Embarkation was a breeze, special area for Haven guests, and escort up to the Haven lounge. We seemed to lose our escort at some point, but no issues, I had studied the deck plans, and knew how to get to the lounge. We started off the cruise in style with a few excellent cocktails, expertly made by Branco, the Haven lounge bartender. We met our butler, Jefferson, who managed to learn our names immediately. Hung out for a bit in the lounge and then we were given the option of going to Margaretville for lunch, its free for Haven guests on embarkation day. At Margaretville I learned that there would be tax on my cocktails ordered as we were in port, this is waived in the Haven lounge. Not a big deal, but a bit annoying to see NCL live up to their nickel and dime reputation for Haven guests. Lunch was OK.

Haven restaurant was fantastic, never had to wait for a table. Great service, Great food, one of the best restaurants I have been to. I think perhaps the best service I had ever had in a restaurant. The chef set aside carrot cake from the lunch menu, so I could have it for supper as well. In hind sight we should have eaten lunch here the first day, saved on the tax for our cocktails, and had a much better experience. The attentive and unrushed service was a high point for the cruise. All the wait staff new our names and dietary restrictions (nut allergy for my wife).

The Haven pool area was very nice, although the actual pool was a bit small, and really only useful for a few kids to play about. Guests with younger kids tended to hang out in the lower pool area with their kids, on sea days. There was also sauna and hot tubs that were not crowded. Adults without kids tended to hang out in the upper level of the pool area, or outside on the deck. Lots of lounge chairs, and the staff was very helpful setting up umbrellas, getting drinks, and food, etc. We did make use of the retractable roof, for the pool area, it rained for a bit on the way back, no problem, close the roof. Read more