I recently enjoyed a 2 night taster cruise on the brand new Norwegian Epic. This is the largest ship I have been on so far, and I was impressed with the huge amount of choice available on board. NCL operate a “Freestyle” Cruise without set dining times, so you can sample several different dining options.There are 22 different choices for dining on board, from the very simple to the really grand. An absolute must is one of the dinner shows. The Spiegel Tent where your waiters are the performers is great fun, and why not take part in the Murder Mystery lunch there? Or visit the Manhattan Room where Elvis, Tina Turner and Madonna serenade you while you dine.
Out of the 22 restaurants, more than half are included in the fare, and some have a cover charge which I felt was worth the extra. The Mediterranean style “La Cucina” restaurant which overlooks the front of the ship was wonderful. I think my favourite, though, was Shanghai’s Chinese Restaurant. I had a delicious meal there as the sun was setting. Very romantic!
There’s so much to do on board, you’ll be hard pushed to fit everything in! Make sure you pack your costume to try the water slides, or to just relax by one of the pools. There’s a great adults only, open air bar at the rear of the ship, and a fun nightclub with beds by the dancefloor! I was impressed by the amount of open space on board. I thought such a large ship would feel crowded, but there was plenty of open deck to relax on and I never felt hemmed in at all. I did have a look at the gym and was blown away by the facilities in there (I didn’t use it though!).
The spa is amazing, and one of the saunas has picture windows. You can de-tox in the spa, or re-tox in one of the many bars! The Ice Bar is a first at sea. Do make sure you get to see the Blue Man Group in the theatre, but don’t sit too close to the front of the stage!
Night owls are spoiled for choice too. I really enjoyed “Fat Cats” Jazz and Blues bar, a smaller, live music venue. There’s comedy shows to enjoy, and a huge casino if you fancy a flutter.
There’s a massive choice of different accommodation on board, ranging from the Studios which are exclusively for single travellers, and have their own private lounge, right up to the Suites. I really liked the Spa Suites with the Jacuzzi in them! I think it’s worth treating yourself to an upgrade.
There’s plenty for families to do, and the kids’ and teens’ clubs will keep them occupied all day. There are 6 bowling lanes on board, and there’s an Aqua Park for the children, as well as the daredevil slides for the big children! There are rock climbing walls, and bungee trampolines.
Overall, plenty to keep everyone occupied all day.
