Norwegian Cruise Line’s “Free at Sea” Explained: What’s Included & Why It Matters 🚢✨

Brandi Parker
Feb 4
3 min read

Updated: 3 days ago

If you’ve ever looked at a Norwegian Cruise Line offer and thought, “Okay… but what does Free at Sea actually mean?” — you’re not alone.

Norwegian Cruise Line’s Free at Sea™ is one of the most valuable cruise perks out there — when you understand how it works and how to use it strategically.

Let’s break it down, piece by piece, so you know exactly what’s included, what to expect, and why this offer can make a big difference in your cruise experience.

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🌊 What Is Norwegian’s Free at Sea™?

Free at Sea is not a sale — it’s a value-stacking program that bundles some of Norwegian’s most popular add-ons into your cruise fare.

When selected at booking, Free at Sea can deliver over $2,000 in added value per stateroom, depending on sailing length and itinerary.

The best part? You choose which perks make sense for your travel style.

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🍹 Unlimited Open Bar Package

This is the most loved Free at Sea perk — and for good reason.

✨ Unlimited premium cocktails, spirits, wine & beer

✨ Includes brands like Grey Goose, Casamigos, Woodford Reserve and more

✨ Soft drinks and juices included

You simply prepay the package gratuities, and then your onboard drinks are covered. With cocktails averaging $14–$16 each, this adds up fast.

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🍽️ Specialty Dining Experiences

Norwegian already offers excellent complimentary dining — but Free at Sea takes it up a notch.

✨ Multi-course meals at Norwegian’s specialty restaurants

✨ Restaurants like Cagney’s Steakhouse, Teppanyaki, French Bistro & more

✨ Elevated menus and service at no added dining cost

💡 Pro tip: Specialty dining reservations typically open 120 days before sailing and fill quickly on popular itineraries.

Couple enjoying a romantic dinner on an outdoor cruise ship deck at sunset, clinking wine glasses over an elegantly set table with ocean views and distant islands in the background. Curated by Brandi Parker, Certified Cruise Specialist, specializing in Norwegian Cruise Line vacations and expertly planned NCL sailings designed for couples seeking elevated dining, romance, and unforgettable cruise experiences.

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📶 Wi-Fi Package

Staying connected at sea doesn’t have to be complicated.

✨ 150 minutes of high-speed Wi-Fi per person

✨ Applies to all guests in the stateroom

Perfect for checking in with family, sharing photos, or handling quick work matters without upgrading to a full Wi-Fi plan.

Woman relaxing on a private cruise ship balcony while working on a laptop overlooking turquoise ocean waters, with a coffee mug nearby and glass railing framing the sea view, illustrating the freedom to stay connected at sea. Curated by Brandi Parker, Certified Cruise Specialist, specializing in Norwegian Cruise Line vacations and expertly planned NCL sailings that highlight Free at Sea perks, onboard Wi-Fi access, and flexible cruise experiences for modern travelers.

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🗺️ Shore Excursion Credits

This is one of the most underrated Free at Sea perks.

✨ $50 shore excursion credit per port

✨ Can be used toward Norwegian-offered excursions

✨ Encourages you to explore without overspending

From cultural tours in Europe to snorkeling in the Caribbean or wildlife encounters in Alaska, these credits help stretch your vacation budget further.