Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Dawn
- Cruises
- 49
- From
- $209
Ship comparison
Norwegian Dawn vs Norwegian Gem
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Gem
- Cruises
- 40
- From
- $309
The verdict
Which should you choose?
Norwegian Dawn is a large Norwegian Cruise Line ship carrying 2,340 passengers, in service since 2002. Norwegian Gem is a large Norwegian Cruise Line ship carrying 2,394 passengers, in service since 2007.
Choose Norwegian Dawn if you want better-rated staterooms or a lower starting fare: it outscores Norwegian Gem for staterooms (8.0 vs 6.0) in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores and its cruises start from $209 (vs $309).
Choose Norwegian Gem if you want a more family-friendly ship or a newer ship: it outscores Norwegian Dawn for family friendly (9.0 vs 8.0) in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores and its maiden voyage was in 2007 (vs 2002).
Side by side
Specifications
marks the better figure where more, or less, is plainly better.
| Norwegian Dawn | Norwegian Gem | |
|---|---|---|
| Cruise line | Norwegian Cruise Line | Norwegian Cruise Line |
| Ship size | Large | Large |
| Maiden voyagenewer highlighted | 2002 | 2007 (better) |
| Last refurbishedmore recent highlighted | — | 2017 |
| Gross tonnage | 92,250 | 93,530 |
| Passengers | 2,340 | 2,394 |
| Crew | 1,073 | 1,101 |
| Passengers per crew memberfewer is better | 2.2 | 2.2 |
| Space per passengergross tons per passenger; more is roomier | 39.4 (better) | 39.1 |
| Decks | 15 | 15 |
| Length | 965 ft | 965 ft |
| Beam | 125 ft | 106 ft |
| Speed | 29 mph | 26 mph |
| Cruiseable ratingout of 10 | 7 / 10 | 8 / 10 (better) |
| Cruises on sale | 49 | 40 |
| Upcoming sailings | 97 | 82 |
| Cruise lengths | 4 to 15 nights | 4 to 19 nights |
| Fares fromlower highlighted | $209 (better) | $309 |
Bliss scores
How they rate, out of 10
Cruiseable rates ships out of 10 on ten parts of a cruise holiday. Norwegian Dawn leads on 2 of the ten, Norwegian Gem on 1, with 7 level.
- Active
- Adventure & nature
- Cultural
- Dining
- Entertainment
- Family friendly
- Party
- Romantic
- Spa & fitness
- Staterooms
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Dawn
As part of the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet, Norwegian Dawn was built with freedom in mind, offering a choice of 14 dining options, 12 bars and lounges, the fitness center and spa, casino, pools and more.
Highlights
- The world-class Mandara Spa with full-service beauty salon
- Spectacular stage shows including The Second City comedy
- The largest suites on the sea for ultimate comfort and privacy
Sailing now
49 cruises on sale, from $209.
Norwegian Cruise Line
Norwegian Gem
While it's true that most cruise ships have a little something for everyone, Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Gem takes that concept to a whole new level. Passengers can choose from activities such as rock climbing and shuffleboard or relax poolside or with a hot-stone massage.
Highlights
- A variety of great dining options, including the hot air balloon-themed Bali Hai Bar & Grill
- Comedy Variety in the Stardust Theater
- Celebrity DJ spinning tunes at the Bliss Lounge
Sailing now
40 cruises on sale, from $309.
Questions
Norwegian Dawn or Norwegian Gem?
Which is bigger, Norwegian Dawn or Norwegian Gem?
Norwegian Gem is bigger at 93,530 gross tons, against 92,250 gross tons for Norwegian Dawn. Norwegian Dawn carries 2,340 passengers and Norwegian Gem carries 2,394.
Which ship is newer, Norwegian Dawn or Norwegian Gem?
Norwegian Gem is newer, with a maiden voyage in 2007 against 2002 for Norwegian Dawn.
Which has more space per passenger?
Norwegian Dawn, with 39.4 gross tons per passenger against 39.1 on Norwegian Gem. The higher the figure, the more ship there is for each guest.
Which has more crew per passenger?
They are level, with one crew member for every 2.2 passengers.
Which is better for families?
Norwegian Gem scores higher for family friendliness in Cruiseable’s Bliss scores: 9.0 out of 10, against 8.0 for Norwegian Dawn.
Still deciding?
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