Overall a good cruise, but ncl needs to care more for food allergies if they want my money
Embarkation
4 out of 5
Embarkation at Buenos Aires was annoying due to the storm damage, but it was out of anyone's control. It went better than I expected and the staff ran a tight ship to get you onboard as quick as possible with the limitations.
Ship experiences
Food and Dining
3 out of 5
Once again, Norwegian shines in their specialty dining. We went to La Cuchina, Le Bistro, Moderno, and the sushi bar. Only the sushi bar was mediocre, but I kind of expected that. Everything else in these restaurants was amazing and the staff were knowledgeable and attentive. However, as someone with food restrictions and allergies, it was nerve wracking to eat in the main dining room or other free areas. Many staff could not understand my and one of my travel partners food restrictions. It was as if they didn't know what they were serving. The maitre d tried to assist but this was not always an option. On another line recently, staff knew the menus and buffet items inside and out. As someone with food allergies, Norwegian needs to step it up because I didn't feel safe eating on this ship at times. What I did eat was ok, sometimes bland, sometimes salty. I didn't eat at ginza but a travel partner did and found everything inedible taste wise. The buffet was the popular choice for a free dinner.
Onboard Activities
5 out of 5
Compared to an Encore sailing, the entertainment has improved. The glow party was fun and the music choice was great. Most of the shows were excellent, especially the tango shows and diva show. Since this was a port heavy itinerary, I wasn't expecting anything crazy but I was impressed. We also think Henry deserves a promotion over whoever the actual cruise director was.
Entertainment
5 out of 5
Service and Staff
3 out of 5
Again, a mixed bag. We really liked the Starbucks employees and they did a great job being friendly at good at their jobs. Our steward was a bit absent but clean so I'm okay with that. The waiters as mentioned earlier did not meet the mark, but that might be a training issue. Additionally, I noticed a lot of staff having low knowledge of English or Spanish, which made communication difficult.
Ship Quality
4 out of 5
Strange layout. You sometimes need to zig zag across the ship to go from one place to another, especially to the theater or dining rooms. However the ship was very clean which is far more important. Obviously there was wear and tear and rust but it still felt safe and clean.
Cabin / Stateroom
4 out of 5
We got a large window Oceanview on deck 5. The cabin was clean and the shower was amazing with great water pressure. Some wear and tear especially the carpets and drawers but it was expected with an older ship. What we didn't like as much was the noise in the cabin. There was a high pitched noise every night and we had to put the TV on to drown it out. I don't think I would book a lower deck again.
To those asking I did email NCL prior to boarding and also informed the agent when booking. I was told to speak to the dining staff onboard, who seemed blindsided by my allergies. I'm not sure what exactly happened regarding this communication.
@nal112 This Cruiseline.com Advice article might help How to Cruise With Food Allergies - Advice
cruiseline.com/advice/before-you-cruise/what-to-know/how-to-cruise-with-food-allergies
You can book with food allergies, just tell them about it at the time, I’ve always been asked this when booking my cruises. Was also asked at every single restaurant, even the free ones, except the buffet, which I agree could definitely be better at labelling. Glad you enjoyed your cruise!
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