Supplement to Travel Trade
March 2001

The Norwegian Sea:

Perennial Favorite Has
Bright New Look

By Patricia J. Collins

Having completed its recent multi-million dollar refurbishment, the 40,000-ton Norwegian Sea has an added shine as well as several innovative enhancements — most notably the debut of the line’s popular Internet Cafe? by Digital Seas.

The renovations make it clear that Norwegian Cruise Line, which is now 100% owned by Star Cruises, is committed to keeping this gracious vessel in top form for its transition from its current Texaribbean itinerary to the short-cruise market.

Beginning early 2001, the 1,518-guest Norwegian Sea will sail 3- and 4-day cruises out of Miami on a year-round basis. Until then, the ship will continue to sail from Houston to Mexico and Honduras.

Houston’s loss will be a tremendous gain for clients who want a quick getaway cruise. The refurbished Norwegian Sea, formerly the Seaward, is certain to offer guests far more than they might expect in this market segment. This is an elegant vessel with a huge assortment of onboard amenities.

New carpeting and upholstery have been installed from stem to stern. Colors selected for the interior redesign are primarily in tones of soft peach, seafoam green, warm taupes and ocean blue in the carpeting. Patterns are subtle, ranging from soft geometrics to stylized floral designs. Many of the window treatments have a classic look that helps create a sense of tranquility in public rooms. Window dressings are simple, yet elegant. For example, in each of the three dining rooms off-white sheer balloon shades create a soft, welcoming feel.

Within this traditional framework is NCL’s signature Internet Cafe?, which is located midship on the International Deck (5). Passengers can go online 24 hours a day to check E-mail, keep track of stock prices, get news updates or play computer games. Currently, 10 terminals are available.

Built in 1988, the Norwegian Sea has a classic look. Mirror, glass, polished stainless steel and marble appointments are plentiful, but don’t expect far-out fantasy themes or layers of embellishments. There is a less-is-more approach to the design that rings true.

Guests embark on the International Deck into the two-story Crystal Court atrium, the centerpiece of which is the “waterfall” — cane-shaped series of transparent tubes that encase brass rods attached to the ceiling. The tubes are anchored at the base into a black marble pool of shallow water. Its simple, sleek design sets the tone for what is to come.

Devoted entirely to public rooms, the International Deck is home to the Monte Carlo Casino, Oscar’s Piano Bar, onboard boutiques, the Cabaret Show Lounge and the Stardust Lounge, a popular place to dance before and after shows.

The Cabaret Lounge, the main showroom, is one of the most magical places on the ship. Under the guidance of the Jean Ann Ryan Co., the line’s in-house producer since 1979, live theatre has flourished.

You can let prospective guests know with confidence that NCL is a leader in onboard entertainment and features full-scale Broadway shows. Currently, guests are treated to a lavish production of Grease. In addition, the Norwegian Sea is also featuring Sea Legs Express, which is a high-spirited musical revue themed to exotic ports of call.

It’s difficult to find a bad seat in The Cabaret Lounge. Sightlines are excellent, the seating comfortable and surroundings sophisticated. New carpets and curtain are in place and banquettes have been reupholstered.

The vastly talented performers, large stage and state-of-the-art sound and lighting system make every high kick and musical note memorable in The Cabaret Lounge.

One of the most popular rooms on the Norwegian Sea is Gatsby’s Wine Bar, located on the starboard side of Deck 10. Its new black-and-white decor gives the Art Deco room a smart, up-to-date look. The bumped-out wall of windows brings a large chunk of sea and sky into the room.

Taking a turn on the dance floor becomes a grand event in The Stardust Lounge, located aft on Deck 5. The room seats 500 and has a distinct opulence, with club chairs upholstered in deep mauve, accentuated by deep lilac carpeting. Set aft, the lounge has a circular dance floor and a large, sweeping sit-up bar. There is also a raised stage next to the dance floor that is used for onboard lectures and meetings at sea.

Those who enjoy gaming will find plenty of options in the vibrant burgundy-colored Monte Carlo Casino, which offers slots, blackjack, roulette, craps and Caribbean Stud Poker. Just off the Casino on Deck 5 is The Butterfly Room — the name given to the cardroom because of its collection of specimen butterflies displayed in cases hung from the walls. Quiet earth tones prevail, with beige leather chairs and furnishings in taupe and sand. This out-of-the-way nook is the place to enjoy a table game or read a book.

