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Norwegian Bliss

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Traveler Reviews

A ship’s traveler rating is provided under license by Cruiseline.com , which manages one of the largest databases of cruise reviews and ratings by travelers. A total of 1279 guests have reviewed Norwegian Bliss , giving it a rating of 4.1 on a scale of 1-5.

Cruiseline Travel Rating:

Reviews by traveler type, most recent reviews.

Amazing Ship

May 10th, 2024

Sitting on our balcony watching the snow filled mountains. Seeing the whales was another amazing part.

Traveler Type

Disappointing Cruise

May 9th, 2024

The service was so bad and that is what most peopel look forward to on a cruise. We will look for another cruise line to give us the service we not only paid for but deserve.

May 7th, 2024

Cruise to some islands in Alaska, and a brief trip to a glacier

Large Group

1 cruise (first)

Alaska never disappoints

This was the second time on the Bliss and 5th NCL cruise. I am already looking at a future cruise in the Haven on the Bliss. The way the staff treat you, you want to keep going back. This was also our second Alaskan cruise and we will continue to go back. The beauty is breathtaking and even if you don't get off the ship in port, the views are worth the trip.

Disillusioned compared to previous Norwegian cruises

May 5th, 2024

We took a Norwegian cruise from San Francisco through the Panama Canal and back to Miami, Florida with quite a few stops along the way. The cities and excursions themselves were wonderful, but getting to San Francisco, some of the employees on the ship, some of the food on the trip, wait times to get to excursions, and wait times to get off the ship were not acceptable. We had Norwegian book our air from Milwaukee to San Francisco and back to make sure that if anything went wrong, Norwegian would take care of getting us to the ship on time. We even booked an extra day in San Francisco through Norwegian so we could ensure enough time to get to the ship. DO NOT trust Norwegian to take care of your getting to the ship no matter how much extra you paid nor the extra amount of time you have to get there. After spending more than 15 hours on the phone, much of it on hold to Norwegian, we forfeited the money we paid Norwegian and re-booked our airfare with another carrier at 3:00 a.m. the morning before our trip so we could actually get to the ship before it took off. They refused to help us, shuttling us from one area of Norwegian “help” to another. When we tried to get our money back from them for the airfare we didn’t use, we were simply rebuffed. We lost $1500 in the deal because that was what it cost us to book one way to SF through another carrier. We also had a couple of bad experience in one of the restaurants. Taste had a Matre’d that should have had a lesson in politeness from his kindergarten teacher. We had reservations for 7:30 and arrived around 7:15. My husband politely went up to the desk and told them we were a bit early but would be glad to be seated early if there was room. He was rudely told to go sit at the bar and have a drink until 7:30. So we did that. When we ordered, my husband ordered steak, which was not only cold, but tough. The next night, the same Matre’d again acted as if he was doing us a favor to seat us at all. That night, I ordered grilled watermelon for dessert. When it came, it was tepid, limp and tasteless. We did not go back to that restaurant. The excursions on this ship were mostly wonderful. BUT the wait times to get off the ship to the waiting buses for the excursions were unacceptable. We often were given a time to be in the auditorium and didn’t end up on the buses for over an hour. One time it was almost 2 hours. And getting OFF the ship. YIKES! Literally hours. We were expected out of our staterooms by 9:00 a.m. and, in our case, were supposed to be leaving the ship by 10:00 a.m. We and literally hundreds of other people waited in hallways and atriums with no access to food or water until after 2:00 p.m. AND THEN, we still waited in line at border patrol because they had not staffed enough personnel to check us out. Unacceptable! If that isn’t enough, the ship was ginormous! We knew that before went, but had always had good experiences with Norwegian in the past. So we figured they knew what they were doing. NOT! Hallways were often jammed with people. Reservations at most restaurants were non-existent unless one wanted to eat at 9:00 p.m. Most of the shows were reserved entirely the first day, as well. Many excursions were over-booked or no longer open for booking. The cafeteria was often so jammed, one could hardly find a place to sit if you could actually get to the food. We never ended up with a chair at the pool and could barely walk the walking path because chairs were put on it by staff. The hot tubs were usually jammed with people as well. Finally, if that isn’t enough, we (foolishly) booked another cruise with Norwegian, this one going to Japan. It is almost 6 months from now and already, there are 4 days where there are NO excursions available. WHAT!??? Talk about unacceptable! I am angry, upset and hurt. This is not what we have experienced with Norwegian in the past. In fact, we have been using them for years and gone on 4 other cruises with Norwegian, praising them up to our friends and relatives. Not anymore. I am very disillusioned and upset. WHAT GIVES, NORWEGIAN?!!?

4-6 cruises

Great Alaskan cruise

Overall it was a brilliant cruise, exceeded our expectations. We were also lucky with weather, it was sunny and pleasant for the most of the cruise.

It was suppose to be a Dream Vacation

Apr 30th, 2024

When cruising check the ports you will be visiting. If you want a quick on and off at each port and don't want to do some exploring than this cruise is for you. If you want to spend more time at each port than consider another cruise or cruise line

Singles/Friends

2-3 cruises

Not so Bliss-ful

Apr 27th, 2024

This was our 2nd and last Norwegian. It’s just not worth it when there’s so many other cruise lines.

