We make the most of a vacation. Overall had a great time. This was our 4th NCL cruise and 9th cruise total, had multiple issues that may sway us to a different cruise line in the future.
Embarkation
2 out of 5
Arrived during our window 10-10:30, no line to get into terminal building. Called to checkin desk, 2 separate reservations in adjoining cabins. Error created between my passport number and my daughter’s caused issues the entire week that no staff was able to remedy. Then to wait in chairs… no communication between those waiting and the boarding process. Not enough chairs for everyone waiting, creating chaos within the building. Boarding started after 11, but no announcements via loud speaker or television to alert those in the seats. Overall messy.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
4 out of 5
Food and drink was good at all venues. Not a ton of variety at buffet, but quality good. Main dining room and specialty foods were very good, but service varied greatly by day. Only 4 stars as the main dining room menus did not have great choices on last 2 nights..luckily there are the standards to fall back on every night.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Many things to do… main pool often crowded, but always able to find a seat. Ropes course was challenging and fun. Did not use fitness center, but heard good things about equipment.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Choir of Man was amazing, recommend making reservations early as they can book up. Syd Norman’s Pour House music was wonderful, but kind of a pain to have to wait in line to get a seat. Only made it 1 night, wish we could have seen the Fleetwood Mac night. DJ was a lot of fun at deck parties and nighttime dance parties. Love music available around the decks in the evening, all good musicians.
Children's Programs
5 out of 5
2 teens with us, one often attended organized activities and the other tended to roam ship with friends. Overall both had a great time.
Service and Staff
4 out of 5
All staff very dedicated to customers. 3 dinners we had poor, slow service- 2 of them being at specialty restaurants. Wish this was better. Bartenders, room steward, all other staff we encountered were incredibly courteous and willing to help in any way possible.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Staff always working to keep ship clean, many rude customers spilling and leaving dirty dishes where not appropriate. Ship is ready for a retro-fit upgrade, some areas showing wear. Rooms had some issues related to toilet flushing, but remedied.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
Seemed narrower than I remember on other ships. Balcony a good size and love to listen to the ocean. Wish there were some drawers, but shelving worked ok.
Ship tip
Book dinner reservations and shows early. Have a good attitude and roll with the things you cannot control. May not always be able to find a deck chair near the pool, but always a space to put your things.
Some confusion when getting off regarding where to go for the excursion as there are lots of excursions trying to leave at the same time. Did Passion Island excursion, enjoyed the beach, but a lot of waiting and long boat ride for only 2 hours at the beach. Husband and boys did private Discover Scuba they walked to, enjoyed it very much.
Free beach day with decent lunch. Bar lines took forever and seemed understaffed. Lots of beach chairs available. Will be better when tendering is no longer needed, lots of wasted time.
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