147 Highlights 82 Differences 7 Reactions 0 Likes

Norwegian Bliss vs Norwegian Escape: 147 Highlights & 82 Differences — So, Which Cruise Ship Actually Works Better

Norwegian Bliss vs Norwegian Escape—decide between luxury and value. One ship is packed with more features, but the other has a surprising advantage. Still not sure which cruise ship is your travel match? Our Norwegian Bliss vs Norwegian Escape comparison covers comfort, convenience, and top ship type, length overall, passenger capacity at double occupancy & model name.

Supermod

Ineke C. S.

1997 Products

Moderator

Andini E. U.

478 Products

67 Points

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Bliss

67 Points

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Escape

162 Facts
4 Guides
0 Reviews
0 Discuss
4 Awards
48 Compare

Highlights ¹⁶²

No extras. Just what matters.

                                
                                                67
                                                
                                                    Points
                                                
                                        Norwegian Bliss
                                    
                                        vs
                                    
                                                67
                                                
                                                    Points
                                                
                                        Norwegian Escape

Why is Norwegian Bliss better than Norwegian Escape ?

General Information Dimensions & Tonnage Capacity Propulsion & Performance Safety & Regulations Dining & Cuisine Recreation & Wellness Entertainment & Excursions Technology & Connectivity Sustainability & Environmental Service & Operations Pricing & Value-Add

Scroll down for more facts

Recaptor

Summary served fresh by

M. N. Lindasari

Norwegian Bliss vs Norwegian Escape: Which Cruise Ship Should You Set Sail On?

When comparing the Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Escape, you're looking at two impressive vessels from the renowned Norwegian Cruise Line, both designed to deliver unforgettable experiences at sea. While they share similar features as part of the Breakaway Plus Class, each ship has distinct differences that could influence your decision. The Bliss, launched in 2018, boasts a larger capacity and more advanced amenities, while the Escape, which debuted in 2015, still stands as a solid choice with some unique offerings of its own.

What Makes the Norwegian Bliss Stand Out?

The Norwegian Bliss is a modern marvel that offers everything you could want in a cruise ship. One of its most striking features is its sheer size. At 1094 feet in length and with a gross tonnage of 168,028 GT, it dwarfs the Escape in terms of scale. This allows for a wealth of entertainment and dining options, including 20 dining venues and 16 bars and lounges. For those who like to unwind in style, the Bliss offers a variety of adult-only areas, as well as the inclusion of the Aqua Park and Water Coaster—perfect for thrill-seekers.

In terms of performance, the Norwegian Bliss offers a cruising range of 4,000 nautical miles and boasts a maximum speed of 25 knots, which is a notable upgrade over the Escape’s 23 knots. This ship’s stability is guaranteed by its Azipod propulsion system, and its advanced fuel systems allow for efficient cruising. With a crew capacity of 1,700 and a 2.33:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, the Bliss promises a more personalized experience, and its amenities reflect that level of service. It also features a larger passenger capacity of 4002 at double occupancy, making it ideal for those who want a livelier atmosphere on board.

If you're after cutting-edge features like a Virtual Reality Arcade and Broadway-quality shows, the Bliss delivers on that front too, providing a modern, high-tech experience on board. Whether you're looking to indulge in gourmet dining at the specialty restaurants or enjoy a quiet evening in the lounges, the Bliss combines variety and luxury.

Why the Norwegian Escape Still Holds Its Ground

Despite being three years older, the Norwegian Escape remains a strong contender in the Norwegian Cruise Line fleet. While it may be slightly smaller with a length of 1069 feet and a gross tonnage of 164,998 GT, it compensates with its remarkable layout. The Escape still provides a total of 28 dining venues and 9 bars and lounges, which is more than enough to keep guests entertained throughout their cruise. Additionally, the ship offers a slightly higher maximum passenger capacity of 5,218, which may be a draw for those looking to cruise with a larger group.

In terms of sustainability, the Escape stands out with its Green Building Certification (LEED), making it the better choice for eco-conscious travelers. It also offers a hybrid-ready propulsion system and the use of solar panels to reduce its environmental impact. These sustainability efforts are complemented by a comprehensive range of onboard experiences, including a variety of shore excursions and an impressive water park that features a Lazy River, Splash Zone, and Aqua Park.

