NCL Encore For Families

Norwegian Encore is the fourth and final ship in Norwegian Cruise Line's Breakaway Plus Class, joining it's sister ships the Norwegian Escape, Norwegian Joy and Norwegian Bliss. With a capacity to hold almost 4,000 passengers and so much to do on board, it is basically like a floating destination. We were lucky enough to enjoy two nights on the NCL Encore Inaugural event held at Pier 90 in Manhattan and were very impressed by what this ship offers those traveling with children. 

This ship is a perfect choice for families traveling with children as well as teens since the list of groundbreaking entertainment and attractions is very long. The NCL Encore Speedway is the largest race track at sea and is only offered on select Norwegian ships. You are able to zoom around high-speed curves suspended 13 feet off the side of the ship with over 1100 feet of action perfect for your little dare devils. There are height requirements and both this and the laser tag are additional fees to participate.

They also offer a really neat laser tag area that is enjoyable for the whole family. It is themed after Atlantis ruins with a monstrous sea creature you must fight to get passed. With long lost treasures that virtually come to life with cutting-edge technology, this is an epic battle for the whole family to enjoy. There is no age restriction or height requirement at this time, you just need to be able to hold the equipment.

The Galaxy Pavilion is a virtual reality world that offers immersive VR experiences and thrilling simulator rides. You can work on solving the puzzles of an escape room, drive in a NASCAR race, shoot a laser gun at onscreen zombies running a muck on a mini movie theater screen, ride a jeep through scenery similar to Jurassic Park, and so much more! Like Laser Tag and the Speedway, this also does have an extra cost.

Norwegian Encore is home to two multistory waterslides on board, as well as an Aqua Racer tandem water slide.  With the option of whooshing over the side of the ship on Ocean Loops or being able to enjoy a lazy day by the pool with a frozen beverage, this is the perfect activity for both parents and children alike on a warm sunny day at sea!

The NCL Guppies program is a nursery for children 6 months to under 3 years old that does require a fee to be paid. The Guppies Nursery requires registration and reservations are available throughout the sailing. The program is attended by certified Nursery Attendants and offers babies and toddlers a wide range of activities. This area also offers the River Rose Reading Room by Kelly Clarkson (who is also the godmother of this ship). This is a darling room that requires parent participation where you can read books with your child inspired by Kelly Clarkson.

From theme night activities to cool parties, the NCL youth staff is fully trained to create some really amazing times for your children. The Splash Academy youth program is split into three groups according to age. The Turtles are ages 3 to 5 years old, the Seals are 6 to 9 years old, and the Dolphins are 10 to 12 years old. Splash Academy is typically open from 9 a.m. to 10:30 p.m., (though timing varies based on itinerary). On sea days, it closes for lunch and dinner, but on port days, it remains open (though fees apply for parents who want youth staff to supervise their kids during mealtimes). Splash Academy also hosts the Late Night Fun Zone until 1:30 a.m. Hourly fees apply for enrolling kids in this after-hours group babysitting program. Just make sure to always check upon boarding since info. is subject to change.

As you can see there is no shortage of fun on this ship for everyone to enjoy. We did not even mention all there is for the adults to do while the kiddos are taken care of. With the spa, nightly shows, the casino, fine dining and more you will be just as well taken care of as your children will be. Vacationing should be fun for everyone and on the NCL Encore it will be!

To book your next sailing reach out to a Starstuff Travel Planner today!