The 3,998-passenger Norwegian Encore is a modern and sophisticated ship, with decor and public spaces that could rival a more luxury-oriented cruise line. It's a ship that aims to give everyone vacation choices, with multiple bars and restaurants, indoor and outdoor activities and plenty of evening entertainment. In many ways, Encore is the "big city" of cruising. Its 20-plus restaurants let passengers dine in a different venue every night (though not without a cost) and its Deck 8 indoor/outdoor restaurant and bar area makes an evening out feel more like a night on the town. The live entertainment is some of the best we've ever seen at sea -- with Broadway-caliber performers in "Kinky Boots" and "Choir of Man" -- and the bars mix it up with signature cocktails and unique vibes. Thrilling activities run the gamut from freefall waterslides to go-karts, laser tag and virtual-reality play spaces. Those looking to avoid the crowds can escape to the spa's thermal suite or adults-only Vibe Beach Club, or cozy up with a book in the breathtaking Observation Lounge with two-deck high windows at the front of the ship. And passengers who want the utmost in tranquility can book into the Haven suite complex, where they can luxuriate in exclusive enclaves including a pool, sun deck, restaurant and lounge. However, while Norwegian Encore is big enough to offer something for everyone, it clearly caters more to some people than others. Sun worshippers might be disappointed in the compressed pool and complimentary sun deck spaces, with outdoor thrill rides and extra-fee sun decks spanning a huge chunk of the ship's top decks. Families with young children are stuck with windowless kids club areas in the bowels of the ship, a small water play area and restaurants and shows that are very much geared toward adults. Travelers on a budget will find, even with promotional booking freebies, that there are a lot of surprise fees and pay-to-play areas; you definitely don't get the full wow factor of this ship by keeping your onboard bill to a minimum. Overall, Norwegian Encore is a sophisticated ship, there's tons going on and you'll be wowed by the quality -- and quantity -- of the dining and entertainment. Yet because of this, a vacation here can cost more than on other "small-town" ships, and even if you do pony up for the fun, you simply won't have enough time to do everything. Make sure you budget accordingly, and be prepared to book another cruise to experience everything you missed.

Inclusions Included with your cruise fare: Meals in three main dining rooms, the buffet, the Observation Lounge and The Local Bar & Grill All mainstage theater shows and comedy in the Social Comedy Club Live musical entertainment, including in the Cavern Club Pools (outside the spa), hot tubs, water park and waterslides Daily activities, unless otherwise noted Use of the gym, but not most classes Continental-style room service breakfasts Kids' club activities during the day Not included with your cruise fare: Gratuities ($14.99 per person per day, or $17.99 per person per day for those staying in suites) Automatic beverage and spa tips (20 percent for each) All drinks beyond water, tea (including iced tea), coffee and select juices in the buffet Specialty dining venues Room service (except for Continental breakfast) Spa treatments and use of the thermal suite Shore excursions Wi-Fi Activities such as the go-karts, laser tag, the Galaxy Pavilion and tastings (wine, whiskey, cocktails, beer) After-hours group babysitting Casino Prohibition: The Musical show Vibe Beach Club sun deck Photos and artwork