First off let me state that my review is a bit unfair considering how jaded my wife and I are, due to Oasis and Allure of the seas. With that being said, I think its a plus for the NCL Getaway, because our standards are set pretty high. FYI We were a party of 4 two 40+ adults, and a 15yr old girl, and 12 yr old boy. This was kind of a last minute trip we decided on 3 weeks prior….at a great price!!!

Embarkation - 3 of 10 (would be less but can't blame them for baggage handlers)

Unfortunately, my wife and I arrived (out of character) late to the Miami port, at approximately 1:30pm. The port baggage handlers, were not very attentive (unless you arrived in a luxury car), nor helpful. After 5 minutes with bags on floor, we called one of them over, where he rudely asked to see our tickets. After some quick instructions, he then left us with baggage tags which you have to fill out on your own!! NOT EVEN ASKING IF WE HAD A PEN TO FILL OUT TAGS, EXTREMELY RUDE!!!! 10 minutes later, AFTER WE CALLED HIM BACK, he finally said thats it, to leave bags there. (his $10 tip turned into a mean sweaty stare, needless to say!) NCL then separates everyone into 2 boarding groups A or B (depending on even or odd cabin #'s) From this point on, the line took about 50 min before we arrived at a check in counter. Although a bit chaotic on first glance, NCL reps were there making sure things were right. Once at the counter, the process was pretty fast, less than 5 minutes. We finally boarded around 3pm (1.5 hrs after arriving curbside). Once on Gangway you start hearing the pleasant greeting NCL puts together, smiles, music, and optional beverages. Read more