Call us free on 0800 023 1273
Mobiles / International call 0203 371 7641
7th May 2026 | 25 nights | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Sun
Why do we love this cruise holiday? Start off with 3-nights in Cape Town, already included, which gives plenty of time to soak up the sights and maybe even head off on safari or up Table Mountain – just ask if you fancy adding that on. Then it’s all aboard the Norwegian Sun for a 22-night sailing that winds up the African coast, popping into the Atlantic islands Madeira, Tenerife, and Gran Canaria, before calling at Vigo and then swiftly finishing up in Southampton. It’s a bit of an adventure without the faff – no need to plan every detail or repack every other day. The itinerary’s not your everyday route either, so for what’s bundled in, it’s a clever way to tick off some properly interesting places in one go, with a bit of sea breeze thrown in for good measure.
What's included?
Want to go all-inclusive on your cruise? Ask our team about Norwegian's great value Free At Sea package.
Cruise Circle Collection packages adhere to our 7 point charter:
Today your holiday begins with a flight to Cape Town.
Welcome to Cape Town! Check-in to your 4* hotel for a 3-night stay.
Spend a day exploring this world-famous city.
Spend another day at your leisure.
Luanda, the capital of Angola, is a port city on the west coast of Southern Africa. A seafront promenade known as the Marginal runs alongside Luanda Bay. Nearby is the well-preserved 16th-century Fortress of São Miguel, which now contains the Museum of the Armed Forces.
These islands are very much off the beaten path and present the visitor a tropical paradise with verdant rainforests, excellent opportunity for spotting exotic birds, gushing waterfalls and empty, pristine beaches. Relax on the many beaches, hike to the summit of Pico de São Tomé or go inland to search for some of the 109 species of orchid that decorate the landscape.
Situated on the picturesque Ébrié Lagoon, Abidjan is a dynamic city known for its unique blend of modernity and traditional African charm.
Begin your exploration of Abidjan in the bustling district of Plateau, the city's central business district and home to many of its iconic landmarks. Admire the stunning architecture of St. Paul's Cathedral and the Presidential Palace, and stroll through the lush greenery of the Banco National Park, an urban oasis in the city's heart.
A visit to Abidjan would only be complete with exploring the vibrant markets that line its streets. Head to the Treichville Market to browse a colourful array of traditional African textiles, handicrafts, and souvenirs. Alternatively, sample local delicacies at the bustling Cocody Market, where vendors sell everything from fresh produce to spicy street food.
To taste Abidjan's thriving arts and culture scene, don't miss the opportunity to visit the vibrant neighbourhoods of Marcory and Adjamé, where you'll find bustling art galleries, theatres, and live music venues showcasing the best of Ivorian talent.
Dakar has become known as a window between 'West Africa and the Western World.' You'll find evidence of French rule in the architecture, whilst many peaceful islands and beautiful beaches will beckon to you.
Gran Canaria is a prime choice for the sun worshippers and water babies who flock to its abundant soft-sand beaches. Its port, Las Palmas, is the biggest city in the Canary Islands chain, and it's often visited by cruise ships. The island enjoys a spring-like climate year-round. Expect sunny days, warm water and an average annual temperature of a mild 69 degrees. Gran Canaria gets just about 10 days of rain each year. Like most Canarian cities, Las Palmas owns a distinctly Spanish feel and a rich history (the Canary Islands are an autonomous region of Spain). Conquistadors -- attracted by palm groves and a broad bay -- founded the city in 1478, and Christopher Columbus called there during his famous voyage of 1492. The port's palm tree-lined streets are clean, well laid out and richly endowed with fabulous floral displays -- the city's gardeners make the most of the balmy climate. And you don't have to travel far to find a pleasant beach; the honey-sanded Playa de las Canteras lies just northwest of the downtown area and has the distinction of being one of the longest city beaches in the world. The port also lies close to the internationally famous sea resort Playa del Ingles and the spectacular desert scenery of Maspalomas. Both are popular resorts year-round, so you will find plenty of dining and lazy beach options. Farther afield, visitors can discover quaint old towns like Arucas and Teror or explore Gran Canaria's volcanic interior -- a surreal moonscape of craggy gorges and gaping craters.
Blooming with beautiful flora, discover Funchal's colourful botanical gardens and flower markets. If you're feeling adventurous, take the cable car up to the hilltop town of Monte, then the famous toboggan run back down again.
Located on the south coast of England, Southampton served as the historic ocean liner gateway for the British Empire and the intense North Atlantic passenger trade to the U.S. and Canada. Today it is the U.K.'s - and indeed Europe's -- leading cruise port.
