Is a Norwegian Cruise Line® Asia Cruise Worth It? A Real Passenger Review

The question hangs in the air for any discerning traveler considering a voyage to the Far East: amidst a sea of options, does a Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) journey through Asia truly deliver an experience worthy of your time and investment? As a travel journalist who has sailed the world’s oceans for over two decades, I’ve learned that the answer lies not just in the destinations, but in the very fabric of the journey itself. It’s in the quiet moments on a private balcony watching a foreign coastline emerge from the mist, the spontaneous laughter shared over an exquisite meal you didn’t have to book months in advance, and the seamless transition from ancient temples to modern marvels without ever repacking your suitcase.

I recently disembarked from a 10-day sailing aboard the revitalized Norwegian Spirit, a voyage that wove through the cultural tapestry of Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan. My mission was simple: to answer that one crucial question. So, pour yourself a cup of green tea, settle in, and let me guide you through the sights, sounds, flavors, and feelings of an NCL Asia cruise. By the end, you’ll know if this is the adventure you’ve been dreaming of.

The Allure of the Far East: Why a Cruise is the Smartest Way to Explore Asia

Asia is a continent of beautiful contradictions. It’s a place where serene Shinto shrines stand in the shadow of neon-drenched skyscrapers, and centuries-old culinary traditions are served up in bustling, futuristic markets. For the independent traveler, navigating the logistics of a multi-country Asian tour—the bullet trains, the domestic flights, the hotel bookings, the language barriers—can be a formidable and exhausting task. This is where the sheer brilliance of a cruise comes into focus.

Imagine unpacking just once, settling into your floating boutique hotel as it elegantly transports you from one iconic port to another. Every night, you retire to the same comfortable bed; every morning, you awaken to a new horizon. The complex web of travel logistics simply dissolves, replaced by the blissful simplicity of deciding which shore excursion to take or which specialty restaurant to try. This isn't just travel; it's travel perfected.

Enter the Norwegian Spirit: Our Floating Boutique Hotel

Having recently undergone a massive, bow-to-stern refurbishment, the Norwegian Spirit feels less like a mega-ship and more like an intimate, sophisticated vessel designed for destination-immersion. It’s smaller than many of NCL’s newer ships, a characteristic that proves to be a significant advantage, allowing it to navigate more unique ports and foster a more personal, less crowded atmosphere onboard.

First Impressions: Ambiance and Onboarding

From the moment we stepped aboard in Yokohama, the port for Tokyo, the ambiance was one of relaxed elegance. The decor is modern and tasteful, with a color palette of cool blues, rich woods, and contemporary art. The crew, a smiling mosaic of nationalities, greeted us with a warmth that felt genuine. There was no rigid schedule, no assigned dining time, just a palpable sense of freedom—the core of NCL’s signature "Freestyle Cruising" philosophy.

The Stateroom: Our Private Balcony Sanctuary

We opted for a balcony stateroom, and I cannot recommend this enough for an Asia cruise. It became our private viewing platform for the world. Waking up to the mist-shrouded mountains of Taiwan or sipping a nightcap as the glittering lights of Busan drifted by is an experience that elevates the entire journey. The room itself was intelligently designed, with ample storage, a comfortable bed, and a modern bathroom. It was our serene retreat after long, exhilarating days of exploration. Choosing the right stateroom is key to crafting your perfect voyage. For personalized advice on the best cabin location for your needs, from a quiet mid-ship balcony to a lavish suite in The Haven, our cruise specialists are on standby at 1 (888) 883‑0460 for a complimentary consultation.

The Heart of the Experience: NCL's Freestyle Cruising in Asia

The "Freestyle" concept is NCL's crown jewel, and it shines particularly bright on a port-intensive itinerary like this one. The freedom to dine when you want, where you want, and with whom you want is a game-changer. After a long day exploring the Gion district in Kyoto, the last thing you want is to be rushed for a fixed 6:00 PM dinner seating. With NCL, we could enjoy a casual bite at the buffet, a multi-course French affair at Le Bistro, or an incredible Italian meal at Onda by Scarpetta—all on our own schedule.

A Culinary Journey: Dining Without a Timetable

The dining options on the Norwegian Spirit are a destination in themselves. We found ourselves embarking on a global culinary tour without ever leaving the ship.

