Disclaimer: I stayed in a studio cabin as part of a press trip. This content, however, is not sponsored and Norwegian haven’t seen it. I just wanted to make it.
Studio cabins are specially designed accommodation for solo cruisers. They are designed to make solo cruising more affordable, with no single supplements payable.
They offer access to a private Studio Lounge for those staying in studio cabins. Here, solo travellers can meet and socialise with other solo travellers – if they so wish.
Norwegian Epic was the first cruise ship to feature studio cabins for solo travellers; she launched in 2010.
Although Norwegian Epic was not one of the cruise line’s most popular ships, the studio cabins were a huge success.
They’re a game-changer for solo cruisers. All new Norwegian ships since 2010 have featured these cabins, but their layout and amenities vary.
What Are Norwegian’s Studio Cabins?
Studio cabins are small inside cabins designed for one person only.
They have a full-size bed, clever storage, mood lighting, and a toilet and shower area.
There is also a Studio Lounge, an exclusive area only for solo travellers, with complimentary snacks, coffee, and social events.
Which Norwegian Ships Have Studio Cabins (with Lounge Access)
Breakaway Class:
- Norwegian Breakaway
- Norwegian Getaway
Breakaway Plus Class:
- Norwegian Escape
- Norwegian Joy
- Norwegian Bliss
- Norwegian Encore
Epic Class:
- Norwegian Epic
- The first ship in the fleet to introduce studio cabins, and still the only one with over 100 studio cabins onboard.
Pride Class
- Pride of America
- An older ship retrofitted with studio cabins and a studio lounge in 2013.
Prima Class:
- Norwegian Prima
- Norwegian Aqua
- Norwegian Viva
The Norwegian Epic still boasts the largest and most well-known solo complex at sea. Prima and Viva offer a more modern take on the original idea.
Norwegian Epic was a quirky ship for Norwegian. Some of her design features, such as the bathroom and toilet arrangement in the standard cabins, received some negative customer feedback. I didn’t mind it though!
Originally, there were three Epic-class ships planned. The second Epic-class ship due to be built was cancelled in 2008, and the option for a third vessel was not exercised.
The next Norwegian ships, Breakaway and Getaway, with their “Waterfront” promenade areas came next.
Which Ships Don’t Have Studio Cabins
These older ships, built before 2010, don’t have dedicated studio cabins.
Solo travellers on these ships must book a regular cabin and pay a single supplement.
- Norwegian Sun
- Norwegian Sky
- Norwegian Spirit
- Norwegian Dawn
- Norwegian Star
- Norwegian Jewel
- Norwegian Pearl
- Norwegian Jade
- Norwegian Gem
While these ships don’t have dedicated studios, Norwegian often runs solo promotions or reduced supplements on selected sailings.
Studio Cabin Layout and Size Comparison
Studio cabins onboard Norwegian ships vary both in size and location.
For example:
On Norwegian Epic, the first ship to feature studio cabins, they can be found on decks 11 and 12, in mid and aft locations. They come in at 9 m2.
Norwegina Prima and Viva offer more luxurious and modern studios, along with upgraded finishes.
Interestingly, the size has gone from studio cabins found on earlier ships, down by 1 m2, coming in at 8 m2
They can be found on decks 12 and 13, midship.
I stayed in a studio cabin on Norwegian Breakaway.
The studio cabins were located on decks 10 and 11, forward. The cabins come in at between 9 and 12 m2.
Who Should Book a Studio Cabin
Studio cabins give solo cruisers a way to avoid feeling “penalised” by the single supplement.
They may suit you if:
- You would appreciate a dedicated space where you can meet up and socialise with other solo travellers.
- You won’t find studio lounges on other cruise lines.
- They are perfect for solo travellers who want privacy without overpaying.
- There are no additional solo supplements to pay.
They are not ideal if you want ocean views or need lots of space. You may prefer a standard cabin, but you will need to factor in the additional solo supplement cost.
Have a look at the studio cabin I stayed in onboard Norwegian Breakaway, and find out what I thought of it in the video below:
Before You Go:
Have a look at two interesting cabins I stayed on onboard Norwegian Star. I was staying in a balcony cabin, but was mysteriously upgraded to a suite a few days into the cruise:
One Cruise, Two Cabins: My Unexpected Favourite (Balcony vs Suite)
I stayed in the luxury Haven area onboard the new Norwegian ship, Norwegian Aqua. Find out what I thought of it here:
I Stayed in The Luxury Area of a Cruise Ship That Most Guests Never Get to See
Book a Cruise (I’ve Launched My Own Travel Agency)
I’ve spent the last 10 years creating cruise content online and over that time I’ve learnt that having a great travel agent makes a HUGE difference.
That’s why in 2026, I launched my own agency and built a team of real cruise experts who love cruising as much as I do.
We combine great prices with personal service. Just click the button below and we’ll find you the perfect cruise. No request is too big or too small, we’re here to help.