Norwegian Bliss Review
stoumi
First Time Cruiser • Age 50s
Rating by category
Cabin
Family
Embarkation
Dining
Public Rooms
Entertainment
Fitness & Recreation
Additional details
Sail Date: Nov 2021
Cabin: Oceanview with Large Picture Window
Traveled with children
This Mexican adventure was my first cruise on NCL, my first cruise ever. Expectations were high, but I didn't quite know what to expect, especially with COVID protocols in place and the ship only booked half full. Originally, I was not included to be on this boat with my girlfriend, her son and mom, but as things worked out, I made time off at work and decided to book a room and join them.
I started by booking the cruise online, but was quickly called back by a cruise consultant, who helped me set up all the details: room, alcohol (premium bev package), dining (2 specialties), excursion (1 included) and Internet (240 minutes) package. I had MANY questions regarding these packages and never really got all the questions answered ahead of time, but felt I know better what I want from these addons for future cruises.
It was no surprise to receive constant emails from NCL. Checking in online was fairly straight forward, but did have a few questions that were answered regarding COVID testing and some pertaining to carrying on wine. Navigation to check in wasn't complicated, but a bit time consuming. After I set myself up, I was able to help her mom set up the other three travelers under her itinerary. I reassured her time and time again we were checked in, printed the required paperwork for checking in at San Pedro on the day we sailed.
Cabin Review
Oceanview with Large Picture Window
While I was hoping to upgrade to a balcony, this ocean view was the next best option, especially stateroom 10100, located on the bow, in the middle of the ship. It was quite a long walk to 10844, where her mom and son were staying. The stateroom was quite large and roomy. There was no couch, but a built in ledge under the window (with storage) that really opened the room up. The bathroom was small, as expected, but fit its purpose, located to the left as you entered the stateroom.
The bed was queen sized, but during the night I slept in the middle and could feel the seam between the two mattresses. Our only real complaint was the firmness of the mattress and the softness of the pillows. While neither were a showstopper, this was the only downside to the cruise. The cabin had ample storage, including a closet, under the bed storage and a safe.
Port Reviews
Cabo San Lucas
Shopping and restaurants along with night clubs. Wasn't impressed with having to a tender to the mainland, took about 30 minutes. Many of the ports were the same, every Mexican trying to sell you something. Drugstores on every corner and people pushing your towards their establishment.
We did eat in Cabo at Las Guacamayas, yet would never reconsider going back here. This was a recommended eatery from the guy behind the counter at a pharmacy. The service was horrible, borderline 30 minutes for ANY service. We almost got up and left. The food was okay, but slow to come to the table. The waiter screwed up the order and brought the last item for our meal, well after we were done. Lots of shopping, tequila and pharmacy purchases.
Puerto Vallarta
Another Mexican port, didn't feel like Cabo but was much the same. Had some lunch at Bar Oceano Restaurante, overlooking the ocean. A quiet place with some good food. Service a bit slow. Shopping many of the local places picked up some shirts, a hat and a pullover.
Mazatlan
We set out on our own in Mazatlan, took a taxi to Plaza Machado, not a whole to see. Walked over the the Catedral Basílica de la Inmaculada Concepción and ended up at Casa Etnika, a neat little, local owned store by a Belgian woman. Lots of handmade items!
Ensenada
Another tourist town, unimpressed. Cheap travel to and from the port, much like Cabo, everyone trying to sell you on merchandise or their restaurant. Didn't eat in Ensenada, but spent more money on pharmaceutical items and stuff we probably didn't need.
8 Helpful Votes
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