Norwegian Cruise Line Unveils Revitalised Vessels for an Epic 2025 Summer Season

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), the renowned innovator in global cruise travel, has just announced major revitalisation projects on two of its standout ships—Norwegian Epic and Pride of America—in time for the 2025 summer travel season. These upgrades are designed to give guests more to do and more to enjoy, offering unparalleled freedom and flexibility to craft your perfect holiday.

“Delivering the best vacation experience for our guests, where they have the freedom and flexibility to do more of what they love is and will always continue to be our goal. By listening to guests’ feedback, we are excited to provide them with MORE to do on board starting this summer as Norwegian Epic sets sail for Europe and Pride of America continues to offer the world’s only seven-day interisland Hawaii voyages departing from Honolulu 52 weeks out of the year!” said David J. Herrera, President of Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Epic: A European Debut Like No Other

After a three-week dry dock, the newly renovated Norwegian Epic is set to make her European season debut on May 8, 2025. The top deck has undergone noticeable enhancements to elevate your outdoor experiences. A brand-new hot tub on deck 18 promises moments of relaxation under the open sky, while a refreshed Kids’ Aqua Park (replacing Splashgolf) now offers even more fun-in-the-sun activities for both kids and adults.

But that’s not all—the adults-only Vibe Beach Club has been expanded to feature an extra hot tub, more lounge chairs, and new private cabanas. This outdoor oasis is the perfect spot to soak up the sun and enjoy stunning views of the Greek Isles and Mediterranean. Adding to the allure, eight new staterooms—combining both balcony and oceanview options—are set to provide even greater comfort and increased capacity.

Starting May 8, 2025, Norwegian Epic will set sail on a variety of nine-, 10-, and 11-day cruises from Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy. These itineraries promise visits to some of the Mediterranean’s most picturesque ports, including iconic destinations in the Greek Isles such as Santorini and Mykonos, as well as alluring stops in Malta, Naples, Catania, and Florence/Pisa (via Livorno). Once the European voyages wrap up, Norwegian Epic will then return to San Juan, Puerto Rico to offer round-trip seven-day Southern Caribbean cruises—ensuring a diverse and immersive cruising experience for every traveller.

Pride of America: Elevating the Hawaiian Experience

While Norwegian Epic gears up for European adventures, Pride of America is also set for a remarkable transformation. From May 3 to 31, 2025, the ship will receive a host of guest-favourite upgrades. Notably, a brand-new Starbucks location will open within The Capitol Atrium on deck 5, perfect for a cuppa between activities. For those in search of a bit of friendly competition, pickleball will soon be available on the existing sports court—a sure way to add some extra fun on board.

Accommodation options on Pride of America are also getting a boost. The ship will feature 12 new club balcony suites and three additional inside staterooms on deck 12, giving guests more choices for ultimate comfort. Additionally, family-focused spaces are being revamped: Splash Academy (for children aged three to 12) and Entourage (the teen club) will be relocated to deck 6, previously home to the ship’s library, Internet café, and chapel. A new library and card room are set to complement this new family zone.

Following nearly a three-week dry dock, Pride of America will return to Honolulu on May 31, 2025. She will resume serving the world’s only seven-day interisland Hawaii voyages—departing from Honolulu year-round. These bucket-list itineraries offer nearly 100 hours of port time across four majestic Hawaiian islands, complete with overnights in Maui and Kauai for travellers keen to experience the islands in depth.

More to Love, More to Do

With these exciting enhancements, Norwegian Cruise Line is clearly listening to its guests. Both Norwegian Epic and Pride of America are set to provide more options and superior experiences at sea, blending innovative onboard features with thrilling shore excursions. Whether your ideal holiday is spent cruising across the Mediterranean, exploring the natural beauty of the Caribbean, or immersing yourself in the unique culture and scenery of Hawaii, NCL’s revamped offerings will ensure your vacation is everything you’ve dreamed of and then some.

So, if you’re planning your next getaway and want the freedom to design your very best vacation, keep an eye on Norwegian Epic and Pride of America. With more to do and more to enjoy than ever before, your adventure on the high seas is set to be truly epic.