Recently refurbished, the Norwegian Joy, popular for Norwegian Caribbean cruises, welcomes over 3,700 passengers on Bermuda Cruises. Featured itineraries highlight a beautiful Thermal Suite in the Mandara Spa, an adults-only Vibe Beach Club, a challenging Mini Golf course, an Aqua Park and a thrilling Race Track for guests of all ages.

Dining at The Waterfront enables guests to dine alfresco while enjoying sea breezes during the day and starlit skies at night. It offers seven specialty dining restaurants, including Cagney's Steakhouse and Teppanyaki, with cuisine from French to Asian and Italian to Barbecue, that can be booked for an additional fee.

In addition, there are 13 bars and lounges onboard with unlimited open bar packages, including District Brew House, a wine bar, Sugarcane Mojito Bar, a whiskey bar and more. Haven guests can also enjoy dinner in their own private restaurant and cocktails in one of two private bars. Take a closer look below at the Norwegian Caribbean Cruise review!

DAY 1 – Embarkation in New York

Embarkation Day on Norwegian Joy at one of the efficient departure ports was fast and easy. Lunch was available at The Local Bar & Grill before we breezed through document check and headed out on our traditional ship tour, checking Specialty Dining reservations along the way while pausing at fun lounges to sip cocktails from the unlimited open bar. We started in the Atrium Bar, where a film was playing welcoming us aboard by the Cruise Director, Vincent, who wore a colorful collection of suits throughout the week.

The three-level Atrium chandelier was breathtaking as it changed its sparkling glass colors. The Observation Lounge had live music, so we stayed to enjoy skyline views of NYC and the festive ambiance for quite a while. Once our Oceanview stateroom (a more affordable choice with cruise deals compared to a Balcony Cabin) was ready, we quickly unpacked and headed out for more fun!

As the ship sailed out of New York Harbor from New York, we headed to the Joy Theatre where the ship’s officers were introduced. We stopped by the Welcome Aboard Party, and then enjoyed dinner in the Savor Main Dining Room where we had booked most of our meals.

Afterwards, we got our “groove” on at the Beatles Story Tribute Show. The music, costumes, and videos were so fun we couldn’t help but get up and dance at our seats to the fab tunes with everyone else! After an espresso martini, we summoned a bit more energy to hit up the Decades Dance party before finally calling it a night.

DAY 2 - At Sea

Today aboard the Norwegian Joy, the ship was buzzing with an array of activities all morning, rivaling the packed schedules of a Caribbean cruise or other tropical routes. From trivia and a cooking demonstration to spa demos at the Mandara Spa Thermal Suite, photography seminars, bingo, and Laser Tag, there’s no way passengers were bored. Guests looking for thrills could visit the Race Track or Galaxy Pavilion, while adults seeking relaxation had Spice H2O as a venue for daytime unwinding. We had a complimentary entry into the Summer Fortune Slot Tournament, a perk highlighting the value in these cruise deals. Unfortunately, my machine must have still been asleep, as the other players’ machines racked up three times the points that mine did! After lunch, we listened to music and played 70’s trivia in the Atrium.

That evening we enjoyed cocktails and music before dinner. Afterwards, we were amazed by the breathtaking production of the Elements Show, which combined mesmerizing magic with aerial acrobatics, music, and dance. The Elements Show is based on the four elements of Earth, Air, Water, and Fire. It was an incredible spectacle of talent and visual creativity that took your breath away. A 70’s Disco Groove Dance Party closed out our evening, as we looked forward to our second day at sea.

DAY 3 - At Sea

Today started off with a delicious breakfast at the Garden Cafe, followed by a fascinating presentation by ship officers about How to Run a Floating Hotel aboard the Norwegian Joy. So many details go into managing a ship on a Caribbean cruise that welcomes over 3,000 guests per week, it is amazing. Afterwards, the pool area was busy, so we headed to Spice H2O for a quieter spot to lounge, watch people, and laugh along with the poolside games and antics. Following lunch, we walked around the ship and spent a bit more time in the casino (or check out the Galaxy Pavilion or Laser Tag if that's not your speed).

