Great Itinerary, Questionable Execution
Norwegian Breakaway Cruise Review to Transatlantic
12 Night Transatlantic Eastbound (New York To Southampton)
Sail date: April 15, 2018
Ship: Norwegian Breakaway
Cabin type: Balcony
Cabin number: 11216
Traveled as: Couple
Reviewed: 6 years ago
Review summary
In all we enjoyed the cruise despite the shortcomings we experienced.Embarkation
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
The Manhattan Room Restaurant
This was the best place to eat. The service was exceptional, the food was good and the waiters were very attentive. The menu had a good selection of standard dishes as well as daily special choices.
O'Sheehan's Neighborhood Bar and Grille
This was the worst place to eat on the ship. Often understaffed, wait times were long, orders were lost or filled incorrectly. It was not uncommon to see passengers getting their own coffee, flatware etc because no staff assisted them. It was not uncommon to see people leave because they did not get waited on.
Garden Café
This is a large venue, however the selection was at times limited, and often sections were closed forcing crowds into the open areas. The food was typical buffet. We ate here when we were in a hurry because it was quick. Each night featured a different cuisine. (Italian, Latin etc). Staff were helpful and quick to clear tables.
Taste Restaurant
The menu here was the same as the Manhattan Room and Savor, just in a more intimate venue. Service was exceptional.
Onboard Activities
Spa Thermal Suite
This was a big disappointment. The heated ceramic lounges were in op and the jets in the therapy pool were often not working and it took hours for staff to respond and get them working. One of the 2 rain showers were in op. On the plus side, the sauna and steam room were great as was the hot tub. The were lots of lounge chairs and great views. This is worth the price if everything works, We ended up getting a full refund because we were tired of arguing with the staff the the problems were mechanical and not user error.
Pulse Fitness Center
There is a wide range of fitness equipment for every level of activity.
Whirlpool
Spice H2O is an adults only venue during the day offering 2 hot tubs and plenty of places to sit at the rear of the ship.
Mini Golf
Typical mini golf. Nice way to be outside.
Entertainment
The Atrium
This area was always busy and noisey
Breakaway Theater
For a ship with 4000 people on board this was a small venue
Spiegel Tent
This venue is designed as a circus tent
Service and Staff
Ship Quality
Cabin / Stateroom
Ship tip
Make reservations for entertainment shows early. Be sure to take advantage of all the complimentary dining venues.
Ports of call
Portland (Weymouth), England, UK