Norwegian Escape Review: A Cruisers Honest Experience

If you're considering a cruise vacation, you're likely researching various ships and itineraries to find the perfect fit for your needs. As a seasoned cruiser, I recently had the opportunity to sail on the Norwegian Escape, and I'm excited to share my honest review with you. In this article, I'll dive into the details of my experience, covering everything from the ship's amenities and activities to the dining options and staterooms.

Ship Overview

The Norwegian Escape is a Breakaway Plus-class cruise ship that launched in 2015. With a capacity for over 4,200 passengers, it's a relatively large ship, but Norwegian's innovative design ensures that it never feels overcrowded. The Escape is designed to provide a resort-like experience at sea, with a wide range of amenities and activities to suit all interests.

Amenities and Activities

One of the standout features of the Norwegian Escape is its impressive array of amenities and activities. From the moment you step onboard, you'll find plenty of options to keep you entertained. Here are just a few of the highlights:

• Water Park: The Escape features a thrilling water park with a variety of slides, a splash pad for kids, and a dedicated adults-only area.
• Spa and Wellness: The Mandara Spa offers a range of treatments, including massages, facials, and body wraps. You'll also find a fitness center, yoga studio, and sauna.
• Dining Options: With over 20 dining venues onboard, you'll never go hungry. From fine dining restaurants to casual buffets and specialty eateries, there's something for every taste and budget.
• Entertainment: The Escape offers a range of entertainment options, including live music venues, comedy clubs, and production shows.

Dining Options

As I mentioned earlier, the Norwegian Escape offers an incredible range of dining options. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Cagney's Steakhouse: This upscale steakhouse serves top-quality meats, seafood, and sides in an elegant atmosphere.
• La Cucina: If you're in the mood for Italian cuisine, La Cucina is a must-visit. This intimate restaurant serves up delicious pasta dishes, pizzas, and more.
• Taste: This main dining room offers a rotating menu of international cuisine, with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

Staterooms

The Norwegian Escape offers a wide range of staterooms to suit every budget and preference. From cozy interior rooms to spacious suites with balconies, you'll find the perfect accommodation for your needs. Here are a few things to keep in mind when choosing your stateroom:

• Location: Consider the location of your stateroom in relation to the ship's amenities and activities. If you're a light sleeper, you may want to opt for a room in a quieter area of the ship.
• Category: Norwegian offers a range of stateroom categories, from interior rooms to balcony suites. Be sure to research the different options and choose the one that best fits your needs and budget.
• Amenities: Some staterooms come with additional amenities, such as a mini-bar or personalized concierge service. Be sure to check the details of your room before booking.

Itinerary and Ports of Call

The Norwegian Escape offers a range of itineraries to the Caribbean, Bahamas, and Bermuda. During my cruise, we visited the following ports:

• Miami: Our cruise departed from Miami, a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene and stunning beaches.
• Nassau: Our first port of call was Nassau, the capital of the Bahamas. This charming city is known for its colonial architecture, beautiful beaches, and lively markets.
• St. Thomas: Our second port of call was St. Thomas, a picturesque island in the US Virgin Islands. We spent the day exploring the island's beautiful beaches, shopping, and taking in the stunning views.

Shore Excursions

During our ports of call, we had the opportunity to participate in a range of shore excursions. Here are a few of my favorites:

• Snorkeling: We took a snorkeling excursion in St. Thomas, where we explored the island's stunning coral reefs and marine life.
• Beach Break: We spent the day relaxing on the beach in Nassau, where we enjoyed the warm sun, cool drinks, and stunning views.
• Island Tour: We took an island tour in St. Thomas, where we explored the island's charming villages, beautiful beaches, and historic landmarks.

Conclusion

Overall, my experience on the Norwegian Escape was incredible. From the ship's impressive amenities and activities to the delicious dining options and comfortable staterooms, I was thoroughly impressed. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or just starting to plan your next vacation, I highly recommend considering the Norwegian Escape.

Final Thoughts

If you're considering a cruise on the Norwegian Escape, here are a few final thoughts to keep in mind:

• Book early: Be sure to book your cruise well in advance to ensure availability and the best rates.
• Research: Take the time to research the ship's amenities, activities, and dining options to ensure they align with your interests and preferences.
• Plan ahead: Plan your shore excursions and activities in advance to ensure availability and to make the most of your time in port.

I hope this review has provided you with a helpful overview of the Norwegian Escape. Whether you're a seasoned cruiser or just starting to plan your next vacation, I'm confident that you'll have an incredible experience on this incredible ship.