What to expect by Sailing in the Norwegian Viva: Ports, Amenities, and Cuisine on an Aegean Adventure

This past summer, I had the incredible opportunity to cruise around the Aegean Sea aboard the brand-new Norwegian Viva. Here’s my honest review, covering everything from the ship's itinerary to its amenities and of course the food.

I’m no stranger to cruising—this was my fourth cruise—and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that every cruise line offers a unique experience. Your journey depends on the cruise line, the ports of call, and the region of the world you’re exploring.

The Itinerary

This particular cruise had an exciting and diverse itinerary, starting in Trieste, Italy, and visiting Split, Croatia; Kotor, Montenegro; Dubrovnik, Croatia; Corfu and Santorini, Greece; Kusadasi and Istanbul, Türkiye; Mykonos, Greece; and finally ending in Athens, Greece.

Let’s just say it was an intense adventure! With no days at sea to relax, it was all about exploring, which was perfect since I’d never visited any of these destinations before. Each port deserves its own spotlight, so stay tuned for future blogs where I’ll dive into the details of these incredible places.

All Aboard the Norwegian Viva: Exploring Amenities, Cabins, Bars, and More!

The Norwegian Viva, part of the Prima-class, launched in 2023 and boasts a passenger capacity of 3,215 across 20 decks. It’s not the largest ship, but it’s packed with well-divided spaces and amenities to suit everyone.

Find Your Perfect Cabin

The Viva offers a variety of cabin options:

• Studio Staterooms: Perfect for solo travelers.

• Balcony Staterooms: Spacious rooms with private balconies.

• Mini-Suites: Suites with extra space and amenities.

• Haven Suites: Luxurious accommodations with exclusive access to The Haven, a private retreat with its pool, restaurant, and spa.

I stayed in a Balcony Stateroom (Room 14192, Deck 14) with a partially obstructed view due to a slide—but honestly, it didn’t bother me. The room was spacious and comfortable, and having a balcony to enjoy the stunning port views was a game-changer.

In the past, I’ve tried both interior rooms (too cramped for my taste) and window rooms (a nice step up with natural light). Someday, I hope to experience a suite or The Haven—trust me, when that happens, I’ll give you the full scoop

Luxury and Leisure: Norwegian Viva's Amenities

The Viva’s amenities are thoughtfully designed to offer something for everyone, including:

• Ocean Boulevard: A stunning promenade with panoramic ocean views.

• Infinity Pool: Perfect for soaking up views while relaxing.

• Mandara Spa: A haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.

• Fitness Center: Modern equipment and classes for fitness enthusiasts.

• Theater: Broadway-style shows and live entertainment.

• Go-Kart Course: Yes, you can race at sea!

For families, there are kids’ and teens’ clubs, while shoppers can explore duty-free stores. And for the gamblers out there, the onboard casino is a big hit.

Raise Your Glass: Must-Visit Bars on the Norwegian Viva

If you enjoy a good drink, the Viva has you covered. I opted for the drink package, which allowed me to explore the ship’s bars without holding back.

My personal favorite was the Metropolitan Bar, where I fell for their specialty cocktails and live music—a perfect combo! Another standout was The Penrose, a quieter spot at the back of the ship with stunning sunset views.

Here’s a quick rundown of some popular bars:

• The Metropolitan Bar: Sophisticated vibes and live music.

• The Penrose: Stylish with panoramic views.

• The District Brew House: Craft beers from around the world.

• Vibe Beach Club: Trendy with a pool and DJ.

A Culinary Journey: Dining on Norwegian Viva

Let’s talk about the food—because on a cruise, it can make or break the experience.

The Good

Most of the dining options on the Viva were excellent. My top recommendation is the Indulge Food Hall, which offers a variety of cuisines from places like Tamara, Mr. Rotisserie, and the Latin Quarter Food Truck. It’s perfect for sampling diverse flavors.

The Hudson’s Main Dining Room was another highlight. Every night featured new dishes alongside signature options, so I never got bored.

Also, I want to mention the amazing service of the staff in the restaurants their service was great.

The Not-So-Good

Unfortunately, Los Lobos, the specialty Mexican restaurant, was a letdown. As someone spoiled by great Mexican food in New York, I found the flavors and authenticity lacking.

Pro Tip: Skip the breakfast at Indulge and opt for the main dining room instead—the food is much better!

Final Thoughts

Overall, my trip on the Norwegian Viva was a success. However, there’s room for improvement. The tendering process in three ports caused long wait times, cutting into valuable exploration hours. Also, the time in Corfu felt too short to enjoy the port.

If you’re considering this cruise, here’s my advice:

• If you’re a first-time visitor to these ports, this itinerary is a fantastic way to explore multiple destinations without the hassle of flights and luggage.

• If you’re looking for a relaxing cruise, pick one with days at sea or familiar ports you wouldn’t mind skipping.

Watch the vlog about the Norwegian Viva here