The Pride of America is truly one of a kind within the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. It is the only large cruise ship flying the US flag and was specifically designed for year-round cruises to Hawaii. This means it is one of the few cruise ships able to sail exclusively between the Hawaiian islands without calling at any foreign ports. Its American-inspired design and relaxed atmosphere are perfectly suited to its extraordinary itinerary.
On board, the focus is less on the classic resort experience and more on Hawaii as a destination. The Pride of America spends a particularly long time in port, thereby enabling its guests to enjoy immersive island experiences on Oʻahu, Maui, Hawaii and Kauaʻi. At the same time, it offers plenty of variety for relaxing hours on board – with swimming pools, hot tubs, sun decks, a spa and fitness area, as well as a diverse range of restaurants and bars.
Culinary options range from the main restaurants and the Aloha Café to speciality restaurants such as Cagney’s Steakhouse, Jefferson’s Bistro, La Cucina and Teppanyaki. In the evenings, the Hollywood Theatre, live music, bars and lounges provide entertainment. The Pride of America deliberately does without go-kart tracks, huge water parks and other attractions found on modern NCL resort ships – here, Hawaii takes centre stage.
The ship has been modernised several times over the course of its career. NCL currently lists the Pride of America as having been refurbished in 2025. As a result, the ship – now over 20 years old – continues to look contemporary and is specifically tailored to its unique role in the Hawaii programme.
Conclusion: The Pride of America is ideal for guests who want to experience as much of Hawaii as possible without having to constantly change hotels and islands. It is excellent for couples, families, first-time cruisers and destination-focused travellers. However, anyone looking for a modern NCL resort ship with spectacular leisure attractions would be better off on the Prima, Viva, Aqua or Encore. With the Pride of America, one thing is quite clear: the ship is a comfortable home away from home – Hawaii is the real attraction.
Ship
- Ship category 3
- Ship type Norwegian Cruise Line
- Construction year 2005
- Ship speed 22 kn
- Number of cabins 1094
- Ship decks
- Number of passengers 2150
- Ship weight 80439
- Length 280
- Beam 32
- Draft 8