The busy, eye-catching design painted on Norwegian Star's hull signals a cruise where the action never stops. There are endless activities for all ages as well as a mind-boggling number of bars and dining options, to ensure none of this popular ship's 2,348 passengers spends a minute at a loss for entertainment.

Norwegian Star is home to no less than 15 restaurants, meaning one could potentially spend a week-long cruise without eating in the same venue twice. Among the choices are Japanese, Italian, French, steak, a Brazilian churrascaria and a decadent cake shop, as well as the two main dining rooms Aqua and Versailles.

Watering holes span a similarly impressive range, including a pub and the new Belgian-style outdoor Bier Garten. More formal options include champagne and cocktail bars, a sake bar and dance floors, while the ship's own wine cellar offers guided tastings. The casino glitters with potential while the Barong Spa offers respite from the morning after with spa treatments, a fitness centre and a juice bar.

Children will be well looked-after while parents kick back, with clubs for all ages from toddlers through to teens featuring their own outdoor pools and a video arcade. The whole family can enjoy the Oasis pool and six hot tubs, the sport courts to tire out energetic younger travellers, or a night out together at the Stardust Theatre.

Norwegian Star's cabins range from affordable inside accommodation to staterooms with private balcony and suites, all with stunning ocean views. The top suites, in the secluded complex called The Haven, have private whirlpool and even a garden.

The ship sails in the Caribbean, Mexican Riviera and Panama Canal in winter, crossing the Atlantic to Europe in summer to explore the Norwegian fjords and the Baltic capitals.