There are not that many people who will deserve recognition in the cruise industry, but Knut Kloster, the original founder of Norwegian Cruise Line will be one of them. Kloster has managed to keep the company going by adding more cruise ships, making waves and occasionally enduring rough seas, so to speak.
Despite the common understanding of Norwegian Cruise Line being something of an “affordable” cruise company, Knut Kloster once owned the well known Royal Viking Line and operated it for a few years.
In 2000, after a tough battle for public shares in which most major cruise companies were players, Norwegian Cruise Line has been acquired by Star Cruises of Malaysia. Star Cruises sold a one-half interest in Norwegian Cruise Line to United States investment company Apollo Management in 2007 and provided them majority control of the board of directors.
In the past six years NCL replaced its older vessels with purpose-built new ships specifically for their trademarked “Freestyle” service, which were introduced in 2001. At present time, the company operates a modern fleet which will sail to Europe, Bermuda, the Caribbean islands, New England or Alaska, and enjoys a reputation as a strong 3rd place behind the major Carnival Corp. or Royal Caribbean, only surviving for its ability of adapting and innovating.
With regular entertainment which will include Legends of the Seas, Blue Man Group or Second City, as well as 21 distinct dining venues, Norwegian Epic, one of its major cruise ships, is certainly considered one of the most diverse cruise ships ever built.
Sports and fitness programs will vary from ship to ship. The Caribbean islands, Europe, Bermuda and Hawaii cruise trips will provide golf instruction on special Tee-Up golf cruises. On board Norwegian cruise ships you can find jogging tracks, golf nets, basketball or volleyball courts.
Fellow Passengers
Mostly in its Caribbean cruise routes or for its NYC cruises to nowhere, Norwegian Cruise Line will attract a lot of first-time cruisers who seek a low- to mid-price cruise vacation. Dress code will be flexible, which can be considered a few large steps down from country club casual. Try to avoid being shocked to glimpse T-shirts among the tuxedos in the dining area. You should expect plenty of honeymooners or first-time cruisers, as well as a lot of families with children during summer season or school vacations.
Special Programs
NCL`s trips will run the gamut from private helicopter tours to bus rides. The Sports Afloat and “Dive-in Snorkeling” programs will help snorkel or scuba enthusiasts prepare for their destination dives while they will be still on board the cruise ship. Shore trips will be outlined on the official website of Norwegian Cruise Line.
Taking the Children
Except for the Europe destinations, Norwegian cruises will provide “Kid Crew” – age-appropriate fun activities which will range from video arcades to learning sessions or parties – to Junior Sailors, for ages between two and five years old; First Mates, for ages between six and eight years old; Navigators, for ages between nine and twelve years old and Teens, for ages between thirteen and seventeen years old. Members from the staff will not charge diapers, but you will be given a beeper so they can let you know that your Junior Sailor has maybe committed a small indiscretion. You will be able to find cribs for young guests as well.