I booked this trip at the last minute because 1) The Panama Canal was on my list and 2) I had an unexpected long opening in my calendar. First Norwegian cruise for me. Generally lovely ship except for the disappointingly small and only pool for non-Haven guests. Staff were generally very accommodating, curiously though, the entertainment staff and cruise director had an "attitude" I did not appreciate. Stateroom was comfy. Steward was terrific! Beverages are way overpriced (captive audience). Food was OK. Recommend eating at Taste and Savory whenever able - food is cooked to order rather than eating in "The Bay of Pigs" (main buffet style dining facility which gets a little old on long trip and is not the best at enforcing guest hand hygiene). With the exception of a few shows (hypnotist, Jersey Boys), I did not care for most of the evening entertainment - just not my style. Sound systems in the smaller venues were very loud, inhibiting ability to talk w/ other guests. However, when ship's captain needed to make an announcement, we could NOT hear these well in the common areas. Shore excursions were mixed - I had low expectations so was OK. Lecturer on Panama Canal was helpful; very limited other educational opps on this trip. While my review is critical, I paid a discounted fare because I booked so late and had a great time. I would travel w/ Norwegian again. Enjoy!!!
Clean. Quiet. Mid-ship balcony was nice. Water was hot. Plumbing worked great. Room phone did not work, but was promptly replaced once I brought it to staff attention. Nice TV for this size room. HVAC adjusted quickly to any changes I programmed. Bed was very comfy!
This is a poor city and needs tourist money. None of the tours enticed me. Thus, I simply walked around the area close to the port - and actually ran into tour group after tour group from our ship. They were very disappointed they paid for the same tour I "invented" for myself. There is a little pharmacy close to port where I was able to purchase Coca-Cola products for very little money (beats the $3.20/can for Diet Pepsi on the ship).