Norwegian Breakaway Review
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I have cruised before, though this was the first time for my cruise-mate. Always excited to get on a new ship (new to me), and explore. Getting the port is always easy in NYC, just make sure you have your cabby drive you ALL the way up the ramp, they often want to drop you across the street. The lovely mural on the hull is photo-worthy for sure.
We arrived about 12:30 and the lines moved very quickly. TSA security check, then over to our line for checking in, everything went smoothly for us and seemingly so for those around us. We knew the buffet area would be mobbed and had been told to try O'Sheehans instead. But that was quite busy as well. The maiter d suggested we try Moderno instead. Normally a 'specialty dining' restaurant, we found out that on day one and a few other days, it was complimentary at lunch time. We enjoyed a buffet of food and never had to wait in line. Outdoor seating over looked the back end Intrepid. It was a great way to get settled in.
Our bags arrived quickly to our room, life boat drill was easy and well organized with more safety information that I had ever heard on other cruises. We joined the folks on the Aft Spice2O area for the sail away party. The music was great, there was dancing and they didn't seem to be forcing drinks on us. Going out of NYC is always stunning. From the view of the Hudson, a chance to see the Freedom Tower and of course, Lady Liberty. And if you get a chance to be at the very TOP of the ship, going under the Verranzano bridge is exciting.
Cabin Review
The room was simple but well designed. The 'jog in the wall' gave us the room we needed to get around easily. Perfect for two, but would certainly be challenging for more than that. Though the balcony was small, it served its purpose, a place to overlook the ocean, enjoy the sounds of the world slipping away and a chance to see the most spectacular sunrises. (Port side sees the sun rise on the way to Bermuda, and the sunset on the return to NYC. In port the sun came up Starboard Aft.) The bed is very comfortable as was the sofa. I loved the huge wall sized mirror in the main room which gave us plenty of space to get 'dolled up'.
The easy to use thermostat was great. Having to put your room card in the slot to get the power / lights in the room to work was a bit of an adjustment. The bathroom was a good size as was the shower. The body wash was appreciated.
I thought that robes were included in the room (I thought they had been in past), my mistake not to call and check / pack one. I would have liked an outlet on the side of the room with the head of the bed, but beyond that, it was just fine.