I’d been eyeing a Bermuda cruise on Norwegian Joy for years. I first booked it to celebrate a milestone birthday back in 2021…then watched it get cancelled—twice.

When I finally sailed the 7-night NYC → Bermuda itinerary in June 2022, that first glimpse of the Manhattan skyline, the Statue of Liberty, and the slow glide under the Verrazzano felt like a long-overdue exhale.

But the story didn’t end there. I loved it so much that I booked again and sailed in June 2024, this time on the itinerary that departed New York on June 30, 2024, with two sea days, two and a half days docked at the Royal Naval Dockyard, and a final sea day before returning to NYC.

And Bermuda? Let’s just say—even after visiting twice, two and a half days still wasn’t enough. I left already plotting a third return.

Having sailed on Norwegian Joy in June 2022 and again in June 2024, I’ve included both my original impressions and what’s changed now after her dry dock—so you’re getting the most up-to-date review.

Our Itinerary at a Glance

• Homeport: Manhattan Cruise Terminal (New York City)
• Length: 7 nights
• Typical flow:
  • Day 1 – NYC embarkation & sail away
  • Day 2 – Optional/seasonal call (e.g., Norfolk, VA)
  • Day 3 – Sea day
  • Days 4–6 – Bermuda overnights (arrive ~9:00 a.m. Day 4, depart ~3:00 p.m. Day 6)
  • Day 7 – Sea day
  • Day 8 – Disembark NYC
• Why it works: Those 2–3 nights in Bermuda give you true “land vacation” flexibility—dinner ashore, sunset ferries, late-night strolls—without rushing back to the ship at 4 p.m.

Tip: If your sailing includes Norfolk, VA, treat it as a bonus; operational changes can swap or skip it. Build your “must-dos” around Bermuda time.

Norwegian Joy: The Quick Ship Snapshot

• Class & Size: Breakaway Plus class; ~3,776 guests (double occupancy), 20 decks (18–20 are partial)
• Launched: 2017 (originally built for the Asian market)
• Refurbs: Major U.S. market refit (2018); dry dock Jan–Feb 2024 with notable upgrades (details below)
• Vibe: Modern, lively, plenty to do (slides, speedway, shows) with quiet nooks like The Waterfront (Deck 8) and the Observation Lounge

What’s New After the 2024 Dry Dock (Why This Review Is Up-to-Date)

The Norwegian Joy underwent a major dry dock refurbishment from January to February 2024, bringing some exciting new updates for guests.

If you’re sailing now or planning for an upcoming Bermuda or Caribbean itinerary, here’s what’s new:

• New Thermal Suite – Norwegian expanded the Mandara Spa with one of the largest Thermal Suites in the Breakaway Plus class. It now features a larger thalasso pool, heated loungers, saunas, and panoramic ocean views, making it a top spot for relaxation.
• Expanded Vibe Beach Club – The adults-only Vibe Beach Club was enlarged, giving guests more space, additional seating, and upgraded amenities. It’s still an exclusive, for-a-fee retreat, but now offers a much more spacious layout.
• More Balcony Cabins – 26 new balcony staterooms were added by reconfiguring part of the Observation Lounge. These cabins are ideal for guests who want ocean views without splurging on suites.
• Upgraded Haven Premier Owner’s Suites – The ship’s most luxurious accommodations were redesigned into 3-bedroom, 3.5-bath suites, offering more space and upgraded features for large groups or families seeking privacy and exclusivity.

These upgrades make the Joy feel fresh, modern, and better suited for today’s cruisers—especially if you’re looking for spa indulgence or more balcony availability.

If you’ve read older Joy reviews, note the entertainment lineup evolves. For example, “Footloose” has been discontinued; Elements continues to be the signature production (reserve early).

Who This Ship Fits (So You Book Confidently)

• First-timers & East Coasters: Easy drive-to embarkation + epic NYC sail away.
• Couples & friend groups: Plenty of bars, specialty dining (hello, Le Bistro), live music, and a casino.
• Families: Kids’ clubs, slides, go-karts, casual dining staples (The Local is 24 hours).
• Suite seekers: The Haven delivers private lounge/restaurant/sundeck, priority access, and that cocoon-of-calm feeling on a busy ship.
• Spa people: The new Thermal Suite is a legit reason to spend a sea day indoors.