Best known as the homeport of Cunard's Queen Mary 2, Southampton now hosts a wide variety of cruise ships in the booming European cruise market with the principal lines being Cunard, Fred. Olsen, Royal Caribbean, P&O Cruises and Saga Cruises.
For most cruise passengers, it's the first and/or last port on a European cruise or Atlantic crossing. But New York it ain't, and the first thing you see as you approach is not the Statue of Liberty or the Empire State Building, but a giant IKEA.
A pleasant, bustling city of around a quarter of a million inhabitants, Southampton has several areas of interest, though much of its historic medieval character was destroyed during World War II. In 1620, the Mayflower left from just outside the existing city walls, and the waterfront recalls this historic voyage. From Mayflower Park, you can enjoy watching the container ships pass en route to and from the freight terminal beyond the Western Docks, cruise ships departing from three separate locations, and excursion boats and cross-harbour ferries flitting around the port. Today, it is a modern shopping destination, business centre and university town (the University of Southampton is a major British research university; among its well-known alumni is QM2 designer Stephen Payne with a large commercial port in addition to its year-round cruise operations.
It's not somewhere you want to hang around (unless you want to pick up some flat-pack furniture), and most visiting cruise passengers will use Southampton as a gateway to nearby London (an hour and 10 minutes away by train). It is also a good starting point for the Isle of Wight (reachable by ferry) and the surrounding county of Hampshire and Wiltshire, with their numerous attractions.
Built in 2001, Norwegian Sun underwent a three-week bow-to-stern renovation in May 2018, which resulted in refreshed staterooms, restaurants and public spaces, and three new venues -- Los Lobos Cantina, Bliss Ultra Lounge and Spinnaker Lounge.
Part of the cruise line's Norwegian Edge program -- which was designed to elevate the standard of excellence across its fleet -- the revitalized Norwegian Sun boasts lots of bright, open spaces both inside and out; cosy, intimate nooks throughout the ship; and signature favourites that are popular with Norwegian Cruise Line passengers. Ocean lovers will appreciate the amount of sea blues and wave-like design elements around the ship, from the atrium, various lounges and restaurants to staterooms and the spa.
The bright multi-deck atrium, complete with a large circular skylight at the top, is the hub of the ship and features three decks of shopping, lounging and learning about your cruise. Four inward-facing glass elevators make for great views of the action below. A midsized ship with less than 2,000 passengers (double occupancy), Norwegian Sun is big enough to offer plenty of onboard amenities and space, yet small enough to not feel overwhelming. Service is spot on, with crew members around the ship who are highly visible, friendly and eager to help, whether it's to point you in the direction of the lounge, answer a question about a shore excursion or handle a special stateroom request.
Norwegian Cruise Line favourites remain, such as the ship's fun, relaxed atmosphere and action-packed days and nights, its can't-miss sunshine hull artwork and the clever way of reminding passengers which direction they're going in stateroom hallways: The fish on the carpet swim forward (except, of course, that one rebellious fish). Side note: Try the Rebellious Fish cocktail.
Daytime: Norwegian's casual dress code is about as relaxed as you can get. By day, pool wear and resort casual are acceptable around the ship.
Evening: At night, dress is "cruise casual," which means khakis, jeans, shorts, casual shirts and no tank tops for men and casual dresses, skirts, pants, capris, shorts, nice jeans and tops for women. In the evening, resort casual and shorts are allowed in all dining venues except Le Bistro and Seven Seas Restaurant. Tank tops, flip-flops or baseball caps are not allowed anywhere. One night per cruise features the chance to take photos with the captain, so many passengers choose to go all-out in their fancy clothes, especially if they scored an invite to the captain's cocktail party. Others still prefer to keep it casual and stick with shorts by the pool, which is perfectly fine as well. There is no formal policy onboard. Also, don't forget to pack you best whites for the White Hot Party, which is held every cruise.
Not permitted: As far as dining dress guidelines, during the day as well as in the Garden Cafe for breakfast, lunch or dinner, passengers must wear cover-ups, shirts and footwear. Some restaurants also require a collared shirt and slacks (shorts don't count). Tank tops and baseball caps are also never permitted.