Beautiful ship

Apr 23rd, 2024

Overall was a great experience, wish we had more time in each port was just to fast .

Alaskan cruise

Apr 22nd, 2024

Needed more time in Juneau, Sitka & Ketchikan. Need a designated handicap elevator!!!

Family (older children)

Disclaimers about ship ratings: A ship’s Health Rating is based on vessel inspection scores published by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). If a ship did not receive a CDC score within 22 months prior to the calculation of its Overall Rating, its Health Rating appears as N/A; in such a case, the ship’s Overall Rating is calculated using the average Health Rating of all CDC-rated ships within the cruise line. All ship Traveler Ratings are based on ratings provided under license by Cruiseline.com.

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Bliss Cruise Review: The Ultimate Adult-Only Vacation Experience

by Judith Eve | Jun 16, 2023 | Cruise Lines & Cruise Types

Do you dream of setting sail on the open sea, experiencing luxurious relaxation and unparalleled entertainment? If so, the Bliss Cruise might be just what you're looking for. In this Bliss Cruise review, we'll give you a comprehensive insight into the adventure that awaits you. From the top-notch accommodations to the fun-filled daily activities, we leave no stone unturned. By the end of this read, you'll know exactly why this cruise offers one of the best vacation experiences out there.

An Introduction to Bliss Cruise

The Bliss Cruise is the ultimate adults-only, full-ship charter that delivers a unique cruise experience designed for couples. The cruise offers everything you'd expect from a luxury vacation - incredible dining experiences, beautiful accommodations, a variety of activities, and, most importantly, an exciting atmosphere unlike any other. If you're wondering about the Bliss Cruise cost, rest assured it provides value for money with the experience it offers.

Luxurious Accommodation on Bliss Cruise

When it comes to accommodation, the Bliss Cruise is a game-changer. You can choose from a range of well-appointed staterooms, including cozy interior rooms, stunning ocean view rooms, private balcony rooms, and extravagant suites. Each room is furnished with high-quality amenities, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as possible. The attention to detail in these rooms adds to the Bliss Cruise allure, making it one of the top-rated couples' cruises in the industry.

Bliss Cruise Dining: A Gastronomic Experience

On board the Bliss Cruise, you can treat your taste buds to an array of dining options. The food on Bliss Cruise is nothing short of excellent, with a multitude of specialty and complimentary dining options available. There are multiple restaurants and cafes onboard, each catering to different tastes and dietary needs. The food quality is top-notch, and the dining experience is elevated by the friendly, attentive service staff.

Entertainment and Activities

Bliss Cruise is not just about luxurious accommodations and exquisite dining; it's also about having fun and making lasting memories. From live music performances to comedy shows, fitness classes, and engaging workshops, there's never a dull moment on the Bliss Cruise.

There are themed nights and parties, giving you the opportunity to dress up and dance the night away. During the day, you can relax by the pool, participate in poolside games, or take part in various workshops. The Bliss Cruise activities are designed to ensure every guest has an enjoyable time.

Exciting Excursions with Bliss Cruise

The Bliss Cruise journey includes stopovers at some of the world's most breathtaking locations. These port calls provide opportunities for shore excursions, where you can explore the local culture, try new cuisines, or just enjoy a day on a beautiful beach. These excursions are a fantastic way to discover new places and create unforgettable memories.

Customer Service

The Bliss Cruise staff are known for their warm hospitality and excellent customer service. They go above and beyond to ensure all guests have a satisfying experience, from answering queries to resolving any issues promptly. This level of service makes the Bliss Cruise journey even more enjoyable.

Bliss Cruises charters some of the most prestigious and well-equipped ships from top cruise lines to create an unparalleled adult vacation experience. Here are some of the cruise lines and ships that Bliss Cruise frequently charters:

Royal Caribbean

Bliss Cruise often charters ships from Royal Caribbean, one of the most well-known cruise lines in the world. Known for its innovation and grandeur, Royal Caribbean offers some of the most luxurious and entertainment-packed ships on the seas.

One of the key ships that Bliss Cruise charters from Royal Caribbean is the 'Freedom of the Seas'. This ship boasts a plethora of amenities including numerous dining options, a surf simulator, a rock-climbing wall, and a mini-golf course, among others.

Another notable ship from Royal Caribbean that has been chartered by Bliss Cruise is the 'Independence of the Seas'. This vessel offers a wealth of entertainment options, including water slides, an ice-skating rink, and a Broadway-style theatre, in addition to luxurious accommodations and varied dining options.

Celebrity Cruises

Bliss Cruise also partners with Celebrity Cruises, a premium cruise line known for its modern luxury style and dedication to culinary excellence.

Celebrity Cruises' 'Celebrity Summit' is one ship often chartered by Bliss Cruise. The Celebrity Summit has an upscale, elegant atmosphere, with sophisticated accommodations, high-quality dining options, and a world-class spa. The ship is perfect for couples looking for a more intimate and refined cruise experience.

Norwegian Cruise Line

Another popular cruise line that Bliss Cruise charters from is Norwegian Cruise Line, particularly known for its 'Freestyle Cruising' concept that gives guests the freedom to design their own vacation.

The 'Norwegian Pearl' is one such ship from Norwegian Cruise Line that Bliss Cruise charters. This ship offers guests a unique blend of comfort and entertainment with features like a bowling alley, rock climbing wall, numerous specialty restaurants, and comfortable accommodations.

