Norwegian Escape Review
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This was my first sailing aboard an NCL ship. We selected the Escape nearly two years ago when it was first put on sale, and opted for it as a multi-generational vessel with outstanding entertainment. I was putting together our semi-annual family and friends trip, and those who booked early with us were able to take advantage of super low rates, the ultimate beverage package with zero gratuities, 3/4/5 guests were free and with free soda packages, all this plus the group amenity room credit made it a real bargain. Our group grew over the nearly 2 years of planning to be 61 people ranging from 2 to 78. There were many first time cruisers along with seasoned veterans. This is my experience from start to finish, working as both an agent booking all 20 rooms (and many who had to drop out), as well as father taking his kids (D4, S7) on their first cruise.
We started out a few days before sailing visiting with family in Florida. The ride to Miami was uneventful. As people were flying in from all over, or driving in from the southern states, I was able to reach out to a hotel that would provide us shuttles from MIA, to and from the cruise port, an included breakfast, walking distance to a restaurant and convenient store, and allow us to leave our vehicles in the parking lot for the week. The Comfort Suites Miami Airport North was able to accomplish all of this at the best rate. It was easy to find, easy parking, very nice inside, good food. The front desk staff, especially Farrah, was exceptional in handling all our needs. The shuttle to the cruise port was a cinch, and unloading was typical.
Checking in at the Pier– we left the luggage with the curb porter and jumped in line at terminal B. Our check in time was 930-1000, and it was right around that time. About 15 minutes after standing in line, it began to move. This was an easy process, right through security, and then into the check in lines. It would have benefited them to hand out the health form in the self-download boarding documents, but to easy to fill it out in line. Maybe 10 minutes standing in line, and we had our cards, and were on to the waiting area with boarding zone 3 cards. The waiting area had plenty of room, free refreshments of OJ and water and was a standard waiting area. A short time later, they were boarding by zone. Very quickly, we were on our way through the zone calling and on board. Its nice that they board from both Forward and Aft. Ship was Starboard side to pier.
Cabin Review
Family Oceanview Stateroom with Large Picture Window
Great size! Oversized bathroom with tub, double sink made getting 2 kids ready a breeze. Location was perfect for those with little ones. I would choose this room over a balcony room, as the extra room for the kids made it well worth it. There is ample storage space, and a curtain that separates the couch/kids bunks from our bed. 2 televisions allowed for the kids to have their own at bedtime. Great value for the price!
Port Reviews
Miami
I would only sail from this port if I absolutely had to. City is expensive and hectic, and the added distance to drive makes it less then desirable.
St. Thomas
Took a taxi to Megans Bay, swam for 2 hours before the masses showed up, took taxi back to the port area, went up the ski ride, not worth it (we have done in the past, guess it is a once in lifetime, don't bother redoing it.) Enjoyed our time here, as we always do.
Tortola
less than 6 hours here - really. not worth pulling in. we got off, walked around for an hour, bought a tee shirt, and went back to the boat. it would be great if you could spend all day here, but as it is, unless you want to pay a lot of money to go to Virgin Gorda on a ship excursion, it is not that good. wish the ships would stay longer. BONUS: Island does NOT allow smoking anywhere in public.
Nassau
I found Jermaine the taxi driver/shore guide on Trip Advisor, and had him meet my family at the port - took us all around the island giving us the history of it, stopping off at various places, spent 2 hours at the far (quiet) end of Paradise Island beach, went to the local fish shacks and had some fresh fish lunch - got to talk to some locals, had a great time - we try to get away from main stream on islands, and this really enhanced our visit.