Norwegian Star

Norwegian Star is a Dawn class cruise ship operated by Norwegian Cruise Line. She entered service in 2001 and carries up to around 2,348 passengers, placing her in the mid sized category. Built by Meyer Werft in Papenburg, Germany, she was originally ordered for Star Cruises and was intended to enter service as SuperStar Libra before being transferred to Norwegian Cruise Line. Her design was developed around Norwegian's Freestyle Cruising concept, which gave passengers greater freedom over dining and dress. Actress Brooke Burke christened the ship in 2001 during a joint ceremony with Norwegian Sun.

The ship offers a relaxed approach to dining, with around ten venues giving guests plenty of choice throughout the day. Rather than relying on traditional assigned seating, passengers can choose where and when they want to eat. Accommodation ranges from inside cabins to oceanview and balcony staterooms, with around 70 per cent offering views of the sea. Among the more unusual options are two large three bedroom suites positioned towards the top of the ship, each with its own private garden and sundeck.

Entertainment centres on the Stardust Theater, where evening productions provide a traditional cruise show experience. The ship also has several swimming pools, sports facilities and a walking and jogging track. Mandara Spa provides a quieter setting for relaxation, while Spice H2O offers an adults only outdoor area with a pool, drinks and evening entertainment.

Families have access to dedicated children's programmes and activities, while adults can choose from quieter lounges, the spa or the casino. The mixture of spaces means that a day on Norwegian Star can be as active or relaxed as guests prefer, without requiring everyone to follow the same routine.

Norwegian Star's Panamax design is another interesting part of her history. Her dimensions were developed to allow the ship to pass through the original Panama Canal locks, connecting cruising regions that might otherwise require a longer route.

Norwegian Star suits couples, families and solo travellers who prefer a mid sized ship with flexible dining and a broad selection of entertainment and recreation. Her established layout and Freestyle approach give passengers plenty of freedom to shape their time on board.