Norwegian Cruise Line has announced major upgrades for two of its ships, Norwegian Epic and Pride of America, ahead of its summer cruise season.
Norwegian Epic Dry Dock
Norwegian Epic will complete a three-week dry dock on May 8, and return to service with several enhancements.
The ship’s top deck will feature a refreshed Kids’ Aqua Park replacing SplashGolf, while the adults-only Vibe Beach Club will be expanded with a new hot tub, additional loungers, and private cabanas.
Eight new staterooms—balcony and oceanview—will also be added.
Epic will then begin a summer season of nine—to 11-day European sailings from Rome, calling on ports in the Mediterranean and Greek Islands, including Santorini, Mykonos, and Valletta.
After the European season, Epic will reposition to San Juan, Puerto Rico, for week-long Southern Caribbean cruises.
Pride of America Dry Dock
Meanwhile, Pride of America will undergo its own dry dock from May 3 to May 31.
The only U.S.-flagged cruise ship offering year-round Hawaii itineraries, Pride of America will see the addition of 12 Club Balcony Suites and three inside staterooms on Deck 12.
A Starbucks will be added to the Capitol Atrium, and the ship will introduce pickleball within the existing sports court.
Youth areas like Splash Academy and Entourage will be relocated to Deck 6, allowing space for a new library and card room.
Both projects enforce Norwegian’s goal of providing guests with more flexibility and onboard options.
“By listening to guests’ feedback, we are excited to provide them with more to do on board,” said NCL President David J. Herrera. “These enhancements are designed to meet evolving expectations and deliver a better vacation experience.”
Norwegian Epic entered service in 2010, while Pride of America started cruising in 2005.