Theatre
The two-deck 958-seat Stardust Lounge (Decks 6 and 7) welcomes you with a bright, large chandelier at its entrance, plush comfortable seating with cupholders and some with accompanying tables, and colours of rich burgundies and tans adorning the seats, the carpeting and the curtains. The lounge is the venue for a variety of evening stage shows including "Rock You Tonight," a musical tribute to rock icons such as Queen, Journey, The Who and Tina Turner; "World Beat," a theatrical showcase of cultures from around the world from New York City to South Africa to China; as well as comedians and other evening entertainment. There is one showing each night and seating is first-come, first-served. Doors usually open 30 minutes prior to showtime. During the day, the theatre is used for Bingo, movies, port shopping talks and other activities.
Daily Fun
Daytime activities run the gamut and include trivia contests about TV shows, music or more; interactive games in all forms such as bingo (with cash and cruise prizes), Scattergories and Deal or No Deal; Ping-Pong tournaments; various arts and crafts classes, including origami, card-making or napkin-folding; newly released movie showings; silent and live art auctions and fitness and wellness classes and seminars.
If you prefer to spend your days poolside, it's hard to miss the standing-deck-only contests such as the Mr. Sexy Legs competition or the Miss Norwegian Sun pageant. Other poolside activities include sail-away celebrations, live music, ice-carving demonstrations and other pool games. Want more? Keep an eye out for towel-animal folding, captain and senior officers Q&As, and wine pairings and classes (an extra fee applies for select art and wine classes).
At Night
Besides the main production shows, you'll find music galore, from live music by the pool, soft piano music in the lounges, karaoke contests, all sorts of dance classes, energetic DJ music and parties well into the night. There are also plenty of game shows, comedians, liquor tastings and art classes, bustling casino tournaments (slots, blackjack and Texas Hold'em) and games (slots, card games, roulette and baccarat), LGBTQ socials and more. Don't miss the White Hot Party (and its after-party) in the Bliss Lounge. It's Norwegian's signature dance party where passengers come donned in their best whites, neon glow accessories and dancing shoes. With so many things going on at night in different venues, it means no overcrowding in any given area.
Atrium Cafe and Bar (Deck 5) Centrally located in the hub of the atrium is this nice gathering spot to meet up with fellow passengers. With lots of seating, including barstools and comfortable tables and chairs, you can enjoy a cocktail or a speciality coffee, tea, pastry or chocolate (extra fees apply), complete with ocean views to one side and people-watching to the other. Open from early morning to late at night, typically 7 a.m. to midnight.
Bliss Ultra Lounge (Deck 5): Bliss Ultra Lounge is a bar and nightclub that doubles as an activities space during the day. A modern updated look includes new plush seating (lots of chairs and couches) in cream and deep burgundies and a fun polka-dot motif that starts at the glass entryway doors and continues to the carpeting and the cool lighted bar. After 11 p.m., Bliss becomes adults-only.
Windjammer Bar (Deck 6): This intimate nautical-themed bar, complete with leather and wicker chairs, maritime artwork and a glass-enclosed sailing ship model, is a favourite spot for live piano music and other nightly tunes over a speciality martini or other cocktail. During the day, you'll find it's a venue for trivia, games, arts and crafts, and other activities.
Havana Club (Deck 6): The intimate and dim cigar lounge, which is tucked behind the Windjammer Bar, features comfortable dark leather couches and oversized chairs and tables in a cosy setting that feels like a hidden escape. Enjoy a cocktail or spirit, including super-premium options like cognac or cordials, and select from a menu of cigars by the stick or by the tin. Cigars range in price from $5.95 for a Partagas No. 4 to $16.95 for a Cohiba Churchill or Davidoff Millennium 2000.
The Champagne Bar (Deck 7): Centrally located in the atrium, the Champagne Bar is a quiet spot to sip on -- what else? -- a bit of bubbly while taking in the action. Besides premium Champagnes (a glass of Veuve Clicquot is $23.75 and a bottle is $95), there's also vodka, caviar, pate and foie gras on the menu, making for a nice option for a gathering with friends.
Casino Bar (Deck 7): Located in the Sun Casino is the Casino Bar, which serves up cocktails and conversation for those partaking in casino games. Cigarette smoking is permitted when open during casino hours.
Sports Bar (Deck 11): This fun sports bar is the place to grab a beer and some bar food and check out whatever sporting event is on the big screens. The wood floors, wall panelling, long bars and countertops, dark leather seating, sports memorabilia and even a penny souvenir machine make for a quaint pub-like atmosphere. Also, it's the bar for night owls because it's open the latest (until 3 a.m.).