Bliss Cruise Caribbean Getaways

When it comes to Bliss Cruise destinations, the Caribbean is a top contender. These Bliss Cruise Caribbean trips offer passengers the chance to explore white-sand beaches, crystal clear waters, and vibrant local cultures. Stops often include the Bahamas, St. Kitts, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, among others. Each Caribbean island has its unique charm and allure, making for an unforgettable voyage of discovery.

Bliss Cruise to Mexico

Another popular destination for Bliss Cruise is Mexico. On a Bliss Cruise Mexico trip, you'll get to explore fascinating historical sites, indulge in flavorful Mexican cuisine, and soak up the sun on stunning beaches. Ports of call in Mexico often include Cozumel, known for its great snorkeling and diving sites, and Costa Maya, which offers fascinating Mayan ruins and a picturesque beachfront.

The Bliss Cruise Journey to Alaska

For those looking for a more dramatic backdrop to their vacation, Bliss Cruise also offers trips to Alaska. During a Bliss Cruise Alaska voyage, you'll witness breathtaking landscapes, from towering glaciers to sprawling forests, and have the chance to encounter majestic wildlife. Stops in ports such as Skagway, Ketchikan, and Juneau allow you to experience Alaskan history, culture, and adventure firsthand.

Bliss Cruise Mediterranean Voyages

Bliss Cruises also ventures into the Mediterranean, with itineraries that take you through Spain, Italy, France, and Greece. A Bliss Cruise Mediterranean journey is an excellent way to experience the rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine of this region. From the romantic canals of Venice to the sun-soaked beaches of the Greek Isles, this voyage is a feast for the senses.

In Conclusion

Bliss Cruise’s partnerships with these premier cruise lines help it offer an unparalleled cruise experience. The luxurious and well-equipped ships of Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and Norwegian Cruise Line serve as the perfect platform for the adult-centric, adventurous, and intimate experiences that Bliss Cruise is renowned for. The specific ship chartered can change from one Bliss Cruise to the next, so it's always a good idea to check the Bliss Cruise website or consult with your travel agent for the most current information.

Several years ago my husband and I renewed our vows on the Freedom Of The Seas. It was a wonderful experience. If we would have known, at the time about Bliss cruises, we certainly would have considered one. We still might!

Judith Eve, loves to write riveting articles on crusingtonpost.com. She hails from the sun-kissed regions of South Florida, residing within a stone’s throw of the bustling Fort Lauderdale and Miami cruise ports. As a native Floridian, Judith’s love for the ocean and cruising extends as far back as her memory can recall.

Her lifelong passion for travel has taken her to countless destinations around the globe, but cruising, undeniably, holds a special place in her heart. Judith has embraced the elegance of luxury liners, relished the intimacy of boutique ships, and marveled at the innovation found on the newest megaships. This varied experience makes her a well-rounded and knowledgeable commentator on everything cruise-related.

Balancing her writing career and family life with effortless grace, Judith is happily married, mother to two wonderful children, and a doting grandmother to three grandkids. Much like Judith, her family shares her enthusiasm for the sea, often accompanying her on cruise adventures and enriching her articles with their unique perspectives.

Her work for crusingtonpost.com provides readers with insightful, engaging narratives of her travels, from vivid descriptions of the picturesque locales she visits to in-depth reviews of the cruise lines she travels with. Her writing is not only an exploration of travel and cruising; it is a testament to her zest for life, her commitment to family, and her love for the ocean.

Endearing herself to readers with her warm, personable writing style, Judith has become a trusted voice in the cruising community. She is the go-to source for tips, advice, and comprehensive information on cruising. As a tireless explorer and devoted family woman, Judith Eve embodies the essence of the adventurous spirit, inspiring readers to set sail and create their own sea stories.

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Norwegian Bliss Deck Plans & Reviews

Norwegian Bliss

Activities & entertainment

• Arts & Crafts classes
• Barber Shop *
• Beauty Salon *
• Behind the Scenes Tour *
• Dance Classes
• Deck Parties
• Fitness Center
• Fitness Classes *
• Gaming Lessons *
• Horizon Lounge
• Hot Tubs (9)
• Hydrotherapy Pool *
• Jogging Track
• Late Night Music and Dancing
• Library & Card Room
• Live Nightly Music
• Mandara Spa *
• Observation lounge
• Ocean Loops
• Poolside Games
• Sports Games Televised
• Vibe Beach Club
• Vibe Beach Club Sun Deck
• Video Arcade *
• Waterslide (5)
• Wine Tasting *
• Kids' Aqua Park
• Splash Academy
• The Haven Lounge
• Bliss Casino *
• Bliss Theater
• Comedy Performances
• Onboard Movie Screenings
• Social Comedy & Night Club
• The Cavern Club
• Bar - Pool Bar *
• Savor Restaurant - American
• Taste Restaurant - American
• The Manhattan Room - American
• Food Republic - Asian Tapas *
• Atrium Bar - Atrium Bar *
• The District Brew House - Brewpub *
• Garden Café - Casual
• Open-Air Garden Café - Casual
• The Humidor Cigar Lounge - Cigar Bar *
• Skyline Bar - Clubby Bar *
• A-List Bar - Cocktail Bar *
• Mixx Bar - Cocktail Bar *
• Sugarcane Mojito Bar - Cocktail Bar *
• Starbucks - Coffee Bar *
• Le Bistro French Restaurant - French *
• Dolce Gelato - Gelato *
• La Cucina Italian Restaurant - italian *
• Teppanyaki - Japanese *
• Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville At Sea - Margaritaville *
• Los Lobos - Mexican *
• The Bake Shop - pastries *
• Waves Bar - Pool Bar *
• The Local Bar & Grill - Pub
• Ocean Blue - Seafood *
• Q Texas Smokehouse - Southern BBQ *
• Cagney's Steakhouse - Steakhouse *
• The Haven Outdoor Restaurant - Suite Guests
• The Haven Restaurant - Suite Guests
• Coco's - Sweets *
• The Cellars Wine Bar - Wine Bar *
• Maltings Whiskey Bar - Wiskey Bar *
• Excellent 118
• Very Good 64
• Terrible 58
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Norwegian (NCL) Bliss Inside Cabin Review and Tour

