Norwegian Epic Review
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This was our first ever cruise, and we loved the whole experience!
The Epic isn't the most glamorous ship afloat, but we loved the variety of places to go and things to do. I think we'd be bored on a smaller ship! We loved the whole freestyle concept- who wants to be forced to have dinner at the same time every night and take up half your luggage allowance with a tuxedo? Freestyle suits the modern cruiser and we would hesitate before choosing another line to cruise with.
Embarkation was totally smooth- we touched down at the airport at 11am and were onboard before 12. We had a prebooked transfer with Sun Transfers but taxis are also available. I expected to be given an embarkation group upon check in, but no, it was straight on the ship! The only hiccup was that we weren't given the 'welcome aboad' leaflet, which as first time cruises would have been very useful! Luckily I had done enough research on the ship to get by without it.
Cabin Review
Inside
We had an inside cabin and it was larger than I expected, very comfortable and modern. The 'bathroom situation' was not an issue to us as a couple. Friends may find it more awkward as there isn't a lock on either the toilet or the shower, and sometimes the doors slide open with the motion of the ship. You'd need to make use of that dividing curtain to give some privacy. If we did a 10 day cruise again I wouldn't book an inside- it was fine for a few days but started to get stuffy and claustrophobic. I like a bit of natural light and air! But I did know this going in, and we got such a good deal on the inside that we can't really complain. The bed was very soft and comfortable, and there was loads of storage, enough for 3 people probably. The TV was interactive and displayed our account, menus, activities etc- although it was very unresponsive to the remote. But I did find it useful that it showed the MDR menus for the whole cruise so we could plan where we wanted to eat.
Port Reviews
Madeira (Funchal)
Beautiful place. You don't need to book any excursion here unless you have a real aversion to a little walking. We walked along the front and took the cable car to Monte, and then took the cable car back down. You can also take the toboggans from Monte. We then had lunch from one of the traditional bread stands along the front, before riding a circuit on the HOHO bus to see some more of the Island.
Las Palmas (Gran Canaria)
Loved this port- we did the easy walk from the port to the beach, which has a lovely long promenade to walk along. We spent the day exploring and watching the surfers. Had a lovely lunch from a bakery along the beach front.
Malaga
Malaga is a hidden gem! Totally gorgeous, modern, historic place. Loved it! The beach is beautiful, as is the city itself. You don't need a tour- just wander! Awesome shopping too. Would have loved time to go up to the castle. If you want a good birds eye view of where to go, use the big wheel near the end of the port area. Don't take the shuttle bus- the port area is gorgeous and modern with lots of shops and restaurants.