134 Highlights 80 Differences 8 Reactions 0 Likes

Norwegian Jade vs Norwegian Epic: 134 Highlights & 80 Differences — So, Which Cruise Ship Actually Works Better

Compare size, amenities, and price with Norwegian Jade vs Norwegian Epic. One offers excitement, while the other offers relaxation—choose wisely! Which is the better travel pick — Norwegian Jade or Norwegian Epic? From length overall, passenger capacity at double occupancy, dining venues count & beam to real-world use, here’s your complete cruise ships guide.

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Andini E. U.

478 Products

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Andhi E.

1157 Products

60 Points

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Jade

63 Points

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Epic

162 Facts
5 Guides
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0 Discuss
1 Awards
25 Compare

Highlights ¹⁶²

No extras. Just what matters.

                                
                                                60
                                                
                                                    Points
                                                
                                        Norwegian Jade
                                    
                                        vs
                                    
                                                63
                                                
                                                    Points
                                                
                                        Norwegian Epic

Why is Norwegian Jade better than Norwegian Epic ?

General Information Dimensions & Tonnage Capacity Propulsion & Performance Safety & Regulations Dining & Cuisine Recreation & Wellness Entertainment & Excursions Service & Operations

Dimensions & Tonnage

Built with Steel Hull Material used to build the hull. with 2 points higher
Displacement is 155873 Actual weight of the ship including contents. with 1 points higher
Maximum Air Draft: 200 Distance from waterline to highest point of the ship. with 11 points higher
Has 15 Passenger Decks Number of decks accessible to passengers. with 52 points higher
3,350 DWT higher deadweight tonnage Weight the ship can safely carry including cargo, fuel, crew, and passengers. 10850 DWT vs 7500 DWT
82,809 NT higher net tonnage Revenue-earning volume of the ship. 146495 NT vs 63686 NT
62,315 GT larger gross tonnage Volume of enclosed spaces, measure of overall ship size. 155873 GT vs 93558 GT
Total Decks: 19 Total number of decks on the ship. with 22 points higher
4.8 ft taller height Overall vertical measurement from keel bottom to mast top. 200 ft vs 195.2 ft
8 ft wider ship Maximum beam (width) of the ship. 133 ft vs 125 ft
116 ft longer ship length Total ship length from bow to stern. 1081 ft vs 965 ft

Scroll down for more facts

Recaptor

Summary served fresh by

P. Yuanto

Norwegian Jade vs Norwegian Epic: A Comprehensive Cruise Ship Comparison

When comparing cruise ships, the Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Epic both stand out in their own right, offering unique experiences under the Norwegian Cruise Line banner. Both ships provide a variety of luxurious amenities, entertainment, and dining options, but there are significant differences that set them apart. Whether you're seeking a more intimate voyage with fewer passengers or a bustling experience with endless entertainment, one of these ships will cater to your preferences. Let’s break down their core features, from capacity and size to performance and onboard activities.

What Makes the Norwegian Jade Stand Out

The Norwegian Jade, launched in 2006 and refurbished in 2017, is part of the Jewel Class, making it a more compact vessel compared to the Norwegian Epic’s larger frame. With a 965 ft length and a passenger capacity of 3,590, the Jade offers a more intimate cruise experience. This ship is perfect for those who enjoy a balance of spaciousness without feeling overwhelmed by a large crowd. While the Norwegian Epic boasts more impressive size and features, the Jade’s slightly smaller dimensions and passenger-to-crew ratio of 2.3:1 ensure that guests enjoy a more personalized experience on board. Additionally, the Jade offers 16 dining venues and a comprehensive selection of special restaurants, such as 7 specialty restaurants and multiple bars and lounges.

Another key feature of the Norwegian Jade is its sustainability efforts. Like its counterpart, the Norwegian Jade complies with MARPOL and ISO 14001 environmental standards, including wastewater treatment and emission reduction systems. However, it stands out with its Energy Efficiency Rating of A, ensuring that the ship is an eco-friendly option for environmentally conscious travelers.

What Sets the Norwegian Epic Apart

Meanwhile, the Norwegian Epic is an entertainment powerhouse. Released in 2010, with refurbishments planned for 2025, the Epic is designed for those who want a full-fledged entertainment experience. With a massive length of 1,081 ft and a maximum capacity of 5,093 passengers, it’s built to cater to large crowds and offers an abundance of activities. From a rock climbing wall to water slides and an aqua park, the Epic is ideal for families or groups looking for a more thrilling and action-packed cruise experience. If you’re into sports, this ship offers multiple courts and even a running track to keep you active while on board.

