Norwegian Breakaway Review
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My husband and I are frequent cruisers during school holiday periods and learned long ago to work around kids, families and crowds. Many of the issues I’ve read aboutin other reviews (long lines, long waits, reservations needed) can be avoided by being prepared. Fortunately, our TA does an excellent job letting us know the lay of the land!
We were a little worried about cruising during April vacation, fearing that the ship would be overrun with kids. While there were a lot of families on board, we didn't find kids to be a problem (except for maybe commandeering the jacuzzis in the afternoon). They had their own pool/splash park, rock climbing wall, and other stuff to keep them busy. Breakaway received an extensive refurbishment last summer giving her a new shimmer and shine, and we loved the decor throughout. Restaurants were crowded at peak times, and shows were packed, but no more than any other cruise we’ve done. We were very fortunate to have beautiful weather for this cruise!
Pre-Cruise: We flew Southwest to Ft. Lauderdale, and had a great stay at the Comfort Suites FLL Airport/Cruise Port. We took a horrid shuttle ride to Miami through SAS Transportation the next morning, which was the last time I ever subject myself to a shared shuttle. We were the last two people picked up for the last two remaining seats on the bench seat in the back of the van - two seats really sized for one. With two large adults and my husband seated, I was forced into the corner on the window ledge with my feet planted on the wheel bump. I rode the entire ride to Miami half sitting/half standing with my knees up to my chest. The driver didn't care, never asked if everyone was okay, and went on his merry way. We complained to the company, but received no reply. From now on, it's private rides, taxi or Uber.
Cabin Review
Mid-Ship Balcony Stateroom
Nice, standard size cabin with a sofa. Storage could be better, and I would have liked more space between the bed and the closet, as it was too awkward to access. Bathroom is a decent size, and the shower more than manageable. Balcony is small, with barely enough room for 2 chairs, but fine for my afternoon snooze. Occasional fumes were detected on the balcony from the above funnels, depending on which way the wind is blowing, sometimes forcing us to keep the door closed. Note that the cabins on Deck 14 sit under a large overhang from the pool deck above, which is great for shade from the hot Caribbean sun, but not so great if you want to sunbathe on your balcony.
Port Reviews
Harvest Caye
This is fairly new island resort just off Belize built specifically for Norwegian and managed by the people of Belize. I have mixed feelings about Harvest Cay. On one hand, it’s just a long walk down the pier to a beach oasis with loads of palm trees and greenery, a huge pool, beach, water activities, bar, restaurant, gift shops, and everything you’d want from a relaxing beach day. On the other hand, if you are looking for an authentic Belize experience, it’s not here. To get that, you have to book a ship excursion or find your own way to the mainland. Unlike Norwegian’s private island, all food and drinks are extra, and you can’t use your key card for purchases because, as stated before, the resort is run by the locals. We went for a few hours first thing in the morning when they opened, and enjoyed the pool, where there was more shade. Lack of shade at the beach and the sign there warning about jellyfish stings was enough to choose the pool over the ocean. We did notice that the clamshells reservable in advance for a fee were located furthest away from the beach and situated side by side right up against the boardwalk in a long line down the beach. I’d be interested to know if they were worth it.