Overall it was disappointing. We've cruised Royal Caribbean several times, and we'll return to that line.
Embarkation
1 out of 5
It was a very cold & windy day in Boston, yet, we were forced to stand in line outside for 2.5 hours before we were able to board. We had purchased "Priority Boarding" believing we'd have direct access, but it didn't matter. Priority Boarding only gave us quick access to check in, AFTER standing in line for so long.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
2 out of 5
The buffet provided every day was vast, however, offerings were repeated daily until they were used up.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
The comedy show in the Stardust Theater was very entertaining! Fitness center was small.
Entertainment
3 out of 5
Service and Staff
3 out of 5
Experiencing an issue with my bill I visited Guest Services 6 times. All but one very nice representative were cold, unhelpful, almost contentious.
Ship Quality
3 out of 5
While very clean and nicely appointed, the ship is small.
Same as embarkation. Lines to depart were coiled around the length of the boat - from aft to forward. The only good part was we were inside this time. Priority boarding/disembarkation didn't help - AGAIN. 1.5 hours standing in line before we were able to pass Customs.
Embarkation and debarkation on this cruise was absolutely terrible for everyone. People commenting that were not there cannot imagine how poorly NCL handled these. There are no excuses. We arrived in our scheduled time slot, only to stand outside in line in the cold for three hours. Your comments on this are spot on.
I cruises on the Gem and had a great time with great food. I dont recall repeating entrees on the buffet, but the usual hamburgers and hit dogs, ect, other than that, nothing was repeated until it was gone. Also, if the ship isn't cleared to let passengers off, then it puts the whole operation into chaos, but it's nit usually the cruise lines fault, but port authority, Coast Gaurd, Border control.
If you waited 2.5 hrs outside, then you got there too early. As you e-docs state boarding starts at 12 and you can choose your arrival time accordingly. To advise everyone "don't " is disingenuous.
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