The Norwegian Epic also excels in its entertainment offerings. The show productions on the Epic are notable, with a theater capacity of 1,700, perfect for Broadway-style performances. Its casino is larger than the Jade's, and it offers even more live music venues. Whether you’re into gaming or watching live performances, the Epic has you covered. Additionally, the Epic offers a more luxurious onboard experience with an impressive selection of cabins, including a high number of 1,086 balcony cabins, which provide stunning views of the sea.

Quick Take: Where Each Ship Wins

The Norwegian Jade excels in offering a more intimate cruising experience with a lower passenger-to-crew ratio and a higher focus on personalized service. Its smaller size, fewer passengers, and refined amenities make it an excellent choice for those seeking a more relaxed, boutique cruise experience. It also holds an edge in terms of eco-efficiency with an A-rating for energy efficiency.

On the other hand, the Norwegian Epic is built for guests looking for excitement and extensive entertainment. With its larger size, more extensive amenities like a rock climbing wall and water slides, and greater passenger capacity, the Epic is better suited for larger groups or families looking for an energetic, action-packed voyage.

Closing Recommendation

Ultimately, the choice between the Norwegian Jade and Norwegian Epic boils down to your cruise priorities. If you prefer a more relaxed, personalized cruise with ample luxury but fewer crowds, the Norwegian Jade would be your best choice. However, if you're looking for a larger ship with extensive activities, entertainment options, and a more lively atmosphere, then the Norwegian Epic is the winner. Both ships offer excellent service, dining, and entertainment, so you’re bound to have a fantastic experience either way!

Verdict

Winner → Norwegian Epic: Ideal for thrill-seekers and large groups, offering a wide variety of entertainment, dining, and recreational options.
Runner-up → Norwegian Jade: Perfect for those who want a more intimate, eco-conscious cruise with a refined and relaxed atmosphere.

Comparisons ²⁵

Two enter. One leaves your cart.

Price comparisons

Norwegian Jade

Norwegian Jade – Smooth Sailing, Timeless Memories Norwegian Jade – Set Sail on a Journey of Luxury and Exploration Book affordable Norwegian Jade at CheapCruises USA Plan your dream Norwegian Jade with Cruise Nation USA Explore top-rated Norwegian Jade at Cruises.com USA Explore and Book Norwegian Jade Trips on Tripadvisor Find amazing Norwegian Jade offers at iTravel2000 USA

Check prices in other stores, maybe you'll find a cheaper Norwegian Jade

Norwegian Epic

Norwegian Epic – Big Adventures on the High Seas Norwegian Epic – A Voyage Beyond Imagination Book affordable Norwegian Epic at CheapCruises USA Plan your dream Norwegian Epic with Cruise Nation USA Explore top-rated Norwegian Epic at Cruises.com USA Explore and Book Norwegian Epic Trips on Tripadvisor Find amazing Norwegian Epic offers at iTravel2000 USA

Check prices in other stores, maybe you'll find a cheaper Norwegian Epic

^(✱) Prices may be changed at any time without further notice.

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Comparisons & Facts ¹⁶²

Side by side. The numbers. The features. No drama.

We looked at length overall, passenger capacity at double occupancy, dining venues count & beam, ease of use, and value to compare Norwegian Jade vs Norwegian Epic. This cruise ships comparison is built for travelers, not marketers.

General Information ²²

Ship Type

What type of ship is this?

63 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes Cruise Ship

65 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes Cruise Ship

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Ship Type' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Ship Type' on the following:

Defines the category of the ship.

Model Name

What is the model name of the ship?

60 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes Norwegian Jade

66 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes Norwegian Epic

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Model Name' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Model Name' on the following:

The commercial or marketing name of the ship.

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Previous Name' on the following:

The previous name of the cruise ship before it was rebranded or renamed.

Former Operator

Who was the former operator?

63 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes NCL America

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Country of Manufacture' on the following:

Country where the ship was built.

Dimensions & Tonnage ¹⁵

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Length Overall

What is the ship’s length overall?

