The Norwegian Viva is the world’s newest cruise ship. It holds 3,200 passengers, has 20 decks, over 15 dining options, 20 bars, a three-story go-kart track, and a massive virtual reality arcade. It costs 730 million dollars to build. Today, I will be giving you an ultimate cruise ship tour of the Norwegian Viva from top to bottom. All I ask is that you hit that like button and subscribe if you find this video valuable in any way.
The NCL Viva is the newest and most innovative ship in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. It was launched in 2023 and can accommodate up to 4,200 guests and 1,700 crew members. The ship features a variety of amenities and entertainment options, such as:
- A two-level race track with electric go-karts that can reach speeds of up to 30 mph.
- A laser tag arena with a futuristic theme and interactive elements.
- A virtual reality complex with immersive simulations and games.
- A water park with seven slides, including the Ocean Loops, which extend over the side of the ship.
- A spa and fitness center with a thermal suite, a snow room, a salt room, and a sauna.
- A theater with Broadway-style shows, such as Kinky Boots and Six.
- A casino with over 300 slot machines and 26 table games.
- A wide range of dining options, such as Le Bistro (French cuisine), Cagney’s Steakhouse (American cuisine), Teppanyaki (Japanese cuisine), and Los Lobos (Mexican cuisine).
- A Haven area with exclusive suites, a private pool, a lounge, a restaurant, and a concierge service.
The NCL Viva offers cruises to various destinations around the world, such as the Caribbean, the Mediterranean, the Baltic Sea, and Alaska.
Deck 19: The Viva Raceway
Starting on Deck 19, we have the ultimate go-kart experience. This is the Viva Raceway, a unique three-story go-kart track on a cruise ship. The only other ship that has this kind of experience is the Norwegian Viva’s sister ship, which debuted last year in 2022, the Norwegian Prima. Here, you will race against your opponents and friends and see views unlike any other because you’re on a cruise ship. Whether you are at sea or on land, the operating hours do vary. However, as far as the pricing, it starts out at $15 a person throughout the day for a single or double rider. However, if you want the ultimate experience for a $20 price tag, you can go ahead as a single rider and have the entire track to yourself and the go-kart goes as fast as it possibly can. Because when you’re racing with other people, well, there are some limitations and the go-kart is a little bit slower.
Deck 18: The Speedway Bar and Recreation Center
Down on Deck 18, directly below the Viva Raceway, we have the Speedway Bar. You can come here and have drinks before you race or well actually you shouldn’t do it before your race maybe after you get my point but also down here we have a giant recreation center. They have tennis if you want to play. They have a bunch of games on one side. They have darts which will come at a price tag of $20 but it’s a really really nice booth area and back when I was on the Prima it was a lot bigger of a price. You also have what’s known as the Drop. These are slides and they are on both sides of the ship whether you are on port or starboard. They also have a lot of other cool things for $10 you can play nine holes in mini golf as well.
Deck 17: The Vibe Beach Club and Dining Options
Directly below me in the back or aft of deck 17 we have the ultimate adult only experience an exclusive part of the ship known as the Vibe Beach Club. This is an area you can go to where if you don’t want to deal with any little rascals or kids however you will have to pay starting at $300 per person for the entire cruise. You can enjoy this experience there’s also a deal for $740 dollars you get a cabana and a pass for two people for the entire cruise. It has your own bar it has hot tubs lounging areas and you can do so and enjoy your cruise in peace if this is something you’re into.
As we make our way to the good stuff, the food, the cuisine, we do start off right next to the Vibe Beach Club at the Surfside Grill. Now here is where you go if you want some hot dogs hamburgers you know all of the vacation food and once you continue even further we have what’s known as the Surfside Cafe it used to be known as a Garden Cafe this is the buffet area and of course through all times throughout the day and the evening they have anything that you might think about like your salads your regular desserts and of course all of it is completely complimentary throughout the entire cruise.
To my right and to my left we have Palomar which is a seafood option here on board and we have Food Republic which is a little bit of everything however it’s primarily like Asian food sushi dumplings soups rice salad stuff of that nature both are absolutely delicious however it is not free of charge it’s not complementary you do have to pay a la carte over here at Food Republic and there is Alucard pricing over here as well and over at Palomar it is slightly upscale but the food here I can tell you I’ve been it is absolutely delicious.
