Norwegian Cruise line

From: European Cruise Guide

ABOVE: The Norwegian Jade. INSET BELOW: A "Garden Villa" suite on an NCL ship, and the Norwegian Epic.

Norwegian Cruise Line is offering 40 European cruises in 2013, with itineraries ranging from 1 to 25 days. Most are in the Mediterranean, although NCL does offer a number of Baltic and Scandinavian cruises.

Five ships are featured: the 2,736-passenger Norwegian Jade, the 2,348-passenger Norwegian Star, the 2,018-passenger Norwegian Spirit, and two megaships: Norwegian Epic (4,100 passengers) and the new 4,000-passenger Norwegian Breakbaway.

NCL emphasizes "Freestyle Cruising," which lets passengers choose from a variety of dining and dress options.

The line is also family-friendly, with a university-trained "Youth Staff" on each ship and special activities for children and teenagers.

Cruise line's Web site:

Norwegian Cruise Line

Cruise video:

Norwegian Gem in Venice, Italy

Photos copyright © Norwegian Cruise Line.