Norwegian Epic Review
Rating by category
Additional details
I read Cruise Critic prior to my cruise and - based on the reviews - expected a less than ideal experience. What a bunch of nay-sayers! I found my overall experience to be excellent. The crowds are a given - 4,000+ passengers is a lot no matter how you slice it, and I did find the elevators, buffet, and pool areas crowded (it was especially hard to get a lounge and a spot in one of the hot tubs). However, the staff does an excellent job of minimizing the effects of so many people. Embarkation and disembarkation were seamless, and I rarely had to wait on line for more than a few minutes for anything. The staff were patient and extremely friendly, and the ship was well labeled, which really helped with getting around and making the most of my time.
The food was excellent overall and there were so many choices. There was enough variety at the buffet to keep me satisfied, but I recommend trying the specialty restaurants as well. For an additional charge of $15-$25 per person, you can order as much as you like, and the food and service are well worth it. We especially loved the Japanese (Teppanyaki) and French (Le Bistro) restaurants - delicious and very elegant! Make sure to try O-Sheehans, too, which does not require an extra fee (great fish & chips and ice cream sundaes!) One tip if you eat at the buffet. Finding seating can be a challenge at peak times, but there is additional seating in La Cucina restaurant, one floor below the buffet. Most people didn't seem to know about it, and it was a much quieter and more relaxing place to sit and eat.
The entertainment on board was excellent as well. My favorite was Cirque Dreams. If you like Cirque du Soleil type shows, you won't be disappointed. Blue Man group was just okay for me, but the kids in our group LOVED it. Legends was fun - Steven Tyler stole the show and the others were good, but not exceptional. The on-board activities were plentiful and the cruise director and his staff did a great job of making everything fun and lively. I enjoyed bingo, Deal or No Deal, and Dancing with the Stars as well as the themed music parties on deck and at Bliss lounge.
Cabin Review
Our state room was clean and comfortable. Lots of room to hang and store clothing, and the bed was surprisingly spacious and comfortable. The toilet and shower areas aren't the most private and it's a little inconvenient that they are right next to the doorway. However, I would be hard pressed to come up with a better arrangement given the small space. Having a balcony was lovely. We had some difficulty with the electrical system - you have to put your room card in a slot to activate the power and it went on and off frequently. The room steward was friendly and very accommodating. I definitely recommend a room on this side of the ship. It was just a few steps from the stairs and elevator leading to the pool and buffet areas, which is where you spend so much of your time. If you are on the spa/fitness center side of the ship, it's a long walk to those areas.