Norwegian Breakaway Review
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We chose this cruise because it's close to home so convenient to get to the port but mostly because we find NCL does a great job managing so many people on this big ship. Is everything perfect at all times - no, but when you do have a problem there are plenty of people willing to help try to make it right.
We sailed on the Breakaway many times before this (as well as other ships) and have always had fabulous service. We mostly go with the flow and do not let little things get to us and if we do, we get over it pretty quick. These two weeks we REALLY needed to chill and escape due to a horrific incident a few months back then continued tragedy for several months. Although grateful for so much, we were at a pretty low spot.
Something to note that you do not see on other cruise ships is the amount of time and access to the ship's officers (including the captain) and supervisors. There are many Q&A sessions held with all of them as well as cocktail parties, or they are simply "milling" around the Atrium on a very regular basis. I've seen many of them taking the time to shake hands with many passengers at the end of a show in the Atrium. They literally go through the rows of people acknowledging them and letting them know they appreciate them being on board. The captain and other officers were outside in the freezing cold on Sunday saying goodbye to everyone. Very impressive. Even more impressive is that they give out their business cards so if you do have a problem, you CAN contact them directly. I wrote a note to Vuk, the Hotel Director, and placed it in a box he has at the Guest Services, about a question I had (no need to call him since it was not a problem). Someone from his staff contacted me very shortly after and took care of my needs.
Cabin Review
The Haven Courtyard Penthouse with Balcony
We stayed two week and the first week was in a Mini-suite on Deck 8 - 8730. The balcony was very large and roomy. 2 lounge chairs + 2 regular chairs and a table and plenty more space. The bathroom was larger than expected and we liked the large walk in shower and open toilet area. The room size was pretty good as well. We did not like that it was so narrow in the area where the sofa was. Felt a little closed in but I am claustrophobic so please take that into consideration. Cabin had more storage than we needed for the 2 of us and keep in mind we were packed for 2 weeks - lots of storage.
The Haven cabin was much wider but a much shallower balcony. Only room for 1 lounge and 2 chairs and table. Plenty sufficient for our needs. The bathroom was great with a large double sink and plenty of storage. We would prefer a walk in shower instead of having to climb over the large soaking tub to shower but understand many people probably love that tub. I would too if my legs weren't so darn short! Would also prefer the toilet not be enclosed in its tiny compartment - again, I'm claustrophobic so for others I'm sure it's a nice feature. Great cabin, more storage than we needed and very spacious.