by Prof. Cruise · May 4, 2024

Introduction: Why I Booked An Inside Cabin On The Bliss

I often select an inside for two reasons, cost being the most obvious one. Insides are the least expensive option, meaning I can cruise more often. It’s sort of a quantity versus quality trade-off for me, although I’m actually of the opinion that you don’t sacrifice much quality booking inside cabins, even for Alaska (you may disagree – many do).

Second, if there’s one thing I love almost as much as cruising and dessert, it’s sleep. And I never sleep better than I do in a pitch black inside cabin on a cruise ship. In fact, I’d probably sleep straight through a 7 day-er if my bladder would stop being such a demanding jerk and if I could make it past 6am without craving breakfast cinnamon rolls.

So I booked cabin 5439 on the Bliss for the cheapest available fare. Here’s some basic information about the cabin…

Inside Cabin 5439 On The Norwegian Bliss: The Basics

Cabin Type: Inside Sub Categor y: IC Occupancy: 2 Bed Configurations : Queen or two twins Cabin Size: 135 square feet Cabin Location: Deck 5, starboard side of the ship, midship Directly Above and Below Cabin: A crew deck is located below and Q Texas Smokehouse is located above (I did hear music coming from Q some nights, but overall the noise wasn’t bad).

Tour An Interior Cabin On The NCL Bliss

Before I get to the things I loved and didn’t love about my inside cabin on the Bliss, view my Bliss inside cabin tour below with strategically chosen elevator music so bad as to distract from my poor attempt at cinematography and commentary.

If you happened to like the music, you can call Comcast customer service and listen to it for upwards of 3 hours before someone comes on the line: “sorry, wrong number.”

Things I Loved About My Nowegian Bliss Inside Cabin

1. contemporary style.

Surprisingly – as I chill easily, prefer to dinner at 4pm, and wear underpants in a style you might find in the sturdy French provincial oak dresser belonging to your granny – I loved the contemporary style of the room. Simple, clean lines and outfitted in shades of brown, gray, and blue.

2. Comfortable Bed

Every time I fell back into bed after rising to pee or treat my cruise-binging-induced-acid-reflux, I’d sigh and say, “heaven” before returning to blissful slumber. I’d also pledge not to eat so much tomorrow, but note that this routine continued for all seven nights.

3. Multiple Electrical Outlets And USB Ports

I know some cruise to unplug and I count myself among them. But I have a lucrative (picture my nose growing as I say that) blog and associated social media sites to maintain, so I bring a lot of technology with me that I need to keep charged.

So I was pleased that my stateroom on the Bliss had three outlets just above the desk and an additional two USB ports, one on either side of the bed.

5. Clothes Line

Although almost every cruise ship I’ve ever sailed on has featured this, I’m always grateful for the retracting clothesline in the shower. It’s where I hang my sole gym outfit, dripping with sweat, until I recycle it again for the next day’s workout.

On an entirely unrelated note, I’ve always wondered why the gym is so crowded on the first day, but from day two onward, clears right out upon my approach. I suppose not everyone can be so disciplined.

6. Modern Technology

On my last sailing I lost the little “privacy please” door hanging about 12 times (on a 3 day cruise) and had to resort to a post-it note on the door that read, “ENTER AT OWN RISK: EXCEEDINGLY GRUMPY AND WILD-HAIRED WHEN AWAKENED!” So I was impressed by this cutting edge technology and my cabin steward was spared accidentally seeing me in the footed adult onesie with butt flap I wear for lounging.

7. Mini Fridge

This was critical because on embarkation day they had my favorite carrot cake on offer up in the Observation Lounge and my brain was like, “What if they never have this again?!?! I need to horde enough to last me 7 days.” So I balanced 21 (a very sensible 3 per day) of them down approximately 45 flights of stairs to my cabin on deck 5 and stored them in my mini fridge until eating them later that night.

9. Sock Hooks

Honestly, it’s like whoever designed this cabin climbed into my weird little brain and was like “she’s going to go hiking in improper shoes for the weather conditions and need a place to hang her soggy socks as far away from the bed as possible so their putrid stench doesn’t give her nightmares of decomposing skunk corpses.” Anyway, these two little hooks were located near the door and would probably also work well for hanging all sorts of other items, although I will forever be referring to them as “sock hooks.”

