Norwegian Joy

Norwegian Joy is a 2017 Breakaway-Plus mega-ship with an unusual backstory: it was originally built and outfitted for the Chinese cruise market, then pulled to North America in 2018 and refurbished to mirror its sister ship, Norwegian Bliss. A second major refurbishment in early 2024 modernized it further, adding cabins, expanding the Vibe Beach Club to two levels and installing what reviewers call the best Thermal Suite at sea. The result is a ship that looks nearly new and carries the familiar Breakaway-Plus thrills, but with a slightly quirky heritage layout.

The onboard experience centers on the two-level go-kart racetrack, two aqua parks, a forward Observation Lounge for scenic cruising, and the upgraded Haven suite enclave with its own indoor pool. Dining spans 13 venues including seven specialty restaurants, though recent Cruise Critic member reviews are notably harsh on the buffet and main dining rooms, calling the food bland and repetitive while praising standouts like the spa and Vibe. Crowding is the recurring theme: the extra cabins added in 2024 pushed passenger counts higher, and guests cite busy pools, restaurants and a strained two-bank elevator system.

Joy is best suited to budget-conscious families and couples who want big-ship activities at often-lower fares than competitors, particularly on Alaska, Bermuda and Caribbean routes. Compared to Bliss it is a near-twin with a less Alaska-optimized pedigree, and against Royal Caribbean or Carnival rivals it competes on price and the refreshed spa and Vibe spaces. Standout draws are the rooftop go-karts, the fleet-leading Thermal Suite, and the two-story Vibe Beach Club that replaced the old laser tag arena.