Written by Jade, Digital Marketing Manager
In March 2026, I joined Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship, Norwegian Luna, for her inaugural sailing out of Rome. Over the next 36 hours, I experienced everything guests could expect on board, surrounded by fellow passengers who had also joined for her very first sailing.
I could see just how blown away everyone was, and honestly, I felt the same.
Norwegian Luna isn’t just any ordinary cruise ship…
Here’s why.
More Areas Built for Everyone
What I love most about Norwegian Luna is how spacious she feels. Big enough that you’re never in anyone’s pockets, yet cleverly designed with dedicated areas to suit the type of holiday each guest wants.
There’s so much space onboard. The Luna Theatre alone is bigger than some theatres in London, and the main pool deck easily competes with those found on rival cruise brands. Yet scattered throughout the ship are smaller enclaves that provide intimacy and connection, perfect when you want to slow the pace.
As mentioned above, there’s the lively buzz of activity zones on the top deck, packed with games and attractions that are perfect for families and children. However, what really impressed me was discovering the adults-only Vibe Beach Club.
This outdoor sanctuary offers plush solo and double loungers, infinity hot tubs, and its own private bar, the perfect spot to relax, socialise and enjoy cocktails as the sun sets. I absolutely loved this area. The atmosphere and surroundings were second to none.
Behind Vibe Beach Club sits The Haven, which is essentially a ship within a ship. This is Norwegian Cruise Line’s luxury experience, where guests can book suites within a private section closed off to everyone except Haven guests.
Here, you’ll find a private restaurant, lounge, bar, and outdoor areas, including what I genuinely think is the best view on the ship. An infinity pool at the back provides an unreal view of the ocean that feels almost touchable.
With The Haven comes exclusive perks such as a 24-hour private butler, priority boarding, and in-suite amenities including plush bathrobes and a Nespresso coffee maker. The atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming, not formal or intimidating, making it perfect for guests celebrating something special, whether that’s an anniversary or simply the holiday they deserve. I can honestly say this is something I’d 100% look at booking for a future cruise.
Norwegian Cruise Line is also renowned for its Studio Lounge, and after speaking to a guest onboard who has cruised solo with NCL for over a decade, I completely understand why.
The Studio Lounge forms another private area accessible only to solo travellers. The cabins feel cosy yet premium, and there’s a dedicated lounge space with seating and refreshments. Here, solo passengers can interact with fellow travellers as much or as little as they like, making it an ideal way to meet new people while travelling alone. Hats off to Norwegian Cruise Line for creating such a thoughtful concept at sea.
Some of the more intimate venues around the ship were just as impressive. My personal favourites included Swirl Wine Bar and Whiskey Bar, located next to each other and perfect for relaxing with a tipple or two.
The Observation Lounge is beautifully decorated and ideal for slow mornings with coffee, lazy afternoons reading a book, or enjoying a pre-show drink over a game of cards, all while looking out across the ocean.
And then, right at the top of my list, is Syd Norman’s. This place is cool. It feels like stepping into a bar on Matthew Street in Liverpool. Live music, a quirky rock atmosphere, and a nostalgic vibe that transports you straight back to the Beatles era.
Norwegian Luna is More Fun Than a Land Resort
I’m always telling my friends and family that cruising is the perfect choice for anyone travelling with children, or for anyone like me who simply can’t sit still on holiday. Norwegian Luna completely backs this up.
There are only so many times you can slide down the same water slide, play the same games, or watch the same entertainment at a land resort. On this ship, it’s a completely different story. Let’s just put it this way, you won’t be bored.
The activity choices are endless, and there were so many things to try that I packed as much as possible into my time onboard.
Here’s what I squeezed into just one sailing:
- Aqua Slidecoaster
- The Drop
- Glow Court
- Interactive Darts
- Pickleball
- Shuffleboard
- Crazy Golf
- Arcade
- Bowling
- Moon Climber
And that’s before even mentioning the entertainment.
As with most cruise ships, the entertainment onboard Norwegian Luna is outstanding, ranging from full-scale theatre productions to live singers and musicians in more intimate venues throughout the ship.