8. Good Temperature Control

You never know what you’re going to get weather-wise on a cruise to Alaska, but I can tell you the one time I failed to pack rain gear because the forecast seduced me with 7 straight days of sun emojis, someone I wronged in heaven noticed my omission and thought it would be hilarious to shake up a novelty-sized bottle of sparkling water and explode it down on me from embarkation to debarkation. Anyway, having good temperature control in your cabin on an Alaska cruise is particularly important and my thermostat on the Bliss kept up very well with my frenetic temperature changes (too hot, too cold, too hot, make up your mind woman!).

9. And Finally, This Odd Looking And Too Complicated, But Surprisingly Useful Furniture Piece

People say the same thing about me, except for the useful bit. My husband also likes to call me “Dr.” when I go in the out door and push when I’m supposed to pull. And if he’d been on the cruise with me, he’d have called me “Dr.” when I tried in vain for several minutes to “open” this non-opening doodad.

While it doesn’t open despite, in my defense, the silver thing that looks like a drawer pull, the blue bottom portion functions very well as a foot rest, stool, and backless chair for strengthening your abs between buffet runs. And the top part comes off and makes a perfect tray for room service breakfast in bed.

A Few Things I Didn’t Love About My NCL Bliss Inside Cabin

1. glass shower enclosure.

While I admit it looked nice, made the bathroom appear bigger, and kept water from leaking out of the shower onto the floor, the glass enclosure meant I could see myself in the mirror while showering. And I’m sorry, but I can do without hard (more like soft and jiggly) evidence of the number of desserts I’ve consumed since embarkation.

2. 3% Power Remaining

That is NOT what you want to see on your phone as you head out on a solo hike in the wilderness of Alaska!

But seriously, a card must be inserted into the slot near the door for the lights in the room to work. AND for the outlets and USB ports to work! So if you leave your items charging as you exit the room, pulling out the card from the slot, none of your items will, in fact, charge. My advice? Leave a non-essential card (an old hotel key card works great) in there at all times and just remember to turn out the lights when you aren’t in the room.

3. Lack Of Storage

I’m a minimalist in all areas of my life. Why? Because it allows me to financially prioritize experiences and travel over possessions. And not having many “things” makes me feel free and untethered. This carries over to cruising too. I hate being weighed down with a bunch of bulky, cumbersome luggage and loathe clutter in tiny cruise cabins. After years of trial and error, I finally feel like I have cruise packing down to a science and even wrote an article about cruise packing for minimalists:

I mention all of this because I almost put “storage” on the list of things I loved about my cabin on the Bliss before coming to my senses and acknowledging that I’d lose all remaining credibility with my readers if I said that. Because for average-sized (I should also mention that I’m shorter than a garden gnome further reduced by the undiscerning blade of a riding mower, so all my clothes are tiny) over-packers (know that I consider anyone who packs more than two pairs of underwear an over-packer), there was deficient closet and other storage space.

4. Hair Dryer

So, the hair dryer attached to the side of the desk via a short (short!) cord. Now, I could be wrong about this (I 100% am), but I’m pretty sure they removed all of these and replaced them with normal hair dryers with adequate cord lengths during Covid times. Why? Because the ship medical center was already doing a healthy business treating seriously sick Covid patients. Now that Covid is mostly a thing of the past, the medical center needs to drum up business again. What better way than 300 near strangulations a day from the hair dryer? DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT even attempt to use the hair dryer unless you have good cruise insurance!

5. Towel Shortage

After tracking towel data on my past 5 NCL cruises (you can’t tell me my PhD is wasted), I now feel confident in asserting that NCL has a one bath towel per guest rule. I complained in my last cabin review (onboard the Star) about only two towels being provided per day in a cabin I shared with my mom. This time I cruised solo and there was only one towel provided per day. That coupled with no turn-down service (where wet towels are normally replaced), means if you shower more than once per day (like in the morning and after a visit to the pool/hot tub), you won’t have a dry towel. Also, some people use two towels per shower, one for the body and one to wrap around their hair. If you’re sharing a cabin, be sure to get to the shower first or be greeted with zero dry towels when it’s your turn. Note that you can request extra towels from your cabin steward on embarkation day (I did that and received two bath towels each day).

Final Thoughts On My Inside Cabin On The Bliss

Would I book this cabin again? Absolutely! While it was small and lacked much storage, it suited my needs just fine and I’d book it again and again if that meant I could cruise more often.

And with that…

Class Dismissed!

Homework (10 points):   Are you booked on the Bliss? Ask any questions you may have to the comments and be sure to check out my complete Bliss trip report, review, and ship tour here:

Norwegian (NCL) Bliss Review and Alaska Trip Report 2024

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Thank you for your always informative review. It spurred me on to read your minimalist packing article – We enjoyed it, just can’t do it. That led me to the article on sea sick remedies. Much appreciated. Going to order the herbal patches with bobine and some mystery medicine from a pharmacy in Barbados as backup.

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About Prof. Cruise

Given name Sarah, but also answers to Prof. Cruise. Retired after 10 years as a college professor to focus full-time on her primary research interest: travel. With a concentration in cruising.  Home port: Seattle.  Mom of a shaggy-haired dog and a shaggy-haired human.  Lover of books and dessert.  Fancies herself a bit of a comedian – you’ve been warned.

