In these modern times when seemingly everything has to be shiny and new, we often overlook a classic at our peril.
Norwegian Sun was built in 2001 but thanks to an impressive refurb in 2021, she looks as good as new.
Traveltalk was invited onboard when she docked in Sydney to have a tour of the ship and we were tres impressed with what we saw.
Yes there are still some elements that give a hint to her age but the NCL design team have worked wonders giving this elegant lady a facelift to make her modern, luxurious and appealing.
Accommodation
We were shown three varieties of cabin: the Oceanview, Balcony and a Suite. Needless to say we all opted for the suite, with its queen-size bed, large balcony offering splendid views, a huge bathroom with whirlpool bath and separate shower, and butler service.
The balcony cabin was equally comfortable, with a queen-size bed, balcony, sitting areas and plenty of storage space. The Oceanview had an old-fashioned porthole style window which gave it an added nautical flair and two single beds that can be joined together.
Dining
You very rarely go hungry on a cruise ship and Norwegian Sun is no exception, offering a variety of cuisines ranging from French to Japanese to Brazilian to Italian to Mexican. You could take your taste buds on a world tour and never leave the ship!
My two favourites were the elegantly chic signature French restaurant, Le Bistro, and the more down to earth Sports Bar with burgers, fish and chips, beer and more sweaty athletes than you could shake a cricket bat at.
The complimentary dining rooms are spacious and comfortable and there are also plenty of cafes, bars, lounges and chill out spaces where guests can enjoy a pre- or post-dinner cocktail or nightcap before calling it a night.
Activities
You’ll need to work off all that wonderful food and drink and Sun has plenty of places to do it for the 1,878 guests who can fit onboard.
There are a couple of pools to enjoy but also a well-equipped fitness centre, a basketball and volleyball court with a golf practice net, and The Mandara Spa, one of the biggest I’ve seen at sea.
Kids and teenagers have their own dedicated spaces to make as much noise as they want without disturbing the grown-ups, who can spend their alone time at the onboard shops, in the casino or watching one of the spectacular shows in the Stardust Lounge.
Conclusion
Cruise lines are always quick to announce and highlight the newest and shiniest ships that they have coming into the market. Norwegian Sun may be part of Generation Z but as we all know, some things get better with age.
# Norwegian Sun will be cruising from Melbourne in February on a 14-day Australia & New Zealand cruise including Wellington and Auckland and from Sydney in August on a 14-day South Pacific adventure calling at Fiji, Vanuatu and Airlie Beach.
