Sometimes holidays feel like more hassle than they’re worth – busy airports, cramped seats, lost luggage, and pricey rides to the hotel aren’t exactly relaxing. That’s where easy escapes with Norwegian Cruise Line come in. This relaxed mode of travel allows the journey to unfold effortlessly, so even a long weekend feels like a full escape, free from the inconvenience of transit time.
Back for its fourth local season in 2026/27, NCL invites Australians to enjoy its new Tassie Taster sailings onboard Norwegian Spirit, offering a relaxed time and one unforgettable holiday. With summer always worth looking forward to, now’s the perfect time to plan ahead with departure dates available on January 6 and 21, 2027.
If you love stretching a weekend into a long one and exploring a new city without airline hassle, then here’s what to expect:
Designed with grown-up travellers in mind, Norwegian Spirit offers a more refined onboard experience, from elevated dining to spacious, tranquil decks made for unwinding. Whether travelling as a couple, solo or with friends, it's an ideal choice for those seeking serenity at sea.
With a convenient departure from Sydney, this four-night trip offers a short-but-sweet escape that makes the most of your time away. Swap long airport queues for upgraded staterooms, elegant bars, and world-class entertainment, all before you even reach your destination.
With two four-night cruise departures in January 2027, it’s the perfect chance to soak up the sunshine instead of being cramped in a plane seat, enjoying a weekend getaway that feels a world away without venturing far from home.
Norwegian Spirit delivers a grown-up getaway with an unrivalled choice for a ship of its size. Enjoy world-class dining, personalised service and the freedom to do as little or as much as you want, whether unwinding at the award-winning Mandara Spa and fitness centre, or enjoying an extensive range of activities and entertainment. All the amenities you would expect from a larger vessel are here, just on a more boutique scale. The real draw? With fewer guests on board, you can savour the full experience without the crowds.
Expect a culinary journey aboard the Norwegian Spirit defined by thoughtfully crafted menus to suit a broad range of tastes. With 14 dining options on offer, you’ll be spoilt for choice. Enjoy six specialty restaurants including the upscale Italian restaurant Onda by Scarpetta, classic French fare at Le Bistro, American-style steakhouse Cagney’s, and three Asian dining venues, including a theatrical Teppanyaki experience. There are elegant meals in Windows, the ship’s main dining room, or opt for casual favourites like the 24-hour Local Bar & Grill. Prefer to stay in? Inroom dining offers an effortless change of pace.
The ‘Tassie Taster’ sailings blend laid-back days at sea with immersive exploration on land, arriving in Hobart on day three. Wander the city on foot and discover all that this charming gem has to offer, from the renowned MONA Museum and historic Salamanca Markets to the summit of Mount Wellington, cool-climate wines, fresh oysters, and memorable wildlife encounters. After a day rich in discovery, return to the ship to recharge before sailing home.
Unwind at the award-winning Mandara Spa, where more than 50 specialty treatments await. Recharge with a massage, stone therapy, facial, salt scrub or mani-pedi, then take in the panoramic ocean views in the adults-only Thermal Suite. If you’re still keen to up your step count, head to the onboard gym, where you can enjoy a personal training session and nutritional consult with fitness experts.
Evenings on board are designed to be uncomplicated, with nightly entertainment that lets you dip in and out as the mood takes you, no bookings required. From polished theatre productions, including headline show Blazing Boots – a high energy tribute to pop country favourites, to intimate live music and standup comedy, there is always something happening, yet never any pressure to commit. Beyond the shows, take your pick from nine bars and lounges. Pop Champagne at Magnums, sip sunset cocktails at Spinnaker Lounge and dance as the night rolls, embracing a refreshingly flexible approach that puts you firmly in control of how your evening unfolds.
Ready to book? Find out more here.