Topsiders Bar (Deck 11): The super-casual poolside Topsiders Bar is where you can grab a drink while still keeping an eye on your deck chair. Refreshing beverages include drinks of the day such as the line's signature Rebellious Fish (vodka, passion fruit puree, triple sec, orange and sparkling wine) and the sail-away-favourite Bahama Mama (white rum, gold rum, coconut rum, lemon juice, fresh pineapple, orange and grenadine), as well as all the bar staples you desire. Open hours vary, but it's mostly during peak pool hours. In addition, Topsiders Juice Bar also serves up a variety of fresh juices including orange, grapefruit, apple, carrot, celery, cucumber and more ($3.25 per glass) from early morning to early evening.
Great Outdoors Bar (Deck 11): Located all the way aft alongside the Great Outdoors Grill, this bar comes with good eats and great views. Grab a drink and then pull up a seat at one of the many sunny or shady seats and simply relax and take in the sea around you.
Spinnaker Lounge (Deck 12): The forward-facing Spinnaker Lounge, showcases a fresh design with colours of blue, beige and tan; new leather chairs, carpet, chandeliers, wall coverings and a stone top bar; and new Cuba-inspired artwork, including photographs and old travel posters that line the entryway to the lounge as well as surround the room. It's a serene place to relax and gaze at the panoramic ocean views by day and take in a variety of live music and dancing at night.
Champs Bar (Deck 12): Overlooking the Oasis pool and with ocean views in every direction, this casual, lively bar also features numerous tables and chairs with umbrellas for what's also one of the ship's smoking areas.
Pools
The main Oasis pool area consists of two swimming pools and four hot tubs. While it's sometimes hard to find a lounge chair right next to the pool, especially on sunny sea days, go a deck up and you'll find plenty more lounge chairs, tables and chairs on deck and next to Champ's Bar, which overlooks the pool.
There's also a small kids' pool area on Deck 12 that essentially consists of a hot tub and a mini-slide that leads to a tiny wading pool where parents can hang out in the water with their little ones. (Kids must be potty trained to use the pools; swim diapers are not permitted.)
Recreation
Deck 12's sports activities include good ol' shuffleboard, a Ping-Pong table, golf driving nets and a net-enclosed basketball/volleyball court.
Sun Deck
Above the pool on Deck 12 is a sea of blue chaise loungers as well as tables and chairs in front of Champs Bar. It's often more crowded right above the pool, but head forward or aft and you should be able to find a chair, even on busy sea days. Another great outdoor space where you can grab a seat in the sun, or in the shade under a large canopy if you prefer, is in front of the Great Outdoors grill, all the way aft on Deck 11, complete with wake views.
Onboard services include the quaint East Indies Library where you can take out books and play board games and card games. Library hours usually include an hour on embarkation day, a morning hour and evening hour on port days and two morning hours and two afternoon hours on sea days. A nice selection of books fill floor-to-ceiling glass-enclosed bookcases around the room. There are also three small conference rooms, a chapel for at-sea nuptials or vow renewals, a medical centre and valet laundry service. (There is no self-service laundry fleetwide.)
You'll find a wealth of information in the atrium, including the shore excursion desk, a restaurant reservations desk, guest services, the port and shopping consultant desk and the CruiseNext desk, where you can take advantage of future cruise savings. Also surrounding the atrium are the computer stations of the Internet Cafe as well as shops selling everything from high-end watches and jewellery to fragrances, logo items, cruise merchandise and other souvenirs.
An art gallery is open for browsing during various evening hours, and there are silent and live art auctions throughout the cruise, complete with free artwork, raffles and Champagne. Feel free to pose questions to the knowledgeable art specialists from Park West Gallery if you spot a piece of interest.
Also, open for browsing (during various daily hours) is the photo gallery, where you simply locate the binder that coordinates with the photo number on your key card (not your cabin number), review the printed photos and decide on purchases. You can also swipe your card at one of the computer stations to see other photo options that can be created using your photos. This is a much easier way to find your ship photos rather than having to search along a wall of photos. The photo gallery also sells cameras, accessories and gifts. For a more formal photography session, the Perspectives Photo Studio offers an array of professional photography settings and options.
Shipwide Wi-Fi is available for laptops and smartphones throughout the ship and the Internet Cafe is open 24/7 (with select manager's hours). Packages include: Unlimited Wi-Fi ($29.99 per day) for unlimited web surfing, email access (no VPN), social media access and all apps; Unlimited Premium Wi-Fi ($34.99 per day) for unlimited web surfing, email access (including VPN), social media access, all apps and streaming; Unlimited Social Media ($14.99 per day) for access to the majority of social media sites (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat, WeChat, etc.); and a 250-Minute Anytime Internet package ($125). Note: You can save up to 15 percent on Wi-Fi packages if you book online ahead of your cruise. In addition, you can stay in touch using in-stateroom phones ($4.99/minute).
