If you think you know Norwegian Cruise Line, think again. Beyond the glitzy shows and freestyle dining, NCL has tucked away a treasure chest of clever features and insider perks that even seasoned cruisers overlook. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent floater, these 5 tips will help you cruise like a pro—and maybe even score a few unexpected luxuries along the way.
🧭 1. Follow the Fish to the Front
Ever wandered a hallway wondering which way is forward? NCL solves this with a quirky design hack: hallway carpets feature fish swimming toward the bow. If you’re walking with the fish, you’re heading forward. Against the current? You’re going aft. It’s subtle, smart, and saves you from hallway confusion after a few mojitos.
🐟 WanderWisdom article on NCL’s directional carpet design: Explains how hallway carpets feature fish swimming toward the bow to help guests orient themselves.
🐠 Reddit thread with photos and guest experiences: Real cruiser insights on how the fish design helps with navigation.
☕ 2. Use Your Starbucks App at Sea
Yes, you can get your venti iced caramel macchiato onboard—and use your Starbucks gift card or app to pay. Just scan your barcode like you would on land. While you won’t earn or redeem Stars, it’s a convenient way to keep your caffeine routine afloat. See a complete list below of ships that include a Starbucks onboard.
Bonus: NCL offers a Starbucks Unlimited Package for $16.50/day if you’re serious about your coffee game.
Double Bonus: NCL offers a unique series of coffee mugs on their ships with a Starbucks called the “Been There Series: Across The Globe Collection”. Each Starbucks will only have the mug designed for that specific ship.
You can get yours at Starbucks Cafè on board the following Norwegian cruise ships:
- Norwegian Viva
- Norwegian Aqua
- Norwegian Bliss
- Norwegian Encore
- Norwegian Epic
- Norwegian Gem
- Norwegian Getaway
- Norwegian Joy
- Norwegian Pearl
- Norwegian Prima
- Norwegian Sky
💼 3. Own 100+ Shares of NCL Stock? You Get Onboard Credit
If you hold 100 shares of Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd., you’re eligible for:
- $50 onboard credit (cruises ≤6 days)
- $100 onboard credit (7–14 days)
- $250 onboard credit (15+ days)
This applies to NCL, Oceania, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Just submit a Shareholder Benefit Request at least 15 days before sailing. It’s a savvy way to turn your investment into onboard indulgence.
🛏️ 4. Pillow Menu and Complimentary Bottles of Alcohol in The Haven
Select Haven cruisers receive a free bottle of alcohol of their choice—from premium spirits to fine wine.
- For those booked to an Owner’s Suite or Garden Villa:
- 1 bottle of Moet Champagne upon embarkation
- Custom selection of liquor:
- Owner’s Suites receive 1 bottle for 3-6 days, 3 bottles for 7+ days upon embarkation
- Garden Villas receive 2 bottles for 3-6 days, 6 bottles for 7+ days upon embarkation
- 2 bottles of spring water replenished daily
- 2 bottles of sparkling water replenished daily
- 6 canned sodas replenished daily
You can also sleep like royalty with NCL’s pillow menu. Choose from:
- Temperature-regulating pillows
- Memory foam
- Goose down
- Hypoallergenic
It’s a classy welcome that sets the tone for a luxurious stay. If you’re fortunate enough to have booked one of these luxurious staterooms, just ask your butler or room steward about these amenities. It’s small touches like these that make a big difference in your onboard comfort.
🚢 5. Military Appreciation Program: More Than Just a Discount
NCL salutes veterans and active-duty service members with its Military Appreciation Program, offering:
- 10% off cruise fares
- Exclusive onboard events
- A collectible challenge coin as a keepsake
- Recognition pins and patches customized by ship
✨ Final Thought: Cruise Like You Own the Ship
Norwegian Cruise Line is full of thoughtful touches and hidden perks that reward curiosity. From directional fish to shareholder credits, these insider tips help you cruise smarter, sleep better, and sip stronger.
So next time you board, look down at the carpet, scan your Starbucks app, and ask for that memory foam pillow. You’re not just cruising—you’re unlocking the cruise within the cruise.