965 ft 0 Votes

1,081 ft 1 Votes

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Length Overall

The Norwegian Epic is significantly larger, measuring 1,081 ft (329 meters), compared to the 965 ft (294 meters) of the Norwegian Jade. This means more space for amenities, activities, and passengers. Better for those who prioritize space and variety.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Length Overall' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Length Overall' on the following:

Total ship length from bow to stern.

Kay Nicholas

149 Reactions

8 months ago

Norwegian Epic's longer length definitely makes it stand out, especially with more room for activities!

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Beam

What is the ship’s beam (width)?

125 ft 0 Votes

133 ft 1 Votes

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Beam

Norwegian Epic has a wider beam of 133 ft (40.5 meters) compared to the 125 ft (38 meters) beam of the Norwegian Jade. This gives the Epic a more expansive feel, ideal for larger events and facilities.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Beam' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Beam' on the following:

Maximum beam (width) of the ship.

Luke Hayes

140 Reactions

8 months ago

I kinda prefer the slightly wider beam of the Epic, more space equals more fun, right?

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Draft Depth

What is the ship’s draft depth?

27 ft 1 Votes

29 ft 0 Votes

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Draft Depth

The Norwegian Epic has a deeper draft of 29 ft (8.8 meters), which helps stabilize the ship in rough seas, compared to the 27 ft (8.2 meters) draft of the Jade. This difference may result in a slightly smoother ride on the Epic.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Draft Depth' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Draft Depth' on the following:

Vertical distance between waterline and keel.

Carmen Cleveland

131 Reactions

8 months ago

The Jade's shallower draft is a big plus for me, I like smoother rides in shallow waters!

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Gross Tonnage

What is the gross tonnage?

93,558 GT 0 Votes

155,873 GT 1 Votes

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Gross Tonnage

The Norwegian Epic has a significantly larger gross tonnage of 155,873 GT, compared to the 93,558 GT of the Norwegian Jade. This difference indicates the Epic’s greater passenger and cargo capacity, making it more suited for larger crowds.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

The Norwegian Jade's indoor promenade is 3,936 inches (about 100 meters), longer than the Epic's 3,000 inches (about 76 meters). This gives the Jade more space for indoor activities and shopping areas.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Indoor Promenade Length' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Indoor Promenade Length' on the following:

Length of the indoor promenade on the cruise ship unit.

Deadweight Tonnage

What is the deadweight tonnage?

7,500 DWT 0 Votes

10,850 DWT 0 Votes

Norwegian Jade

About 7,500 metric tons of cargo, fuel, provisions, and passengers combined. Typical for ships of this size.

Norwegian Epic

Equivalent to about 11,000 metric tons of cargo, fuel, and provisions capacity.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Deadweight Tonnage' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Deadweight Tonnage' on the following:

The Norwegian Epic has 2,122 cabins, almost double the 1,201 cabins on the Norwegian Jade. This means more variety and availability of rooms on the Epic, making it a better fit for larger groups.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Number of Cabins' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Number of Cabins' on the following:

Total number of cabins onboard.

Steve Hunt

141 Reactions

8 months ago

The Jade’s smaller cabin count feels more cozy to me-less crowded and more relaxed.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Suite Count

How many suites are onboard?

71 Norwegian Jade 1 Votes 181

71 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes 75

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Suite Count

The Norwegian Jade has 181 suites, while the Norwegian Epic has only 75. The Jade is a better choice for those seeking luxurious, spacious suites.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Suite Count' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Suite Count' on the following:

Number of suites onboard.

Florence Wallace

125 Reactions

8 months ago

Definitely leaning towards the Jade with its larger suite count. Feels more luxurious!

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Balcony Cabin

How many balcony cabins are onboard?

69 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes 541

52 Norwegian Epic 1 Votes 1086

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Balcony Cabin

The Norwegian Epic offers 1,086 balcony cabins, more than double the 541 available on the Jade. This makes the Epic a better option if you’re looking for premium, scenic cabins.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Balcony Cabin' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

The Norwegian Jade allows up to 8 passengers per cabin, while the Norwegian Epic has a limit of 4. The Jade is better suited for larger families or groups sharing cabins.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Max Occupancy per Cabin' on the following:

Maximum number of people per cabin.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Average Cabin Size

What is the average cabin size?

