A group of 10 Friends and family sailed on the Norwegian Escape November 28 – December 5, 2015. We left from Miami Florida. We have never sailed on Norwegian, but have sailed many times with Royal Caribbean, Princess, and Carnival. There were others in the group that have sailed before, and four first time cruisers.
EMBARKATION
We boarded the ship as 3 separate groups, we were given maps and documents, the other 2 groups were not. The night of Day 1, and Day 2 were an extremely rough sail. Many people on the ship were sea sick to the point of vomiting. I never have been seasick in my life, but felt a little light headed during this time. The seas were not rough, but it was windy. I think the amount of steel on the upper decks for the Ropes course, and water slides, make this vessel less stable than others.
We had a Mini Suite which is the same size as a balcony, the only difference is that the bathroom is larger. It is about double size, has a double sink, and double shower with 6 jets. The extra jets are more novelty than useful. We never used them after the first day. The cabin layout is awkward. With the Pullman down over the couch, there is no room to walk from the bed to the bathroom if someone is using the mirror. It felt very claustrophobic in the mini suite with four people. The Pullman and couch mattresses are very hard. Ask for cushions right away. They go fast.
VERY IMPORTANT: No one tells you this before you get on the ship, but the lights and outlets only work when a key card is inserted into the slot by the light switches. If you want to charge your phone when you leave the cabin, you have to leave your license or credit card in the slot.
We love St. Thomas. Unfortunately on this day we had planned to go to Megans Bay. Upon arrival we were told that the beach was closed due to flooding. Just went shopping.
Although it was raining, we rented a car on disembarkment day, and cruised South Beach. Nice Ride, nice scenery!