Why I Chose Joy for Bermuda

1. Overnights in port – You get to slow down and actually be in Bermuda.
2. Freestyle dining – I didn’t want fixed seating; Joy’s mix of MDRs, buffet, and specialty venues kept things flexible.
3. Deck 8 Waterfront – Our favorite place for coffee, sail-in views, and quieter sea-day moments.
4. Post-refurb perks – The enhanced spa and outdoor spaces fit how I like to cruise now.

Embarkation, Check-In & First-Day Must-Dos

Every cruise starts the same way—bags, lines, and waiting. But sailing out of New York’s Manhattan Cruise Terminal has its own buzz.

Seeing that massive ship docked against the skyline while taxis, Ubers, and rolling suitcases all funnel toward Pier 88—it really builds the anticipation.

Embarkation at Manhattan Cruise Terminal

Here’s how our embarkation unfolded step by step (and what you should expect):

• Luggage Drop: Porters outside the terminal quickly collected our tagged bags. (Tip: print and attach luggage tags at home so you’re not fumbling curbside.)
• Security Screening: Standard airport-style check. Keep your passport handy—you’ll need it right away.
• Document Verification (June 2022 requirements):
  • Bermuda Travel Authorization form
  • Negative COVID-19 test results (antigen, max 2 days before embarkation)
  • Vaccination proof
    Once approved, staff placed a green dot sticker on our passports—our ticket to proceed.
• Check-In: I joined the e-documents line since I’d checked in online. Honestly? It wasn’t faster than the regular line, but it worked. This is where I got our keycards (your lifeline for cabin access, purchases, and getting on/off the ship).

Time tip: The whole process—from curb to boarding—took around 90 minutes. Plan snacks, patience, and maybe a fully charged phone.

Muster Drill (The New Way)

Gone are the days of crowding onto open decks for safety briefings.

Instead:

• You’ll receive a must-watch video by email before your cruise.
• Once onboard, head directly to your muster station to check in with staff.
• Later, an announcement runs through the final emergency instructions.

If you didn’t watch the video pre-cruise, your cabin TV locks onto it until you’ve completed it. No skipping!

The NCL App: Download It Before You Go

The NCL app became our go-to onboard tool. Before embarkation, download and log in (you can still do this in the terminal if needed).

With it, you can:

• View the Freestyle Daily schedule digitally
• Book dining reservations
• Reserve shows and entertainment
• Track your onboard account

I checked the app while still in line, making reservations for dinner and shows before even stepping onto the gangway.

First Things To Do After Boarding

Once I crossed the gangway, stepped onto the ship, and took that first big “I made it” breath, here’s the exact order I followed:

1. Head to Muster Station – Don’t put it off. It’s quick and frees you to enjoy the ship.
2. Book Dining –
   • Teppanyaki and Cagney’s Steakhouse fill fast—secure them on Day 1.
   • I booked via the Teppanyaki desk on Deck 6.
3. Book Entertainment –
   • Stop by the Social Club on Deck 6 for show reservations.
   • Comedy shows don’t always need reservations, but the big productions (like Elements) do.
4. Grab Lunch (or a drink): Most people crowd the buffet, but The Local (Deck 7, 24/7 pub) is a calmer spot for wings, nachos, and a beer.
5. Check Your Cabin: By early afternoon, staterooms usually open. Drop your carry-on, explore balcony space, and—yes—test the bed firmness (ours was rock solid; I loved it, my husband didn’t).

Sail Away from New York City

I skipped the loud pool deck party for a quieter, more scenic spot: The Waterfront on Deck 8.

From there, I watched:

• Port side: the skyline stretches out, World Trade Center glinting in the sun.
• Starboard side: the Statue of Liberty at eye level as I sailed past.
• Aft section: panoramic views as I slipped under the Verrazzano Bridge.

Pro tip: The Observation Lounge on Deck 15 is another incredible sail-away spot—but arrive early for a good seat.