From a safety perspective, the Escape has the edge when it comes to lifeboats, offering 20 compared to the Bliss's 18. Additionally, with the Escape's expanded medical facilities, which include an ICU, it may appeal to guests looking for extra peace of mind during their voyage. The Escape also boasts a slightly more affordable price point, especially at $490 at Cruisedirect, making it a more budget-friendly option for those on a tighter budget.

Quick Take

The Norwegian Bliss excels in offering an ultra-modern experience with its cutting-edge features, larger capacity, and superior speed, making it ideal for those looking for luxury and high-tech amenities at sea. However, the Norwegian Escape is no slouch, especially for those seeking more eco-friendly options, a larger passenger capacity, and slightly more affordable pricing. The Escape may appeal to families or those wanting a more budget-conscious option without sacrificing key amenities.

Bottom Line

If you're after a larger, more feature-packed cruise experience, the Norwegian Bliss is the ship for you. It offers more dining options, advanced technology, and a smoother cruising experience. However, if you value sustainability, a larger passenger capacity, and want to keep your travel costs lower, the Norwegian Escape is a solid contender that still packs plenty of value.

Verdict

Winner → Norwegian Bliss: More modern amenities, larger size, and enhanced performance.
Runner-up → Norwegian Escape: Eco-friendly features, slightly larger passenger capacity, and more affordable pricing.

Comparisons ⁴⁸

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Price comparisons

Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Bliss – Where Relaxation Meets Adventure Norwegian Bliss – Sail Into Pure Paradise Book affordable Norwegian Bliss at CheapCruises USA Plan your dream Norwegian Bliss with Cruise Nation USA Explore top-rated Norwegian Bliss at Cruises.com USA Explore and Book Norwegian Bliss Trips on Tripadvisor Find amazing Norwegian Bliss offers at iTravel2000 USA

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

Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape – Adventures Beyond Boundaries Norwegian Escape – Set Sail on a Journey of Adventure and Relaxation Book affordable Norwegian Escape at CheapCruises USA Plan your dream Norwegian Escape with Cruise Nation USA Explore top-rated Norwegian Escape at Cruises.com USA Explore and Book Norwegian Escape Trips on Tripadvisor Find amazing Norwegian Escape offers at iTravel2000 USA

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

^(✱) 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.

From travel tech to carry-on must-haves, this side-by-side look at Norwegian Bliss and Norwegian Escape covers everything seasoned travelers want to know.

General Information ²²

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Release Year

What year was the ship released?

79 Norwegian Bliss 1 Votes 2018

70 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes 2015

vs

Release Year

The Norwegian Bliss, being the newer ship, was released in 2018, offering more modern amenities compared to the Escape, which was released in 2015.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

We base our scoring on 'Release Year' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

We base our scoring on 'Release Year' on the following:

Both ships were manufactured in Germany, ensuring they share a top-tier shipbuilding tradition known for durability and attention to detail.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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

Country where the ship was built.

Model Number

What is the model number?

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

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

Internal or builder-assigned number.

Previous Name

What was the previous name?

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

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

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

Former Operator

Who was the former operator?

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

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

The former company that operated the cruise ship.

Dimensions & Tonnage ¹⁵

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Length Overall

What is the ship’s length overall?

1,094 ft 1 Votes

1,069 ft 0 Votes

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Length Overall

The Norwegian Bliss is longer at 1094 ft (333.5 m), compared to the Escape’s 1069 ft (325.8 m). This difference in length contributes to more onboard space and more amenities on the Bliss.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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

Total ship length from bow to stern.

Peter Scott

118 Reactions

8 months ago

I really like the Bliss being a bit longer (1094 ft vs 1069 ft). More space to roam sounds like my kind of cruise!

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Gross Tonnage

What is the gross tonnage?

168,028 GT 1 Votes

164,998 GT 0 Votes

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Gross Tonnage

The Bliss has a gross tonnage of 168,028 GT, larger than the Escape’s 164,998 GT. This means the Bliss offers slightly more space for passengers and amenities, giving it an edge for luxury travelers.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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

Volume of enclosed spaces, measure of overall ship size.

Candance Barron

126 Reactions

8 months ago

I gotta say, the Norwegian Bliss’s higher tonnage (168,028 GT vs 164,998 GT) definitely gives it more space and luxury. Feels like the more premium option!

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Beam

What is the ship’s beam (width)?

136 ft 0 Votes

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Beam

Both ships have the same beam of 136 ft (41.5 m), which provides ample width for passenger areas and stability at sea.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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

Maximum beam (width) of the ship.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Draft Depth

What is the ship’s draft depth?