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The deciding factor for me would: which is easier for you from your hometown:(1) A Saturday- Saturday cruise or (2) A Sunday cruise- cruise.

Which is better: workwise, travelwise, cost wise?

I thought the Bliss was doing Icy Straight Point and Sitka while the Encore was doing Skagway and Glacier Bay this year. In addition to  both will doing Juneau and Ketchikan. 

7 minutes ago, gknep said: I thought the Bliss was doing Icy Straight Point and Sitka while the Encore was doing Skagway and Glacier Bay this year. In addition to  both will doing Juneau and Ketchikan. 

Exactly, it's about the itinerary, not the ship. 

BirdTravels

1 hour ago, zackarykeef said: Hi, all!   Question for those of you who have been on both Bliss and Encore…preference for Alaska? I know they are ALMOST the same, but wanted to see if anyone had any thoughts. Looking at the same itinerary, same month, both about the same price, so...it all comes down to ship. It would be in the Haven.   I just got off Encore in the Caribbean and LOVED it. Thanks!

Which ever ship goes to glacier bay. The ships are identical for all practical purposes. 

42 minutes ago, BirdTravels said: Which ever ship goes to glacier bay. The ships are identical for all practical purposes. 

For every person that says that, there is another that says a glacier is a glacier. If the things in Icy Strait and Sitka are something someone want's to see/do, then they should book Bliss. If it's all about Glacier Bay and Skagway, then Encore. Research is needed by the person cruising to decide what is right for them. 

The answer is yes.

As I mentioned, they’re the same itinerary. In October, both ships are doing the Glacier Bay route. I’ve done this route before, and it was great! That’s why I’m really just deciding between the ships. Maybe if there’s not much of a difference, I’ll choose bliss, as I’ve already been on encore 🤷🏼‍♂️

1 hour ago, zackarykeef said: As I mentioned, they’re the same itinerary. In October, both ships are doing the Glacier Bay route. I’ve done this route before, and it was great! That’s why I’m really just deciding between the ships. Maybe if there’s not much of a difference, I’ll choose bliss, as I’ve already been on encore 🤷🏼‍♂️

Encore is newer. The differences are Bliss has Spice H2O, which you probably wouldn't use in Oct. Encore has a specialty restaurant Bliss doesn't have...Onda. The shows are different. Bliss is known for Jersey Boys and the latest Alaska sailing had a new one I can't remember the name of right now. It is hard to answer you. We don't know you, what you like, what you like to do. Both are very similar and the newest 2 in Breakaway + class fleet. Pick your poison.   The Bliss is very nice. I haven't been on Encore.  You also need to keep in mind a lot can change between now and October, including shows.

Noticed that the price for a Haven Penthouse stateroom have dropped twice since we took a look at the Bliss earlier this year for October. 

15 hours ago, FM said: Noticed that the price for a Haven Penthouse stateroom have dropped twice since we took a look at the Bliss earlier this year for October. 

Bliss is usually a little less expensive than Encore. 

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The best Alaska cruises for every type of traveler

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Even with a season that only runs from April through October, there are some 40 big ships and dozens of small ships cruising Alaska , making it one of the most popular cruise destinations in the world after the Caribbean and Europe. The best Alaska cruises range from off-the-beaten-path voyages on vessels carrying fewer than 100 passengers to weeklong jaunts through the Inside Passage aboard megaships that hold thousands.

The itinerary choices are numerous in Alaska. Some ships stick to tried-and-true ports, sailing through Southeast Alaska and into western Canada. Others wander deeper along the Alaska coastline to places such as the Kenai Peninsula, north to Nome and Barrow and even deep into the Bering Sea.

Some trips hit multiple national parks; others dive into Alaska culture, allowing guests to learn the stories told by totem poles or hear about “the big one” from a fisherman at a dive bar.

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It can be hard to figure out which ship will deliver your idea of a “bucket list” experience in The Last Frontier. A lot comes down to your travel style, preferences and budget. Some travelers demand luxury, while others don’t mind going less fancy if it means close encounters with bears and other creatures in the wilderness. Some look for romance, while others want to introduce the kids or grandkids to glaciers and eagles, gold panning and sled dogs.

The good news is there’s a ship in Alaska for you no matter your taste or style. Here’s a beginner’s guide to the best Alaska cruises to help you narrow down your choices.

Best for megaresort fans

Norwegian Cruise Line and Royal Caribbean both sail some of their largest ships in Alaska. They are floating megaresorts, carrying thousands, and are big on amenities, glitz and a certain amount of glamor — think flashy casinos, Broadway shows, lavish spas. Dining and drinking venues number in the dozens, while amusement park features thrill the kids and adrenaline-seekers.

Norwegian Encore

On Norwegian Encore, you can race along a go-kart racetrack, compete in outdoor laser tag and zoom down slides at the water park while you traverse Alaska’s Inside Passage. The ship sails seven-night cruises from Seattle, visiting Skagway, Juneau and Ketchikan in Alaska, as well as Victoria, British Columbia, and Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve .

Related: A beginner’s guide to picking a cruise line

Ovation of the Seas

On Royal Caribbean’s Quantum-class ships, you can order a drink from a robotic bartender, try simulated skydiving or surfing experiences and take a ride in a glass capsule that travels high above your ship on a mechanical arm — a weird and wonderful way to see the Alaska scenery.

