Let me start by staying that I'm a Platinum latitudes member on NCL. This is the highest level they offer and I have been on numerous ships -- Getaway; Breakaway; Epic (awful); Dawn (multiple times); Jewel (multiple times); Pearl (multiple times); Sky; and Star. So I'm very familiar with NCL and their freestyle concept as it WAS our favorite line!

Their latest ships (Getaway and it's sister, Breakaway are designed really for the guests who pay for the premium cabins (Haven). They have dedicated much space to the Haven, which has taken away much space from the pool deck. The "adult only area" is called Spice H2O and doesn't even have a pool. Plus, there is barely any shade back there for anyone seeking some sun relief. The "adult only" pool is located in the main pool area and is ridiculously small for the 4,000+ passengers. And good luck finding a deck chair (in the shade) on a sea day unless you "reserve" your chair at 8am. Though, the Haven (which I have stayed in last year) has it's own pool (super small) but a really (quite spacious) deck area with awesome chairs.

The spa (sauna's and steam) are also paid areas to enter. More money for NCL! NO free spaces for guests. Not even a shower in the locker room to use after the gym. In fact, most of the free spaces are really small on these two ships. NCL clearly favors the "pay extra" model for their spas, restaurants, even bowling! (I'm surprised they don't charge for the ROPES course or the slides. They probably haven't figured out how to do it...yet!) The fitness center (a free space) is also ridiculously small for a 4,000+ passenger ship. Again, a free space is small. Read more