Passengers: 2,340
Best for: Families, stimulation-craving adults, and anyone who likes a ship with lots of action
Sails: Bermuda, The Caribbean, New England & Canada
At a Glance: After undergoing a stem-to-stern refurbishment in 2016, Norwegian Dawn feels brand-new. You’ll find many of the same restaurants and bars you’d see on Norwegian’s larger ships.
You’ll Find Some of the Largest Suites at Sea
If you’re traveling in a multigenerational group or just want a little room to move, you’d do well to book one of the three-bedroom Garden Villas, a sprawling 6,694-square-foot complex with its own private garden, hot tub, and outdoor dining area. Like other suites, it also comes with butler and concierge service. If you’d prefer something more intimate, there are plenty of smaller options, no matter how many people you’re traveling with: Two-bedroom Family Suites, which sleep six, are 587 square feet, while the smallest Inside cabins are 142 and sleep up to four.
Related: Five Things to Know About Norwegian Cruise Line's Escape Cruise Ship
Five Things to Know About Norwegian Cruise Line's Sun Cruise Ship
It’s Great If You’re Active
Unlike on Norwegian’s newer ships, you won’t find a single waterslide or ropes course onboard. But between the indoor lap pool, main pool deck, arcade, spa, fitness center, and basketball court, you’ll find plenty to keep you active on sea days. Traveling with kids? The ship’s Splash Academy children’s program will entertain them with movie showings and dance parties.
The Spa Is a Sanctuary
With dozens of treatments on offer from hot stone massages to acupuncture, the Mandara Spa might be the most relaxing spot on the ship. One of the biggest draws is the Thermal Suite, where passengers come to take a dip in the hot tub, or sweat in the steam room.
The Restaurants Are Abundant
There are just about a dozen restaurants onboard, including the two main dining rooms and buffet restaurant. But those aren’t the only places to eat for free. O’Sheehan’s serves up complimentary pub grub like fish ‘n’ chips, while Bamboo dishes out Asian-fusion. But if you really want to treat yourself, make a reservation at one of the for-fee restaurants, most of which are à la carte. The newest spot is Los Lobos, where you can order Mexican favorites like quesadillas and carne asada marinated in guajillo chiles. For oysters Rockefeller and bone-in rib eye, try Cagney’s, Norwegian’s signature steakhouse. Other for-fee options include the Sushi Bar, Brazilian steakhouse Moderno Churrascaria, Italian eatery La Cucina, Japanese eatery Teppanyaki, and traditional French restaurant Le Bistro.
The Nightlife Is A Major Draw
Sip bubbly at Gatsby’s Champagne Bar, order rum drinks at Sugarcane Mojito Bar, hit the disco at Bliss Ultra Lounge, or try a tasting at The Cellars—A Michael Mondavi Family Wine Bar. As for entertainment, passengers can head to the Stardust Theater for the 70s-themed Band on the Run or improv from Second City.
