Norwegian Getaway Review
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We have traveled NCL many times, but I was a little disappointed with this ship. It's just too big- way too many people. We usually had breakfast in the Garden Cafe while in port (quick meal so we could get started on the day), and while the food choices were okay, and the staff was good, it was basically a free for all. If you have time in the morning I would definitely suggest having breakfast in one of the free dining rooms (Savor or Taste). We usually enjoyed dinner in those two dining rooms also- we found the service was very good. Specialty restaurants used tp be one set price (ex. $20 per person to dine) now they are all (I think with the exception of Teppanyaki) a la carte. Ridicuous since its all coming out of the same kitchen as the Garden Cafe. Also, try as we might we could never get seating at the Shanghai's (the noodle bar) there was always a 45 minute wait. There was never a wait at any of the main dining rooms. We usually arrived around 7pm, and we were aparty of 4. We were always seated quckly. I really hate to say it, but the mest meals I had on this trip were not on the ship at all. I am not a real picky eater, but I was just not happy with my meals. There was no taste, the choices were meh, nothing wowed me.
The wifi is a joke, its expensive and riduclously slow. Once wifi is installed its vitually free to maintain. We usually would just loo free wifi when we got off the ship. Less hassles, and much quicker.
On the ship- all the public areas and rest rooms were kept clean. In the Garden Cafe tables were cleared away quickly. In the gift shop and the photo shop the personnel were friendly and helpful. Chloe in the gift shop was a delight. I spoke to her and some of the other people working there about what to expect when shopping in St.Petersburgh and they gave me a lot of helpful tips and info. BTW- we were warned repeatedly about pickpockets in St.Petersburgh. These warnings should be taken seriously.Carry wallets, passports and anything of value in an inside jacket pocket. Always be aware of people around you, and ladies- use a cross body type bag with a zipper closure, keep it in front of you and keep your hand on your bag at all times. You'll see some amazing sites, but dont get so caught up in looking and taking pictures that you are not aware. Pickpocketing in St. Petersburgh has been raised to a fine art.
Cabin Review
Balcony Stateroom
Cabin was kept clean, location was good
Port Reviews
St. Petersburg
We took a pre-arranged private tour. You'll need a visa, so our tour ticket was our visa. We were met at he port by our guide and driver. Beware of pickpockets- they are everywhere. Dont carry anything in your back pocket, one of our group had his cell phone removed as he slipped it in his pocket. Luckily he got it back, but always be aware of what and who is around you. Be wary of distractions.
Tallinn
There are cabs to be had a the port, they'll take you up the hill to the old town, and then its just a leisurely stroll down to the bottom. Lovely town, but way too many toursts.
Gdansk (Warsaw)
We got off the ship and were met by several cab drivers willing to negotiate a price. They will give you a decent local map, mark sites for you, give you sight seeing tips and arrange pickup time for transport back to the boat. They don't usually take any money until they return you to the boat. Tip- stop at an ATM of money changer to get cash. Also as an FYI- public restrooms (not in a restaurant, although in, say a McDonalds or other fast food place they may charge) usually charge a fee, in Gdansk they did take euro, lucky for me. This was the first time a ship this size put into Gdansk, so we were met by lots of locals watching as we pulled in. Leaving their were even more locals coming to the dock to watch us leave and wave. It was nice to be received so warmly.
Stockholm
No excusion needed really, got off the boat and had a cab take us right to the palace which is near the old town area and all the shopping. The best part of this port is the ride into the port on the ship, it passes lots of picturesque little islands on the way in and out of the port. Have your camera on hand, some great photos to be had