The Norwegian iConcierge app, which you can download from the Apple or Android app stores, will keep you up-to-date about what's happening onboard; allow you to book shore excursions and make dinner reservations; and, for a nominal fee, call friends onboard or back home and text friends onboard. In addition, large TV monitors around the ship list the scheduled activities happening that day, dining availability for different time slots ("plenty of room," "filling up fast" and "worth the wait") and onboard promotions.
Spa
One of the spaces given a fresh design during the 2018 dry dock was the Mandara Spa & Salon on Deck 11, which features a reception desk and sitting area that leads to 12 treatment rooms, sauna and steam rooms, changing rooms and a relaxation area with serene ocean-view seating with a soothing blue and cream colour scheme. The spa space may be small compared to today's mega-ship spa standards (it's 1,231 square feet), but it boasts a long list of treatments and seminars.
The spa menu features a variety of Elemis facials; Swedish, aroma stone, bamboo, reflexology and couples massages; body treatments such as cellulite reduction, aroma spa seaweed massage and salt scrubs; and acupuncture. There are also medi-spa cosmetic services available including FDA-approved treatments such as Thermage CPT, Restylane Dermal Filler, Dysport and Botox cosmetic wrinkle treatments.
Special spa deals are offered throughout the cruise including embarkation-day offers, multiple-booking savings or port-day value pricing. There are also complimentary spa and health seminars scheduled throughout the cruise from Detox for Health and Weight Loss to Improving Posture and Relieving Pain with Good Feet. (Keep in mind, most of the seminars are intended to sell you something.)
A full-service salon, also with ocean views, provides hair services from cuts, styles and colouring to hair treatments like deep conditioning and Keratin. There are also nail services like manicures, pedicures and acrylics; waxing services; and special TimeforMen Barbering Services.
Note: An 18 percent gratuity is added to your spa and salon bill at checkout. Spa hours are 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., except on the last day of the cruise when it closes at 8 p.m. Passengers must be at least 18 years of age to receive spa treatments or use the spa facilities unless participating in the kids or teen program. Salon services are available to all ages.
Fitness
The Pulse Fitness Center on Deck 11 encompasses an aerobics room for fitness classes throughout the day as well as an equipment room complete with treadmills, bikes, rowing machines, ellipticals and free weights. Both rooms boast floor-to-ceiling windows for wide ocean views while you work out. A full schedule of daily classes includes complimentary options such as Morning Stretch, Fab Abs and Total Body Conditioning as well as specialized fitness classes that range from yoga, Pilates and indoor cycling to TRX and Norwegian Fight Club ($12 to $25 per class). You can also opt for a Cruise Class Pass for $29, which allows you to choose from any classes (availability is limited, so you need to sign up to reserve your spot). Or sign up for a personal training session ($45/30 minutes or $85/hour), a Body Composition Analysis ($35) or a nutritional consultation ($85).
The fitness centre is open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. and no children under the age of 16 are permitted. An 18 percent service charge is added to all extra-fee fitness classes and services.
In addition, Norwegian Sun boasts a jogging/walking track on Deck 6 (jogging is allowed only between 8 a.m. and 8 p.m.).
With 15 dining options onboard, passengers have plenty of dining options both day and night. The food aboard Norwegian Sun showcases a wide variety of quality, flavorful dishes no matter where you choose to dine. Those with dietary requirements, whether vegetarian or with certain ingredient aversions, will have no problem finding dishes to suit their needs. Check the Freestyle Daily to identify which outlets are open for breakfast, lunch and dinner each day as hours will vary.
Diners planning to book multiple reservations at speciality venues should consider the Specialty Dining Package, which allows them to sample a variety of dining options for one set price ($69 per person for three-meal package, $84 per person for four-meal; plus 20 percent gratuity and speciality service charge.) (If purchased online in advance, you'll save $10 off the price.) Alcohol is not included in the price and additional entree charges may apply for dining at Cagney's Steakhouse and Le Bistro.
Free Dining
Four Seasons Main Dining Room (Deck 5): The whimsical Four Seasons Restaurant has spirals on the carpet, pink curtains, etched floral designs and chandeliers, and twinkling lights overhead. The contemporary restaurant features a wide variety of menu selections that include five courses that change nightly and a list of wines by the glass or bottle that includes whites, roses and an extensive selection of reds from light to medium to full intensities, as well as North & South, Norwegian Cruise Line's handcrafted proprietary wines. Menus indicate which items are gluten-free and vegetarian options. Open for dinner only.
