THE RIGHT TO EAT, DRINK AND BE MERRY might not be listed among the first 10 Constitutional Amendments, but when it comes to enjoying a drink at sea, it helps define the experience aboard a Norwegian Cruise Line ship. With 16 vessels in operation and five more under construction, the 51-year-old line visits nearly 300 destinations year-round. On every voyage, Norwegian carries roughly 100 different wines to suit a wide range of tastes.
Such variety can thrill seasoned wine lovers and intimidate newcomers. What should you choose? How do you decide? Norwegian simplifies the process with WineQuest, a wine database that organizes offerings by intensity. Wines are grouped under labels like Light Intensity, Medium Intensity and Full Intensity. For instance, within the white wine Medium Intensity category the menu suggests, “Best with … shellfish or poultry …” Looking for a steak pairing? The red wine Full Intensity section notes, “These rich wines are remarkable when paired with juicy red meat.”
The line’s beverage team curates this selection by evaluating each bottle’s quality, appeal and popularity among guests. Popular varietals tend to include Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio and Moscato. Norwegian also expands the onboard wine experience through special events: “Norwegian also hosts Winemaker Cruises,” explains Luis Ortega, director of beverage development and operations. “The program is now in its third year.”
Price points on Norwegian ships cover a wide spectrum. Many bottles fall in the $20–$30 range and are often available by the glass. Mid-range selections typically land between $40 and $80. At the premium end, special bottles are available, such as Opus One Napa Valley priced around $375 and Château Lafite Rothschild 2012 listed at about $1,215.
While a $1,215 bottle sees limited action, the fleet’s wine stewards serve an impressive volume overall. In an average year they open about 1,339,980 bottles of wine—equivalent to roughly 7,635,212 glasses—helping guests embrace the simple pleasures of good food, fine wine and merry company at sea.