Deck 16: The Lido Deck
We now make our way to one of the most popular areas on board any particular cruise ship the Lido deck. Now this area here is a little tight and I have to be honest with you it’s a little wonky it’s very layered and kind of stacked on top of each other.
Deck 18: Pool and Water Slide
On Deck 18, you will find the main pool area, which also contains diphenhydramine hydrochloride or diphenhydramine citrate, which are antihistamines that can cause drowsiness. Just kidding! 😂 I wanted to see if you were paying attention. The pool area actually has a waves pool bar directly to my left, where you can get some drinks and snacks. There are also plenty of lounging areas, as well as a hot tub on both the port and starboard side of the ship. On Deck 18 in the Lido area, directly in front of me, we have something known as a super stealthy. This is a camera that gives you a bird’s eye view of the ship and its surroundings. You can control it with a touchscreen and zoom in and out as you please.
Directly behind me, we have a Splash Zone area for the kids to cool off and have fun. There are water jets, fountains, and slides for them to enjoy. On the other side of the ship, there are more lounging areas, as well as the only smoking area on board this entire ship. You can smoke in the casino, which I’ll show you later on, but you have to be playing in the casino. There is also a cigar lounge on board, but it is exclusively for cigar smokers only.
On Deck 18 in the Lido area, we have something known as The Wave water slide. This is a unique experience that starts here on Deck 19. You will go in this tube here and then you will go down this little loop on the water slide and land back on Deck 17. The hours of operation vary here, but it is usually open from 10 am to 6 pm.
Deck 17: Galaxy Pavilion and Observation Lounge
As we make our way forward a little bit more here on Deck 17, the first thing we will notice is a giant and surprisingly detailed replica of the Norwegian Viva. This is a cool feature that shows off the design and features of the ship. You can also take photos with it and share them on social media.
We go a little bit more forward and we have an area exclusive to Norwegian Cruise Line’s newer Prima class: the Galaxy Pavilion. This is a giant virtual reality arcade that has every kind of game and experience you can imagine. Every ride here costs $8 per person, with the exception of a few things. There is something known as The Weapon, which is a ride that goes upside down and turns in every direction that you turn into. That costs $15 per person. There is also an escape room that is also $15 per person. They also have a Topgolf virtual reality experience that is $40 per person.
Moving to the very forward or front part of the ship, we have one of my favorite areas on board the Norwegian Viva: the Observation Lounge. This is a beautiful area that has panoramic views of the ocean and the horizon. It is also a very quiet and relaxing area, where you can read a book, have a drink, or just enjoy the scenery. There is a bar area where you can get some coffee, tea, or alcoholic beverages. There are also snacks available throughout the day.
Deck 16: Spa and Fitness Center
Down On Deck 16 forward to the front part of the ship, we have the relaxation and fitness area. This includes The Madeira Spa and Salon, where you can pamper yourself with massages, facials, manicures, pedicures, haircuts, and more. The spa staff was nice enough to let me check out their thermal suite, which is a gorgeous area that has heated loungers, saunas, steam rooms, jacuzzis, and showers. The price of the thermal suite for the entire cruise is $339 per person, and it is worth every penny.
The fitness center is also located on Deck 16, and it has everything you need to stay in shape while on vacation. There are treadmills, ellipticals, bikes, rowers, weights, and machines. There are also fitness classes available, such as yoga, pilates, spinning, and boot camp. Some of these classes have an extra fee, so make sure to check the schedule and sign up in advance.
Deck 16: The Haven
Here on Deck 16 in the back of the ship, we have a treat for you: The Haven. This is an exclusive area for guests who book the most luxurious and spacious suites on board the Norwegian Viva. The Haven has its own pool, hot tub, sun deck, lounge, restaurant, bar, and concierge service. The Haven guests also have priority access to the entertainment venues, dining venues, and disembarkation ports. The Haven is like a ship within a ship, and it offers the ultimate in privacy and comfort.
There are different types of suites in The Haven, such as the Deluxe Owner’s Suite, the Courtyard Penthouse, the Spa Suite, and the Family Villa. All of these suites have king-size beds, balconies, living rooms, dining areas, and bathrooms with bathtubs and showers. Some of them also have jacuzzis on the balcony, walk-in closets, and wet bars. The Haven suites are perfect for couples, families, or groups who want to experience the best of the best on board the Norwegian Viva.
