SAILING THE DEEP BLUE SEA

On July 31 through August 6, 2016 I took my 21st cruise aboard NCL's Escape.  Having experienced 11 cruises with NCL I can accurately state that the Escape is a modern, floating marvel sailing from port to port.  The ship itself consists of several different venues in an attempt to provide a little something for everyone.   However, it is the main pool area which is a failure aboard this vessel.  Sandwiched between the water slide section and the children's  water park is the adult pool area commonly referred to as the "chlorinated soup pot."  The smallness of the pool and its surrounding area made it difficult to have any poolside activities or even to dance when the bands were playing.  That, combined with the difficulty in obtaining seating by the pool, was extremely disappointing even with the distribution of cold towels and strawberry smoothies by the NCL staff.

My cabin was a spa mini suite located on deck 15 forward.  It had a balcony and offered unlimited access to the spa's thermal suites.  The bed was comfortable and when the gentle rocking of the ship was added to it, a fabulous night's sleep was guaranteed.  The rain head shower complete with body jets and the double sink area in the bathroom further complimented the accommodations. 

Nightly shows aboard the Escape although extremely enjoyable, represented standard cruise ship entertainment. 

There was a variety of delicious food choices in all of the restaurants and the  live musical features during dinner in the Manhattan Room greatly enhanced the evening meal.  The specialty restaurants of Le Bistro, Cagney's and Moderno although requiring a separate fee, all lived up to what was expected of them.  At Sugarcane's, the mojito bar,  the unique flavor of their raspberry guava mojito should not be missed. 

My three shore excursions were all acceptable and included a fun filled day at the beach:  Tabiyana Beach, Passion Island and Balmol in the Bahamas (prevented from going to Belize due to hurricane).

Traveling aboard the Escape is mostly a family fueled agenda with plenty of activities for the kids. I, personally, would have preferred to have had more adult themed activities in light of the lack of space at the main pool area.

In any event, an excellent vacation experience was had by all with unbelievably, new and fantastic memories being made aboard the NCL Escape . 

Thanks to the crew and staff for their part in making my dream come true.