First time through the Panama Canal and first time onboard NCL. Overall a wonderful and relaxing experience. The main shows, SIX, The Jersey Boys and Live! The Beatles were the best we have ever seen onboard a cruise.
We recommend this NCL cruise to everyone!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We reserved a 10:30-11:00 check in time and we were able to walk right up to an agent and complete check in in under 10 minutes. We waited about 45 minutes before we boarded and were among the first 50 people to board!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
While the food was great, it was below what we expected. We have had better tasting meals on Royal Caribbean.
The Observation Lounge
5 out of 5
What a unique place which wraps around the front sides and bow of the ship. Very spacious and comfortable space with drinks and finger food available.
The Local Bar & Grill
5 out of 5
What a wonderful pub style food and drink with tv’s for watching sports. All inclusive. Great selection of quick snacks and sandwiches.
Vibe Beach Club
5 out of 5
An upcharge, but worth it if you want an adult only area with upscale loungers and a separate hot tub. Reserve the limited cabanas as soon as you board at guest services or your miss out on an extra treat. The bar and servers were excellent. This space is limited to around 40 people, so book early.
Cagney's Steakhouse
4 out of 5
Unfortunately the fillet was not very tasty, but the prime rib was fantastic!
Q Texas Smokehouse
5 out of 5
Great bbq. Rivals anything on land. The Smokey margarita is unique and tasted wonderful. Deviled eggs are to die for!
Los Lobos
2 out of 5
Probably the worst Mexican food (enchiladas) I have ever had. The guacamole was killer however.
Garden Café
5 out of 5
Great selections and is forward allowing for great views!
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
While we did not personally take advantage of the activities on board, we could tell by watching others that they were having a great time.
Bliss Casino
4 out of 5
Typical cruise casino, however there is a separate enclosed smoking area which was great for us non-smokers.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The stage shows were by far the best we have seen when compared to Carnival, Holland America and Royal Caribbean.
Bliss Theater
5 out of 5
Wonder layout where there are no bad seats. Best entertainment ever!
Children's Programs
Did not have children with us.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Extremely friendly and helpful staff. Second to none!
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
The NCL Bliss was easy to get around and the layout was extremely functional. We especially like the three main dining room options. The Garden Cafe (buffet) was in the forward part of the ship which allowed for great views. The crew kept the ship looking like we were the first customers to ever come aboard.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
The cabin was a little bigger that we expected. The balcony was about twice the size of others that we have had before. The location was right near the forward elevators which gave us quick access to the theater and buffet as well as the pool and sun decks. The cabin was very quiet and we didn’t hear anyone on either side, above or below or from the elevators. I would pick the cabin again.
Ship tip
Book excursions and specialty restaurants beforehand. As soon as you get on board go to guest services to reserve a cabana in the Vibe, if you booked the Vibe. Then make reservations for the shows next before doing anything else.
We had purchased priority access, which allowed us to disembark with the higher levels of Lattitude members at around 8:30 am. We went straight to our luggage, got a porter, and we’re out in a priority line thru customer and immigration. The whole process took about 20 minutes. People who walked their own luggage off left the ship around 8:00am, but they were in a line that took about 2 hours to get through. The Priority Access was well worth the extra cost!
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