We had booked the inaugural Transatlantic cruise of the Breakaway in August having learned of its impending sailing last winter when we cruised the Gem from NY to Bahamas. Based upon marketing both on the Gem as well as the intense advertising in the NYC area, we were looking forward to this cruise with great expectations.

There was already a minor hint that all would not be up to standard when instead of the usual NCL welcome mailing with luggage tags, we were instructed simply to print our own. This meant laminating the tags for fear that printer-paper tags could rip and become detached. And it meant carrying a portable stapler to attach the tags. We were concerned what other cost-cutting measures we would find.

We flew New York to London and spent a few strenuous days walking London and on the morning of the April 30 sailing, took the train to Southampton. Read more