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NCL EPIC take 2!! July 2nd-9th 2017 NCL EPIC review


aliciawag
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We are flying Delta in and out of BCN for our August Epic cruise. We have a 12:00 pm flight leaving after the cruise, and plan on leaving the ship (we will have a car waiting for us) by 9 a.m. Does anyone think that is enough time to get through the lines and grab a bite to eat before boarding, or should we leave earlier? Thanks for helping!

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We are flying Delta in and out of BCN for our August Epic cruise. We have a 12:00 pm flight leaving after the cruise, and plan on leaving the ship (we will have a car waiting for us) by 9 a.m. Does anyone think that is enough time to get through the lines and grab a bite to eat before boarding, or should we leave earlier? Thanks for helping!

 

Yes, that should be plenty of time, although you can always give yourself more time by arranging the car for earlier. You would be able to get off of the Epic quite a bit earlier than that. Even at 9am, you should be at the airport by about 9.30 which is loads of time.

 

The thing to remember about Barcelona is that, if you are are getting there at the suggested check in times (a couple of hours before departure) then there is plenty of time to board etc. However, just make sure that you get past those passport checks earlier rather than later. There are food options after them.

 

The issues reported above may not even apply to you anyway. I notice that the OP is from the UK, and I'm pretty sure that their gate was in the same area that we usually go from. Other areas may not be as bad. Just be aware and if you aren't sure then get through any passport control early. If you are flying from Terminal 2 then I can't comment on whether it's a problem.

 

We have always flown out of Barcelona at about 11.30-12.00 after leaving the ship and have never had any problem getting those flights. The only time it was even tight was when there were a load of ships in port and the taxi queue was huge. From memory, we arrived at the airport at around 10.30, dropped our bags and went straight through to the gates. We still had time to grab a snack before getting our flight at 11.45

 

As I say, it isn't the time it takes as such. The problem is if you don't realise there will be a delay at passport control and do what the OP did and eat etc before going through.

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Yes, that should be plenty of time, although you can always give yourself more time by arranging the car for earlier. You would be able to get off of the Epic quite a bit earlier than that. Even at 9am, you should be at the airport by about 9.30 which is loads of time.

 

The thing to remember about Barcelona is that, if you are are getting there at the suggested check in times (a couple of hours before departure) then there is plenty of time to board etc. However, just make sure that you get past those passport checks earlier rather than later. There are food options after them.

 

The issues reported above may not even apply to you anyway. I notice that the OP is from the UK, and I'm pretty sure that their gate was in the same area that we usually go from. Other areas may not be as bad. Just be aware and if you aren't sure then get through any passport control early. If you are flying from Terminal 2 then I can't comment on whether it's a problem.

 

We have always flown out of Barcelona at about 11.30-12.00 after leaving the ship and have never had any problem getting those flights. The only time it was even tight was when there were a load of ships in port and the taxi queue was huge. From memory, we arrived at the airport at around 10.30, dropped our bags and went straight through to the gates. We still had time to grab a snack before getting our flight at 11.45

 

As I say, it isn't the time it takes as such. The problem is if you don't realise there will be a delay at passport control and do what the OP did and eat etc before going through.

 

yes- We're from Ireland however many flights going to outside the EU were also boarding in this area. I'd 100% agree with you- get through both security and passport control ASAP! Had we realised we would need to do this prior to boarding we could have been there in plenty of time!

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yes- We're from Ireland however many flights going to outside the EU were also boarding in this area. I'd 100% agree with you- get through both security and passport control ASAP! Had we realised we would need to do this prior to boarding we could have been there in plenty of time!

 

Sorry, it was the other person who posted about delays that is from the UK.

 

As you say, that area is used for flights to other areas as well. I'm not sure whether the whole of the terminal is the same, or whether that section is particularly a problem. I suppose there is no reason why it should be worse than elsewhere.

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However, just make sure that you get past those passport checks earlier rather than later. There are food options after them.