28.5 ft 0 Votes

28.29 ft 0 Votes

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Draft Depth

The Bliss has a draft depth of 28.5 ft (8.7 m), while the Escape’s draft depth is 28.29 ft (8.63 m). This minor difference has negligible impact on passenger comfort but affects their underwater profile.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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

Vertical distance between waterline and keel.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Height

What is the ship’s height from keel to mast?

217 ft 0 Votes

The Bliss features an indoor promenade length of 11,760 inches (1,000 ft), larger than the Escape’s 960 inches (80 ft). This provides more room for shops, cafes, and leisure activities.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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?

11,700 DWT 0 Votes

164,998 DWT 0 Votes

Norwegian Bliss

Equivalent to about 11,700 metric tons, representing cargo, fuel, and supplies capacity.

Norwegian Escape

Likely incorrect — real DWT is closer to 11,700 tons, which is the ship’s carrying capacity (fuel, supplies, etc.).

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Weight the ship can safely carry including cargo, fuel, crew, and passengers.

Capacity ¹⁴

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy

What is the passenger capacity at double occupancy?

63 Norwegian Bliss 1 Votes 4002

52 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes 4218

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Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy

The Bliss accommodates 4002 passengers at double occupancy, while the Escape holds 4218, giving the Escape a slight advantage for larger groups or families.

vs

Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger Capacity at Double Occupancy' on the following:

Number of passengers based on two per cabin.

Colin Boyd

138 Reactions

8 months ago

4002 vs 4218? I guess the Escape holds more people, but honestly, I prefer the more intimate vibe of the Bliss with fewer guests.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Maximum Passenger Capacity

What is the maximum passenger capacity?

55 Norwegian Bliss 1 Votes 4981

58 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes 5218

vs

Maximum Passenger Capacity

The Bliss has a maximum passenger capacity of 4981, while the Escape can accommodate up to 5218, making the Escape the larger vessel for mass capacity.

vs

Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Passenger Capacity' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

We base our scoring on 'Maximum Passenger Capacity' on the following:

Maximum passengers with all berths filled.

Nola Wilson

137 Reactions

8 months ago

5218 max passengers on the Escape sounds crazy! I think I’d go with the Bliss for a slightly more relaxed experience.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Crew Capacity

What is the crew capacity?

59 Norwegian Bliss 1 Votes 1700

56 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes 1733

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Crew Capacity

The Norwegian Bliss has a crew capacity of 1,700, while the Escape has 1,733, indicating the Escape may offer slightly more personalized service.

vs

Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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

Maximum number of crew the ship can house.

Sharon Davis

134 Reactions

8 months ago

I’m impressed that the Bliss has 1700 crew members compared to the Escape's 1733. More crew to look after me? I’m in!

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio

What is the passenger-to-crew ratio?

55 Norwegian Bliss 0 Votes 2.33:1

64 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes 2.41:1

vs

Passenger-to-Crew Ratio

The Bliss boasts a 2.33:1 passenger-to-crew ratio, slightly more efficient than the Escape’s 2.41:1, providing a more intimate experience on the Bliss.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger-to-Crew Ratio' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

We base our scoring on 'Passenger-to-Crew Ratio' on the following:

Ratio of passengers to crew members.

Curated by Ineke C. S.

Number of Cabins

How many cabins does the ship have?

69 Norwegian Bliss 1 Votes 2220

62 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes 2174

vs

Number of Cabins

The Bliss has 2220 cabins, while the Escape has 2174. Although the difference is small, the Bliss offers more choices for accommodation.

vs

Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

vs

Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Typical cruising speed.

Cruising Range

What is the cruising range?

71 Norwegian Bliss 0 Votes 4000

62 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes 3300

Norwegian Bliss

With a 4,000-mile cruising range, the Norwegian Bliss is built for long voyages, including Caribbean, Alaska, and European routes, as well as transatlantic crossings.

Norwegian Escape

With a 3,300-mile cruising range, the Norwegian Escape is ideal for medium-to-long cruises, including Caribbean, Bermuda, and Europe, with occasional transatlantic routes.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

We base our scoring on 'Cruising Range' on the following:

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

We base our scoring on 'Cruising Range' on the following:

Maximum range without refueling.

Fuel Capacity

What is the fuel capacity?

369,000 gal 0 Votes

Who is the engine manufacturer?

82 Norwegian Bliss 0 Votes MAN B&W

84 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes MAN Energy Solutions

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

We base our scoring on 'Engine Manufacturer' on the following:

Company producing the engines.

