Norwegian Dawn Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We are seasoned NCL cruisers and have been on the Dawn before (most recently in 2013 before her renovation) and I can say that this was one of our favorite cruises ever.
From the embarkation process (less than 30 minutes from parking at the pier to waiting to get on the ship) to the last morning the staff went above and beyond to make everyone's vacation great. Bartender at the pool knew our names and drinks after our first order (evern my 3 year old daughter's shirley temple). Pool area was well laid out and even though the pool itself got crowded (we had 7 days of 85 degrees and sunny) there was never an issue finding a seat due to the stadium seating. You could always find a bartender at the pool to take your drink order and there were people cleaning up used plates and cups everywhere.
We participated in almost everything the ship had to offer and I enjoyed everything from the buffet (great breakfast) to the specialty restaurants (run don't walk to Los Lobos) as well as Trivia (lots of fun), the pool, the spa (best spa on any NCL ship I have been on), the casino, Deal or No Deal (we actually WON), and the kids club (my 3 year old enjoyed all of the activities).
Cabin Review
Family Balcony
Cabin was WAYYYY too small and was not laid out the best it could be. Family is stretching it as we had 2 adults in the cabin and felt cramped. We have enjoyed balcony cabins on the Gem and Breakaway much better as well as on other cruise lines.
Port Reviews
Port Canaveral (Orlando)
Not worth getting off the boat unless you go to the space center. Disney is 2 hours each way away and the beach is just ok ( think NY/NJ/DE/NC not Miami).