Sailing NCL Viva in 2026? Avoid These 5 Easy Mistakes

I made 5 easy-to-avoid mistakes on the Norwegian Viva that cost us time, flexibility, and convenience during our cruise. In this video, I break down those mistakes so you can have a smoother, more relaxed experience on your own NCL Viva sailing in 2026.
These tips don’t just apply to Viva – they’re useful for any Norwegian Prima class ship, including the Norwegian Prima, Norwegian Aqua, and Norwegian Luna. If you’re wondering how to use the NCL app the right way, how many specialty dinners to book, when to hit the go-karts and waterslides, how to avoid buffet disappointments, and how to work with the unique Prima class layout instead of fighting it, this video is for you.

My goal is not to bash Norwegian Cruise Line, but to help you cruise with more freedom and independence. Learn from my real-world experience so you can spend less time stressing and more time enjoying everything the Prima class has to offer.

Timestamps:
00:00 – Intro: 5 Easy Viva Mistakes to Avoid
00:05 – Mistake #1: Not Having the NCL App Set Up
00:41 – Mistake #2: Booking Too Many Specialty Restaurants
01:33 – Mistake #3: Waiting Too Long for Water Slides & Go‑Karts
02:26 – Mistake #4: Assuming the Buffet is Always Open
03:45 – Mistake #5: Not Being Purposeful with Viva’s Layout
04:18 – Final Thoughts & What to Watch Next 🎯

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If you have a question about the NCL Viva, the Prima class (Prima, Viva, Aqua, Luna), or planning DIY cruise days in port, drop it in the comments – I read them all and use your questions to plan future videos.

DISCLAIMER: I am not affiliated with Norwegian Cruise Line. This video represents my personal experience and opinion as a passenger. Always review your specific cruise contract and consult with the cruise line directly regarding your booking.