On October 1, 2024, Norwegian Cruise Line announced that the brand’s new “More at Sea” program will replace the current “Free At Sea” program and will be effective for voyages sailing on or after January 1, 2025.
While the new plans are supposed to be bigger and better, the announcement has guests on reservations wondering how the upgrades will affect their cruises. But now, we have the answer.
Cruise line with 19 ships Passengers who have booked have been contacted to confirm that their previously booked Sea Free package will be replaced on all flights departing on or after 1 January 2025, even if the booking was made before the new product was launched.
“As our guest, we want you to have more experiences and make more memories! That’s why we’re excited to announce our new More at Sea program.” Norwegian Air wrote in an email to affected guests and travel agency.
“With the launch of More at Sea, we will be canceling the Free at Sea Plus package, which will be modified for flights booked before October 1, 2024, on or after January 1, 2025.” Keep updating.
However, guests don’t have to worry too much. These changes will either be less dramatic or improve upon the original package.
For example, cruise lines confirm that guests will still receive Two special meals$50 credit per shore excursion, and unlimited Wi-Fi minutes.
The biggest change is Premium beverage package Features included with the current “Free at Sea” plan will also disappear. Guests will receive a refund for that portion of the package within 30 days, and if payment has not been made in full, the new price will be reflected in their booking.
“Due to the cancellation of the premium beverage package, we will refund you the beverage portion of the package.” Cruise line confirmed.
That said, drink packages aren't completely gone. Instead, the current package will be replaced by the “More at Sea” beverage package, which features an enhanced unlimited open bar experience and beverage selections comparable to the original package.
Enhance your onboard experience
The goal of the “More at Sea” program is not to inconvenience guests but to enhance their cruising experience.
Amenities currently offered through the popular “Free at Sea” program will remain available, and cruise lines will build on this to provide even more value.
For example, the current plan offers two free meals to enjoy at the ship's specialty dining venues.
However, New “More at Sea” program expanded Build on this with additional appetizers and desserts – now included with up to three servings per meal at no extra cost.
If guests order more than that, they'll need to pay a simple service charge — which could range from $40 to $60, depending on the restaurant. But as the amount of food increases, guests are less likely to go over the allotted portion due to hunger.
Another improvement is new and improved premium beverage packaging.
Guests may still order any of their previous favorites and enjoy unlimited access to an open bar featuring Gray Goose Vodka, Casamigos Tequila, Woodford Reserve Bourbon and more than 100 specialty cocktails.
Also read: Cruise ship honeycomb board: more activities at sea
In addition, new and improved programs feature an enhanced Internet experience, Thanks to the launch of Starlink Internetwhich uses outer space satellites operated by SpaceX to provide better connectivity.
Some of the most popular amenities included in the current “Free At Sea” package will also remain as part of “More At Sea,” most notably a $50 travel credit toward shore excursions and airfare promotions.