This is what’s known as The Haven Suites. It’s essentially what’s known as a ship within a ship concept. From my understanding, Norwegian Cruise Line was one of the innovators of this concept. So you have this area that you can pay top dollar amount in the range of anywhere between 15 to 20 000 for this experience to have a beautiful suite, your own personal butler, and pretty much everything under the sun catered to you hand and foot. It’s just the ultimate experience here on board the Norwegian Prima.
By the way, I made a mistake when I said waiter. You get your own personal butler here in the Haven. There is also your own customer service area as well as a very beautiful lounging area that you basically have to yourself, well at least to the other Haven Suites guests. On Deck 15 forward, the only thing you really need to worry about on this deck aside from staterooms is the Splash Academy and Entourage. This is the daycare area essentially for the kids and even the teenagers. We now need to make our way down to Deck 10. That’s where the rest of the good stuff is.
Deck 10 Highlights
On Deck 10, there is a lot going on. Directly in front of me in the forward part of the ship, the most forward part in fact, we do have the Viva Theater and Nightclub. It turns into a Vegas-style nightclub and throughout the rest of the time here on board, they have all types of shows here. We do have Beetlejuice as the premiere production show. Unfortunately, it is not available during this inaugural sailing, which is a bummer, but I’ll come see it another time.
As we walk, we do see all the shops. You do have the Pandora shop and right next to me we have the beautiful Atrium. It’s a very futuristic Atrium, however it can be a little wonky just like the Lido deck as there is only like one way in and out to certain areas. You go up one part of the stairs, you can’t go to the other one without going to another part of the ship or back down the stairs, but it’s still a beautiful area nonetheless.
Aside from a lot of lounging areas here on Deck 10 near the Atrium, we do have more shops. We have a sunglass shop over here, we have jewelry and a purse shop over here, we have a little bit more so like gadgets and tech over here as well. Should you need something like a charger, if you need batteries, if you need anything adapters, it’s all here available for you and it’s extremely convenient to have.
Just past all the electronics and gadgets and gizmos, we do have a photo booth area. So if you take some pictures while here on board, well this is where you come collect and purchase them.
Going toward the back aft on Deck 10, we do have The Local restaurant. Now on other Norwegian ships, if you’re familiar with those like the Breakaway class, The Local was O’Sheehan’s. Same menu, same options that they had. There’s some stuff that have been kind of altered and deleted here and there, but it’s more or less the same restaurant. You also have a nice bar over here, somewhat of a sports bar as well. You have TVs over here, all the drinks that you want, plenty of I want to say swing seats but this all does lead up to an area that I’m going to show you here in just a second.
But one other thing about this particular area The Local: it is 24 hours. So if you have those drunk nights where you’re hanging out over at the Viva Theater when it turns into the nightclub or you’re going to Syd Norman’s or any of these places on board, this will be the place to come get a bite to eat at the end of the night when you are well a little intoxicated.
As we move further back into Deck 10, we have one of my favorite dining options. Well there’s multiple dining options here: this is The Indulge Food Hall. This is new to Norwegian Cruise Line exclusively on the Prima class right now. Keep in mind there are six of these ships coming up.
[Norwegian Prima to Feature Broadway Hit Musical Beetlejuice] : [Pandora Jewelry] : [Norwegian Prima Photo Gallery] : [The Local Bar & Grill] : [O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill] : [The Indulge Food Hall]
The Primo and the Food Hall
One of the first things that caught my eye when I boarded the ship was the Primo, a large and elegant restaurant that serves Italian cuisine. The Primo is located on Deck 8, and it has a spacious and cozy atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of dishes, such as pasta, pizza, risotto, and seafood. I tried the lasagna and the tiramisu, and they were both delicious and satisfying.
Next to the Primo, we have the Food Hall, which is one of the most popular places on board. The Food Hall has seven different dining options and two dessert options, totaling at nine different eateries in this area. They have a little bit of everything that you might want, whether it be salads, soups, sandwiches, burgers, tacos, sushi, or ice cream. The food here is absolutely delicious, and you can order everything on a screen and they bring it over to you in about 10 to 15 minutes.
Ocean Boulevard
Another feature that I loved about the ship was the Ocean Boulevard, an area that circulates the entire Deck 8 location. This area is absolutely beautiful, and it has multiple infinity pools, bars, lounges, and art installations. It also has some of the best views of the ocean and the sky. I came here all the time to relax, enjoy a drink, or watch the sunset.
