Pearl exceeded expectations

Norwegian Pearl Cruise Review to Panama Canal, Central America

13specialk

Contributor Level: Purser

Cruises: 7+ cruises

Reviews: 2

Helpful Votes: 84

Overall rating:

4 out of 5

Verified Review

12 Night Western Caribbean (Miami Roundtrip)

Sail date: October 23, 2016

Ship: Norwegian Pearl

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 9152

Traveled as: Couple

Reviewed: 7 years ago

Review summary

Though it is due for refurbishment in Feb, 2017, the Pearl is still in great shape. What made the cruise special was the quality of the crew and the food. Both are quite good and better than I thought it would be. Their freestyle approach really works. Not once did we have to wait for a table and we went to eat at the main dining rooms both early and late. The food selection and quality were better than anticipated and there was a tremendous selection in the MDR's each night.

Additionally, the entertainment was better than we thought it would be. Dancers and singers were very good, comedians were terrific and there was even a hyponotherapist that did several shows and was quite entertaining.

The only port that could/should be passed by is Santa Marta in Columbia. Ugly and dirty are the descriptors that enter my mind when thinking of this port. All of the others were good to very good.

Ship experiences

Food and Dining

5 out of 5

Onboard Activities

1 out of 5

If the industry would only add enrichment programs on at sea days. Except for the last day at sea the only thing to do was play bingo or get "sold" spa products.

Entertainment

5 out of 5

Service and Staff

5 out of 5

Ship Quality

5 out of 5

One of the best things about the Pearl is that it has three elevator banks and we almost never had to wait. It was terrific.

Cabin / Stateroom

3 out of 5

The cabins on the Pearl are small and they are looking tired. Ship goes into dry dock in February and hopefully the appearance will improve. The best thing about the cabins are the restrooms. There is a fairly large shower - compared to many other ships on which we have sailed - and the lieu provides for privacy.

Ship tip

We found the specialty restaurants of Cagney's and Le Bistro to be particularly good. If you want a romantic meal go to Le Bistro. The room is beautiful and the service is excellent.

Thumbs up