What really sets Norwegian Cruise Line apart, though, is how modern and immersive the entertainment feels. It’s less about traditional Broadway-style shows and more about high-energy productions that feel like interactive concerts.
One standout was A Celebration of Elton John, which felt lively, modern, and far more engaging than traditional theatre-style performances.
Luna also introduces a brand-new circus-themed private show, a first for Norwegian Cruise Line, creating a more exclusive entertainment experience like speciality performances found on cruise lines such as P&O Cruises or Virgin Voyages.
More Delicious Dining Options
The food onboard Norwegian Luna was plentiful and genuinely delicious.
The main dining rooms felt bright, modern and welcoming, perfect for everything from relaxed pancake breakfasts to elegant evening meals.
At lunchtime, the variety is impressive. Alongside the buffet and main dining rooms, venues such as The Observation Lounge and The Local Bar & Grill serve fresh bites throughout the day.
However, what truly sets Norwegian Luna apart is the Indulge Food Hall.
This concept reminded me of a UK-style food hall like Mackie Mayor in Manchester, bringing together multiple cuisines under one roof. Guests can order dishes from around the world using an iPad, with food delivered directly to their table.
There’s a great mix of seating too, from cosy booths to large circular tables and bar-style seating where you can watch chefs cooking in front of you. It’s lively, modern and honestly just really good fun.
I also loved how many dining venues, both included and speciality, offer outdoor seating along the side of the ship. Dining with ocean views and a sidewalk gives it that real land holiday feel.
The speciality restaurants are dotted throughout the ship, offering everything from the brand-new Teppanyaki Sukhothai to Italian-inspired dining at Onda by Scarpetta.
We also dined at Cagney’s Steakhouse, a venue I’d heard so much about from friends who had cruised with NCL before. Now I understand why.
The steak was mouth-wateringly good, and thoughtful touches like choosing your own steak knife and pairing wines made the experience feel special. I’d highly recommend ordering several desserts to share around the table. It’s the perfect way to finish the evening.
More Value from the All-Inclusive Free at Sea Package
If you’re sailing with Norwegian Cruise Line, I would absolutely recommend upgrading to the Free at Sea package, the value really is impressive.
The standard package costs £249pp for a seven-night cruise and includes:
- A beverage package with a wide range of alcoholic drinks – over 100 cocktails!
- Three speciality dining meals
- 150 minutes of Wi-Fi
- $50 shore excursion credit per tour and stateroom
If you enjoy your morning flat white, the occasional glass of champagne, and staying connected, you can upgrade further to Free at Sea Plus for £279pp, which includes unlimited Wi-Fi, Starbucks drinks, premium beverages and additional perks.
That works out at less than £40 per person per day, which, when you consider the price of cocktails, meals, and Wi-Fi onboard, adds up quickly elsewhere.
Not having to constantly sign bills or check your onboard account also made the entire experience feel more relaxed and enjoyable.
More Than an Average Cruise Ship
New cruise ships are setting the standard for the future of cruising. Gone are the days of simple lounges and predictable décor.
Norwegian Luna feels less like a cruise ship and more like a floating resort.
From the moment I stepped onboard, I was struck by the art, furniture and carefully designed spaces throughout the ship. Every area feels thoughtfully created, with its own personality and purpose.
The spa, for example, was better than many I’ve visited back home. It’s huge, featuring 22 treatment rooms, a private pool, salt pool, clay sauna and ice room.
Everywhere you look, there’s something memorable.
And that’s exactly what makes Norwegian Luna stand out. She isn’t just a ship you sail on. She’s one you remember long after you step off!
My Final Thoughts About Norwegian Luna
After spending time onboard Norwegian Luna, one thing is clear: she’s built for modern cruising. Whether you want high-energy activities, quiet relaxation, standout dining or premium luxury, it’s all here in one place.
She doesn’t feel like an ordinary cruise ship. She feels like the future of cruising.
Watch my video of Norwegian Luna here.
You can view Norwegian Luna cruise deals here or explore her sister ship, Norwegian Aqua. And in 2027, Norwegian Aura joins the fleet, bringing even more innovation to the Norwegian Cruise Line experience.
View all Norwegian Cruise Line deals here, including flights, a free hotel stay and a cruise.