Ovation of the Seas sails round-trip from Seattle on seven-night cruises, but the exact itinerary varies by week. The ship cruises Endicott Arm for scenic views of Dawes Glacier and typically visits three Alaska ports and Victoria.

Best for land and sea adventures

You’ve traveled far to get to Alaska, and it would be a shame to miss inland sights such as Denali National Park and Preserve and the sight of Denali, North America’s largest peak — so big it’s often shrouded in clouds caused by its own weather system.

Market leaders Holland America Line and Princess Cruises both send a half-dozen ships to Alaska each year, and they have 75 and 55 years in the market, respectively.

They top the list in terms of cruises, as well as cruise tours, which combine time sailing with overnight stays on land. The companies operate their own lodges, rail cars and motorcoaches for exploration of Alaska’s interior and beyond. Many of the ships have permission to sail in Glacier Bay.

Related: The coolest things to do on an Alaska cruise

Choose from 10- to 17-night land tours that combine a standard weeklong cruise (sometimes half a cruise) with time spent exploring Alaska’s interior by bus, train or even plane.

Holland America will base six ships in Alaska in 2024, with tour offerings to Denali, Fairbanks and Anchorage.

However, it also offers nine- to 14-night cruise tours on Koningsdam that head into the Canadian Yukon, following the route of the Klondike Gold Rush from Alaska to northwestern Canada. Disembark your cruise ship in Skagway, then travel to Whitehorse and Dawson City in the Yukon before continuing on to Fairbanks (the gateway to Arctic Alaska), Denali National Park and Anchorage.

Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises offers a cruise tour where you visit four national parks: Glacier Bay, Denali, the Kenai Fjords and America’s largest national park, Wrangell-St. Elias. The 15- and 17-night trips combine a seven-night cruise on Sapphire Princess from Vancouver to Whittier, Alaska, with another week or more on land, ending in Fairbanks or Anchorage.

Best for travelers on a budget

Older ships in Norwegian and Royal Caribbean’s fleets tend to offer more reduced prices than you’ll find on the lines’ larger and newer ships, based on the fact the older ships don’t have as many bells and whistles.

Since they have so many ships in the market, Holland America Line and Princess Cruises also tend to offer frequent sales — especially on their older tonnage. These ships have a loyal following and tend to have fewer families on board, which some couples find particularly appealing.

Related: Best time to cruise Alaska

If you’re looking for other surefire ways to save, consider sailings in the area’s shoulder season. You’ll find better deals from April to early June and in September than you will in the height of summer.

Also, in Alaska, balcony cabins are highly desirable, with everyone seeking views of the wilderness, snow-capped peaks and glaciers. As those reserves get low, the prices tend to get higher. Bargain seekers should either book early for these accommodations or choose inside, outside or guarantee cabins (where you don’t pick your room location) to save more.

Radiance of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s 20-year-old ship Radiance of the Seas mainly sails weeklong, one-way cruises between Vancouver and Seward, Alaska, with prices below $100 per person, per night, for inside and outside cabins on many departures.

However, its early-season May 2024 sailing from Seward to Vancouver is the cheapest Royal Caribbean Alaska cruise of the season. It starts at $368 per person for an inside cabin.

Grand Princess and Sapphire Princess

Princess Cruises has so many ships based in Alaska that you’re bound to find deals, especially on shoulder-season cruises. Both Grand and Sapphire Princess offer weeklong Alaska cruises in May 2024 starting from $548 per person for inside cabins. The itinerary starts in Vancouver and ends in Whittier, Alaska, with calls in Ketchikan, Juneau and Skagway and scenic cruising in Glacier Bay and College Fjord.

Best for off-the-beaten-path travel

Want to see and deeply experience coastal Alaska, and don’t mind a mellower environment where lectures and impromptu guitar singalongs replace casinos and show productions? Consider lines such as UnCruise Adventures , Lindblad Expeditions and Alaskan Dream Cruises, all with ships that carry fewer than 100 passengers (and in the case of Alaskan Dream, even under 20 passengers).

On these small ships, captains have the flexibility to alter itineraries and linger if the naturalist onboard spots a pod of whales or bears digging for clams on a beach.

Small ships can go places bigger ships can’t, so itineraries stretch far beyond the traditional ports. You’ll visit more remote places such as Petersburg, a fishing town with strong Norwegian roots, and Wrangell, one of Alaska’s oldest communities. Some itineraries are conducted entirely in the wild, with no port calls at all.

UnCruise Adventures

UnCruise Adventures explores Southeast Alaska on seven-, 12- and 14-night itineraries. A day might start with a morning birding expedition, continue with a kayaking adventure and end with an evening campfire ashore. You might visit LeConte and Baird Glaciers (where the big ships don’t go), plus UnCruise has the only permits for hiking and biking adventures on Chichagof Island.

Lindblad Expeditions

Lindblad Expeditions frequents off-the-beaten-path destinations in both Alaska and British Columbia, with itineraries ranging from six to 15 nights.

