A true pioneer in the cruise industry, Norwegian Cruise Lines was the first major cruise line to offer more dining choices and flexibility to its passengers with "Freestyle Cruising" and as they expand their fleet, this has been their philosophy when designing new ships. Ships in the NCL fleet have either been designed or redesigned and retrofitted for "Freestyle Cruising."

Garden & Courtyard villas are a new feature that NCL is adding to their ships, along with a bowling alley and the introduction of "Tony & Tina's Wedding".

They offer more dining options than any other ship that sails from the North America market, with a minimum of 6 to 10 different and distinct restaurants aboard each of these ships. More dining choices are not the only thing Norwegian Cruise Line has helped pioneer - as part of the "Freestyle Cruising," dress codes are relaxed (resort casual) and there is an optional formal night. In addition, Norwegian Cruise Line has simplified their tipping program - gratuities are automatically added to the guest's account, if desired, which is also being implemented by other lines.

Launched in summer of 2004, NCL America began offering "freestyle ships" in Hawaii; these are American flagged, American-crewed ships sailing on the only inter-island Hawaii itineraries. The NCL America fleet consist of 3 ships, Pride of Aloha, Pride of America, and Pride of Hawaii. NCL also has their own F3 class of ships project in the works. These are 3rd generation "Free style Cruising" class ships.

A plus for any group opting to cruising on an NCL America ship? Because there are no foreign port stopovers involved, there will be no customs clearance or passport reviews for U.S. citizens. Also, the 7-day cruises can be combined with "Cruise and Stay" packages, with streamlined boarding processes built in. NCL ships (9) sail to Alaska, Bermuda, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, the Panama Canal, and South America.