NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line announces refurbishments for ships Bliss and Breakaway in 2025

   December 22, 2024 ,   Cruise Industry

NCL-Norwegian Cruise Line has unveiled plans to significantly enhance its vessels Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Breakaway, introducing new onboard experiences and expanded amenities as part of drydock refurbishments scheduled for 2025-Q1.

Scheduled for drydocking from January 17th to February 2nd, 2025, Norwegian Bliss will feature several updates, including:

  • Horizon Park: A new outdoor gathering space designed by NCL’s Innovation Team in collaboration with SMC Design and Conductr. The venue will offer lawn-style games such as cornhole and giant Jenga, as well as sunbathing loungers, all while providing sweeping ocean views.
  • Upgraded Accommodations: Enhancements include expanding The Haven by Norwegian to include 3-bedroom suites, complete with 3-and-a-half baths, a dining room overlooking The Haven Horizon Lounge, and refurbished living spaces. Additionally, 24 balcony staterooms and two club balcony staterooms will be added, repurposing part of the Observation Lounge on Deck 15.
  • Expanded Dining Options: Cagney’s Steakhouse will replace Los Lobos, Teppanyaki will replace Coco’s, and Ocean Blue will transition into Palomar, the seafood specialty dining venue introduced on Norwegian Prima in 2022.

Following the refurb, Norwegian Bliss will embark on a 13-day relocation voyage from Southampton UK to Miami FL (RepositionCruises.com) starting February 2nd, 2025. The vessel will then sail Western Caribbean itineraries from Miami, Mexican Riviera cruises in March, and Alaska itineraries from Seattle WA beginning in April 2025.

Norwegian Breakaway is set for drydocking from February 19th to March 14th, 2025.

Key updates include:

  • Silver Screen Bistro: An innovative movie and dining venue replacing the Spiegel Tent. The space will feature oversized recliners and retractable tables, serving handheld menu items inspired by Food Republic.
  • Horizon Park: Similar to Norwegian Bliss, this outdoor recreation area will offer panoramic ocean views, lawn games, and an expansive stage for live music and entertainment.
  • The Stadium: A family-friendly outdoor activities area inspired by Prima-class ships.
  • Enhanced Dining Venues: Cagney’s Steakhouse will replace Moderno Churrascaria, and Ocean Blue will transition to Palomar.
  • Expanded Outdoor Spaces: The Vibe Beach Club and The Haven Sundeck will include additional seating and cabanas.

Upon completion, Norwegian Breakaway will sail Mediterranean itineraries from Barcelona and Venice (Trieste), visiting destinations such as Florence/Pisa, Cannes, and Corfu.

NCL’s 2025 itineraries also include tropical cruise vacations across the Caribbean and Bahamas, with embarkation from ports such as Miami, New York, and San Juan. Highlights include destinations like St. John’s, Antigua; Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; and Great Stirrup Cay, NCL’s private island, which will feature a new pier by late 2025.

Travelers can take advantage of the new More At Sea package starting January 2025. The package includes premium open bar options, specialty dining credits, and enhanced Wi-Fi powered by Starlink. Seasonal promotions are also available for holiday bookings.