I just returned from the June 23, 2019, sailing of the Norwegian Breakaway in the Haven. After a stellar cruise on the Breakaway in the Haven earlier this year in February, I left the ship disappointed this time. 

I planned this cruise as a belated 70th birthday gift for my mother, and it was just she and I traveling. I had booked us two cabins in the Haven—a Deluxe Owner’s Suite (16102) and a Haven Courtyard Penthouse (16704). I had previously sailed in the same Deluxe Owner’s Suite in February, so I felt confident in my cabin choices.

To be clear, everything on our cruise was fine. Other than some minor annoyances, there were no major issues. The butler and cabin stewards were, not surprisingly, absolutely exceptional. The food in the Haven dining room was, with few exceptions, very good. And both suites were spacious and comfortable, if not particularly luxurious—think a nice Hilton, rather than a Four Seasons or St. Regis. Read more