Seven Seas Main Dining Room (Deck 5): Diners are greeted with stunning stained-glass artwork depicting the ocean's waves over the doors of the traditional-style Seven Seas Restaurant. Inside, the carpet and decorative glass dividers mimic the pattern of waves and the earth's continents as well. There's something for everyone on the menu, which changes daily and includes a wide variety of salads, soups and starters to eggs, burgers, sandwiches, entrees and some seriously delicious desserts. Menus change daily and include North & South, Norwegian Cruise Line's handcrafted proprietary wines. Soups and salads can be served as a starter or main course, and a garden salad, selection of sliced fruit, ice cream and sherbet are always available. Service is attentive with plenty of wait staff helping to get meals out quickly and as you ordered them. Open for breakfast and dinner as well as lunch on select days during each sailing.
Garden Cafe (Deck 11): This busy Lido buffet area is often crowded and sometimes congested. However, it's worth the wait for the wide variety of dishes including several speciality items such as an omelette station at breakfast and made-to-order crepes at select meals. Lunch and dinner include a salad bar and fruit; main dishes of meat, potatoes and vegetables; tempting pastries and breads (including Norwegian's signature pretzel rolls); a pasta station and a variety of pizzas. For dinner, the Garden Cafe often boasts regional culinary themes from Cuban to Italian to Asian. You can order a drink from a server; grab a drink at one of several complementary self-service beverage stations that include water, soda (only on drinks-included sailings), iced tea, juices, milk, coffee and tea; or bring an alcoholic beverage from a nearby bar. Garden Cafe is open often, including an early-riser buffet from 5:30 to 6:30 a.m., breakfast buffet from 6:30 to 10:30 a.m., lunch buffet from noon to 3:30 p.m., dinner buffet from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. and late-night snacks from 9:30 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. You can also grab an ice cream here from 11:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.
The Great Outdoors (Deck 11): Located all the way aft on Deck 11, past the Garden Cafe, this popular spot boasts an outdoor grill buffet for breakfasts of eggs, potatoes, fruit and hot cereal, plus cooked-to-order lunches and dinners of burgers, chicken, fries and more. There's a huge canopy providing lots of shaded tables in addition to other sunny seating overlooking amazing wake views. Don't be shy if you want to just grab a plate of fries and a drink from the accompanying Great Outdoors Bar. Typically open long hours for breakfast from 8 a.m. to noon., lunch from noon to 3:30 p.m., late-afternoon snack from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. and dinner from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. (weather permitting).
Sports Bar (Deck 11): This classic sports bar serves up favourite bar foods from 5:30 p.m. to 5 a.m. including Buffalo wings, warm spinach and artichoke dip, burgers and fish 'n' chips while the surrounding big screens play sporting events. Adorned with lots of wood, dark leather seating and sports memorabilia, it's a fun spot for a casual meal. When food is not being served, you are welcome to bring your plate from the nearby Great Outdoors buffet and order an accompanying drink from the bar.
Moderno Churrascaria (Deck 11): Perhaps the ship's best-kept secret (although not actually a secret -- details are in the Freestyle Daily) is that Moderno is open on a complimentary basis for breakfast and lunch. Breakfast features a deluxe continental spread while lunch features a pizza and pasta station. It's a quieter just-as-delish alternative to the other buffets. Hours vary, but breakfast is typically 7 to 10:30 a.m. and lunch is noon to 2:30 p.m.
Room Service: Complimentary continental breakfast is available from 6:30 to 10 a.m. and can be ordered by placing the breakfast service door hanger on your stateroom door prior to 4 a.m. Continental menu items include fruit, yoghurt, cold cereal, freshly baked pastries and beverages.
Fee Dining
La Cucina (Deck 5); a la carte pricing: This intimate Italian eatery boasts plenty of romantic ocean-view tables for two as well as plush, round oversized booths for larger parties. The menu features Italian specialities from antipasti and insalata to pizzas and pastas to chicken, meat and fish. Save room for an Italian dessert and after-dinner drink. Open for dinner.
