Pleasantly surprised!

I had read a lot about the Breakaway so we were ready for all of the extra offerings on the ship that also cost extra. We resolved to just stick with what was included so we got the list in advance and just steered clear of everything that we knew was going to be more (their excursions, extra dining, extra shows, classes at the spa etc). I think this helped us not to feel cheated that we were missing out on something. I loved only dining with my husband at any of the 7 restaurants that were included. That was a big sell for us. The food was really good! I also liked that even though it was a huge ship, we were able to find quiet places for couples away from the kids. I made reservations in advance for the Manhattan Room but we really didn't need them. We would have been able to get in anyway. The shows, "Rock of Ages"  and "Burn the Floor" were really top notch and not your typical cruise shows. I really liked getting billed for the gratuities each day instead of all of the envelopes and cash that has to be figured out and handed out on the last day like on some of the other ships we traveled on. The staff was very accommodating and fun. Here is our tip for Norwegian: Expand the floor or move the chairs back for the Atrium activities. It was too small. Any time we wanted to do a group dance class or participate in something, it was too crowded. There is a ton of space there. Shove the viewers outward a bit so more people can participate. One time they did a dance class on the deck and that was really plenty of space. We would like a cruise less family oriented last time because there were a LOT of kids and this really wrecks the atmosphere sometimes. One family came in with a 2,4 and 7 year old, sat down at their table and let their kids run wild in the Manhattan Room. The poor torch singer had to ask them several times to stay off of her stage and stop touching the instruments. Many of us were shocked but the pretty dance room turned into a "Run wild" area for children at dinner most nights. Next time we will choose a cruise that is smaller or just for couples I think. I also think we could have gotten a better deal if we had waited to book the cruise last minute. I asked a cruise website if I should wait and they said because it was Labor Day, the prices would likely go up so I should book it. They actually went down and I was mad at myself for listening to the sales people. I would recommend this ship but just know what you are getting into so you don't feel excluded or feel you are missing all of the extras. The complimentary stuff is really good.