Blissful cruise itineraries with NCL

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Norwegian Cruise Line, known for its “Freestyle Cruising,” with passengers able to experience a more, customised, independent way of cruising, recently unveiled its latest and greatest ship: The Norwegian Bliss. As the name suggests, it offers total bliss and the ultimate in relaxation while onboard.

The largest ship ever for Norwegian and one of the largest vessels of its kind among all lines, recently embarked on its maiden voyage, complete with all the trappings of a mega-resort. It offers passengers amusements that were once unheard  on cruise ships, such as a two-deck-high race course where participants compete against each other, racing in electric go-karts. Like its popular sister ships, Escape and Joy, it features a massive waterpark with multi-story slides, laser tag, Tony Award-winning production shows, a boardwalk lined with restaurants, and a vast spa with a menu filled with indulgent treatments. It even hosts a Texas BBQ joint complete with live, pop-country music. Passengers can also look forward to soaking up the sun on the decks and gazing up at a star-filled night’s sky from the hot tubs.

All this and more is included in a Premium, All-Inclusive Cruise on The Norwegian Bliss:

•    Premium alcoholic beverages, soft drinks and bottled water in all bars
•    All service charges and gratuities
•    60 minutes of free Wi-Fi per person throughout the ship
•    Unrivalled dining experiences
•    Award-winning entertainment
•    Aqua Parks, sports and leisure facilities
•    Professional junior and youth programmes

While booking a cruise on this sparkling new ship is a no-brainer when it comes to fun for nearly all ages and travel styles, the only real question left is, “Which cruise itinerary to take?”

Miami Stay & Norwegian Bliss Eastern Caribbean Cruise

This 10-night cruise includes three nights to enjoy Miami’s balmy weather, beautiful beaches, diverse culture, hopping nightlife and thriving art scene that includes the Art Deco Historic District with its largest collection of pastel-splashed Art Deco buildings in the world. Stroll the stunning Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, shop historic Flagler Street and taste the flavors of Little Havana. After dark, sample some of Miami’s hottest clubs, restaurants and bars.

Say goodbye to Miami and hello to pure Bliss aboard Norwegian’s newest ship, sailing to your first port of call, the cosmopolitan island of St. Thomas. Climb the famous 99 Steps of Charlotte Amalie for an extraordinary view of the glistening expanse of the Caribbean, take advantage of duty-free shopping or just relax while soaking up the sunshine from one of the powdery white sand beaches. The peaceful island of Tortola, discovered by Christopher Columbus in 1493 is the next stop, renowned for its outstanding bird watching, soaring mahogany trees and white sand beaches. As you sail toward the Bahamas, you’ll have a full day to enjoy the many amenities on the ship, from refreshing and restoring with treatments at the spa to whizzing down the water slides. Once in Nassau you can do everything from learn about the ‘Golden Age of Piracy’ at the Pirates of Nassau Interactive Museum to swimming with the dolphins and snorkeling among tropical fish in crystal clear blue waters.

Vancouver, Seattle & Norwegian Bliss Alaska Cruise

This 11-night cruises showcases some of the Pacific Northwest’s most beautiful and exciting cities, as well as the unspoiled wilds of Alaska. Begin in one of the world’s most magnificent cities, Vancouver, tucked between the Coast Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. Dine along the waterfront and shop the famous Granville Island Public Market before heading south across the Canada/U.S. border to Seattle. Marvel at the panoramic view from the observation deck of the iconic Space Needle, including the city skyline, the Puget Sound and towering mountains in every direction. Check out Pike Place Market, one of the most famous and oldest public farmers’ markets in the country or take a spin on the Great Wheel along the waterfront at Pier 57. At over 53 metres high, the views from the top are incredible.

Sailing north to Alaska, the first port of call is Ketchikan at the southern tip of the Inside Passage. Shop Creek Street to pick up unique souvenirs like hand-carved totem poles, visit a brothel-turned-museum, and keep an eye out for the wildlife, including countless bald eagles black bears and black bears a wealth of marine life offshore, from humpback and orca whales to sea lions and sea otters. You’ll visit the capital city of Juneau, including Glacier Bay National Park, try your hand at gold panning in Skagway and enjoy more time at sea before heading to the elegant city of Victoria and its world-renowned Butchart Gardens.

More information and to book: Vancouver, Seattle & Norwegian Bliss Alaska Cruise

Los Angeles Stay & Norwegian Bliss Mexican Riviera Cruise

If you want to explore America’s entertainment hub and enjoy the striking natural beauty, rich culture and colonial charms of Mexico, this 10-night cruise is for you. Begin with three nights in Los Angeles, perhaps mingling with the rich and famous while browsing the high-end shops in Beverly Hills, visiting Griffith Park to capture a shot of the Hollywood sign and wander through the L.A. Zoo. People-watching along the legendary Venice Beach Boardwalk is a must, as is searching for your favourite stars along the Hollywood Walk of Fame.

As you sail to the Mexican Riviera, you’ll have time out at sea to take advantage of the many offerings on the Norwegian Bliss before your first port of call in Puerto Vallarta, known for its small village charms, endless beautiful beaches and boardwalk lined with shops, eateries and all sorts of entertainment. Next stop is Mazatlan for an exploration of the city’s rich colonial past and tasty authentic Mexican cuisine before moving on to your final Mexico stop: Cabo San Lucas, the jewel of the Baja Peninsula. As you sail into port, its signature landmark, a unique rock formation known as The Arch comes into view. Peering into the clear turquoise waters, you’ll marvel at the sheer number of colourful fish that welcome you in.

More information and to book: Los Angeles Stay & Norwegian Bliss Mexican Riviera Cruise

Rocky Mountaineer & Norwegian Bliss Alaska Cruise

If 15 nights of bliss among the unspoiled wilderness of the Canadian Rockies and Alaska sounds like your idea of fun, this cruise brings all of that and then some. It begins in Calgary, Alberta before venturing into the heart of Banff National Park and its crown jewel, Lake Louise. The highlights here include a helicopter ride over the breathtaking landscape of jagged peaks and an overnight at the famous Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise. Tour Jasper National Park, Canada’s largest, before boarding the Rocky Mountaineer for a scenic railway excursion to Kamloops, crossing the dramatic scenery of the Continental Divide. The jaw-dropping views continue as you travel to the coastal city of Vancouver, resting up before journeying south to Seattle where you’ll board the NCL Bliss.

Gliding north to the Inside Passage, you’ll be in awe at the magnificent, abundant wildlife on land and at sea. Nearing Ketchikan, set within the lush Tongass National Forest, you’ll be in awe at the sheer number bald eagles – keep an eye out for the black bears that roam rocky beaches and the whales that leap from the water’s surface too. You’ll witness glaciers that glisten under the sun in the capital city of Juneau, paddle the waterways in a kayak or tour the historic downtown area before enjoying a full day in Skagway. This popular stop during the gold rush offers lots of opportunities for exploring its fascinating past today.

More information and to book: Rocky Mountaineer & Norwegian Bliss Alaska Cruise