Wright Way Travel
    BlogFree QuoteContact
    1. Home
    2. Ships & Destinations
    3. Norwegian Encore
    Breakaway Plus Class

    Norwegian Encore Cruise Guide: Everything You Need to Know

    by Norwegian Cruise Line

    Norwegian Encore features the largest racetrack at sea, a virtual reality gaming complex, and NCL's signature Freestyle Cruising - the most flexible dining and entertainment experience afloat.

    Get a Free Quote Compare Ships

    Quick Answer

    Norwegian Encore is a 3,998-passenger Breakaway Plus ship built in 2019, known for the longest go-kart track at sea, the Galaxy Pavilion VR complex, and NCL's no-fixed-schedule Freestyle Cruising, sailing year-round from Miami and seasonally to Alaska from Seattle.

    Year Launched

    2019

    Passengers

    3,998

    Tonnage

    169,116 GT

    Decks

    20

    Length

    1,094 ft

    Class

    Breakaway Plus

    Ship Overview

    Norwegian Encore is a 3,998-passenger Breakaway Plus ship known for the longest go-kart track at sea and NCL's flexible Freestyle Cruising, sailing year-round from Miami and seasonally to Alaska from Seattle.

    Norwegian Encore is the newest and largest Breakaway Plus-class ship, sailing year-round from Miami on Caribbean itineraries and seasonally from Seattle on Alaska voyages.

    Encore is best known for the Encore Speedway - the longest go-kart track at sea - and the Galaxy Pavilion, a virtual reality gaming complex. Combined with NCL's Freestyle Cruising philosophy (no fixed dining times, relaxed dress code), Encore appeals to travelers who value flexibility and thrills.

    The ship also features The Haven - NCL's exclusive ship-within-a-ship concept - offering a private suite enclave with dedicated pool, restaurant, and concierge service.

    Key Features

    The Encore Speedway go-kart track, reaching up to 30 mph, and the VR-driven Galaxy Pavilion are Encore's two signature attractions, unmatched by other NCL ships this size.

    Encore Speedway

    The longest go-kart track at sea - a multi-level course where you race electric karts at up to 30 mph with ocean views.

    Galaxy Pavilion

    A high-tech virtual reality and gaming complex with VR rides, escape rooms, and interactive experiences.

    Aqua Park

    Two multi-story waterslides - Ocean Loops (a freefall with transparent loop over the ocean) and Aqua Racer.

    The Haven

    NCL's luxury ship-within-a-ship with private pool, sundeck, restaurant, lounge, and 24/7 butler service.

    Observation Lounge

    A stunning forward-facing lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows - the best spot for Alaska glacier viewing.

    Laser Tag

    An open-air laser tag arena on the top deck - exciting for families and groups.

    Dining Options

    Encore includes 15+ dining venues with no fixed times, plus six specialty restaurants like Onda by Scarpetta and Q Texas Smokehouse that are often free under Free at Sea.

    Encore features 15+ dining venues with NCL's Freestyle approach - no fixed times, no assigned seating. Included options: three main dining rooms, Garden Café buffet, The Local (pub food 24/7), and the fantastic Indulge Food Hall preview concept.

    Specialty dining includes Onda by Scarpetta (upscale Italian), Los Lobos (Mexican), Q Texas Smokehouse (BBQ), Le Bistro (French), Cagney's Steakhouse, and Teppanyaki. The dining variety is impressive.

    NCL's Free at Sea promotion often includes a specialty dining package, making these restaurants effectively free when you book at the right time.

    Entertainment & Activities

    Kinky Boots, a full Broadway production, headlines Encore's entertainment alongside live rock at Syd Norman's Pour House and a Beatles tribute show at The Cavern Club.

    The main theater hosts Kinky Boots - a full Broadway production that's genuinely spectacular. The Social Comedy & Night Club features stand-up, improv, and late-night dancing.

    Syd Norman's Pour House is a live music rock bar that draws crowds every night. The Beatles tribute show at The Cavern Club is a fleet favorite for music lovers.

    For families, Splash Academy kids' club and Entourage teen lounge are included. The Galaxy Pavilion VR experiences, laser tag, and Speedway round out the active entertainment options.

    Interested in Sailing on Norwegian Encore?

