Norwegian Dawn

Originally built for Star Cruises, the Norwegian Dawn was built in 2002 at the Meyer Werft shipyard in Germany. It was decided during construction that the ship would instead go to the company's subsidiary, the Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL), and later that year it was christened by Kim Cattrall in New York City.

The Dawn is one of two ships to be built to its specifications and its sister is the Norwegian Star. NCL ships are known for their elaborate hull paintings and the Dawn was the first vessel to carry this artwork - it features multi-coloured ribbons flowing along the front half of the ship. The starboard side has two leaping dolphins, while port has the Statue of Liberty.

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A substantial refurbishment project was carried out in early 2011, giving much of the ship a makeover, updating the decor and adding some new features.

During the summer, the vessel is typically based in Boston, Massachusetts, and offers seven-night voyages to Bermuda. It's based in Miami during the winter and tours the Caribbean, stopping at destinations like St Maarten, Antigua, Barbados and Tortola.

One-off voyages are also sometimes available, such as autumn cruises along the east coast of America and Canada - an ideal way to see the spectacular displays of colour as the leaves change.

Ship stats and features

Passenger capacity: 2,840
Year entered service: 2002
Beam (ship width): 105.6 feet
Draught (ship depth): 26.9 feet
Length: 964.9 feet
Tonnage: 91,740
Crew: 1,318
Maximum speed: 25 knots
Number of passenger decks: 11
Number of lifts: 12
Number of swimming pools: 2
Number of cabins: 1,122

Food, cuisine and dining

The Norwegian Dawn was the third vessel in the Norwegian Cruises fleet to offer Freestyle Cruising - a concept that allows passengers to enjoy much more flexibility in their dining schedule.

With this option, passengers are not required to eat at specific meal times and they can choose from a wide range of no-fee restaurants. They can also choose to eat with a group of other passengers, or on their own, and formal attire is not required.

There are 15 restaurants on the Dawn and they offer a broad spectrum of cuisine - from a French bistro and an Italian kitchen, through to an Asian fusion option. The two main dining rooms are Aqua and the Venetian. They have space for 275 and 476 guests, respectively, and both offer wonderful menus, including a number of healthier dishes.

The names of the other restaurants are:
• Bamboo
• Bimini Grill
• Blue Lagoon
• Cagney's Steak House
• Garden Cafe
• La Cucina
• Le Bistro
• Moderno Churrascaria
• Sushi and Sashimi Bar
• Teppanyaki

Pizza is available 24 hours a day and there's also the Sprinkles ice cream bar. If you'd like a warm drink and a tasty pastry or cookie, then be sure to go to the Java Cafe. Room service is available at all hours, as well.

On-board entertainment and activities

There's always loads to do on NCL cruises, and that's certainly true on the Dawn. From shopping and shows through to wine tasting and kids' club activities, there's sure to be something to suit your every whim.

Nine bars are scattered throughout the vessel, each with a slightly different theme and decor. But they all offer friendly service and a fabulous atmosphere, so the hard part will be deciding which one is your favourite.

For example, Gatsby's Champagne Bar is an elegant location with a 1920s motif. There's also the Pearly Kings Pub - a British-style public house and the Japanese-inspired Sake Bar.

The Stardust Theatre is a massive show lounge with more than 1,000 seats and it offers large-scale performances. Alternatively, live music and dancing can typically be found in other locations around the ship.

Young cruisers will enjoy the T-Rex kids'centre and splash pool and there's also a teen hangout with video games, music and plenty of comfortable seating - and in the evening, it turns into a disco.

Spas and fitness facilities

If you really want some indulgence, then a trip to the El Dorado Spa is a must. Choose from a number of relaxing treatments - like massages and aromatherapy, or opt for some time in the beauty salon and get a facial or manicure.

Alternatively, there's a fitness centre with weight machines and cardio equipment. Classes are also held daily and include options like aerobics, Pilates and yoga.

For some exercise in the fresh air, why not go for a run on the jogging track or challenge some fellow passengers to a game of basketball or volleyball? You could also go for a swim.

Cabins

The 1,222 rooms on the Dawn are categorised into 29 price grades and the cost of accommodation will depend on the cabin's size, location and amenities.

Low-cost cruise deals can often be found by booking interior staterooms - these are the smallest and most basic accommodation and they don't have views. However, they're comfortable and have plenty of storage space - and are offered at a great price.

If you prefer something a bit more luxurious, then the exterior cabins or suites could be the ideal option. More than 500 rooms also have balconies - perfect for those who wish to enjoy the fresh sea air from the privacy of their quarters.