Guests might explore the small fishing town of Petersburg or discover native petroglyphs on the beaches of Wrangell Island in Alaska, or search for grizzly bears in Canada’s Great Bear Rainforest. Lindblad has special permits to bring passengers into the wilderness of Glacier Bay National Park and Preserve and the Tongass National Forest, beyond what the big ships can offer.

Alaskan Dream Cruises

Alaskan-owned Alaskan Dream Cruises’ ships carry 12 to 76 passengers to remote Native villages that rarely see visitors, with plenty of time for wildlife viewing far from the cruise ship crowds. Itineraries range from five to nine nights, from departure ports such as Sitka, Ketchikan and Juneau.

Best for families

If you’re traveling with your kids or grandkids in Alaska and want an activity- and entertainment-packed experience, target the newest and biggest ships of Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Carnival and especially Disney Cruise Line. All have excellent camp-like activity programs for kids, plus eye-popping amusement attractions.

Disney Wonder

On Disney ships, Goofy might make an appearance as you admire soaring eagles, blue icebergs and glaciers. The extensive children’s program, entertainment and such activities as water slides and play areas deliver what you would expect from the purveyor of dreams. Bonus: Cabins are designed with families in mind and include split bathrooms (one with a toilet and sink, the other with a shower/tub combo and sink).

Related: 5 best cruise lines for families

Discovery Princess

While lacking in whiz-bang attractions, Princess Cruises is another good choice, both for its children’s and teens program, complete with spacious facilities, and for such programming as bringing sled dogs on board, which is a hit with young passengers. The line’s newest ship, Discovery Princess, sails round trip from Seattle, a convenient U.S. home port for families to fly or drive to.

Carnival Spirit

Water slides, a partnership with Dr. Seuss and three hangouts for kids and teens make Carnival Cruise Line’s Carnival Spirit a great bet for families in Alaska.

The ship’s huge array of included quick eats — pizza, tacos, Guy Fieri’s burgers and unlimited soft serve ice cream — and casual atmosphere take the stress out of dining with the family. The ship sails round trip from Seattle on seven-night itineraries that call in Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and Victoria, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm Fjord.

Best for luxury lovers

If you envision sipping Champagne as you watch a glacier thunderously calve into the sea, consider booking one of the all-inclusive luxury cruise lines in Alaska: Seabourn , Regent Seven Seas Cruises or Silversea .

All these lines include ships that are experts at delivering gourmet cuisine and the other finer things in life in intimate, cushy floating environments. Additionally, all the lines are big on featuring lectures by experts, which provides passengers with a deeper insight into Alaska.

Itineraries tend to include the popular ports and beyond. You might, for instance, visit Wrangell and Prince Rupert, a port city in Canada, and linger in places such as the Misty Fjords and Prince William Sound. Seven- to 14-night sailings embark from ports such as Vancouver, Seward and Juneau.

Seven Seas Explorer

Regent’s 750-passenger Seven Seas Explorer is an all-suite ship offering guests in Alaska multiple gourmet onboard restaurants, all-inclusive beverages, free airfare and included gratuities. Many shore excursions are complimentary. Enjoy little luxuries, like an afternoon in the thermal suite of the two-story spa-and-fitness center, or really splurge out by booking the Regent Suite, the most lavish suite you’ll find at sea.

Seabourn Odyssey

The 450-passenger Seabourn Odyssey boasts an onboard expedition team and does a posh version of expedition cruising in Alaska, using inflatable Zodiac craft and kayaks.

Seabourn calls its program Ventures by Seabourn. Experts onboard these sailings include naturalists, biologists and other scientists who are members of the expedition team. Once guests finish communing with nature, they can indulge in complimentary Champagne and caviar on board or relish a meal created by famed chef, Thomas Keller.

Related: The 4 best luxury cruise lines for elegance and exclusivity

Best for solo travelers

Solo travelers don’t always have to pay double to cruise Alaska on their own. Several ships feature cabins designed and priced for one. Single cruisers should also note that luxury lines Silversea and Seabourn, while not cheap, do a great job of taking care of single cruisers, hosting them at dinner and providing easy opportunities to meet and mingle with other travelers.

Norwegian Bliss

The ships in Norwegian Cruise Line’s Breakaway and Getaway classes all have cozy studio cabins designed and priced for one person. Additionally, they’re located in a complex where a private lounge encourages mingling. Norwegian Bliss offers 82 solo rooms on its round-trip Seattle cruises that visit Dawes Glacier, Sitka and Icy Strait Point.

Quantum of the Seas

Royal Caribbean’s studio staterooms, on its Quantum-class ships in Alaska, give solo travelers the benefits of both decent space and balconies.

On Quantum of the Seas, choose a 101-square-foot inside cabin or a 119-square-foot ocean-view room with a 55-square-foot balcony. Either way, you get a full-size bed and plenty of space for one person. The ship sails a similar weeklong itinerary to sister ship Ovation of the Seas, round-trip from Seattle with scenic sailing along Endicott Arm.

Holland America offers ocean-view accommodations for one in Alaska only on Koningsdam. Measuring 127 to 172 square feet, these rooms come with a full-size bed and a picture window.

Koningsdam sails round trip from Vancouver to Juneau, Skagway and Ketchikan, with scenic cruising in Tracy Arm and Glacier Bay. Its cruises can be combined into nine- to 14-night cruise tours to the Yukon and Denali.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Additional reporting by Erica Silverstein.

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