Dinner was excellent in the Main Dining Room, delivering world-class dining as a great alternative to specialty dining. Thanks to Free at Sea Freestyle Dining, our evening plans stayed flexible. We grabbed a drink at the Sugarcane Mojito Bar before Levity Live Comedy with Rodney and Quincy, which was hysterical. Next, we headed to Wheel of Fortune in the Joy Theatre. The Joy Entertainment Team picks players from the audience to win prizes and passengers can also rent a hand-held device to play along. They also have the opportunity to win by solving the puzzle in a certain amount of time. No winner here, but it was fun and full of laughs.

The best part of the entire evening was attending a performance by vocalist Richard White - The Capetown Crooner. What an amazing talent. He plays trumpet and piano, and sings like Frank Sinatra, all while entertaining us with funny stories in between. He belongs on Broadway for sure! We closed the night out cheering on some talented (and brave) passengers at the Adult Karaoke Blast.

Cape Town Crooners stage backdrop aboard a cruise ship, featuring live jazz and swing entertainment during an evening performance at sea.

Trumpet player performing live jazz music on a cruise ship stage, part of onboard entertainment and evening shows for cruise passengers.

DAY 4 - Royal Naval Dockyard, Bermuda

The morning skies were sunny as the Norwegian Joy docked at the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda. From The Waterfront, we enjoyed a beautiful view of the turquoise waters surrounding the island before heading ashore. I planned to spend most of the day on a shore excursion exploring the many galleries and artist studios located in the grand, historic buildings that used to serve as a naval base for England. (For further insight to the local art and crafts I discovered, read my blog about “Blissful Bermuda”.)

We enjoyed a delicious English lunch at the cozy Frog and Onion Pub, then spent more time exploring the historic grounds of the Dockyard. Looking back from the dock at the Norwegian Joy's distinctive profile, the Aqua Park stood out prominently. From the imposing stone clock tower to authentic canons in the mid-18th century Cooperage, and quirky British phone booths, visitors are immersed in decades of culture and tradition.

Bermuda flag flying near the Royal Naval Dockyard with a cruise ship docked in the background, a popular stop for Bermuda cruise visitors.

Historic cannons displayed at a Bermuda fort near the Royal Naval Dockyard, showcasing the island’s military and maritime history.

Clocktower building at the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda, a historic landmark and gateway for cruise passengers.

Iconic red British-style telephone booths at the Royal Naval Dockyard in Bermuda, a popular photo spot for tourists.

Early that evening, we caught a ferry to Hamilton, Bermuda’s capital, for their Summer Nights festival, where Front Street comes alive with music, local artisans, and the mouthwatering aroma of freshly cooked Bermudian food. If you visit Bermuda on a Wednesday during the summer, be sure to check it out. The highlight for me was watching the colorful Gombey dancers, performers of all ages who parade down Front Street celebrating Bermuda's unique cultural heritage, distinct from traditions on other Caribbean islands, with festive music and dance.

Bermuda Gombey dancers performing in vibrant handmade costumes during a cultural street parade near Hamilton shopping district.

Traditional Bermuda Gombey dancers in colorful fringe costumes entertaining cruise visitors during a live street performance.

The ferry ride back to the ship showcased a spectacular painted sky and sunset as we passed by Bermuda’s quaint pastel houses along the way. Approaching the port, the sight of Norwegian Joy shining bright for the evening was absolutely stunning. Back onboard, from the Observation Lounge, I savored the lingering sunset hues before the production show this evening, the Memory Magic Show. We had considered the Footloose Musical as an alternative entertainment option for that evening. The show stars Feng Zhang, a renowned magician from China and one of Asia’s top illusionists. It was mesmerizing and spellbinding, to say the least!

Bermuda national flag flying over turquoise harbor waters, symbolizing the island’s British heritage and maritime culture.

Sunset over a calm Bermuda harbor with yachts and marina silhouettes, a popular evening view near cruise port areas.

Cruise ship docked in Bermuda at dusk, reflecting on the water as passengers arrive for island shopping and excursions.

Historic Bermuda church illuminated at sunset near the harbor, showcasing island architecture and cultural landmarks.

