This was my first inaugural cruise, and it was very well done. While I know that the average customer will not receive the level of service/ food and beverage, etc., I felt that NCL did a very good job of showcasing the value, features and experiences that they have improved/ highlighting on this ship. I felt that the entertainment on this ship was by far the crown jewel. They have definitely stepped up their game in this area with the shows and virtual entertainment, and this alone was enough for me to change previous view of their quality, compared to other lines. I can honestly say that this experience helped me to overcome some hesitations that I have had in the past when asked what lines I would compare NCL to, and how I think they compare to other lines. Kudos to NCL for listening to their customers and delivering an experience that will, no doubt, make many memories for years to come.
Embarkation
5 out of 5
Fastest and easiest embarkation I have ever experienced. We walked in and directly to the desk, received our room keys and where quickly on our way. Super friendly staff.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
The Manhattan Dining Room- Great service and food. (Night 1)
Sabor (Breakfast) Excellent Service- food was good- nothing special.
Taste (Dinner) Beautiful Decor, Food was very nice. Service was ok. We were there late in the evening, and they seemed to be distracted.
Sabor (Dinner) Again, dined late, and the staff seemed distracted. Ordered wine and it was poured for the woman next to me, (not with me) and I never got mine. Food on the last night was the worst of the entire trip. One salad was drenched in dressing (caesar) and was spinach. The garden salad came out with no dressing or any other items. When I tried to explain to the server, she had no idea what I was saying. Entrees were not very good (fish and beef). Was disappointed that evening.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
There is SO much to do on the ship. Very innovative choices- virtual room was awesome! I'm only giving 4 stars, because passengers could really spend a significant amount of money on these items. I will be sure to let them know that not all of these activities are included. The main pool was nice, but rather small. This area will be VERY crowded on a full ship.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Kinky Boots was exceptional! I thought that was the best show I'd ever seen on a ship, until I saw Choir of Men. LOVED that show! The quality of talent in both shows was comparable to that of a Broadway production.
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Super friendly staff. Almost every staff member we encounter went out of their way to say hello and offer assistance in any way they could. The Chocolate Cowboy- Mojito Bar was my favorite!
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
The ship was laid out well. Regarding design, you hardly felt as if you were moving. The atrium area was intimate, and made it feel as if you were on a smaller ship. With all of the entertainment venues, the atrium was not over crowded in the evening. Love the shopping area!
Cabin / Stateroom
3 out of 5
I felt the cabin was smaller than most balconies. The layout, with the closet right next to the bed was very inconvenient, and therefore, we lived out of suitcases. That is a major pet peeve of mine! Decor was nicely done, and deck furniture was nice.
Ship tip
Take full advantage of all of the entertainment venues on this ship. If you don't have a good time, it is your own fault! There is something for everyone of this ship. The shows are outstanding! If you don't like the theatre, there are SO many other choices, both during the day and in the evening. The Observation Lounge was one of my favorite spot on the ship. The look and feel is that of the Haven, but you don't have to be in the Haven to take advantage of it. Furnishings are upscale- chaise lounges and little nooks to take in the view. The bar there was empty the entire cruise- this is a don't miss!
Miami is a super easy port to get in and out of, logistically, and the city of full of fun sites. Highlights for me are Brickell, South Beach and Little Havana. I did not do a shore excursion, however I would highly recommend. Don't miss the culture of this great city!
The beaches in the main area of the island (those not in Silver Beach) were a bit rocky for my taste, but were beautiful, nonetheless. Water was clear and loved the available floats/ mats for use. We toured the new Silver Cove and it was amazing. The bungalows are stunning, and secluded from the masses/ general population. With actual bedrooms, separate from the living area, this would be a great option for families with children looking to nap, or senior looking for peace (and perhaps a nap also!) I would recommend adequate shoes to clients, and caution regarding the distance to some of the areas of this private island. (Although, if you rent a bungalow in the new area, a shuttle service to a special reception area is provided.) Also, a fair distance to get food and beverage, from some of the seating areas on the beaches.
Disembarkation was smooth and event-free, just like I like it. I felt it was well organized, and appreciated that the crew was helpful. We disembarked with a woman with a handicap and they we super accommodating.
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