    I'll find the best available dates, cabin, and pricing, completely free.

    Get a Free Quote

    Ideal For

    • Active travelers who love go-karts and VR gaming
    • Alaska cruise seekers (Encore's seasonal deployment)
    • Couples and adults who value Freestyle flexibility
    • Haven suite guests seeking luxury at non-luxury prices
    • Families with tweens and teens (Speedway, laser tag, Galaxy Pavilion)

    Pros

    • ✓ Speedway go-karts are uniquely thrilling
    • ✓ Freestyle Cruising - ultimate flexibility
    • ✓ The Haven offers luxury-level service at mainstream pricing
    • ✓ Observation Lounge is perfect for Alaska scenic cruising
    • ✓ Free at Sea promotions add tremendous value

    Cons

    • ✗ Go-karts and Galaxy Pavilion have extra charges
    • ✗ Kids' programming less extensive than Disney or Royal Caribbean
    • ✗ Can feel crowded at popular venues
    • ✗ Some specialty dining is inconsistent
    • ✗ Party atmosphere late at night

    Example Itineraries

    Encore runs 7-night Eastern Caribbean sailings from Miami year-round and seasonal 7-night Alaska cruises from Seattle with stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Glacier Bay.

    7-Night Eastern Caribbean: Miami → St. Thomas → Tortola, BVI → Great Stirrup Cay → Miami

    7-Night Alaska (Seasonal): Seattle → Juneau → Skagway → Glacier Bay → Ketchikan → Victoria, BC → Seattle

    Encore's Alaska sailings from Seattle are among NCL's most popular - the Observation Lounge is perfectly positioned for glacier viewing.

    Pricing Expectations

    Balcony cabins run $1,200 to $2,200 per person for 7 nights, and NCL's Free at Sea promotion can add over $1,500 in bundled drinks, Wi-Fi, and dining value.

    Norwegian Encore offers competitive pricing, especially with Free at Sea promotions:

    • Interior: $800-$1,400/person (7 nights)
    • Ocean View: $1,000-$1,700/person
    • Balcony: $1,200-$2,200/person
    • Haven Suite: $3,500-$8,000+/person

    NCL's Free at Sea promotion bundles drinks, Wi-Fi, excursions, and specialty dining - adding $1,500+ in value. Let me build a personalized cruise plan to get current pricing with promotions.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Considering Other Ships? Compare:

    Norwegian Prima Guide
    Icon of the Seas Guide
    Best for Couples

    Explore More Cruise Guides

    Plan My Cruise
    Caribbean Cruises
    Alaska Cruises
    How Much Does a Cruise Cost?

    Ready to Book Norwegian Encore?

    I'll handle every detail, cabin selection, dining, excursions, and the best price. All free.

    Start Planning

    Free Insider's Cruise Guide

    The tips, mistakes to avoid, and money-savers I share with every client. Sent straight to your inbox.

    Get the free guide
    Wright Way Travel

    Free, personalized cruise planning from Marissa Wright. No fees, no catch.

    Based in Wesley Chapel, FL - serving Tampa Bay and cruise travelers across the U.S. Cruise planning is 100% remote, so I can help you from anywhere.

    Independent Agent forBest Day Ever Vacations!
    marissa@wrightwaytravel.comBook a free 15-min chat

    Cruise Advisor

    • Best Cruise Travel Agent
    • Luxury Cruise Advisor
    • Royal Caribbean Agent
    • Disney Cruise Agent
    • Carnival Agent
    • Norwegian Agent
    • Tampa Cruise Advisor

    Cruises From

    • Cruises from Tampa
    • Cruises from Port Canaveral
    • Cruises from Miami
    • Cruises from Fort Lauderdale

    Destinations

    • Caribbean Cruises
    • Disney Cruises
    • Mediterranean Cruises
    • Alaska Cruises
    • Family Cruises

    Start Planning

    • Get a Free Quote
    • Book a free 15-min chat
    • Plan My Cruise
    • Ship Finder

    Resources

    • About Marissa
    • Blog
    • First-Time Cruiser Guide
    • Cruise Packing List
    • How Much Does a Cruise Cost?
    • Best for Families

    © 2026 Wright Way Travel. All rights reserved.

    AboutBlogFree QuoteContact