DAY 5 - Crystal Caves, St. George’s, & Beaches

Today, we reserved a Twizy, a very small, two-seater electric vehicle designed by Renault’s Formula One racing team. It can travel up to 50 miles on a single charge, but there are also power stations at various “Oasis Points” around the island. We decided this would be the best way to travel across the island during our Bermuda Cruise to visit attractions and the historic town of St. George’s.

Visitors can also rent a scooter. (Which Norwegian Joy advises against.) The rental company even has a “Test Track” area for renters unfamiliar with driving one. It was comedic watching the training antics of renters! The roads are narrow with few passing lanes for most of the journey around the island. I was glad we rented a Twizy!!

Electric mini car rental charging near historic stone buildings in Bermuda, a popular transportation option for cruise visitors.

Bermuda rental car test track sign surrounded by tropical greenery, highlighting local electric vehicle rentals for island travel.

Row of rented scooters parked along a path near historic Bermuda fort buildings, a common way for cruise passengers to explore the island.

Historic limestone warehouse building in Bermuda under blue skies, showcasing colonial architecture near popular cruise port areas.

Stop one was at Crystal Caves. This subterranean guided tour engulfs visitors with beautiful hanging stalactites and rising stalagmites surrounding a deep, crystal-clear lake. It feels otherworldly and is a remarkable celebration of nature’s glory.

Underground cave with dramatic stalactites hanging over crystal-clear blue water, a popular Mediterranean cruise shore excursion.

Illuminated stone staircase inside a historic limestone cave, showcasing guided cave tours near Mediterranean cruise ports.

Small boat floating in an underground cave with turquoise water and limestone formations, a scenic Mediterranean coastal attraction.

Stalactite-filled cave chamber above vivid blue water, highlighting a famous Mediterranean sea cave visited on cruise excursions.

Just a short distance away is the infamous Swizzle Inn, home to Bermuda’s famous Rum Swizzle cocktail. Afterwards, we crossed the street for a treat at the popular Bailey’s Ice Cream Parlour, offering an amazing array of ice cream, sherbet, and sorbet flavors. All treats are homemade onsite. Don’t miss it!

Caribbean cocktail menu featuring Rum Swizzle, frozen rum drinks, and classic island cocktails near a cruise port bar.

Bailey’s Ice Cream Parlour in Bermuda, a colorful cruise port favorite known for local ice cream and iconic storefront.

Next, it was on to the charming, cobblestoned town of St. George’s, where we discovered more local artist galleries, and relaxed at the historic White Horse Pub. After St. George’s, we stopped at Tobacco Bay, a popular beach with shallow sparkling waters ideal for snorkeling near the magnificent rock formations, and most importantly, cold libations and lounge chairs.

Colorful shopping street near a Caribbean cruise port, featuring historic buildings and local shops in a walkable town center.

White Horse Pub and Restaurant near a Caribbean cruise port, showcasing local dining and port-of-call attractions.

Turquoise Caribbean cove with rocky shoreline and clear water, highlighting scenic island beaches near cruise destinations.

Rocky coastal formations in clear Caribbean waters, showcasing natural island scenery and tropical travel experiences.

Since Tobacco Bay closed at 5 pm, they recommended we continue to a beautiful white-sand beach with a cozy little snack shack that mostly locals know about. Just a handful of people were on the beach enjoying the pink sand and aquamarine waters reminiscent of the Caribbean islands, surrounded by craggy rock formations. I was delighted to find a sparkling piece of green sea glass in the pink sand that reflected the age-old beauty of this remarkable spot. After the beach trip, we returned to your stateroom to refresh.

Turquoise Caribbean beach with soft sand and gentle waves, showcasing a tropical island shoreline popular with cruise travelers.

Clear blue ocean and sandy Caribbean beach with rocky coastline, highlighting scenic island beaches near cruise ports.

Secluded Caribbean beach with turquoise water and coastal vegetation, featuring natural island scenery and tropical travel inspiration.

Colorful beachside bar near a Caribbean shoreline, showcasing casual island dining and port-of-call experiences for travelers.

