Norwegian Epic Review
Rating by category
Additional details
We were looking for a European cruise in a tight time window that would not break the bank, with good itinerary and decent onboard amenities. We had cruised largely on Celebrity (most recently, though, on the Paul Gauguin in French Polynesia), with only prior NCL sailing on Pride of America in 2009. The Norwegian Epic did not disappoint, but we continue to prefer Celebrity.
A few important points to highlight:
--I agree that there is plenty of "nickel and diming" on NCL. All liquor bottles are confiscated when detected with the X-ray machines, to be returned the last evening of the cruise. Corkage fee applies. They even prohibit water bottles (because NCL hawks water bottles at an astronomical mark-up), and do not allow filling of portable bottles at the Garden Cafe (buffet) to take off-ship despite hot weather. See comment on tour excursions below.
Cabin Review
Mini-Suite with Balcony
Weird set-up with separate bath/shower on one side, toilet on other side as one enters the cabin, then a curtain, with sink adjacent to the sofa. A little tight squeeze to get beyond sofa. More than ample storage space.
Port Reviews
Cannes
Weather dreary. Walked the town, hung out on the beach for 30 minutes, took some pictures, then back to the uncrowded boat. Too exhausted after three Italian ports to do Nice/Monaco.
Palma de Mallorca (Majorca)
Took a cab to the PortaNova public beach for 21Euro, public bus back to port (3.1Euro/person). Gorgeous sunny afternoon to relax before our last night onboard the Epic.