• Le Bistro: An intimate, classic French restaurant perfect for a romantic evening. The escargots and coq au vin were sublime.
- Cagney's Steakhouse: A classic American steakhouse experience with perfectly cooked cuts of Angus beef and decadent sides like truffle fries. - Onda by Scarpetta: This modern Italian restaurant was a standout. The handmade pasta and seafood dishes were on par with the best land-based establishments. - The Main Dining Rooms (Taste & Windows): Included in the cruise fare, these restaurants offered a diverse, rotating menu of high-quality dishes every night, with no reservations required.

NCL’s dining packages offer incredible value, allowing you to experience several of these specialty venues for a fraction of the à la carte price. Have a quick question about which package is right for you? Our team is ready to help. Just click the 'Chat with us' button in the lower right corner for an instant answer.

Entertainment That Dazzles

Evenings were filled with world-class entertainment. The Stardust Theater hosted high-energy production shows with talented singers and dancers. We particularly enjoyed the "Elements" show, a mesmerizing blend of magic, acrobatics, and dance. For something more low-key, the various lounges offered live music, from soulful piano melodies in the Spinnaker Lounge to upbeat tunes at Magnum's Champagne & Wine Bar.

The Itinerary: A Tapestry of Ancient Wonders and Modern Marvels

This is where the magic truly happens. Our 10-day voyage was a masterfully curated journey through the heart of East Asia. You can explore similar sailings and check real-time availability right now using the intuitive Cruise Booking Toolbar at the top of this page.

Day 1-2: Tokyo (Yokohama), Japan - A Neon-Soaked Welcome

Sailing from Yokohama, we dove headfirst into the exhilarating controlled chaos of Tokyo. We took an NCL-organized excursion to the famous Shibuya Crossing, a mesmerizing scramble of humanity under a canyon of glowing billboards. We found tranquility moments later at the serene Meiji Jingu Shrine, a forested oasis dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The contrast was breathtaking. In the evening, we explored the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden before indulging in life-altering ramen from a tiny, unassuming shop.

Day 3: At Sea - Indulgence and Relaxation

Our first day at sea was a welcome opportunity to explore the ship. I spent the morning at the Mandara Spa®, indulging in a hot stone massage that melted away any lingering stress. The thermal suite, with its thalassotherapy pool, steam room, and heated loungers overlooking the ocean, was pure bliss. My partner relaxed by the pool, cocktail in hand, simply enjoying the gentle rhythm of the sea.

Day 4: Kyoto (via Kobe), Japan - Whispers of the Ancients

Docking in Kobe, we journeyed by coach to the former imperial capital, Kyoto. It felt like stepping back in time. We walked through the iconic red-orange torii gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine, a seemingly endless path winding up the mountainside. Later, in the Gion district, we were lucky enough to spot a geiko (the Kyoto term for geisha) gracefully making her way to an appointment, a fleeting and beautiful glimpse into a hidden world. This day alone made the entire trip worthwhile.

Day 5: Busan, South Korea - Markets, Mountains, and Modernity

Busan was a delightful surprise. South Korea’s second-largest city is a vibrant port with a unique character. We explored the sprawling Jagalchi Fish Market, a sensory explosion of sights and sounds, where you can pick your own live seafood and have it prepared for you on the spot. We then visited the stunning Haedong Yonggungsa Temple, one of the few temples in Korea built on the coastline, offering dramatic views of the waves crashing against the rocks below.

Day 6-7: At Sea & Taipei (Keelung), Taiwan - A Culinary Paradise

After another relaxing day at sea, we arrived in Keelung, the gateway to Taipei. Taiwan's capital is a food lover's dream. Our guide took us straight to Din Tai Fung for their world-famous soup dumplings (xiao long bao), which were simply divine. We spent the afternoon marveling at the treasures in the National Palace Museum and ascended the Taipei 101 skyscraper for a panoramic view of the city, a testament to Taiwan's technological prowess. The night ended with a trip to the Shilin Night Market, a whirlwind of delicious street food, from oyster omelets to giant fried chicken cutlets.

This meticulously planned itinerary allowed us to experience the cultural essence of three distinct countries with absolute ease and comfort. If this blend of ancient history and vibrant modernity speaks to your soul, let us help you craft your own unforgettable journey. Our experts can tailor a pre- or post-cruise stay in Tokyo or provide exclusive access to private shore excursions. Plan Your Asia / Far East Adventure and receive a no-obligation quote from one of our certified travel advisors.