DAY 6 - At Sea

Since the Norwegian Joy didn’t depart until 1 PM that day, we went back ashore for some last-minute shopping at the Royal Naval Dockyard. The weather was turning gloomy and windy, and eventually we were caught in a downpour of rain. So, we returned once again to the Frog and Onion Pub for Bermuda’s famous Dark and Stormy rum drink, which warmed us to perfection, before heading to The Local Bar & Grill to dry off and eat after the rain shower. District Brew House was a great indoor spot while waiting for the weather to clear!

Back on board, we embraced the relaxed pace of at-sea days on our Caribbean cruise, a welcome contrast to busy port days, as we listened to music in the Atrium, visited the casino, and got ready for dinner. Tonight, we dined at Teppanyaki, a top choice for specialty dining that offers evening entertainment through the chef’s culinary antics and singing. Such a fun dining experience! The food was plentiful and delicious. The Main Dining Room was also an option for those not wanting a show with dinner.

After dinner, we enjoyed the Perfect Couple’s Game Show, and another Levity Comedy Show, then wrapped up our evening at the Glow Party on Pool Deck. Passengers wear white and fluorescent colors while dancing under the stars. However, due to the wind and cold, we didn’t last long!

Traveler enjoying a cocktail at a restaurant or bar during a cruise or port-of-call experience, highlighting food and drink while traveling.

Chef preparing a hibachi-style meal during a cruise dining experience, showcasing interactive onboard cuisine and specialty restaurants.

Live stand-up comedy performance at Levity Live, highlighting onboard or destination nightlife entertainment for travelers.

Crowd enjoying nighttime entertainment on a cruise ship deck, featuring waterslides, music, and nightlife at sea.

DAY 7 - At Sea

On our last day aboard the Norwegian Joy, we relaxed on the ship and played in the final Slot Tournament. Nope. No winner. After a final lunch in the Garden Cafe, I attended a Wine & Cheese Perfect Pairing, which again, was unique to other tastings I’ve attended. For those seeking something special on their final night, I suggest trying Specialty Dining at Cagney's Steakhouse, Food Republic, or Ocean Blue; Teppanyaki was a highlight of the trip's food options.

The afternoon featured a production show called The Broadway Series: 80’s Edition, where all of the Joy production vocalists perform together. They sing popular 80’s show tunes from the classics to hidden gems. I missed seeing the Footloose Musical but heard great things. The highlight for me was the chance to see Richard White perform again. The show was spectacular! Later, the Observation Lounge proved the perfect place for a final glass of wine before heading back to our Balcony Cabin stateroom to pack up.

DAY 8 - Disembarkation

Before disembarkation in New York, the Main Dining Room staff made our final morning special with their outstanding service. Disembarkation went fairly smoothly.

They kept the very long lines moving pretty well, however it was obvious that many passengers joined the line before their group was called. Not cool.

Final Thoughts on My Norwegian Caribbean Cruise Review

This Bermuda Cruise on Norwegian Joy was truly an unforgettable adventure filled with music, dancing, laughter, stunning island beauty, and of course, shopping for treasures crafted by local artisans. In my overall Norwegian Caribbean cruise review, Freestyle Dining emerged as a key benefit that enhanced every meal.

I especially appreciated the opportunity to spend two nights docked in Bermuda so we could fully enjoy island events, food, and nightlife ashore. Plus, I had more time to get to know the island’s talented artisans! While this trip was to Bermuda, I am already looking at a future itinerary to Great Stirrup Cay on Norwegian Joy, along with sailings to Harvest Caye in Belize and stops in The Bahamas for that ultimate private island experience.

I look forward to sailing on Norwegian Cruise lines again soon, or perhaps trying newer ships like Norwegian Prima or Norwegian Viva, to discover more of what these blissful destinations have to offer, from the Virgin Islands and Belize to artisan shopping hotspots in Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, and Curacao.

Imagine departing from ports like Miami or New Orleans for a Caribbean cruise to Harvest Caye or The Bahamas, creating the perfect tropical getaway!

Love the artisan items featured in this post, but can’t make the trip yourself? Visit our SHOP to discover similar handcrafted items made by local artisans, delivered straight to your door! I also share my favorite workshops, tours, and classes that turn global travel into a hands-on, unforgettable experience.

Norwegian Caribbean Cruise Review: Itinerary & Bermuda Tour