Having sailed with NCL on 3 previous occasions, we kind of knew what to expect. However we were left disappointed with queuing - especially in the Garden Cafe, embarkation in Barcelona, lifts, sun beds, and some ports. Basically too many punters in too small a space. The cabin layout is a bit of a joke, especially those of us who have to visit the loo during the night. Having the UBP saved a small fortune, but surprise surprise it didn't include coffees canned juice etc. Staff were basically indifferent when it came to decent service, indeed we refused to pay the onboard gratuities and even this met with an attitude problem from the Ukranian receptionist. This obviously filters down from onboard management. Food was ok, not exceptional, and we only ate in the free main dining rooms - just couldn't face the main buffet( bad enough jousting for breakfast). Charges for everything including transfers out of the ports - scandalous. We did our own thing and managed fine - could not afford NCL trips.
Booking shows etc was a pain but we managed ok, with some of the entertainment being fantastic. For first timers give this a go, but any experienced cruisers, avoid The Epic like the plague.