This was our second cruise on Norwegian Sun and third with NCL. Like every business in the world they are trying to recover from covid losses but cuts have gone too far! Our cruise diary rates previous NCL entertainment as fabulous; it isn't now. Having the same (albeit fantastically good) violinist for 6 nights out of 10 as the main theatre act lacked imagination. The other 2 major shows lacked pizazz, seemingly being middle rank singers and dancers on their first rung of the showbiz ladder. But let's get to the good bits;

UPSIDE: The ship is in fabulous condition; evidence of an enormous amount of work by the crew. Topsides:- sparkling, clean decks; perfect varnish work; brightwork polished; no rust anywhere. Interior spaces are freshly carpeted, lifts/bars/restaurants etc are exceptional. Ship's crew in every department are attentive, friendly, efficient and just lovely people. Restaurants/food excellent in every way.

DOWNSIDE: If your cruise deal does not include "free at sea" you had better be teetotal! Drinks prices are extortionate and all subject to an extra 20% tip (plus 10% tax in Spain).. As an example, a draft Stella (375cc) $9 plus a small prosecco cocktail $11 will round up to $24 with the compulsory 20% tip added. Whoever paid a barman $4 to pour 2 drinks? A glass of wine at dinner is $11. There is also a $20 per day, per person, "discretionary " tip added to your account. $400 for a couple for this cruise. Entertainment: already mentioned; main theatre disappointing; bar venues/atrium packed to capacity everynight with insufficient space or seats. "Captains cocktail party" a lukewarm affair at mid day, with no appearance of any ship's senior officers. The captain himself (or any other deck officer or engineer) was unseen for 10 days. Read more