Why explore Europe with NCL? The reasons to pick Norwegian Cruise Line

There’s so much choice with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL). I guess that should be obvious at the cruise line known for its freedom and flexibility, and the family line is showing off exactly what that means in Europe this year and next.

The line’s 2024 and 2025 Europe seasons feature over 250 itineraries – starring a huge range of exciting destinations across the continent.

And of NCL’s 20-ship fleet, 13 will be sailing in Europe over the summer seasons – very much the heart and soul of what the line does best.

What is NCL known for?
NCL has been around for decades, and has always been at the cutting edge of cruising.The line, which sails all over the globe, crafts the perfect cruise for the whole family, with a thrilling blend of exciting activities and top-quality entertainment, to delicious flexible dining with favourites such as Cagney’s Steakhouse and high-end Italian Onda by Scarpetta, as well as countless relaxing lounges and bars (up to 21 on some ships).

And NCL’s ‘ship-within-a-ship’ concept creates totally unique zones that are perfect for that extra touch – for example a secluded Studio area for solo travellers, or The Haven by Norwegian for guests who want to indulge in that something a little bit extra.

Europe is the place to go with NCL
A selection of the NCL fleet spends the summer season in Europe, offering a vast selection of itineraries, NCL has Europe covered.

From Greece and Italy to Northern Europe and Iceland, the line’s cruises feature an impressive amount of time in port, with an average of 10 hours to head out and explore in each destination.

And, in Europe, where there are so many gems within a night’s sailing of each other, there are an enticing number of cruises where every day is a port day. Go to sleep in France, wake up in Spain.

The shore excursion options curated by NCL continue to help you personalise your cruise to your interests, and with over 70 ports included in the Go Local excursions programme, you’ll enjoy authentic cultural experiences where you’ll spend the day connecting on a deeper level with locals.

It gets even better with Free at Sea
The optional Free at Sea upgrade package opens up a whole extra realm of included amenities once you step onboard your ship.

Starting at £199 per person (on a six to eight day cruise), you’ll enjoy access to the speciality dining restaurants, premium beverages, and complimentary Wi-Fi minutes.

The upgrade package also unlocks exclusive discounts on excursions. And, if you’re sailing in a larger group, the third and fourth guests in the room pay just the taxes (on select sailings).

Our four favourite itineraries
1. Island-hop in the glittering Aegean Sea with Norwegian Getaway. Step onboard in Athens for a seven-day Greek Isles cruise, featuring a new destination every single day. Long stays in ports make the most of every minute. And when you are onboard, you’ll love all the exciting activities including a zipline and aqua park – an ideal family holiday.

2. Venture between the two hearts of the ancient world onboard Norwegian Viva, sailing from Athens to Rome, and calling in Turkey, Greece, Italy and France. NCL’s newest class of ship is a fabulous escape for all styles of cruiser – filled with food and packed with action… or plenty of space to kick back and just relax. It’s up to you.

3. Fly into Rome and head off on a 10-day jaunt around the Greek Isles, with the bonus of time in Florence – arguably the most spectacular of Italy’s many fabulous cities – and Valetta, Malta. Norwegian Epic is the perfect ship for the voyage, and evening departures mean you can take relaxing mornings by the pool before an afternoon and evening of sightseeing out in port.

4. Take the ultimate Mediterranean cruise, onboard Norwegian Escape, when she sails round-trip from Barcelona for 10 days. You’ll arc your way across the top of the Med, taking in the sights of Cannes, Florence and Pisa (yes, you can do both – you’re in Livorno for two days). The cruise continues south along the west coast of Italy, also including Malta, Sardinia and Majorca on the return. Every day is a port day for maximum adventuring.