, dining, bars and restaurants all top notch as were cabin, crew and Ports O Call. Highlights ? From being perched on a steel girder 63 floors up Top of The Rock at Rockerfeller centre, recreating the iconic image of the steel crew at lunch during Rockerfeller construction in 1932 to the balmy breeze and warm beach days of St Thomas, St Kitts and Tortola, this cruise was a magical mixture of seasons and cultures. Fabulous.
Key issues included .... 1. Missed Two (2) Ports of call !!!! (excuses made) 2. our Son refused use of Golf & Gymn when days later any child was useing 3. Incompetent management of Complaints on board & worse with Head Office (refunded us just the Tips so staff suffered) No Escalation action. 4. Balcony Stateroom turned out very small - could not pass through without everyone on their bed / Bed Lamp was behind my head 5. Communications were always faulty included wrong locations ; wrong dates ; different on TV to announcements & hard copy 6. Health & Safety of Safety Briefing was a tick box ; buffet had boiling tea alongside children running past . 7. "Golf" was an old net and had three Left Handed clubs.
* What was good = Main Dining & Housekeeping.
We are Platinum members of NCL and have felt letdown by NCL. The standards have dropped. The privileges have been reduced and the shows are not as spectacular as before. We enjoyed the destinations and the food.
We were right by the engine which was very noisy and the extra money we paid for the outside cabin was a small rusty porthole not worth looking out of.
We were moved to a cabin away from the noise even though we were initially told that the ship was full.
Despite these issues we enjoyed the cruise.
Excellent itinerary, food good, bathroom no issue, even with 2 teenagers sharing the cabin, entertainment great, condition of the ship very good. We had a great time and would book again without a second thought...
