Pre-pandemic, NCL was my preferred line. I cruise for enjoyment, to get away from the day-to-day. This cruise, starting with the ship, did not allow that. I felt cramped and crowded, and I also felt nickeled and dimed to death, as if NCL was trying to recover its lost 3 years' profits in one fell swoop. The cost of premium internet was too high, and even worse when you consider how often it did not work. If i could get my money back, I would ask for it. The Internet Staff Person was great. She tried very hard to solve what she could, and she always did it with a smile. But the issue was the internet itself. I know she caught hell from several people, yet, she was always professional, courteous, and efficient. She deserved a better internet interface!
Embarkation
3 out of 5
Since we had to request an embarkation time, I expected a lot shorter lines. The line to go through TSA were unbearably long, similar to pre-pandemic levels. That's likely okay if you're 25 and have no mobility issues. But if you're over 50, walk with assistance and clearly show that you're having difficulty, you'd think that some sort of help would be forthcoming.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
1 out of 5
Worst food I have had on a cruise yet. O'Sheehan's was the one exception, where the food was very good. The main restaurants just weren't up to expectations, eg, the meats were tough and without flavor, just overall disappointing. The Moderno Churrascaria was, for anyone who knows Brazilian cuisine and churrasco, the "white castle" equivalent of fast food. The meat was tasteless, and it was mostly cold when served. I also had one piece of "fraldinha" that was peppered -- that is not part of churrasco seasoning. The servers made a valiant attempt to re-create the Gaucho ambience with their dress and serving, but the clear lack of detail in their training was glaring. The whole Moderno experience makes me believe that Norwegian needs to re-think whether they should offer this restaurant or not.
Onboard Activities
4 out of 5
As the ship was only about 60-70% full, it was easy to access the pools, get towels, walk around, shoot hoops, etc.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
The Piano Player/singer, Paulo, was absolutely sensational, as were the Latin Duo, Gold River -- I'd give them both 6 stars out of 5!
I wish there had been more and varying shows in the theater for a 10-day trip. But The Million Dollar Quartet was very well done.
Children's Programs
No children
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
I cannot compliment the staff enough. They were friendly, polite, helpful, efficient in every way. It's as if they didn't miss a beat after 3 years of pandemic. A true highlight of NCL cruises of the past, and fortunately, this has not changed. The bar staff, especially Amy at O'Sheehans and all the guys at Sugarcane, the mojito bar, were absolutely fantastic. On the last day of the cruise, I looked for Amy to offer her an extra gratuity, but unfortunately did not find her. I felt bad that I could not offer her that and personal thanks.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
That the ship was an older model was obvious. No issue with cleanliness, but after having sailed on more modern NCL ships, the room size, the balcony size were below expectations. The ship needs to be retired and replaced.
Cabin / Stateroom
2 out of 5
Room was smaller than expected based on prior cruises with NCL, Carnival and Costa. I felt we did not get our money's worth here. The balcony was too small to really be used -- other ships' balconies allow you to actually sun yourself. This one did not. In the room, we always seemed to be tripping over each other. Again, I feel that I overspent for what I got.
Ship tip
Don't! Which isn't fair to the crew and staff who were marvelous. The ship is the issue. The staff shouldn't have to suffer this ship's shortcoimings.
Did you use the mobility assist line when you got to the ship? We just got off of the Joy and when we embarked there was a special line to go through security for people that needed mobility assistance.
Unfortunately I don't disagree with you on everything is cost related and charging more for less trying to make up for lost time. I think they are buying cheaper meats and not fully stocking the bar and supplies to cut costs. It's not supply chain issues. It's they don't want to spend on things. My last cruise, at moderno, with my card still green, I was brought the desert menu. I guess I was done being served. Hopefully they will improve quality with more people cruising again. Thanks for sharing
Thanks for your review. The Getaway isn’t an old ship ready for retirement, I’m sure it’s only about 8 years old and wasn’t used for 2 years during Covid! Maybe just not your type of ship. Also Moderno, which you’ve based your one star review on, was good on other ships but maybe you’ve been unlucky or again maybe not your type of restaurant. Hope you enjoy your next cruise better.
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