I was very impressed with Norwegian Cruise Lines' vessel, crew, and choices of ports. I would have liked more time on the islands. I enjoyed being able to do what I wanted pretty much when I wanted. I was not pleased with the ventilation of the cigarette smoke in the casino but there's always something to fall short. The crew deserves the highest ratings for service, quality, and maturity. They led by example in proper ship-board behavior and deportment. I was embarrassed by the occasional rudeness by a very few of my fellow passengers.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Seemed to be expecting us. It would have been better if I knew in advance where on board to make reservations. It worked out.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Buffet was beyond good. Specialty restaurants were very good as well. Service was pleasant and professional. Plenty of choices.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Always something worth doing. Observation Deck was simply awe inspiring. So much glass everywhere. Looking forward to going to Alaska or the Panama Canal trips.
Entertainment
4 out of 5
First time on Norwegian. Atrium entertainment was very good with trivia and the music groups. Other lines use a variety show approach. You can choose for yourself.
Children's Programs
Didn't have children with us. Never heard any complaints or saw kids looking bored.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Prepared for a full boat. Polite in the extreme, especially in the face of intoxicated and/or rude guests who felt entitled to be as nasty as they wanted to be while they experienced "free-style cruising". Our cabin attendant was smiling, friendly, and very talented with his towel folding skills. The crew was very well supported by their officers. The Captain was approachable and displayed a leadership that gave you confidence in your well being. I would give them six stars.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Spills had a very short life expectancy. You could tell everything was was being checked, cleaned, and inspected many times during the day. There never seemed to be too large a crowd anywhere. There was so much to do and so many areas to look out at. Dawn and sunset were special times that you could experience from your balcony, or other places inside and outside the ship.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
SO comfortable! Great mattress. Right amount of pillows. Absolutely first class service all over the room. Plenty of storage room for your stuff.
Ship tip
Save some packing and use the on board laundry. Bring less than you think you'll need.
Parking was very chaotic as people are leaving/arriving around the same time. Would have liked to have more garages...but they do cost some. HOWEVER, not having the exit lanes FULLY staffed and operational made leaving the port the absolute worst part of the trip.
Great options on excursions. On our excursion, the bus broke down but was replaced fairly quickly. Stores/shopping was fun and merchants seemed happy to see us. Plenty of interesting information was passed on. We were able to see the island as it is, not just the touristy areas. I don't know a ton about watches or jewelry, but there seemed to be no end of shops there to sell us these items.
First time on Tortola for me. Took the Land and Sea excursion. Didn't get to the Beef Island Bridge, but did have a wonderful trip there. Shopping was good there too. Cafes were friendly and full of interesting locals.
Was directed to leave while the lines were still so long. Nice having options of time to leave. Good to get those with flights off first. Luggage was waiting for us!
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