Cabins, The Haven & Dining

After sailing away, the next big impressions come from your cabin and your first meals onboard.

On the Norwegian Joy, both exceeded our expectations—but with a few surprises along the way.

Our Balcony Stateroom Experience

I stayed in a mid-ship balcony cabin (#9900), and honestly, it was one of the best “regular” cabins I’ve had on NCL.

What I Loved:

• Spacious and spotless, with plenty of closet and shelving space for two people on a week-long cruise.
• Angled balcony: more spacious than standard layouts, giving extra room to step out and enjoy Bermuda sunrises.
• Bathroom upgrade: a corner glass-enclosed shower (no clingy curtain!) made it feel more upscale.
• Power outlets: 2 USB ports on each side of the bed, plus 3 US outlets—no need for a power strip.

Downsides:

• The bed was very firm. I personally found it uncomfortable, though my husband slept fine. Comfort may depend on your preference.

Cabin Location Tip: Being on Deck 9 near elevators was super convenient, but surprisingly quiet thanks to extra cabins between the hallway and elevator lobby.

The Haven: A Ship Within a Ship

On this sailing, I didn’t stay in the Haven—but I toured it, and many fellow cruisers raved about the experience.

The Haven is NCL’s luxury enclave: private suites, exclusive pool areas, a restaurant, bar, and concierge/butler service.

Haven Perks Include:

• Private restaurant & bar with top-tier dining and cocktails (smoked old-fashioned is a favorite).
• Priority embarkation and disembarkation, including special tender entrances.
• Reserved seating for theater shows and even St. George ferry access.
• L’Occitane bath amenities and upgraded linens.
• Butler service that can even deliver Haven restaurant meals to your cabin.

Drawback: Some guests wished The Haven were adults-only, since kids sometimes dominated the pool and made the atmosphere noisier.

If budget allows, the Haven is worth it for the peace, perks, and premium service—it truly feels like a different cruise within the same ship.

Dining on the Norwegian Joy

Food is such a big part of cruising, and the Joy didn’t disappoint. Between complimentary and specialty dining, I tried a little of everything.

Complimentary Options:

• Garden Café Buffet:
  • Breakfast was consistent, with fresh fruit and made-to-order omelets (expect lines).
  • Lunch highlights included excellent Indian dishes and a solid carving station.
  • Caribbean lunch on the last Bermuda day was one of the best meals of the week.
  • Pizza was a letdown—the cheese tasted artificial.
• The Local (Deck 7, 24/7 Pub): Great for wings, nachos, pretzel balls, burgers, and beer. I often came here for trivia, music, and snacks.
• Main Dining Rooms (Taste, Savor & Manhattan): All share the same galley, but I loved dining at the Manhattan Room during sunset. Service was consistently excellent, and dishes like lamb shank, Parmesan breaded pork chop, and tiramisu stood out.

Specialty Dining Highlights:

• Cagney’s Steakhouse: Ribeye and lamb chops were solid, but not quite as memorable as past visits. Still, worth a Free at Sea dining credit.
• Le Bistro (French): The star of our cruise. From scallops and French onion soup to filet mignon and heavenly chocolate mousse, everything was perfection. This was the one specialty restaurant I agreed I’d happily pay extra for next time.
• Other Options I Skipped: Ocean Blue (seafood), Food Republic (Asian fusion with tablet menus), Teppanyaki, Q Smokehouse, La Cucina, and American Diner.

Dining Tip: Reserve specialty restaurants as soon as you board (or better yet, 90 days in advance online). Le Bistro fills up fast, especially on sailings with multiple sea days.

Entertainment, Activities, and Haven Dining

One of the best things about cruising on the Norwegian Joy is how much there is to do—whether you’re into live shows, games, or just relaxing by the pool with a cocktail.

Entertainment & Nightlife Onboard

Norwegian Joy offers a mix of Broadway-style shows, live music, and casual fun. You can do as much or as little as you want each day.

