Norwegian vs Princess Cruises
Norwegian and Princess offer different approaches to cruising. Norwegian pioneered freestyle flexibility, while Princess delivers refined premium experiences with innovative technology.
Last updated: January 8, 2026
Head-to-Head Comparison
| Category | 🇳🇴 Norwegian | 👸 Princess Cruises |
|---|---|---|
| Average Price (7-night) | $900-$1,700/person | $900-$1,800/person |
| Dining Flexibility | Freestyle - no set times✓ | Traditional or anytime dining |
| Dress Code | Resort casual, no formal | Smart casual, formal nights |
| Ship Technology | Standard | MedallionClass - industry leading✓ |
| Solo Cabins | Studios with solo lounge✓ | Limited solo options |
| Free at Sea Perks | Drinks, WiFi, dining included | Princess Plus/Premier packages |
| Entertainment | Broadway shows, nightlife✓ | Movies Under Stars, shows |
| The Haven/Suites | The Haven - ship within ship✓ | Reserve Collection suites |
| Alaska Expertise | Good, many sailings | Excellent, long history✓ |
| Target Age | Younger, active travelers | Slightly older, refined |
🇳🇴Choose Norwegian if you...
- •Solo travelers
- •Those who hate dress codes
- •Nightlife enthusiasts
- •Luxury seekers (The Haven)
👸Choose Princess Cruises if you...
- •Tech lovers (MedallionClass)
- •Alaska cruisers
- •Those wanting refined atmosphere
- •Movies Under the Stars fans
💡 The Bottom Line
Choose Norwegian for ultimate flexibility, solo-friendly options, and active nightlife. Choose Princess for innovative technology, a more refined atmosphere, and exceptional Alaska experiences.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is Norwegian or Princess cheaper?
Both are similarly priced for a 7-night cruise, with Norwegian averaging $900-$1,700 per person and Princess at $900-$1,800. Norwegian's Free at Sea promotion bundles drinks, WiFi, and specialty dining, while Princess offers Princess Plus and Premier packages. The total cost is comparable once you factor in add-ons, but Norwegian's bundles tend to be more straightforward.
Which is better for an Alaska cruise, Norwegian or Princess?
Princess is the stronger choice for Alaska. They have decades of heritage in the region, extensive land-and-sea tour options, and partnerships with wilderness lodges. Princess offers more Alaska itineraries and deeper destination expertise. Norwegian also sails Alaska with good options, but Princess is widely regarded as the Alaska cruise specialist.
Does Norwegian or Princess have a stricter dress code?
Princess has the stricter dress code with smart casual expected in the evening and formal nights on longer voyages. Norwegian famously has no formal nights whatsoever and maintains a resort casual policy throughout the ship. If you prefer not to pack formal attire, Norwegian's Freestyle approach is the more relaxed option.
Which is better for solo travellers, Norwegian or Princess?
Norwegian is significantly better for solo travellers. Their Studio cabins are purpose-built for one person and include access to an exclusive Studio Lounge. Princess has limited solo cabin options across their fleet of 15 ships. Norwegian's Freestyle Cruising also makes it easier for solo travellers to dine when and where they want without feeling tied to a set schedule.
Does Norwegian or Princess have better technology?
Princess leads with MedallionClass, widely considered the best wearable technology at sea. The OceanMedallion enables touchless cabin entry, tracks your location for food delivery anywhere on the ship, and personalises your experience. Norwegian's onboard app is standard and functional but does not offer the same level of technological innovation.