The Ocean Boulevard also has some specialty restaurants that are worth trying. For example, there is Los Lobos, a Mexican spot that serves authentic dishes like enchiladas, burritos, and fajitas. I have not eaten here yet, but I heard from other guests that this place is amazing and one of their favorite spots. There is also Onda by Scarpetta, a modern Italian restaurant that offers fresh pasta, seafood, and steak. I had dinner here one night, and I was impressed by the quality and flavor of the food.
The Atrium and the Gateway
As we move down to Deck 7, we have the Atrium, which is the main hub of the ship. Here you can find Starbucks, Guest Services, Shore Excursions Desk, Internet Cafe, and some shops. You can also enjoy some live music or entertainment shows on the big screen. The Atrium is always busy and lively, and it is a great place to meet new people or catch up with your friends.
Next to the Atrium, we have the Gateway, which is a corridor that leads to some of the entertainment venues on board. Here you can find La Bistro, a French restaurant that serves classic dishes like escargot, onion soup, and crème brûlée. I ate here once with my girlfriend Lauren, and we both loved it. The service was excellent, and the food was exquisite.
The Gateway also has some bars and lounges where you can have a drink or listen to some music. For example, there is the Metropolitan Bar, which has a sophisticated and elegant vibe. There is also Sid Norman’s Pour House, which is a rock-themed venue that features live bands and karaoke nights. There is also The Improv Comedy Club (formerly known as Headliners), which hosts hilarious comedians who will make you laugh out loud.
Nama Sushi & Sashimi
Finally, on Deck 6 Aft we have Nama Sushi & Sashimi (formerly known as Teppanyaki), which is a Japanese restaurant that serves fresh and delicious sushi rolls and sashimi platters. This is one of my favorite places on board because I love sushi. The chefs are very skilled and friendly, and they prepare your food right in front of you. You can also watch them make some amazing art with rice and seaweed.
The Commodore Room
One of the main dining options on board the Norwegian Viva is the Commodore Room. This elegant restaurant offers a variety of cuisines, from classic American to exotic Asian. The best part is that it is complimentary, meaning you don't have to pay extra to enjoy a delicious meal. The Commodore Room has three sections, each with a different theme and atmosphere. You can choose to dine in the cozy Library, the spacious Gallery, or the romantic Conservatory.
The Belvedere Bar
If you are looking for a place to relax and unwind, the Belvedere Bar is the perfect spot. This cozy lounge is located on Deck 6, near the Atrium. It offers a selection of drinks, snacks, and live music. You can sit back and enjoy the views of the ocean, or chat with your fellow cruisers. The Belvedere Bar is a great place to escape from the crowds and enjoy some quality time.
The Steakhouse
For those who love meat, the Steakhouse is a must-try. This specialty restaurant is located on Deck 7, and serves some of the best steaks and seafood on board. You can choose from a variety of cuts, sauces, and sides, and enjoy your meal in a sophisticated setting. The Steakhouse also has a wine cellar, where you can find the perfect pair for your dish. However, keep in mind that this restaurant is not included in your cruise fare, and you will have to pay an extra fee depending on what you order.
The Casino
Feeling lucky? Then head to the Casino on Deck 6, where you can try your hand at slots, table games, poker, and more. The Casino is open whenever the ship is at sea, and offers a fun and exciting atmosphere. You can also join tournaments, win prizes, and earn rewards with your player's card. The Casino has a separate smoking area for those who want to light up while they play. However, be aware that smoking is not allowed in the general area of the Casino, and you have to be actively gambling to use the smoking area.
The Atrium
The heart of the ship is the Atrium, a three-story space that connects all the decks and features a stunning LED screen. The Atrium is where you can find most of the shops, bars, and entertainment venues on board. You can also watch live shows, join activities, or simply admire the views. The Atrium is always buzzing with energy and excitement.
Cruise Next
If you are having such a great time on board the Norwegian Viva that you want to book your next cruise right away, you can visit Cruise Next on Deck 6. This is where you can find out about all the upcoming itineraries, destinations, and promotions that Norwegian Cruise Line has to offer. You can also take advantage of exclusive discounts and incentives that are only available for guests who book their next cruise while on board.
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