With Encore being the newest and the biggest NCL ship ever to debut, it’s normal to expect a number of new and redesigned spaces/features and the return of fan favorites from previous Breakaway ships! Norwegian Encore is the last ship in the Breakaway class lineup. This class was revolutionary for the cruise industry and it’s loved by many so NCL made sure to make the last one special! Here are 8 things I love and I’d like to try out on Norwegian Encore!
Largest Race Track at sea
Norwegian Encore is a proud owner of the largest race track at sea with new twist and turns to make your ride even more memorable! Like the fact that you’re driving a go-kart at sea isn’t monumental enough! On Norwegian Encore, you can go for the gold on a race track that covers over 1,100 feet. This new course features 10 turns including 4 points that extend up to 13 feet over the side of the ship. There is also a viewing area where bystanders can watch the race. In addition, the crowd can provide their favorite drivers with a temporary speed boost for a victory across the finish line.
Laser Tag
This attraction that was proven to be very popular on sister ships Joy & Bliss made a return on the Encore but bigger than ever! Join a team, get suited up with a blaster, and prepare for the most thrilling laser tag experience at sea on Norwegian Encore. This lost city of Atlantis themed outdoor arena also includes augmented reality as part of each game. So, along with avoiding opponents, cruisers will also be on the lookout for “digital” objects which makes this game unlike anything else at sea.
Galaxy Pavillion
Norwegian Encore offers one of the most interactive and technologically advanced spaces at sea, the Galaxy Pavilion. The Pavilion first debuted on Norwegian Joy, and the cruise line has re-envisioned this venue to add even more out of this world fun on Norwegian Encore. This family-friendly space features a variety of virtual reality experiences including dark ride simulators, a drive simulator, a hand gliding simulator, a virtual reality escape room, and more. With all of these new features, this indoor venue is sure to be popular with cruisers of all ages. This feature is not included in your cruise fare but from what I’ve heard it’s worth every penny!
Broadway style shows – Kinky Boots
That’s right, Norwegian Encore features the Tony Award-winning musical Kinky Boots in the main theater. This Broadway production features original music from Grammy winner Cyndi Lauper and a top notch cast of singers and dancers. Also featured in the main theater is Choir of Man. This West End show debuted on Norwegian Escape and has been one of the best received shows on any Norwegian Cruise Line ship. These two main theater shows do require reservations, so be sure to book early, you don’t want to miss it!
Aquapark thrills
Similar to other NCL ships, Norwegian Encore has a water park featuring some of the most adventurous waterslides at sea. The Ocean Loops free fall slide will have you twisting and turning and even extending over the side of the ship during your ride. There is even a see-through portion so you can witness it all. Are you daring enough to experience this thrill? I am not, but there’s something for people like me too, like the multi-story Aqua Racer waterslide and the kids’ water park! But again, if you like freefall waterslides, Encore is the perfect ship for you!
Observation Lounge
One of my favorite features onboard NCL Encore is the Observation Lounge! Similar to NCL Bliss & Joy, Norwegian Encore has two observation areas. The Observation Lounge on deck 15 offers incredible views with floor to ceiling windows, making it the perfect place to soak in the scenery! This forward facing venue offers snacks during the day, as well as a full bar. Guests staying in the Haven have their very own Horizon Lounge offering a similar yet more private experience. These venues are the perfect spot for ultimate relaxation while admiring the panoramic views. I love quiet and cozy lounges so I’m sure I’d love the Observation lounge! This lounge is perfect for scenic itineraries such as perhaps any Alaskan itinerary or even better, imagine watching the Manhattan skyline from cozy loungers in the Observation lounge… perfect!
The Social Club
NCL cruisers are known to be friendly, and what better place to mingle than the Social Club. This venue serves multiple purposes in the evenings, including regularly hosting comedy shows and transforming into a speakeasy for the one of a kind show Happy Hour Prohibition – The Musical. The Social is also the place to be for interactive dance parties like the Silent Disco and the after hours nightclub with the resident DJ. Late night party goers will love the dance floor, fully stocked bar, and cozy seating at this dynamic venue.
Coco’s
I love sweets and crepes and this restaurant has both! When it comes to dessert cravings, there is no better place to indulge your sweet tooth than Coco’s. It’s chocoholics dream come true. From the wide selection of ice cream sundaes and milkshakes to all the other chocolate specialties, you should definitely stop in for a mid-day snack or save some room for an after dinner treat. All items are priced a la carte but certainly worthy of the up-charge. Make sure to take your Instagram photos before digging in and tag me in them so I can suffer! Haha!
In conclusion, Norwegian Encore is a fun, action packed mega-ship. You won’t have a dull moment during your cruise on the Encore. Even if go-karts or laser tags aren’t your thing, there are many other attractions to enjoy in. I know I would love to just sit for hours in the Observation lounge and enjoy in my regular Starbucks order (YES! There’s a Starbucks onboard)! There’s something for everyone, it’s perfect for families and solo cruisers! Count me in!