Norwegian Escape Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We were a group of 21 (5 families) that took the Norwegian Escape the week of February 20, 2016. I was a little skeptical about going on this cruise after reading all the poor reviews but am I ever glad we went. The boat is beautiful, the food was great, so much to do for kids. The rope's course was a great experience. The staff were friendly for the most part except for the two bartenders at the Waves pool bar on the 17th deck. They were quite rude and unfriendly. But, I guess everyone is allowed to have bad days so I won't hold it against them.
Previous reviews complained about how crowded the pool areas were. Well what do you expect when you book on a cruise ship with 4000 people. I always managed to find lounge chairs, maybe not where I wanted them, but who cares. You are on vacation, don't stress about the little things.
Embarkation and disembarkation (we chose walk off) were a breeze. Very quick and efficient. Once the ship got going, they had everyone meet to go over the safety instructions. When they do this, they close all the bars. One guy was yelling at the poor bartender about because he was getting his drink and wanted to speak to someone in charge. I mean really, it's for your own safety (and law by the way) to go through the safety instructions. You must have a real drinking problem if you can't go 30 minutes without a drink.
Cabin Review
Balcony Stateroom
This was perfect for a family of four. There was a queen bed (to me it seemed like a king), a sofa bed and a murphy style bed that came down from the ceiling above the sofa bed (yes it has a railing). The bathroom was a good size for a cruise ship. The balcony was amazing. I loved having a view of the ocean (great place to dry your bathing suits too :)) For all the time you spend in your room (just to sleep), I have no complaints. Comfortable beds, comfortable pillows, enough outlets and great cabin staff. Our air conditioning didn't work very well but we had a balcony suite so I didn't mind. We just left the sliding door open.
Port Reviews
St. Thomas
We made our way to Coki beach for a few hours and had a great time. Hired a lovely female taxi driver who took us there and came back and got us in the afternoon. Cost us $50 roundtrip for a family of 4. When she found out we hadn't been there before, she took us up the mountain to get a great view of Magen's Bay.
Nassau
We walked to the closest public beach. It took us about 15 minutes. The town is crowded and dirty but still interesting. We shopped on the way back.
Tortola
Walked into town to do some shopping. Only about a 7 minute walk.
Miami
The driving in Miami is scary. I've never experience anything like it and I lived in India for 3 years!