An exciting cruise ship where passengers can race go-karts and plunge down a 10-story dry slide is returning to the Texas coast. Norwegian Prima will give Gulf Coast travelers another way to reach the Caribbean without first flying to Florida.
According to Norwegian Cruise Line, the ship will operate seven-day round-trip cruises from Galveston beginning in late April 2028. The summer season is scheduled to continue through October.
Reservations for the 2028 sailings opened on Aug. 11, giving travelers nearly two years to plan their trip. The itineraries include four Caribbean destinations, along with several days to experience the ship’s unusual attractions.
The Houston Chronicle reported that Norwegian Prima will call at Cozumel and Costa Maya in Mexico, Roatán in Honduras and Harvest Caye in Belize. The ship previously sailed from Galveston during the 2023-2024 winter season.
The Weeklong Cruises Visit Four Destinations
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The cruises will depart from Galveston and spend seven days traveling through the Western Caribbean. Harvest Caye is Norwegian’s resort-style destination in southern Belize, while Cozumel, Costa Maya and Roatán offer beaches, excursions and access to historic or natural attractions.
Specific arrival times and the order of the ports may vary by departure date. Travelers should review the complete itinerary before booking, especially if a particular destination is important to them.
Norwegian Prima Has a Three-Level Race Track
Norwegian Prima entered service in 2022 and can accommodate approximately 3,195 passengers at double occupancy. The ship measures 965 feet long and carries a crew of more than 1,500 people.
Its most recognizable attraction is Prima Speedway, a three-level go-kart track that extends more than a quarter mile. Up to 15 drivers can race simultaneously through 14 turns at speeds exceeding 30 mph.
The ship also has The Drop, a dry slide that begins 10 stories above its ending point. Other amenities include infinity pools, an open-air walkway called Ocean Boulevard, specialty restaurants, bars, live entertainment and a virtual-reality gaming area. Keep in mind that some onboard attractions, restaurants and activities may require reservations or additional charges.
Galveston Is Expanding Its Cruise Options
Norwegian’s return is part of a larger expansion at the Port of Galveston. The port signed a 10-year agreement with Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings in 2024 covering operations at Cruise Terminal 16.
Norwegian Viva is also scheduled to operate from Galveston between October 2026 and spring 2027. Norwegian Prima’s 2028 summer season will extend the company’s local presence into months that have traditionally offered fewer Norwegian departures.
Fares vary by sailing date, cabin and demand. Travelers considering the new cruises should compare the full price, including taxes, port expenses and any optional onboard packages, before reserving a cabin.