Ice Class Rating

What is the ice class rating?

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

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

Ice navigation certification for polar cruising.

Security Screening Facilities

What security screening facilities are present?

62 Norwegian Bliss 0 Votes X-ray, Metal Detectors, ID Checkpoints

61 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes X-ray, Metal Detectors, ID Checkpoints

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

Theater Capacity

What is the theater’s seating capacity?

57 Norwegian Bliss 0 Votes 907

55 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes 800

Norwegian Bliss

The main theater seats about 907 guests, close to the size of a city performing arts center.

Norwegian Escape

A full-scale theater, comparable to a Broadway venue, offering musicals and large productions at sea.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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

Seating capacity of the main theater.

Simulators & Lanes

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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?

87 Norwegian Bliss 0 Votes Integrated Bridge System

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

Housekeeping Frequency

How often is housekeeping provided?

87 Norwegian Bliss 0 Votes Twice Daily

66 Norwegian Escape 0 Votes Daily

Norwegian Bliss

Rooms are refreshed morning and evening, like premium hotel service.

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Score History

Score info for Norwegian Bliss:

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

Score info for Norwegian Escape:

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

Frequency of cabin housekeeping.

Dry Dock Schedule

What is the dry dock schedule?

71 Norwegian Bliss 0 Votes January 17 to February 2, 2025

Crazy expensive

0 Votes

Guides ⁴

Videos ¹

Norwegian Bliss Walkthrough Tour

youtube.com

9 months ago

Files ¹

Norwegian Bliss Ship Map Guide

ncl.com

9 months ago

Videos ¹

Norwegian Escape Walkthrough Tour

youtube.com

9 months ago

Files ¹

Norwegian Escape Map Guide

ncl.com

9 months ago

Reviews ⁰

The good, the bad, and the brutally honest.

Average Rating

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Bliss

0 / 5 0 Reviews

Norwegian Cruise Line

Norwegian Escape

0 / 5 0 Reviews

Discussions ⁰

Thoughts, takes, and hot debates.

Awards ⁴

Only the best made it here.

Collections ⁰

Treasures You’ve picked. No fluff, all fun.

More Cruise Ships ⁰

Unlock more awesome finds.

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Highlights 162

Why is Norwegian Bliss better than Norwegian Escape ?

General Information

Dimensions & Tonnage

Capacity

Propulsion & Performance

Safety & Regulations

Dining & Cuisine

Recreation & Wellness

Entertainment & Excursions

Technology & Connectivity

Sustainability & Environmental

Service & Operations

Pricing & Value-Add

Why is Norwegian Escape better than Norwegian Bliss ?

General Information

Dimensions & Tonnage

Capacity

Propulsion & Performance

Safety & Regulations

Dining & Cuisine

Recreation & Wellness

Entertainment & Excursions

Technology & Connectivity

Sustainability & Environmental

Service & Operations

Pricing & Value-Add

Norwegian Bliss vs Norwegian Escape: Which Cruise Ship Should You Set Sail On?

What Makes the Norwegian Bliss Stand Out?

Why the Norwegian Escape Still Holds Its Ground

Quick Take

Bottom Line

Verdict

Comparisons 48

Price comparisons

Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Escape

Related comparisons 48

Regal Princess vs Norwegian Bliss

Norwegian Bliss vs Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady

Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady vs Norwegian Bliss

Majestic Princess vs Norwegian Escape

Norwegian Escape vs Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady

Norwegian Escape vs Virgin Voyages Scarlet Lady

Comparisons & Facts 162

General Information 22

Release Year

vs Release Year

vs Score History

Ship Type

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Model Name

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Ship Class

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Cruise Line

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IMO Number

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Shipbuilder

vs Shipbuilder

vs Score History

Service Status

vs Service Status

vs Score History

Call Sign

vs Call Sign

vs Score History

MMSI Number

vs MMSI Number

vs Score History

Yard Number

vs Yard Number

vs Score History

Refurbishment Year

Highlights ¹⁶²

Comparisons ⁴⁸

Related comparisons ⁴⁸

Comparisons & Facts ¹⁶²

General Information ²²

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In Service Date

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Notable Event

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Flag State

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Sister Ships

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Keel Laid Date

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Country of Manufacture

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Dimensions & Tonnage ¹⁵

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Beam

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Net Tonnage

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Total Decks

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Passenger Decks

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