Don’t let the size of Norwegian Cruise Line’s smallest ship fool you. There are plenty of things for you to do on Norwegian Sky. Given that the ship now offers cruises with stops in Havana, Cuba, this oldie but goodie has become one of the line’s most popular cruise ships. There is more to the Sky than simply the ports of call. Spending four days on the vessel, we were able to squeeze in plenty of onboard fun. If you want to make the most of your next sailing, our Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky is a perfect place to start.
Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky
Grab a Drink
If you didn’t already know, Norwegian Sky has an open bar. This means that most alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are included in the price of your cruise fare. You can make use of this perk by enjoying drinks at any of the ship’s 10 bars. Whether you like your cocktail shaken or stirred, you can relax and not worry about the bar tab. Norwegian Sky serves up classic favorites like the Mango Meltdown and Rebellious Fish and even a few Cuban inspired drinks including the Hotel Nacional.
Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky
Be Seen at the White Party
One night of your cruise, you will see most fellow passengers dressed in their finest white apparel. So, make sure to pack your white attire for the White Hot Party occurring on the pool deck. This is the one deck party that you will find cruisers of all ages dancing the night away. With live music, a DJ, and even a few special performances from the production company and activity staff, it is time to get your party on.
Dine at a Specialty Restaurant
NCL is known for their “freestyle” approach to dining. This means no set dinner times or table arrangements. There are a few complimentary restaurants, as well as three specialty restaurants, at which you can choose to dine whenever you want. We suggest giving one of the up-charge venues a try. Whether you enjoy a fine steak, French cuisine, or some Italian delights, make at least one evening of your cruise special with a signature dinner experience. For us, getting the Norwegian Specialty Dining package was an excellent choice for our four day cruise.
Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky
Be the Next Contestant
Get ready to share your relationship’s best kept secrets as one of the couples on the Not so Newlywed game show. Or, maybe you’d rather battle it out to be crowned the Perfect couple. Still not feeling it? How about participating in the Battle of the Sexes or being part of the winning team in the adult show, The Quest? You might even win some money during a game of Deal or No Deal. All of these opportunities and more await you on Norwegian Sky.
Have the Beach All to Yourself
Both the three and four day itineraries on Norwegian Sky include a stop at the cruise line’s private resort of Great Stirrup Cay. Though in the process of some renovations expected to be completed this Fall, you can find a lounge chair with your name on it. Enjoy one of the new beachfront areas, rent a cabana, sip a drink at the Bacardi bar, snorkel, or grab a snack at the new Abaco Taco. This is the beach day you have been craving all vacation.
Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky
Sing-Along To Your Favorite Tunes
Ready to sing along to your favorite tunes? Well, you can attend one of the nightly sessions of karaoke held in the Plantation Club. For those less brave souls, you can still sing along at one of the production shows in the main theater. The American Idol-inspired Showdown or Rock You Tonight give you ample chances to enjoy classic hits that span the decades. The talented foursome of vocalists make these theater shows worth seeing.
Chow Down on Some Poolside Barbecue
On Norwegian Sky, you can order up some jerk chicken and corn on the cob during sail-away or enjoy some authentic paella, grilled steak, and vegetables as you sail out of Havana. Whether you are hungry, or just looking for some food porn pictures to post on social media, the poolside grill during the late afternoons on select days of your cruise is a treat for the eyes, nose, and certainly the taste buds. Don’t miss it!
Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky
Bring Home a Memory
You will not want to miss out on the chance to bring home a souvenir from this trip. Whether it is one of the brand new Cuba inaugural season t-shirts, which were nearly sold out half way through the cruise, or a cruise ship Christmas tree ornament, you will find the perfect souvenir at one of the gift shops onboard. Or, grab something more personal with a professional photo from the picture gallery. Whether it is from one of the onboard studios or port of a call, a picture is worth a thousand words.
Score Some Rooftop Port Pictures
Speaking of noteworthy pictures, you are going to want to capture your sail in and out from Havana, Cuba. A few locations are ideal for optimal viewing. You could head to Deck 11 forward to the Outrigger Lounge with its open deck providing uninhibited views. You might also find a few up-close photo ops on Deck 6. This is especially true when pulling out of Havana Bay. The Great Outdoors is also a great spot to enjoy some breakfast while taking in the views. Just make sure you get to both sides of the ship to capture it all.
Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky
Laugh out Loud at Adult Comedy
Most of the shows onboard Norwegian Sky are family friendly, but there is one show that is not intended for the young ones or those easily offended. That is of course the late night comedy show. Taking place the last night of the cruise, it is one of your last chances to let loose before returning to the real world. Featuring the same comedian from the all ages comedy show earlier in the cruise, this adult-rated show is sure to provide a lot of laughs.
Go for a Second Round of Dessert
You are on a cruise, so go for that second (or third) round of dessert. One of our indulgences onboard NCL Sky was the custom crepe station in the Garden Café. You will need to wait until dinner time to order one of these fruit-filled treats. There is also a sundae bar located adjacent to the crepe station. Some of our other favorites included the Oreo cheesecake from Cagney’s and the fondue from Le Bistro. Then again, how could you go wrong with any of the dessert offerings?
Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky
Sip a Drink with a View
Whether you prefer the front or the back of the ship, you can enjoy your favorite drink with amazing views. The Great Outdoors cafe is open morning, noon, and night offering your favorite cocktails along with unparalleled views of the ocean and your ports of call. The same can be said about the Outrigger Lounge which is located completely forward and offers floor to ceiling views. There is nothing more cruise-like than enjoying a fruity drink while watching the gentle ocean waves.
Top Things to Do on Norwegian Sky
Comments
Have you sailed on Norwegian Sky? What are your favorite things to do on this ship? Drop us an anchor below to share your onboard pastimes.
4 comments
FG
Congratulations for this very varulable article DB & the Princess.
Does Havana Bus Tours offered by NCL have multilingual options ??, even using earphones or any other device?? Mosltly visitors are sons, grandsons of Cubans and also spanish speakers cruisers.
In the other hand, as the ship overnight at Havana, it is possible to return to the ship late or even very late in the night?? Is the cruiseship open and ready to re-enter 24 hrs?? Thanks, many many thanks!!
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Hi FG, thanks for the questions. Sorry for the delay getting back to you. We did not travel with Havana Bus Tours, so we are not sure if there are multi-lignual options on their tours. The ship remains open during the overnight, so you can come and go as you please during the late night hours. The disembarkation area is open 24 hours a day. Just make sure to have all the necessary paper work and passports with you at all time. Have a great cruise.
wdcguy
Looking forward to a 3-day on the Sky in December. Thanks for the info!
DB and The Princess (@EatSleepCruise)
Thanks for the comment. It can’t wait to hear about your cruise on Norwegian Sky. Be sure to let us know about the cruise when you return.