This is the second time we traveled on the Spirit. The first, several years ago, to New England and Canada. They did some upgrading which, while unnecessary, was very nice. This is the sixth time cruising with Norwegian. We did the transatlantic re-positioning cruise on the Epic among others. Having been on both Holland American and Royal we are attracted to the free-style dinning experience. I "dress-up" for business and do not wish to do so on vacation. We also like to eat when and where on the ship we want. Some believe that the service rendered is not up to standards there is a daily service charge added to your invoice instead of handing the gratuity to your assigned steward and waiter. On every ship the service was fantastic.
We did not like the cabin layout on the Epic and would not return. The shower is on the left as you enter the cabin, the commode is on the right as you enter the cabin, and the sink is in the room. There is a sliding curtain separating the "hygiene" area from the bed. If you need to utilized the "head" in the middle of the night you have to wash your hands by the bed which will awaken your partner. Very poor design.