Norwegian Escape Review
Rating by category
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We chose the Norwegian Escape because we got - in our opinion - a good deal with Air Canada for an "Air/Cruise Package" and two free perks; and wanted to try a different cruiseline/ship (we are usually on Princess). Overall, we were very happy with our decision, though for a number of reasons, I wouldn't go on this ship again. There was really only one pool for adults, which made for a "very" crowded pool deck; smoking is allowed at the outdoor bars and in the casino, where it wafted around the casino area and atrium; except for the adult only section, there were many children on board. (It's not that I dislike children, please don't get me wrong, but I prefer less while I'm vacationing.) The boat was very rocky - apparently because of the way the bottom of the ship was built - in a "U" shape, instead of a "V" shape.
Anyway, the entertainment was exceptional in all venues - esp, Howl at the Moon, After Midnight, the Comedians, the Hypnotist. The complimentary dining venues were excellent. We did not partake in any of the specialty dining packages. The services provided by the cabin steward and the many waiters, waitresses, hostesses, guest services, were top notch. There was only a couple of times we had slow service in the restaurants, but hey, we were on vacation and not in a hurry to get anywhere fast. Buffet had great food!
The shore excursions we took were great, never long enough as is usually the case when I'm on a beach! If you have a chance and are physically able, go to Virgin Gorda - the Baths - unbelievably beautiful!! I have heard and will agree, Norwegian is known for families and partiers. They have hit the mark on both of those demographics. Oh I forgot to mention, The Waterfront area of the ship was perfect when we wanted a quieter, more sedate afternoon at sea.
Cabin Review
Balcony Stateroom
First of all the bed was sooooooo comfortable!!! Couldn't believe it! The cabin was modern, good-sized, lots of cupboard space, albeit a little tight by the closet. The bathroom was spacious with a lot of shelving and cupboard space. It would have been nice to have a bench in the shower stall (for the ladies to shave their legs). TV shows in the room were very limited. One movie channel - c'mon! Four news channels??? Hmmmmm, I'm on vacation and one of my relaxing moments is to watch a movie or tv show in the evening. Big negative, we were located three decks above the district brewhouse - if you're a light sleeper, DO NOT get a room anywhere near this place - music plays until midnight and it resonates to the cabins above. We were on deck 11 and it was on deck 8 - I can't imagine how the people felt who were on deck 9 and 10!!!
Port Reviews
St. Thomas
Our excursion to St. John - Trunk Bay was cancelled at the last minute due to high winds and the beach being washed out. We ended up going to Buck Island to snorkel and to Abi beach to swim. The snorkelling was amazing and we saw turtles, stingrays and lots of fish!! Abi beach was okay - very pebbly - and not at all like the beach at Trunk Bay.
Nassau
A beautiful resort, wish we could have spent more time here walking around.
Nassau
Three ships in port this day made for a lot of people disembarking to get to their respective excursions. The beach at Atlantis Paradise Island was a beautiful, white, sand beach - though very windy, so the waves were strong making it difficult for entry/exit into the water. Just nature!