Main Shows I Saw:

• Elements (Free | Reservations Needed): A visually striking mix of acrobatics, magic, and dance. While some thought it was heavy on choreography, I still found it entertaining.
• Footloose (Discontinued as of Oct 2023): During our trip, it was running, but it dragged on and didn’t match the energy of the movie. This show has since been replaced.
• The Beatles Experience: A tribute performed both in the Joy Theater and the Cavern Club. The intimate Cavern Club felt like stepping back in time—arrive early as seating fills quickly.

Other Fun Options:

• Levity Comedy Group: Featuring comedians like Andy Beningo and Larry Omaha. Andy’s sets stood out with family-friendly humor that still made everyone laugh.
• Trivia & Game Shows: Wheel of Fortune, Deal or No Deal, and live DJ nights kept things lively.
• Live Music: The band Azúcar and the onboard DJ were cruise highlights—great energy, great vibes.

Pool Deck & Aqua Park

• Three pools: adult pool, kids’ pool, and a private Haven pool. Even at 50% capacity, the main pool deck felt busy, especially on sea days.
• Hot Tubs: Kids often crowded these, so adults tended to escape to Spice H2O’s hot tubs.
• Water Slides:
  • Ocean Loops (scariest—part of the slide hangs over the ocean).
  • Aqua Racer (great for racing friends).
  • Smaller kids’ slides in the aqua park.

Lines were surprisingly short, so it was easy to enjoy them without waiting too long.

Speedway Go-Karts (Cost: $15 per person)

The Joy’s 2-level racetrack is a signature feature. While not as fast as land go-karts, it’s still a blast—nine laps of fun with ocean views.

Definitely worth trying at least once.

Casino & Adult Spaces

• Casino (Deck 7): Spacious with slots, table games, a high rollers’ room, and a separate smoking section (huge plus for non-smokers). Late-night snacks from the casino café were better than the buffet at times.
• Spice H2O (Adults-Only Area): Large hot tub, bar, sun deck, and nightly themed parties. One of the best spots to escape the family crowds.
• Observation Lounge (Deck 15): A quieter retreat with panoramic windows, afternoon snacks, and a Starbucks kiosk.

The Spa Experience

When I sailed in 2022, the spa was fairly small, with limited facilities. But in 2024, dry dock, the Joy added a brand-new Thermal Suite, making it a much more competitive option.

Now you’ll find:

• Heated loungers
• Saunas and steam rooms
• Thalassotherapy pool
• Expanded treatment rooms

Tip: Spa passes sell out early, especially on Bermuda sailings. Book ahead if you want access for the full cruise.

Haven Dining Experience

For those booked in The Haven, dining is elevated to another level. The Haven Restaurant is quieter, more intimate, and features premium dishes not available elsewhere onboard.

Haven Restaurant Hours:

• Breakfast: 7–10 am (sea days) | 6:30–9:30 am (port days)
• Lunch: 12–2 pm
• Dinner: 5:30–9:30 pm

Haven Menus (Highlights):

• Breakfast: Buffet with à la carte classics.
• Lunch: Fresh salads, seafood, and daily rotating specials.
• Dinner: Filet mignon, lamb chops, seafood risotto, and high-end desserts.
• Cocktails: Try the smoked old-fashioned—bartenders offer at least 8 different wood chips for a custom smoky flavor.

Guests can also request in-room dining from the Haven restaurant menu, delivered by their butler with full table service.

The Haven Experience

If you’ve ever wondered whether splurging on The Haven is worth it, here’s a breakdown of our experience (and what others have shared).

The Haven is Norwegian’s luxury ship-within-a-ship concept—a private enclave with suites, exclusive dining, and quiet spaces.

On Joy, it’s located forward, with a private pool, hot tubs, sun deck, lounge, and restaurant.

Access is by key card only, so it feels like an entirely different world from the busy pool decks.

Why The Haven Feels Different

From the moment you check in, you’re treated like a VIP.

Haven guests enjoy:

• Priority embarkation and disembarkation (including private elevators).
• Priority tenders in ports where tender boats are used.
• Reserved seating at shows and events.
• 24-hour butler service and concierge assistance.
• Upgraded amenities like luxury linens, L’Occitane bath products, and Nespresso machines in rooms.

