We are a couple - almost retired from the NY area. We have been on about 15-20 cruises with most of the popular lines. I am writing this mostly from my perspective (even though my wife pretty much agrees with me).We flew into Ft Lauderdale and took the NCL shuttle bus to the Miami port. All went smoothly and embarkation was a breeze. The easiest of any cruise. As expected, the rooms were to be ready at 2 PM. In order to avoid the crowds in the buffet, we ate lunch at O'Shaunessy's on deck 6. It is a limited menu, but good comfort food. The room turned out to be smaller than any we had been in. The bathroom and shower arrangement which seems to be an issue with others was just fine. There is enough storage spread around the cabin, but the drawers are very shallow - good for socks and underwear I guess. There are way too many light switches for too many small lights, but curiously not enough light around the dressing table area where hair and make-up are done.About the food - First night, was in one of the main dining rooms (they have the same menu). The food quality , preparation , and presentation was of cafeteria level. It was, by far, the lowest quality of any cruise we have taken. From the watery, tasteless soup to the poor dessert, you can have it.I suggest you find out when lobster night is (ask the host) and go to that. The tails, though small, were fine. Other nights, we ate at many of the specialty restaurants. All were a major improvement and are highly recommended. Entertainment - Here the ship does itself proud. Blue Man Group (our first time), Jeff Hobson (magic and comedy), Legends in Concert were super. We did not see the other shows, so no comment. I kept missing the late night music.The casino was the largest I have seen at sea. There were a large variety of table games and new slots. Dealers were friendly and helpful. Smoke was sometimes an issue in the casino.Service was universally good. Cabins were well cared for and ice was always present. The cabin attendant will empty the fridge if requested, so it can be used for your own stuff. Wait staff was ok with only one instance of inadequate language skills. We generally left additional tips in the specialty restaurants.Ports - Costa Maya - Just did some pier shopping then back to the ship.Roatan - Had a lovely day at Mayan Princess resort. Includes all drinks and lunch. We booked this directly. Cozumel- Did catamaran snorkeling and beach thing - was ok.A word about the Epic. The pool deck is just too small for the number of people aboard. The pool in the adult area is not much bigger than my bathtub at home. Getting of the ship was quick and painless. Shuttle to the airport, then home. Is it time for another cruise already? YESSS! but not on the Epic.
Little space to pass, small drawers, not enough light at dressing table area