Not really a family ship, on ship communication expensive
Navigator of the Seas Cruise Review to Caribbean - Western
7 Night Western Caribbean (Galveston Roundtrip)
Sail date: August 02, 2015
Ship: Navigator of the Seas
Cabin type: Balcony
Cabin number: 8670
Traveled as: Family (young children)
Reviewed: 9 years ago
Review summary
The Teen programs were somewhat limited. Although our older teen liked it, it was more of a function of hanging out with other teens than actually "doing stuff". Similar with our other younger teen, but she liked it less.
On the other hand, the Toddler program was terrible. The 3-5 year old program had some strange restrictions / limitations: the children couldn't bring in food or drink, the children must be able to use the toilet 100% themselves (no help whatsoever), there was no kiddie pool, and the ratio was something like15 to 1. We basically couldn't leave our 3 year old for more than 1 hour!
On the on communication requires you to buy an expensive per phone internet data plan and / or "Roam" with your carrier (very expensive). Other ships have cordless phones or inexpensive apps that can be used. This should be addressed.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
Onboard Activities
Entertainment
Children's Programs
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ports of call
Coxen Hole, Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras
2 Comments
noname111 9 years ago
Thank you for posting your review. It is unfortunate that you had some negative experiences to contend with. With regard to your phone issue, I've never experienced a cruise with cordless or inexpensive phones so please provide some details because I would love to know where you experienced this.
In some cases, a mobile carrier has cruise-specific packages, but this does not apply to every line. It is not cheap, but relatively speaking it is less expensive than cellular-at-sea or other roaming options. That is something to investigate in advance of your next cruise (assuming you take one).
As for the kiddo programs, it is not an area of expertise for us but most of the program details are available cruise line websites. Out of curiosity, I went to the NCL site and looked up FAQs for the child and teen programs. It is pretty clearly stated that counsellors won't change diapers. Check out http://www.ncl.com/why-cruise-norwegian/family-cruises/youth-programs/faq.
While NCL may not provide details of their excursions (don't know and didn't look this up), Princess provides highly detailed excursion descriptions, down to number of steps in some instances. Again, It is a matter that should be investigated in advance of booking rather than left to chance.
I hope your next journey does not present as many surprises.
Happy sails!
CrusinTim 9 years ago
"On the on communication requires you to buy an expensive per phone internet data plan and / or "Roam" with your carrier (very expensive). Other ships have cordless phones or inexpensive apps that can be used. This should be addressed.". Cordless phones??? OK, you need to tell me WHAT ships you have sailed that offer this!! You can't ROAM onboard, at sea with ANY phone without an internet package because your using the ships sat system. There are no "inexpensive" external use apps on most ships except for the onboard apps that the line offers that can ONLY be used onboard. Only plans you can buy. RCCL and most lines that boast the "Family Friendly" approach aren't really what their all about. If you are looking for fun for your kids, go Disney.