For many, the biggest perk isn’t even the luxury—it’s the peace and quiet.

While the main pool deck can feel packed, The Haven’s courtyard and sun deck rarely felt crowded, and lounge chairs were always available.

Haven Accommodations

There are multiple suite categories in The Haven, from forward-facing penthouse suites to the sprawling 3-bedroom Haven Owner’s Suite that sleeps up to eight.

Cabin highlights:

• Spacious layouts with multiple bedrooms or living areas, depending on the category.
• Bathrooms with double sinks and upgraded showers or tubs.
• Separate living/dining areas in larger suites.
• Private balconies, many with spectacular views.

Outlet Note (2024 update): Cabins now include both US and European Type C outlets. Some lack USB ports, so it’s smart to pack a Type C converter or cruise-approved power strip.

Haven Restaurant & Lounge

Dining in The Haven is a huge step up from the main dining rooms:

• Breakfast: Includes buffet options plus fresh à la carte meals.
• Lunch: Fresh seafood, soups, and chef-inspired specials.
• Dinner: Standouts included filet mignon with foie gras, veal chop, and rich French onion soup.
• Cocktails: The Haven bar staff is outstanding—don’t miss their smoked old-fashioned, which they customize with your choice of wood chips.

What sets it apart is not just the food, but the atmosphere—quiet, relaxed, and never a wait except maybe on embarkation day.

Guests can also order any item from the Haven menu to their suite, delivered with full white-tablecloth service.

Haven Facilities

• Private Pool & Hot Tubs: Always quieter than the main pool deck. The roof over the courtyard slides open in good weather.
• Sun Deck: Loungers with ocean views, perfect for reading or napping.
• Horizon Lounge: Floor-to-ceiling windows for panoramic ocean views.
• Private Bar & Lounge: Cozy space for pre-dinner cocktails or late-night drinks.

Is The Haven Worth It?

For us, yes. But it depends on your priorities:

✅ Worth It If:

• You value peace, quiet, and a more intimate atmosphere.
• You want priority boarding, better service, and a stress-free experience.
• You’re celebrating something special or traveling with family who will use the extra space.

❌ Might Not Be Worth It If:

• You mostly spend time outside your cabin.
• You’re happy with the main dining and public spaces.
• The price difference eats into your excursion or specialty dining budget.

The only downside? Families with children are welcome in The Haven, which sometimes makes the pool and restaurant noisier than expected.

Many guests (ourselves included) wished NCL would consider making The Haven adults-only—or at least 16+.

Balcony vs. The Haven – What’s the Real Value?

When deciding between a balcony stateroom and The Haven, the first thing most cruisers look at is cost.

Prices vary by season, itinerary, and promotions, but here’s a general breakdown (based on Bermuda sailings from NYC):

• Balcony Cabin:
  • Average Price: $1,200–$1,600 per person (7 nights)
  • What’s Included: Standard balcony room, access to all complimentary dining venues, shows, pools, and activities.
  • Great For: Cruisers who want the balcony experience without splurging, families traveling on a budget, and those who spend most of their time outside the cabin.
• The Haven Suite:
  • Average Price: $3,500–$5,500 per person (7 nights)
  • What’s Included: Everything in a balcony room, plus exclusive Haven restaurant, private pool & sun deck, lounge, upgraded suite amenities, priority embarkation/disembarkation, butler & concierge, and reserved show seating.
  • Great For: Luxury travelers, special occasions, and those who want peace, privacy, and a premium experience.

Tip: Haven often sells out months in advance. If you’re even considering it, book early—or look for last-minute upgrades through NCL’s bid-to-upgrade program.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is Norwegian Joy a new ship?

No, it debuted in 2017, but was refurbished in 2018 and again in 2024 with upgrades like a Thermal Spa, expanded Vibe Beach Club, and new Haven suites.

2. How big is Norwegian Joy?

Joy is a Breakaway Plus-class ship with capacity for ~3,800 passengers (double occupancy) and ~1,800 crew.