Moderno Churrascaria (Deck 11), $24.95: In the evening, Moderno transforms into a Brazilian churrascaria, where besides an extensive salad bar and traditional Brazilian sides like rice and black beans, yuca and more, skewers of slow-roasted premium cuts of meats (beef, pork, chicken and more) are carved tableside by experienced pasadores. Seafood dishes with shrimp and fish are also available. You're encouraged to dine at your own pace, just place the table marker green side up to keep the skewers coming, or switch to red to indicate you're ready for dessert. Wash it all down with a caipirinha, the national drink of Brazil. Open for dinner.
Le Bistro (Deck 12); a la carte pricing: A fresh new look with a modern square design theme that starts at the glass entry door and continues to the tables and chairs as well as the carpet of blues and greys. Blue curtains flank floor-to-ceiling windows while a large standing wine cabinet faces the room. The menu features fine French cuisine from escargots and duck to bouillabaisse and traditional French ingredients like creams, a variety of cheeses and mushrooms. Open for dinner.
Ginza Sushi (Deck 12); a la carte pricing: Book a table or grab a bright yellow seat at the sushi and sashimi bar and order your selections from the menu of fresh fish creations including nigiri, maki, temaki and speciality rolls. Open for dinner.
Teppanyaki (Deck 12), $29.95: Two hibachi tables (with four grills total) are situated in a private room (next to Ginza Sushi) that features sleek, modern red and black furniture, lighting and tableware as well as geisha artwork. Signature cocktails and classic Japanese teppanyaki dinner selections are served by entertaining hibachi chefs who cook your meal in front of you on the large grill while showing off their knife and culinary skills along the way. Open for dinner at select seating times (5 p.m., 5:15 p.m., 7 p.m., 7:15 p.m., 9 p.m., 9:15 p.m.).
Los Lobos Cantina (Deck 12); a la carte pricing: Added to Norwegian Sun during its 2018 dry dock, the line's popular Mexican restaurant offers a modern take on traditional favourites. Menu items include guacamole prepared tableside; tacos with grilled mahi-mahi, pork or poblano peppers and corn; chicken or pork enchiladas; house specialities such as Veracruz-style red snapper, carne asada and spiced shrimp skewers and, of course, delicious handcrafted margaritas (try the spicy version!). Los Lobos Cantina features leather banquettes, dark wood tables and ranchero-style design accents like numerous colourful skull and bull masks lining the walls and brown leather booths and chairs with Mexican patterns. Open for dinner.
Cagney's Steakhouse (Deck 12); a la carte pricing: Cagney's menu includes traditional American-style steakhouse specialities (serving premium Black Angus beef) whether you crave a 20-ounce porterhouse or an 8-ounce filet mignon. Also on offer are grilled garlic shrimp or sea bass and classic sides such as the signature Cagney fries with white truffle oil and Parmesan cheese, sauteed spinach or onion rings. Dessert brings choices including Oreo cheesecake, a macadamia nut ice cream sandwich or warm apple cardamom crisp. Linger long over dinner in this intimate setting with an attentive wait staff, a plentiful wine list and decor that boasts black and brown leather seating, porthole windows and carpeting that even resembles a cow pattern. Open for dinner for all passengers; also open for breakfast and lunch for select suite passengers.
Room Service; $9.95: Breakfast specials include omelettes and French toast, while an all-day menu (10 a.m. to 6:30 a.m.) includes soup, salads, fruit and cheese plates; sandwiches, pizza and entrees of pasta, chicken, steak and fish. A kids menu is also available with chicken fingers, grilled cheese sandwich, macaroni 'n' cheese and a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. Desserts such as cheesecake, strawberry pound cake and chocolate cake are also on offer. If you're in the mood to celebrate, a special occasion menu (11 a.m. to 11 p.m.) includes selections of cold hors d'oeuvres, a shrimp platter and international cheeses.
All 968 staterooms on Norwegian Sun have been upgraded with smart flat-screen TVs and USB ports as well as new carpet, abstract artwork and select furniture. The soothing decor is ocean-inspired with a palette of cool blues and silver and turquoise accents from the curtains to the bedding accessories. It was a little tight around the bed and in the bathroom in our balcony room, but the storage space is ample with a closet that includes hanging space, shelves and wire cubbies as well as numerous drawers and shelves in the stateroom.
Other amenities include a mini-fridge, coffee maker, safe and hair dryer. Bathrooms boast stand-up showers with plastic curtains (shower and bathtub in all mini-suites and suites); several shelves for toiletries that flank the mirror as well as ample counter space for your bathroom essentials. Provided toiletries include hand soap, body wash and conditioning shampoo. (Bvlgari bath products are provided in suite-level and higher accommodations.) We especially loved the light in the closet, which doubles as a perfect nightlight. Both 110- and 220-volt outlets are available on the desk, and USB ports and lights can be found bedside.
