Norwegian Getaway Review
Good But Not Great - Should have Booked With Royal Caribbean!
Rating by category
Additional details
My wife and I booked a 7 day cruise on the Norwegian Getaway with 2 of our kids. The price seemed good for two cabins (one with a balcony) drink packages for all, and 3 specialty meals.
Pro: Emarkation was a breeze. Ship was new and nice. Cozumel snorkeling and stingray experience was outstanding! Price was good. Specialty meals were very good, especially the Brazillian steakhouse and French restaurant. Waterslides and ropes course were enjoyable despite being very crowded.
Con: Staff were not as nice and polite as compared to other cruises we've taken (RCI in particular). Complimentary dining was good, not great, and lacked variety. Cabin attendent spoke NO English. Lots of little nickel and dime fees. Unlimited drink package does not include premium spirits (Maker's Mark, Glenleviet, Patron Silver, etc.) like RCI. AC did not stay on in the room because we unknowingly had it on the wrong setting, and our cabin attendant couldn't help since he didn't understand what we were asking. Not a lot of room in the pool and hard to find chairs. Roatan is NOT a destination to get off and explore on your own.
Cabin Review
Balcony Stateroom
The cabin was perfect for two people. Cabin attendant never cleaned the outside balcony area (although other balconys were cleaned) so there was dried saltwater everywhere. Not a big deal though. AC turns off throughout the night unless you figure out the right settings. No instructions provided. TV only had a few channels (no sports other than soccer). Ample space in the closet for two. Bathroom was small but the shower actually got hot. No irons in the room but the staff will bring you one if you need.
Port Reviews
Roatan
Don't explore this port on your own! As soon as you walk outside of the pier area the locals acost you and follow you around even when you let them know you don't need help finding anything. On an excursion things might be different. There's a reason only cruise passengers and cab drivers can get inside the pier area.
Harvest Caye
Very good for a private island experience. Lots to do, nice beaches, abundant beach chairs even with umbrellas.
Costa Maya
This appears to be a new up and coming port. Good list of excursions available although we chose not to take one here. Abundant shopping and dining right outside of the pier area, it almost resembles what you'd see on a private island although you can get a cab into town.