NCL Luna inaugural cruise
- Esther
- Mar 14
- 11 min read
Updated: Mar 15
I had the pleasure of being onboard the inaugural cruise of the stunning new NCL Luna, sailing from Civitavecchia to Barcelona. Our journey began with a pre-cruise stay in Rome, after all, you can’t miss an opportunity to explore this magnificent 'open-air museum.
We stayed at the exquisite Umiltà 36, a boutique hotel just a few years old and perfectly situated around the corner from the Trevi Fountain and the Pantheon. As an 'I Prefer' hotel, it offers incredible value with many inclusive extras: a complimentary minibar and snacks, a welcome drink, and a delicious breakfast where ordering from the menu is included. There was even a charming candy station in the lobby to grab some treats for the room, a perfect start to a luxury getaway.
I have so many more photos and details of this stunning boutique hotel. If you're planning a stay and want to see more, feel free to send me a message!
NCL Luna inaugural
The next morning, our driver took us to the port of Civitavecchia, a smooth but necessary 1.5-hour drive from the city center. Upon arrival, the port was a sight to behold: the NCL Luna stood proudly alongside the ultra-luxury Four Seasons I Yacht.
Although this inaugural sailing was fully booked for her maiden voyage to Miami, we were privileged to be invited for the leg to Barcelona. Thanks to completing our check-in via the app at home, the boarding process was incredibly efficient. Within no time, we were stepping out of the terminal and onto the newest star of the Norwegian fleet.
We stayed in balcony cabin 10156, which is perfectly designed for two. The decor is very much in line with the sleek Scandinavian style, featuring calming blue tones that feel both modern and cozy.
What I loved about this cabin was the smart use of space: it features a comfortable sofa (which can be most of the time converted into a double bed), a desk with a chair, and three surprisingly roomy closets to store all your luggage and outfits. For the tech-savvy traveler, there are plenty of USB and USB-C connections integrated into both the desk and the bedside lights. Plus, our cabin was located very close to the elevators, always a major plus for easy access to everything on board!
One of my favorite NCL traditions is also found on the Luna: the 'Fish Carpet.' Navigation on a large ship can sometimes be a challenge, but NCL makes it easy (and cute!).
The carpets in the corridors feature schools of little fish. Here’s the trick: the fish always swim toward the front (forward) of the ship. If you’re ever unsure which way to walk to find the theater or your cabin, just look down at your feet! It’s these thoughtful little details that make the onboard experience so seamless.
The Restaurants
One evening we dined at Palomar, the ship’s signature Mediterranean seafood restaurant. Now, I have to be honest: I am not a seafood lover myself, so I was a bit curious to see what they had to offer. To my delight, Palomar is just as much a destination for meat lovers. I opted for the Filet Mignon, and it was spectacular.
One of my absolute favorite spots on the ship is the Indulge Foodhall was one of my favorite places of the ship, located on deck 8 aft. I loved this concept on the Prima, and on the Luna, it’s just as vibrant. It’s the perfect place for a relaxed lunch or a casual dinner, with the option to sit inside or enjoy the sea breeze on the outdoor terrace.
The concept is brilliant: you order from an iPad at your table, choosing small, flavorful dishes from various global stations like Mexican, Asian, and Spanish. It’s designed for sharing and trying a bit of everything.
The iPad system is incredibly user-friendly. You can see photos of every dish, which makes it very tempting to order 'just one more'! What I find so convenient is the speed; dishes arrive as they are ready, making it a dynamic and fun way to eat. It’s the ultimate way to enjoy high-quality global cuisine without the formality of a traditional restaurant.
Curious about the full menu?
The variety is so huge that I couldn't post every slide here. However, I’ve saved all the menu photos to help anyone planning their trip.
If you're curious about the specific dishes, feel free to reach out! I’d be happy to share my personal photos of the menu with you and help you get even more excited for your cruise.
A World of Flavors: More Dining Options
Beyond Palomar and the Food Hall, the NCL Luna offers an incredible array of dining choices. Whether you are looking for a formal multi-course dinner or a quick, casual bite, you’ll find it here:
Classics (included)
Hudson’s & The Commodore Room: These are the main dining rooms. Hudson’s is particularly stunning with its 270-degree floor-to-ceiling windows, perfect for a sunset dinner while sailing.
The Local Bar & Grill: It’s open 24/7 and serves great pub-style comfort food.
Surfside Café & Grill: The classic buffet on deck 17, perfect for a quick breakfast or lunch with a view.
Specialty Dining (A Treat for the Senses)
Cagney’s Steakhouse: A signature NCL experience. If you love a premium cut of steak in a sophisticated setting, this is the place.
Le Bistro: High-end French cuisine. Very romantic and elegant.