A range of stateroom categories are available, including family accommodations that can sleep up to five in various categories, as well as select connecting staterooms. There are 20 wheelchair/ADA accessible rooms in Balcony, Oceanview and Inside stateroom categories.
Interior: The 293 inside cabins range from 145 to 180 square feet. Family inside accommodations are 172 square feet and can sleep up to five with a sofa and pull-down beds for two.
Oceanview: There are 243 ocean-view staterooms ranging in size from 145 to 170 square feet and include either a porthole or picture window. Family ocean-view with picture-window accommodations are 170 square feet and can sleep up to five with a pull-down bed and convertible sofa
Balcony: The 380 balcony staterooms range from 198 to 235 square feet (all with a 48-square-foot balcony), including some that are aft-facing, some larger family accommodations that sleep up to four and some balcony staterooms that can sleep up to five. A solid door opens from the cabin onto the balcony.
Mini-Suite: The 32 mini-suites range from 322 to 387 square feet and include some that are aft-facing; they sleep up to four and feature sliding-glass doors to the balcony, a sitting area that can be divided by a curtain and a larger bathroom including a bathtub with shower as well as Bvlgari bath products. Standard mini-suite balconies are 48 square feet; aft-facing mini-suite balconies are 68 square feet.
Suite: There are 18 Penthouse Suites ranging in size from 443 to 504 square feet, including aft-facing and forward-facing versions. Penthouse Suite balconies range in size from 88 to 149 square feet. These suites sleep up to four and include a sitting area that can be separated by a curtain. The largest accommodations, two Owner's Suites, are 828 square feet each with a 258-square-foot balcony, sleep up to four and include a separate living room/dining room, walk-in closet and luxury bath with whirlpool bathtub. Passengers staying in either type of suite receive butler and concierge service.
Active families, picky eaters, and couples/groups who love to bar hop
People who can't stand crowds, or those seeking a relaxed onboard environment
Norwegian cruise ships draw a diverse crowd, though the majority of passengers on ships sailing to the Caribbean and in Alaska and Hawaii hail from North America. You'll find a decent number of people from other English-speaking countries, and smaller numbers from South America and Europe. On European cruises, North Americans still dominate but you'll find more people from the United Kingdom and other European countries. You'll find plenty of young families onboard Norwegian ships, especially during holidays and school breaks. However, the line's newest ship, Norwegian Bliss, is less family-friendly than the line's other ships, with all the kids clubs on the lowest levels of the ship and onboard entertainment that is decidedly adult. Generally speaking, Norwegian Cruise Line attracts mostly middle-aged and older couples, as well as groups of friends of all ages.
Norwegian Cruise Line maintains a casual atmosphere onboard; during the day, casual wear is the norm. There's no formal dress code at night either, though most people do change into something slightly less casual for dinner. Additionally, some of the speciality extra-fee restaurants do require long pants, collared shirts and closed-toe shoes. Most evenings you'll see men in dark jeans or khakis and collared shirts, and women in blouses with slacks or skirts, or sundresses. Don't be surprised if you see people in shorts in the main dining rooms. Norwegian doesn't have any formal nights, but there is an optional Norwegian's Night Out at least once per sailing, for which passengers are encouraged to dress up. You'll rarely see a tux or gown, but suits and cocktail dresses are not unheard of. Norwegian ships also typically hold several themed nights (glow party, '70s or '80s, etc.) during a typical sailing. You might want to bring a few appropriate items, such as white clothing for the glow and white parties or bell bottoms for '70s night.
No. Unless you have an all-inclusive dining or beverage package (which you can buy), you'll have to pay extra for most gratuities, speciality dining, room service, all drinks (alcoholic and non, except water, select juices at breakfast, and coffee and tea), shore excursions, visits to the spa and any retail purchases, including photos. On the newest ships, you'll also have to pay for some of the entertainment options and even some of the top-deck fun: On Norwegian Bliss, for example, the laser tag and go-karts cost extra.
On warm-weather cruises, the main pool is the line's most popular spot onboard. On ships with water slides, ropes courses, go-kart tracks and laser tag, these are also popular and often require a wait of up to 30 minutes or more. Inside, you'll find activities that range from trivia, bingo and Deal or No Deal during the day to song-and-dance revues or Broadway shows in the theatre and live music or cabaret shows in the evening. Norwegian ships also have a lively bar nightlife. There's also an always-busy casino, which opens when the ship is out to sea.
