Embarking on an Antarctic cruise with 3 small kids

Norwegian Star Cruise Review to Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)

annalissareis

Contributor Level: Deck Hand

Cruises: 7+ cruises

Review: 1

Helpful Votes: 14

Overall rating:

4.9 out of 5

Verified Review

14 Night Antarctica & South America (Buenos Aires Roundtrip)

Sail date: January 21, 2024

Ship: Norwegian Star

Cabin type: Balcony

Cabin number: 9180

Traveled as: Family (young children)

Reviewed: 4 months ago

Review summary

Embarking on an Antarctic cruise is a journey like no other, and my recent expedition with Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) to the icy continent proved to be an unforgettable adventure. Here's we choose NCL stood out as the ideal choice for this once-in-a-lifetime trip. Exceptional Weather and Smooth Sailing Our two-week journey was blessed with extraordinary weather, experiencing the "Drake lake" instead of the notorious "Drake shake," which made our voyage remarkably smooth both ways. The visibility on our first day along the Antarctic Peninsula was an astounding 100 km, allowing us to behold the continent in all its majesty. Although we missed the Falklands due to rough seas, it didn't detract from the overall exhilarating experience. Impeccable Service The service onboard was impeccable. Every crew member, from top to bottom, was in great spirits and eager to assist, ensuring minimal waiting times at bars and restaurants despite the cruise being sold out. The cabin stewards provided turndown service, and despite a crowded buffet occasionally, the ship felt spacious and comfortable. Diverse and Delicious Dining Options The food variety catered to all tastes, from buffet offerings to fine dining in the Main Dining Rooms (MDR) and specialty restaurants. While some dishes in the buffet were a bit overcooked, the Indian cuisine and noodle soups were consistently delightful. Specialty dining, particularly at La Cucina and Cagney's, was exceptional, offering delicious options like Bolognese lasagna and filet mignon. Entertaining and Educational Experiences The onboard entertainment was diverse, catering to a wide range of preferences. Highlights included the mesmerizing "Paradis" show and a tribute to Burt Bacharach. Additionally, the presence of expert lecturers on wildlife, geology, and history enriched our understanding of the Antarctic region, making the sea days both educational and engaging. This made our reports for the kids school easy to put together The education seminars kept our kids entertained Seamless Embarkation and Disembarkation Boarding the ship was a breeze, and disembarking took no more than 15 minutes, exemplifying NCL's efficiency in handling logistics. Unmatched Amenities The thermal spa pass was a worthwhile addition, offering a tranquil space for relaxation and access to gym classes. The gym itself was well-equipped, complementing the outdoor activities with a surprisingly large track for running. For families, the Splash Academy provided an exceptional childcare experience, with a range of activities catering to children's diverse interests and languages. Comfortable Accommodations Our balconies were spacious and comfortable, providing a cozy retreat after days filled with exploration.