This is the 4th cruise we have done. Unfortunately, the Norwegian Spirit was a big disappointment after the previous 3 with other cruise lines. It seems that NCL are determined to squeeze every last dollar from you. Particularly annoying is the 'autogratuity' added to every bottle of wine and beverage ordered. This is 15% plus the VAT. Our understanding of the word 'gratuity' is an amount freely given and not imposed. Bear in mind of couse that an automatic amount per person is paid up front before the cruise for gratuities. A bottle of water from the cabin fridge is over $5 plus they charge you another 15% for restocking with another bottle! All services on board have a 'small print' which is certainly worth reading if you don't want to get a shock when you come to pay for that service.

The 'complimentary' food provided was fairly mediocre, the buffet food much the same. One can visit one of the other restaurants but will cost in the region of $20 per head as a cover charge. What really annoyed us is that when you board they 'block' a certain amount on your credit or debit card so the amount available to you is reduced and it seems that it can take up to 30 days to 'unblock' this amount.

Entertainment was OK, only one act stood out and that was a group called 4ever, four male singers with exceptional voices. I am afraid we would not consider another NCL cruise and did not feel it was good value for the money paid.