61 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes 180-220

56 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes 180-220

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Average Cabin Size

Both ships have cabins ranging from 180-220 square feet, offering similar space. Neither ship has a clear advantage in cabin size, making them equally comfortable for travelers.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Average Cabin Size' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Average Cabin Size' on the following:

Average square footage of passenger cabins.

Propulsion & Performance ¹⁴

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Maximum Speed

What is the maximum speed?

25 knots 1 Votes

22 knots 0 Votes

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Maximum Speed

The Norwegian Jade has a higher top speed of 25 knots, compared to the Epic's 22 knots. While this difference may not significantly impact most cruises, the Jade is faster.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Speed' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

The Norwegian Jade is equipped with Azipod propulsion, which provides more efficient fuel use and better maneuverability. The Epic does not feature this system, giving the Jade a technical advantage in terms of propulsion efficiency.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Azipod Propulsion' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Azipod Propulsion' on the following:

Indicates if ship uses podded propulsion.

Total Power Output

What is the total power output?

72,000 kW 0 Votes

79,800 kW 0 Votes

Norwegian Jade

Equal to about 96,500 horsepower, enough to power a mid-sized city.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Total Power Output' on the following:

Combined engine output.

Propellers Count

How many propellers are there?

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Fire Safety Systems

What fire safety systems are installed?

33 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes Sprinklers, Fire Doors, Smoke Detectors

43 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes Sprinklers, Fire Doors, Smoke Detectors, Water Mist

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Fire Safety Systems

The Norwegian Epic includes additional water mist systems, offering enhanced fire protection compared to the Jade’s more traditional sprinkler and fire door systems.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Fire Safety Systems' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Fire Safety Systems' on the following:

Fire prevention and response systems onboard.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Medical Facilities

What medical facilities are available?

76 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes Clinic, ICU, Pharmacy

What is the ice class rating?

Who knows? 0 Votes Norwegian Jade (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Who knows? 0 Votes Norwegian Epic (Help us out by suggesting one!)

Ice navigation certification for polar cruising.

Security Screening Facilities

What security screening facilities are present?

58 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes X-ray, Metal Detectors, ID Checkpoints

60 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes X-ray, Metal Detectors, ID Checkpoints

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Security Screening Facilities' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Security Screening Facilities' on the following:

Passenger and crew security systems at embarkation.

Dining & Cuisine ¹³

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Dining Venues Count

How many dining venues are there?

55 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes 16

62 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes 17

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Dining Venues Count

The Norwegian Epic has 17 dining venues, outshining the 16 on the Jade. With more variety, the Epic offers more dining options, perfect for those who want to explore different culinary experiences.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Dining Venues Count' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Dining Venues Count' on the following:

Total number of dining venues available onboard.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Specialty Restaurants

How many specialty restaurants are there?

36 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes 7

Show Lounge Capacity

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Adult-Only Areas' on the following:

Areas restricted to adults for relaxation.

Entertainment & Excursions ¹⁴

Theater Capacity

What is the theater’s seating capacity?

68 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes 1042

60 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes 1700

Norwegian Jade

The Stardust Theater seats over 1,000 guests, similar to a Broadway venue at sea.

Norwegian Epic

Same as the lounge capacity, indicating a main venue for headliner shows and productions.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Theater Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Theater Capacity' on the following:

Seating capacity of the main theater.

Simulators & Lanes

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Private Island Access' on the following:

Whether the cruise line provides access to a private island.

Technology & Connectivity ¹²

Navigation System Type

What navigation system type is onboard?

63 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes ECDIS

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Green Building Certification' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Green Building Certification' on the following:

Certifications showing sustainable design.

Service & Operations ¹¹

Housekeeping Frequency

How often is housekeeping provided?

63 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes Daily

85 Norwegian Epic 0 Votes Twice Daily

Norwegian Epic

Cabins are refreshed morning and evening, including turndown service, aligning with premium cruise standards.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Jade:

We base our scoring on 'Housekeeping Frequency' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Epic:

We base our scoring on 'Housekeeping Frequency' on the following:

Frequency of cabin housekeeping.

Home Port

What is the ship’s home port?

79 Norwegian Jade 0 Votes Canada Place Cruise Terminal (Vancouver), Whittier Cruise Ship Terminal (Whittier), Port of San Diego (San Diego), Port Miami (Miami)