Our first time on NCL but not our last. We excitedly put down deposits for a future trip!
Embarkation
5 out of 5
We were “Haven” guests so the embarkation process is separate from other guests. When we arrive at the port, we were directed to a VIP lounge where we were offered snacks and drinks. Our concierge came by and introduced himself and the our butler arrived to escort us to our suite. No lines, no wait. As we got onboard, I commented to my husband just based on the embarkation process alone, being the Haven appeared worth the indulgence and it just got better and better from there!
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
5 out of 5
Over the course of the 11 night cruise, we ate at every restaurant, including the specialty restaurants. We had a 4 night restaurant “upcharge” option and we used them on the French, Italian, Teppanyaki and Churrascaria restaurants. French, “Le Bistro” was by far our favorite. We also had the unlimited drinks package so that was wonderful to allow me to try lots of different wines.
Onboard Activities
3 out of 5
We stayed primarily in the Haven when we were on board. I don’t like loud pool scenes so it wouldn’t be fair of me to rate the main pool. My rating is based on my 13 year old daughter’s assessment of the teen club activities. She said “there isn’t that much to do”. We were on the Jade, which is a mid-sized ship and therefore has no rock climbing wall, go cart track, etc.
Children's Programs
3 out of 5
Teenage girl not impressed. Only other CruiseLine we’ve been on prior to this tri is Disney so perhaps she has a very high standard for entertainment and activities in the club. She stated that the teen club was closed a lot of times and they did not have many activities available such as tie-dye, or classes just for the kids (jewelry making, backstage tour of certain areas on the ship, etc)
Service and Staff
5 out of 5
Our steward Bambang Alum, was our vacation hero. I turned in a card for him. He ran his butt off bringing drinks up to the Haven pool for us because the way the Jade is designed, there wasn’t a nearby bar.
Ship Quality
5 out of 5
Very clean and thoughtful design spread some of the restaurants and entertainment out so it never felt like the crowds were just stoppers to the flow of walking from one area to the next.
Cabin / Stateroom
5 out of 5
Cabin 14510 - cannot type in that field. We cannot say enough good things about our Haven experience. We are now ruined for any other type of accommodations! Haven for life!
Like any big city, Athens has lots of +/-. We hired a private driver who was fantastic and took us to see a lot of things that weren’t available through a pre-determined excursion.
Marla is a visually spectacular port. Coming in and leaving are worth just being outside on the ship and taking it in. Beautiful. We had a function to attend in Malta so we didn’t get to explore the area but we committed to returning. Just beautiful!
We did not pre-plan an excursion and our day unfolded in a great way. We rode the city train to get an overview. Enjoyed the astrological clock in the main square and found a great restaurant with wonderful pizza of course!
Pompeii is not to be missed. I really thought it would be just ok, but it was amazing. We hired private driver and guide and that enhanced our experience as we were able to move through the city at our pace and see the things our family was most interested in. Having a guide is essential to greater understanding and enjoyment.
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