Hasuki: The lively Hibachi grill where the chefs put on a show while cooking your meal right in front of you.
Nama Sushi & Sashimi: For the freshest rolls and Japanese delicacies.
Sukhothai
Is the first-ever Thai specialty restaurant in the NCL fleet. Walking in, the first thing you notice is the stunning, modern decor. The menu offers a beautiful journey through Thai flavors, from classic Pad Thai to more adventurous, aromatic curries. It brings a fresh, exotic energy to the specialty dining lineup. If you are looking for something different than the traditional steakhouse or Italian dinner, Sukhothai is a 'must-visit' on your next sailing!
Sips & Sunset: The Best Bars on Board
After a day of sun and dining, the Luna truly comes to life in its beautifully designed lounges. Each bar has its own personality, making it easy to find a spot that matches your mood:
Metropolitan Bar: This is NCL’s 'Sail & Sustain' bar. It’s sleek, modern, and famous for its sustainable cocktails made from surplus ingredients (like banana peel syrups!). It’s the perfect spot for a guilt-free, sophisticated drink.
Belvedere Bar: Located in the heart of the atrium, this is the place for classic cocktails with a contemporary twist. The atmosphere here is always buzzing and great for people-watching.
The Whiskey Bar: A cozy yet elegant corner, perfect for a nightcap. They have an impressive selection of labels and a very relaxed, warm vibe.
Luna Bar: Located on Ocean Boulevard, this is where you go for a drink with a view. There’s nothing like sipping a cold glass of wine while the sea breeze passes by.
Showtime & Nightlife: From Broadway to Lunatic
When the sun goes down, the NCL Luna transforms into an entertainment powerhouse. While the Broadway-style productions in the main theater are included in your fare, there is one exclusive experience you shouldn't miss:
LunaTique: Pop Circus
Unlike the standard shows, this immersive, adults-only (21+) circus party carries a fee of $44.99 per person. It might seem like a surprise, but the price actually covers the full experience, including four specialty cocktails, a souvenir glass, and even the gratuities. It’s an interactive, neon-colored party held in The Improv at Sea, which is completely transformed for the night. Just be sure to book it early via the NCL app, as it’s a ticketed event and spots fill up fast!
Beyond the exclusive party vibe of LunaTique, the NCL Luna offers a stellar lineup of production shows that are fully included in your cruise fare:
ELTON: A Celebration of Elton John, a high-energy tribute featuring spectacular costumes and all the hits that will have you singing along from the first note.
HIKO: Innovation Meets Wonder is a must-see; it’s a futuristic masterpiece that blends gravity-defying acrobatics with mind-bending 3D projections. And if you’re a fan of classic rock, you can't miss the soulful tribute to
The Eagles brought to life by the talented cast of Syd Norman’s. The diversity of the performances ensures that every night on the Luna feels like an opening night on Broadway.
The Waterfront: Your Connection to the Sea
One of the highlights of the NCL Luna is deck 8 The Waterfront (formerly known as the Promenade). It’s an expansive outdoor living space that wraps entirely around the ship and aft you find the Indulge Foodhall. making it incredibly easy to grab some international tapas and walk straight out to the deck to enjoy your meal with a sea breeze.
Whether you’re looking for a private cabana to read a book, a comfortable sun lounger to soak up the sun, or a stylish table to enjoy an outdoor drink, you’ll find it here. It’s the perfect place to experience that true 'sea feeling' while still enjoying world-class comfort.
Don’t miss this: the Silver Luna sculpture. It is an absolute masterpiece and incredibly 'picture-worthy', especially during the golden hour when the light hits the silver curves against the blue backdrop of the ocean.
Sun, Fun & Serenity: The Pool Deck and Vibe Beach Club
The Main Pool Area
Moving up to the main pool deck, you immediately notice that the NCL Luna feels even more spacious. NCL has cleverly expanded the outdoor areas on this ship, creating a much more open and airy atmosphere. You’ll find more room around the main pool to lounge and move, ensuring that even on popular sea days, the deck never feels overcrowded.
The design is sleek and modern, with plenty of stylish seating options that offer a front-row seat to the ocean. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy the lively energy of the ship while still having that sense of openness and luxury that the Luna is all about.
The Vibe Beach Club
For those seeking the ultimate sanctuary, the Vibe Beach Club is an absolute must. NCL recognized the popularity of this adults-only oasis and expanded it even further on the Luna, offering more space and luxurious loungers than on previous ships in its class. Imagine spending your sea days escaping the hustle and bustle, soaking in oversized infinity hot tubs, and enjoying top-notch service from a dedicated bar. On a 7-day cruise, a pass costs $278 per person. While this is an additional investment, the extra space and exclusivity completely transform your experience into one of pure serenity. If you value peace, quiet, and a touch of high-end service, the Vibe on the Luna is exactly where you want to be.