3. How many restaurants are on board?

• Complimentary (included): Garden Café (buffet), Manhattan Room, Taste, Savor, and The Local (24-hour pub).
• Specialty (extra or with Free at Sea credits): Cagney’s Steakhouse, Food Republic, La Cucina (Italian), Le Bistro (French), Ocean Blue (seafood), Q Texas Smokehouse (BBQ), and Teppanyaki.
• Extras: Starbucks (Deck 6 & Deck 15) is available but only included if you upgrade to the Premium Plus Beverage Package.

4. What’s new after the 2024 dry dock?

• Large Thermal Suite in Mandara Spa
• Expanded Vibe Beach Club (adults-only)
• 26 new balcony cabins
• Redesigned 3-bedroom Haven Premier Owner’s Suites

5. What cabins are on the Norwegian Joy?

There are 1,888 staterooms, ranging from inside cabins to luxury suites.

Categories include:

• Inside, Oceanview, Balcony, Club Balcony Suites (formerly Mini-Suites)
• The Haven (exclusive luxury enclave with private restaurant, lounge, pool, concierge, and butler service)
• Family-friendly cabins (some with connecting doors)
• Solo studios for single travelers

6. How many pools are on the Norwegian Joy?

• 2 public pools (one main pool, one kids’ pool)
• Spice H2O hot tub area (adults-only most of the time)
• The Haven has its own private pool and hot tubs
• Vibe Beach Club (for-a-fee retreat) also has its own whirlpools

7. What is Free At Sea on Norwegian Joy?

Norwegian’s Free At Sea promo is included for the first two passengers in a cabin.

Depending on the length of your cruise, it typically includes:

• Unlimited open bar (up to $15 per drink)
• Specialty dining credits (number varies)
• Free Wi-Fi (150 minutes or unlimited if upgraded)
• $50 shore excursion credit (per port, per cabin, for passenger #1)

You can upgrade to Free At Sea Plus for unlimited Wi-Fi, bottled water, premium Starbucks, and top-shelf alcohol (Premium Plus package).

8. What activities and entertainment are on board?

• Broadway-style show Elements
• Live music (including Beatles tribute in The Cavern Club)
• Comedy acts
• Casino (with separate smoking section)
• Speedway Go-Karts (extra fee)
• Aqua Park with water slides (Ocean Loops & Aqua Racer)
• Mini-golf, arcade, and rock climbing wall
• Trivia, game shows, deck parties, and live DJ events
• Mandara Spa with new Thermal Suite (2024)

9. What are the outlets in the cabins?

The ship was designed for Asia, so cabins have a mix of U.S. and European (Type C) outlets. Many also have USB ports.

Bring a Type C converter and/or a cruise-approved (non-surge) power strip to avoid charging issues.

10. What’s the dress code on Norwegian Joy?

NCL is known for “Freestyle Cruising,” so there are no formal nights.

• Main dining rooms: No hats, swimwear, or flip-flops.
• Specialty restaurants: Men must wear long pants and collared shirts.
• Otherwise, casual cruise attire is perfectly fine.

11. What’s not included in your fare?

• Specialty dining (unless using Free At Sea credits)
• Premium/Starbucks coffee, unless you upgrade to Premium Plus
• Spa services, Go-Karts, Laser Tag, Vibe Beach Club
• Shore excursions, internet upgrades, and casino play
• Some tastings (wine, whiskey, beer)

Final Thoughts

Looking back, our Norwegian Joy sailing to Bermuda was more than just a cruise—it was the perfect balance of relaxation, adventure, and value.

• The ship itself impressed us with its variety of dining, entertainment, and modern design.
• Bermuda, with its pink sand beaches and friendly locals, stole our hearts in just three days.
• For us, the balcony stateroom worked well, but after seeing The Haven, I understand why many cruisers splurge—it really does feel like a private retreat.

Two takeaways:

1. If it’s your first cruise to Bermuda, even a balcony cabin gives you everything you need to fall in love with the island.
2. If you want a next-level experience, The Haven is worth every penny for the peace, perks, and pampering.

I left the Norwegian Joy already planning our return—because once you’ve sailed out of NYC past the Statue of Liberty and woken up in Bermuda’s turquoise paradise, it’s hard not to crave that magic again.