Also near the Casino is the Arcade, which features a small selection of high-tech games designed to appeal to pre-teens and teens. Moving forward on Deck 5 — in an area aptly called Everything Under the Sun — is the shopping arcade, with a full selection of merchandise.

The dining experience aboard the Norwegian Sea is truly first-rate. The two main dining rooms, the 402-seat Four Seasons and the 504-seat Seven Seas, are both located on the Main Deck (4). Both are comfortable and well appointed with chairs upholstered in a leaf pattern of soft green, mauve and tan. Off-white sheer fabrics are gathered into balloon shades on the floor-to-ceiling windows. There are no fussy details. Potted plants and crisply set tables give the dining rooms the feel of a private tropical club.

Dinner is served in two sittings. Menu selections are extensive and include culinary innovations created by former White House Chef Henry Haller, who worked in collaboration with Gerd Hertel, NCL’s executive chef. Guests may choose from four or five appetizers and main courses — typically including fish, poultry and meat entrees, as well as a lighter option developed under NCL’s partnership with Cooking Light magazine. Care is taken in the preparation and presentation. And, in the dining rooms, as well as throughout the ship, the service standard is very high.

NCL’s signature Le Bistro offers an excellent dining alternative. French and Italian dishes are carefully prepared to order and the selection is extensive. Located on Sun Deck (10) opposite Gatsby’s, Le Bistro’s windows are also bumped out. This room offers fine dining in an unhurried atmosphere. Tables are set for two or more, with one large horseshoe seating arrangement for family dining in this seaside eatery.

For casual dining, the Big Apple Café serves up breakfast, lunch and snacks. This cafeteria-style restaurant is located on the Pool Deck and offers indoor and outdoor seating. The Café has been freshened up with new drapes and upholstery in garden green, blue and white.

Night owls can work off any extra calories at Boomer’s — the disco located aft on Norway Deck (8). The glass door and interior are lit by a series of theatrical white bulbs with plenty of mirrors to catch the sparkle. Like other public rooms, Boomer’s has been given a facelift, with new carpets, drapes and upholstery.

Tucked near the shopping arcade is Oscar’s Piano Bar, an inviting spot to enjoy the mellow sounds of music from the baby grand piano.

Two swimming pools — one for adults and another for children — are located on the Pool Deck (9). There are also two outdoor Jacuzzi’s, Lickety Splits ice cream parlor and the All Around the Town Bar. New teak decking has been laid around in this area.

One deck up on the Sun Deck (10) is Coconut Willy’s, a small watering hole that looks down to the pool area below. Also on Sun Deck is the ship’s well-equipped Fitness & Aerobic Center, which is open 24-hours a day, 7 days a week.

A wide range of fitness equipment, as well as aerobic classes, makes keeping fit fun and easy. There is a full-service spa and exercise equipment that includes Lifecycle and Lifesteps. Joggers and walkers can do laps on the Sun Deck and golfers can perfect their swing at the golf driving range located forward.

Aft on Deck 10is The Observatory Lounge, a quiet area with huge windows that offer guests panoramic views of the sea.

Enhancements have been made to staterooms and suites. New carpets, drapes, bedspreads, bedskirts, bedbacks and throw pillows have been added in soft pastel colors. Outside staterooms average 126-square feet. Twin beds convert to queen-size.

Advise your clients that staterooms have showers, rather than bathtubs. Amenities include hairdryer, television, radio, international direct dial telephone, in-room safe and, in some staterooms, an in-room refrigerator. Room service is available around the clock.

Suites average a roomy 309-square feet and offer a seating area, bath with a full-size tub and shower, plus bathrobes, personal 24-hour concierge, fresh fruit and flowers.

All honeymooners, regardless of their accommodations, receive personal 24-hour concierge service in addition to other special amenities.

NCL is family friendly and offers a children’s program called Kid’s Crew with supervised activities for kids ages 3 to 17. And, the younger set has their own playroom — The Porthole — which is located on Atlantic Deck (3).

Topping off the roster of enhancements is NCL’s famed Chocoholic Midnight Buffet, its Dive-In® snorkeling program and special theme cruises. Clients who choose the Norwegian Sea will find an affordable cruise vacation that offers some very extraordinary touches.