Adrenaline in The Zone
If you’re looking for a bit of action, head over to The Zone. This area is the heartbeat of the ship's entertainment, offering everything from state-of-the-art flight simulators to high-energy VR experiences. It’s a great reminder that while the Luna is incredibly luxurious, she also knows how to keep the energy high!
What truly sets the NCL Luna apart is the redesigned and expanded Zone. NCL has taken the entertainment to a new level by making the sports and activity areas much more versatile. One of the highlights is the reimagined mini-golf course, which is now better integrated and offers a fantastic challenge for all ages.
Additionally, many of the sports activities are now covered or sheltered, meaning you can enjoy a game of pickleball or hit the high-tech simulators without worrying about the wind or rain. Whether you’re competing in the interactive games or enjoying the outdoor action, the flow between the areas feels much more natural.
I really wanted to try the Aqua Coaster, but since it was quite chilly outside, I opted for The Drop instead. This is a thrilling dry-slide that takes you all the way from deck 18 down to deck 8! You step into a capsule, and the moment the floor disappears beneath you, you’re off on a high-speed slide on a special mat. It is incredibly fast and a total rush!
One great improvement on the NCL Luna is the layout. On previous Prima Class ships, you had to walk through the Surfside Café & Grill buffet to reach the Aqua Coaster. On the Luna, they’ve added a dedicated staircase, so you can head straight for the action without passing through the dining area. It's a small change that makes a huge difference in the flow of the ship.
Show.
Wellness & Wellbeing: Mandara Spa & Pulse Fitness Center
After all the action and dining, you might need a moment to recharge. The Mandara Spa on the Luna is a true sanctuary. The highlight is definitely the Thermal Suite, featuring a stunning indoor waterfall that is as beautiful to look at as it is relaxing to hear. From the salt room and sauna to the heated stone loungers with panoramic ocean views, it is the ultimate place to unwind.
If you prefer to stay active, the Pulse Fitness Center is world-class. It’s equipped with the latest gear, but the real motivator is the view, there’s nothing quite like running on a treadmill while watching the horizon. Whether you're looking for a deep-tissue massage or a high-intensity workout, the Luna ensures you return home feeling completely refreshed.
A small update for the fitness fans: The gym has switched from Technogym to Life Fitness. It’s a subtle change, but the equipment is top-notch and the views from the gym remain some of the best on the ship!
The Haven: A Ship Within a Ship
For the ultimate luxury experience, The Haven on the NCL Luna is truly spectacular. With around 120 suites, it is one of the largest Haven complexes in the fleet. What makes the Luna unique is the accessibility; there is a private elevator located on deck 7 (just outside the Metropolitan Bar) that brings you directly up to the Haven complex on decks 16 and 17.
Upon entering, you are welcomed into a sophisticated lounge with plenty of cozy seating areas and a central bar. The dedicated concierge is always on hand to assist with any request, ensuring a seamless stay. On the port side, you’ll find the exclusive Haven Restaurant, offering gourmet dining in a private setting.
The outdoor spaces are just as impressive. On deck 16, you can enjoy a dip in the infinity pool with breathtaking ocean views, surrounded by comfortable sunloungers. For even more relaxation, deck 17 offers hot tubs and additional space to soak up the sun in peace and quiet. It truly feels like a private club in the middle of the ocean.
Solo Travel: The Studio Experience
NCL continues to lead the way for independent travelers on the Luna. The ship features 73 dedicated solo cabins, primarily located on deck 12. These studios are designed specifically for one, offering a stylish and functional space without the single supplement fee.
A major highlight for solo guests is the exclusive Solo Lounge. It’s a warm and welcoming space with plenty of cozy seating options, making it the perfect spot to meet fellow travelers. The lounge also offers snacks and drinks throughout the day, providing a private retreat where you can relax, grab a coffee, or plan your next adventure in a social yet relaxed atmosphere.
My experience
Looking back on my time aboard the NCL Luna, it’s clear that NCL has truly listened to guest feedback. The small design tweaks make a massive difference; for instance, the newly added staircase to reach The Zone and the Aqua Coaster, skipping the busy buffet area, makes navigating the ship so much smoother.
If I had to mention one minor downside, it would be the gym classes. Since they are held directly in the main gym area, it can feel quite crowded when a large group is participating. However, the rest of the ship more than makes up for it. My absolute highlights? Spending time on Waterfront, taking in the views and the incredible variety at the Indulge Food Hall. The Luna feels like a refined, more spacious version of her sisters, and she is definitely a ship I would return to in a heartbeat.
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Want to read more? Check out: NCL Free at Sea choice offers explained
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