What is Included in the Norwegian Cruise Line Ticket Price?

When planning a cruise vacation, one of the most common questions travelers ask is: What is included in the Norwegian Cruise Line ticket price? Unlike traditional vacations where costs can add up quickly, cruises are known for their bundled pricing model that covers accommodations, meals, entertainment, and many onboard activities.

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is especially popular because of its “Freestyle Cruising” concept, giving guests the flexibility to enjoy their trip without strict schedules. But while much is included in the base fare, there are also optional extras that can enhance your experience at an additional cost.

This article provides a comprehensive breakdown of what’s included in your Norwegian Cruise Line ticket price, what’s not included, and how you can make the most of your cruise vacation budget.

Understanding the Basics of the Ticket Price

Your Norwegian Cruise Line ticket is more than just a way to board the ship—it is essentially an all-in-one vacation package. The fare covers a wide range of services that would otherwise be separate expenses if you were booking a land-based vacation.

In general, your ticket includes:

Accommodations (your stateroom or suite).
Main dining and casual dining options.
Entertainment and live shows.
Access to pools, fitness centers, and onboard activities.
Basic port fees and government taxes (depending on your booking).

However, optional purchases such as specialty dining, spa treatments, shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and alcoholic beverages typically come at an extra cost.

Accommodations

The most fundamental element included in your ticket is your stateroom or suite. Norwegian Cruise Line offers a wide variety of accommodations to fit different budgets and preferences.

Types of Staterooms Included:

Inside Staterooms – Affordable, comfortable rooms without windows.
Oceanview Staterooms – Feature a window or porthole for natural light.
Balcony Staterooms – Provide a private balcony with seating, ideal for views.
Mini-Suites and Suites – Larger spaces with added luxury.
The Haven by Norwegian – Exclusive suites with access to a private courtyard, lounge, and concierge service.

Regardless of the category, your room will include:

A comfortable bed (twins that can convert to queen or king in most cases).
Private bathroom with shower, sink, and toiletries.
Daily housekeeping service.
Television, safe, closet, and basic furnishings.
Climate control for comfort.

Dining Options

One of the biggest highlights of cruising with Norwegian Cruise Line is the variety of dining choices included in your fare.

Main Dining Rooms

Every ship has at least two main dining rooms, offering sit-down meals with waiter service. The menu changes daily and features international dishes, vegetarian options, and kid-friendly meals.

Buffets

The Garden Café buffet is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, serving a wide variety of cuisines, from hot entrees to fresh salads and desserts.

Casual & Quick-Serve Venues

Poolside grills serving burgers, hot dogs, and snacks.
24-hour dining at O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill on many ships.
Room service is available, though late-night orders may include a small fee.

Dietary Accommodations

Special requests for vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs can be made at no additional cost.

Entertainment

Entertainment is one of the most valuable inclusions in your Norwegian Cruise Line ticket price. NCL is known for Broadway-style shows, live music, and themed events that rival land-based venues.

Shows and Performances Included:

Broadway or West End-style productions.
Comedy acts and improv shows.
Live music in lounges and bars.
Game shows and interactive activities.
Poolside parties and themed deck events.

Most entertainment onboard is free of charge, though some specialty experiences may require reservations or have limited seating.

Onboard Activities

Beyond dining and entertainment, your cruise fare includes access to a wide variety of onboard recreational activities.

Pools and Sun Decks

Multiple pools, hot tubs, and water features are available on each ship.
Larger ships feature water parks with slides and splash zones for children.

Sports and Fitness

Fitness centers with modern equipment are free to use.
Sports courts for basketball, volleyball, and soccer.
Jogging tracks and open deck spaces.

Family and Kids’ Programs

Splash Academy offers supervised activities for kids ages 3–12.
Entourage Teen Club provides a safe and fun hangout space for teens.
Family-friendly events like movie nights and scavenger hunts.

Other Included Activities

Dance classes, trivia contests, and art shows.
Library and reading lounges.
Board games and card rooms.

Services Included

Housekeeping and Room Service

Your stateroom is cleaned daily, with fresh towels and turndown service. Basic room service is included, though late-night orders may come with a fee.

Basic Beverages

Included beverages typically cover:

Water (tap and filtered).
Coffee and tea (iced and hot).
Lemonade, iced tea, and some fruit juices (at breakfast).

Alcoholic beverages, bottled water, and sodas are not included unless you purchase a drink package.

Port Fees and Taxes

In many cases, government taxes and port fees are bundled into your fare. However, gratuities and service charges are usually extra.

What’s Not Included in the Ticket Price

To avoid surprises, it’s important to know what’s not covered in your Norwegian Cruise Line ticket.

Specialty Dining

While main dining rooms and buffets are free, specialty restaurants such as Cagney’s Steakhouse, Le Bistro, and Teppanyaki come with an additional fee.

Alcohol and Soft Drinks

Alcoholic beverages, specialty coffees, and sodas are not included.
Drink packages are available for purchase.

Shore Excursions

Excursions at each port are optional add-ons, though you may explore independently at no cost.

Gratuities

NCL applies a daily service charge per person, which goes toward crew gratuities. This is not included in the base ticket price.

Wi-Fi and Internet

Internet packages must be purchased separately, although promotions may sometimes include them.

Spa and Wellness

Massages, facials, thermal suites, and salon services are all extra.

Specialty Activities

Certain experiences, like go-kart tracks, laser tag, and escape rooms on select ships, may have additional fees.

How to Maximize Value from Your Ticket Price

Use Included Dining OptionsThe main dining rooms and buffets offer a wide range of cuisine at no extra cost. Take advantage of these before spending on specialty dining.
Enjoy Free EntertainmentBroadway-style shows and live music are already included, so reserve specialty experiences only if you want something extra.
Take Advantage of Free ActivitiesPools, fitness centers, sports courts, and kids’ clubs are all complimentary.
Look for PromotionsNorwegian Cruise Line frequently offers promotions such as Free at Sea, which may include beverage packages, Wi-Fi, or shore excursion credits at no additional cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Are gratuities included in the Norwegian Cruise Line ticket price?

No, gratuities are charged separately as a daily service fee.

2. Can I dine at specialty restaurants without paying extra?

Specialty dining requires an extra fee, but you can stick to the main dining rooms and buffets for no additional charge.

3. Are drinks included?

Basic beverages like water, coffee, tea, and some juices are included. Alcohol, soda, and specialty drinks are not.

4. Do I need to pay for onboard shows?

Most shows and live entertainment are included in your ticket price.

5. Is Wi-Fi included in the ticket price?

No, Wi-Fi packages must be purchased separately unless included in a promotion.

Conclusion

Your Norwegian Cruise Line ticket price includes much more than just transportation—it covers accommodations, main dining, entertainment, onboard activities, and basic services. This bundled pricing structure ensures that most essentials are taken care of, allowing you to enjoy your vacation without constantly worrying about added expenses.

However, knowing what is not included—such as specialty dining, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, Wi-Fi, and shore excursions—can help you plan and budget more effectively.

By understanding what your ticket covers and making smart choices, you can get the best value out of your Norwegian Cruise Line vacation while enjoying a truly memorable cruising experience.