This was our second cruise on NCL. The first (to Mexico early last year) was so positively memorable that we really looked forward to the Getaway cruise leaving NYC on New Year's Day. However, our experience with this Getaway cruise could not be more negative. I am very surprised that the other reviews of this sailing were not universally negative. First, the change in itinerary. We believe that there was some mechanical problem (engines, exhaust system?) with the ship that caused an extra day in Port Canaveral. The Captain flat out lied to the passengers that the issue was "strong currents". At the same time, NCL substituted Nassau for two days in Bermuda. Like many passengers, the only reason we chose this specific cruise is that we wanted to visit Bermuda for the first time. Nassau, with its low quality excursions by Blue Island Lagoon, does not rate with Bermuda. Moreover, the extra day in Bermuda was replaced by an increasingly cold day at sea as we headed back to NYC.

So what is the conclusion of the NCL change in itinerary? It was not "strong currents" or the weather in Bermuda (which was fine all the way through the scheduled departure on January 6). Instead there were mechanical issues which caused the change in schedule. We, the paying passengers, were treated like sheep and were lied to. In effect we were kidnapped by NCL and forced to go on an expensive substitute trip that we had no control over and, for many, we would never have signed up for. As for NCL, I am not a sheep, but rather a paying customer, who will never allow you to ruin my vacation again. How could we not be fairly compensated for this very substantial change in itinerary which was caused by NCL's maintenance issues?

As for other specifics, the food quality of the Garden Cafe was a "D" compared to an "A" on our first cruise. We were saved from absolute misery by the Savor and Taste restaurants. Quality entertainment was much more limited on this cruise, though I would still rate it "B-". The Million Dollar Quartet and Howl at the Moon were good. The excursion at Nassau by the Blue Island Lagoon was truly an unbelievable disappointment and should be an embarrassment for NCL at $90 a person. Never again. Our steward was excellent and the bar tenders and the rest of the staff were very good. Read more