The NCL Difference: What Sets This Asia Cruise Apart?

The Freedom of "Freestyle"

I can't overstate how crucial the Freestyle concept is in this part of the world. Asian travel can be intense. Having the flexibility to return to the ship and craft your evening exactly as you wish—whether it's a quiet dinner for two or a lively night at the theater—makes all the difference. It removes the pressure and allows you to truly immerse yourself in the destinations at your own pace.

The Onboard Vibe: Casual Sophistication

The atmosphere on the Norwegian Spirit was wonderfully diverse and unpretentious. We met fellow travelers from Australia, North America, and Europe—a mix of seasoned cruisers and first-timers, couples and small groups of friends. The dress code is "resort casual," which means no formal nights are required. This creates a relaxed, comfortable environment where the focus is on the experience, not on adhering to a rigid set of rules.

Value Proposition: Is It Worth The Investment?

Let’s address the ultimate question. When you factor in the cost of multi-city flights, hotels, transportation, and meals of a similar quality in notoriously expensive cities like Tokyo, the value of an NCL cruise becomes crystal clear. Your accommodation, transport between countries, world-class dining, and entertainment are all bundled into one transparent price. NCL's "Free at Sea" promotion often adds even more value, with perks like a free beverage package, specialty dining credits, and shore excursion discounts. When you compare the convenience, the quality, and the sheer number of experiences packed into one trip, an NCL Asia cruise presents an exceptional return on your travel investment. To see how affordable this dream trip can be, we invite you to Get a Custom Quote tailored to your specific travel dates and preferences.

The Verdict: So, Is an NCL Asia Cruise Worth It?

An unequivocal, resounding yes. A Norwegian Cruise Line voyage through Asia is not just "worth it"; it is, in my professional opinion, one of the most intelligent, enjoyable, and value-rich ways to experience this incredible region. It strips away the immense logistical challenges of a multi-country tour, leaving you with the pure, unadulterated joy of discovery.

You get the cultural immersion of exploring Kyoto's ancient temples and Taipei's bustling night markets, combined with the relaxing, resort-style amenities of a modern cruise ship. You get the freedom to chart your own course each day, both on land and at sea. It’s a journey that satisfies the adventurer, the foodie, the history buff, and the relaxation-seeker all at once. If you are looking for a seamless, sophisticated, and deeply enriching way to explore the wonders of the Far East, look no further. This is the voyage you've been waiting for.

Ready to turn this review into your reality? Our team has access to exclusive offers and onboard credits for NCL sailings that you won't find anywhere else. Let us handle all the details, so you can focus on the adventure ahead. Inquire About This Sailing today for a personalized travel plan.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cruising Asia with Norwegian

What is the best time of year to take an Asia cruise?

The best time for a cruise in this region (Japan, South Korea, Taiwan) is generally during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November). These seasons offer pleasant, mild temperatures, lower humidity, and beautiful natural scenery, such as the famous cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn.

What should I pack for a Far East cruise?

Packing layers is key. Bring lightweight clothing for daytime exploration, a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings, and comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions. Also include a smart casual outfit or two for specialty dining, a swimsuit for the pool, and any necessary medications. Don't forget a universal power adapter and a portable charger for your electronics.

Are shore excursions included with my NCL cruise fare?

Shore excursions are typically not included in the base cruise fare, allowing you the flexibility to explore independently or choose the tours that most interest you. However, NCL's "Free at Sea" promotion often includes a credit towards shore excursions, which provides excellent value. We can also arrange private, customized tours in each port.

What currency is used onboard and in the ports?

Onboard the ship, all transactions are in U.S. Dollars (USD) and are charged to your stateroom account. In the ports, you will need the local currency: Japanese Yen (JPY) in Japan, South Korean Won (KRW) in South Korea, and New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) in Taiwan. It's advisable to exchange a small amount of cash before your trip or withdraw from local ATMs upon arrival.

Is an NCL Asia cruise good for families?

While the Norwegian Spirit is more adult-focused than some of NCL's larger ships, it is still welcoming to families with older children or teens who have an interest in culture and history. The port-intensive nature of the itinerary is highly educational. For families with younger children, other NCL ships with more extensive kids' clubs and family-friendly amenities might be a better fit, depending on the specific sailing.