Norwegian Cruises Miami 2025: Cruise Tips & Shore Excursions from Port Miami

Norwegian cruises in Port Miami: Your guide to sailing with style

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) has been literally making waves in Miami since the 1960s, when it practically invented the concept of the modern Caribbean cruise. Today, Port Miami is home to some of Norwegian’s most exciting ships, each offering a floating resort packed with fun, food, and adventure. Whether you’re boarding for the first time or a seasoned cruiser, this guide will give you the inside scoop: facts, quirks, tips, and even a little gossip. And since I’m Gus Moore from The Miami Tour Company, you’ll also get some local advice on what to do before or after your Norwegian cruise.

Sailing in 2025

• Call 866-234-7350 to speak with NCL support in Miami, FL
• NCL Terminal at Port Miami: B
• Ships sailing from Miami: Encore, Joy, Pearl, Sky
• See our cruising advice for embarking & disembarking the ship

NCL shore excursions you can do with The Miami Tour Company before or after sailing

Make the most of your time in Miami with a tour designed for NCL cruise passengers:

• Miami to the Max! – Visit South Beach, Wynwood Walls, and Little Havana in a 4-hour guided tour.
• Everglades Adventure – Airboat ride, wildlife show, and park entry included.
• Miami Boat Tour – Cruise Biscayne Bay and admire celebrity mansions on Star Island.
• Key West Day Tour – A full-day adventure to the southernmost point in the continental U.S.

☑ Extra perk just for NCL passengers

👉 Book a tour listed on our website and get 10% off just for being an NCL passenger. Use discount code: Save2025. It’s our way of saying welcome to Miami.

Things you might want to know before you sail

• Parking costs $35 per day: Port Miami garages fill quickly, so consider using a shuttle or rideshare.
• Drink packages: Good if you plan on having more than 3 cocktails a day, otherwise à la carte is cheaper.
• Wi-Fi: NCL uses SpaceX Starlink satellite internet to provide connectivity on its ships
• Service charge: NCL automatically adds daily gratuities to your bill (currently around $20 per person per day).

NCL Facts & features

• Norwegian sails some of its newest ships from Miami, including the Norwegian Encore, Norwegian Joy, and Norwegian Pearl.
• They pioneered “Freestyle Cruising,” which means no set dining times—eat when you want, dress how you like (yes, shorts are fine).
• The Miami terminal, Terminal B—“The Pearl of Miami”—was custom built for NCL in 2021. It’s sleek, spacious, and designed to get you from curb to ship in under 30 minutes.

Hidden gems

• The Waterfront: A half-mile outdoor promenade where you can sip a mojito while actually feeling the ocean breeze (not just recycled A/C).
• Supper Club comedy shows: Smaller, more intimate performances that often get overlooked next to the big productions.
• Observation lounges: Perfect for quiet mornings with a coffee—plus, fewer people know they exist.

Weird quirks & stories

• In the 1970s, Norwegian once offered a cruise-to-nowhere, where the ship just circled the ocean for a few days without ever stopping at a port. People still talk about it.
• There’s a rumor among crew that some guests treat the buffet like a competitive sport—yes, passengers have been spotted walking out with ziplock bags of shrimp. 🦐
• The waterslides are fun, but pro tip: don’t wear a wig or toupee. There have been… incidents.

Onboard highlights you shouldn’t miss

• Broadway-style shows like Kinky Boots or Six.
• The Speedway: A go-kart track at sea—yes, you can Mario Kart your way around the ship. 🏎️
• Food Republic: A global tapas-style restaurant that’s surprisingly adventurous for cruise dining.
• Mandara Spa’s snow room: Because nothing says “Caribbean vacation” like sitting in a freezer.

🚢 Popular NCL Cruises from Port Miami

FAQ about NCL

Q: What's Norwegian's reputation?
A: Norwegian is known for its "Freestyle Cruising" concept — no dress codes, flexible dining, and a laid-back vibe that appeals to casual travelers and first-timers. The ships are fun and lively, but recent complaints include rising nickel-and-dime charges, declining food quality, and hit-or-miss service. It’s a solid choice if you want a no-fuss vacation with plenty to do, but don’t expect luxury or seamless service without paying extra.

Q: Are there places to eat at the Port?
A: Yes. La Carreta offers full-service dining and is known for having some of the cleanest restrooms at many terminals. You'll also find a Starbucks in Terminal A, complete with free Wi-Fi. Most terminals have Grab & Go Markets with sandwiches, salads, and other healthier options. The selection changes daily, but the caprese salad is a reliable favorite.

Q: Any advice for getting off the ship early?
A: Carry your own luggage and select the “Self Assist” or “Walk Off” option for priority disembarkation — most guests are through customs by 8:00 AM. You can also let the front desk know you have an early activity, and they’ll provide priority disembarkation.

Q: How do I arrange a private tour with drop-off at the airport?
A: It’s easy! Just give us a call at (305) 260-6855 or get a quote. We’ll pick you up at the Port, take you sightseeing, and drop you off at either Miami or Fort Lauderdale Airport in time for your flight.

More details on cruising from Miami

• What Makes Port Miami Unique