Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Breakaway
- Cruises
- 26
- From
- $439
Ship comparison
Norwegian Breakaway vs Norwegian Epic
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Epic
- Cruises
- 36
- From
- $509
The verdict
Which should you choose?
Norwegian Breakaway is a large Norwegian Cruise Line ship carrying 3,959 passengers, in service since 2013. Norwegian Epic is a mega Norwegian Cruise Line ship carrying 4,100 passengers, in service since 2009.
Choose Norwegian Breakaway if you want a more active cruise: it outscores Norwegian Epic for active (8.0 vs 7.0) in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores.
Choose Norwegian Epic if you want a more family-friendly ship, more adventure and nature or better-rated entertainment: it outscores Norwegian Breakaway for family friendly (9.0 vs 7.0), adventure & nature (5.0 vs 3.0) and entertainment (10.0 vs 8.2) in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores.
Side by side
Specifications
marks the better figure where more, or less, is plainly better.
| Norwegian Breakaway | Norwegian Epic | |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise line | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Cruise Line |
| Ship size | Large | Mega |
| Maiden voyagenewer highlighted | 2013 (better) | 2009 |
| Last refurbishedmore recent highlighted | 2018 | 2021 (better) |
| Gross tonnage | 144,017 | 155,873 |
| Passengers | 3,959 | 4,100 |
| Crew | 1,595 | 1,753 |
| Passengers per crew memberfewer is better | 2.5 | 2.3 (better) |
| Space per passengergross tons per passenger; more is roomier | 36.4 | 38.0 (better) |
| Decks | 18 | 19 |
| Length | 1,062 ft | 1,080 ft |
| Beam | 170 ft | 133 ft |
| Speed | 25 mph | 25 mph |
| Cruiseable ratingout of 10 | 8 / 10 | 8 / 10 |
| Cruises on sale | 26 | 36 |
| Upcoming sailings | 118 | 97 |
| Cruise lengths | 4–14 nights | 4–14 nights |
| Fares fromlower highlighted | $439 (better) | $509 |
Bliss scores
How they rate, out of 10
Cruiseable rates ships out of 10 on ten parts of a cruise holiday. Norwegian Breakaway leads on 1 of the ten, Norwegian Epic on 3, with 6 level.
- Active
- Adventure & nature
- Cultural
- Dining
- Entertainment
- Family friendly
- Party
- Romantic
- Spa & fitness
- Staterooms
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Breakaway
They call Norwegian Breakaway New York's cruise ship, and it's clear why once you arrive at the port and see the Statue of Liberty painted on the hull. The original work of art is by Peter Max, and the renowned artist did a great job setting the tone for the Big Apple's year-round cruise ship from Norwegian Cruise Line.
Highlights
- The Aqua Park with two pools and four whirlpools
- Adventure seekers will enjoy the five waterslides
- Adults-only areas for those seeking peace and quiet
- Famed New York City celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian brings his restaurant to sea
Sailing now
26 cruises on sale, from $439.
About Norwegian Breakaway Plan my cruise on Norwegian Breakaway
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Epic
While other cruise lines focus on set itineraries while on board, Norwegian Cruise Line takes the view that everyone has different needs and interests and aims to provide as much choice and as many options as possible. They embrace the concept of choice and build it into every aspect of the onboard offering.
Highlights
- Water parks with three thrill rides are available for all ages, and there is now a SplashGolf experience in the Kids Aqua Park.
- For solo travelers, there is a dedicated area with private access and a lounge.
- The Haven offers a premium suites area with their own deck, concierge and spa access.
- Brand name entertainment shows include the “Burn the Floor” dance show and the Broadway show "Priscilla Queen of the Desert."
Sailing now
36 cruises on sale, from $509.
Questions
Norwegian Breakaway or Norwegian Epic?
Which is bigger, Norwegian Breakaway or Norwegian Epic?
Norwegian Epic is bigger at 155,873 gross tons, against 144,017 gross tons for Norwegian Breakaway. Norwegian Breakaway carries 3,959 passengers and Norwegian Epic carries 4,100.
Which ship is newer, Norwegian Breakaway or Norwegian Epic?
Norwegian Breakaway is newer, with a maiden voyage in 2013 against 2009 for Norwegian Epic.
Which has more space per passenger?
Norwegian Epic, with 38.0 gross tons per passenger against 36.4 on Norwegian Breakaway. The higher the figure, the more ship there is for each guest.
Which has more crew per passenger?
Norwegian Epic, with one crew member for every 2.3 passengers against one for every 2.5 on Norwegian Breakaway.
Which is better for families?
Norwegian Epic scores higher for family friendliness in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores: 9.0 out of 10, against 7.0 for Norwegian Breakaway.
Still deciding?
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