After two cancellations over the past 18 months, we finally got to cruise on the amazing Encore. This was our eighth NCL cruise, having been on first the Dawn, followed by the Spirit, Getaway, Escape (three times) and the Bliss. We were not disappointed.

First, I will mention the shortcomings. Covid makes getting on board more of a challenge. We tested the day prior to flying to Seattle for a couple reasons. First, we didn't want to travel if we had the virus. Second, NCL recently instituted a provision in their cost reimbursement policy. If you do test positive at the port prior to boarding, they will help out with the costs required to quarantine and fly home, only if you can prove a negative test 72 hours prior to coming to the port. Masks were not required on board, but this may change. They closed one of the resturants and both of the main Broadway shows were cancelled. The ship was about half full. The weather was cool and most of the folks were like us, an older demographic.

All that being said, we still had a great time! The crew is very happy to have passengers back. They are all very friendly and cheerful. Service was never an issue and our few requests were accommodated. Read more