 

If you are flying from Terminal 2 then I can't comment on whether it's a problem.

 

From memory, we arrived at the airport at around 10.30, dropped our bags and went straight through to the gates. We still had time to grab a snack before getting our flight at 11.45

 

 

The problem is if you don't realise there will be a delay at passport control and do what the OP did and eat etc before going through.

KeithJenner -

Thanks so much for your input. I was worried about being able to pick up some food/snacks AFTER the passport checkpoint. Delta also flies out of Terminal 1, so maybe we will make our pickup at 8:30 just to make sure we get through in time. I'd rather be stress-free at the end of the cruise than worry about missing our flight!

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aliciawag -

There is mention of Siglo performing Rock etc at various times.

Is this an individual/band?

Any good?

Thanks

Blues

P.S. I've placed a link to your report onto our Roll Call. Very informative. Thank you.

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aliciawag -

There is mention of Siglo performing Rock etc at various times.

Is this an individual/band?

Any good?

Thanks

Blues

P.S. I've placed a link to your report onto our Roll Call. Very informative. Thank you.

Thanks for posting the link blues! I'm afraid I don't know anything about siglo- I was probably too consumed by the blackjack table at the times he was playing! Maybe someone else on here can give any insight!?

 

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aliciawag -

There is mention of Siglo performing Rock etc at various times.

Is this an individual/band?

Any good?

Thanks

Blues

P.S. I've placed a link to your report onto our Roll Call. Very informative. Thank you.

I'd say they performed almost everyday on the Cavern, but I can't tell you about, I had no time for them! anyway I highly recomend you the Epic Beatles and Howl at the Moon. AMAZING

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Day 2: Embarkation Day

 

We woke up around 9 am in Hotel Denit after a somewhat restless night ( the bed came equipped with only a sheet and no duvet!). Breakfast was served on the lower ground floor and consisted of a small selection of croissants and pastries, a number of cooked items and a few whole fruits. While we had originally planned to spend a half day exploring Barcelona prior to boarding, we had now changed our minds and decided to get a taxi to the port at 12 pm. After a quick pitstop to pull and bear on Placa de Catalunya (Gary had forgotten to bring his sunglasses!) we checked out of our hotel and flagged down a taxi. The journey to the port took 10 minutes and cost 15.50 euros. Taxis in central barcelona were numerous and we had no problem getting one!

 

On arrival to the port we made our way to terminal A as we had done the previous year. Having forgotten to attach our pre-printed luggage tag to our large suitcase, I began to rummage through my handbag when a staff member came and provided us with a generic tag onto which she scrolled our cabin number. After hearing horror stories of missing luggage I found myself anxious that the tag would be misread and we would be left with no clothes, however my fears were soon forgotten as we were ushered inside the terminal!

 

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Once inside we were surprised at how small the queues were! Security took less than 2 minutes and we were surprised to find that there was nobody in the check-in queue! Although our boarding passes advised that boarding would not start until 12pm, it was apparent that this process was well underway. After checking in and having a quick embarkation photo taken, we proceeded towards the escalator that would bring us aboard.

 

Embarkation was done in typical NCL style with music playing, balloons lining the entrance and crew members warmly welcoming all embarking guests. Although our largest suitcase had been left in the terminal for delivery to our room, we had two large carry-ons and therefore decided that before all else we would drop them off in our room. We had booked an inside guarantee cabin and had been allocated cabin 11034- A forward cabin on deck 11. On arrival to our room we immediately noted some of the changes associated with the new ''Premium all-inclusive'' fare for European guests. On the counter top sat 15 bottles of still water and 1 bottle of sparkling water. We were also pleased to find a bottle of sparkling wine- a perk given to all guests returning to NCL on their second or subsequent trip! After leaving our bags we made our way up to the garden cafe on deck 15- a place we would end up spending a lot of time in!

 

As far as buffets go it doesn't get any better than the Garden Cafe! The selection of foods in phenomenal- there's pizza and pasta station where you can have your customized lunch made in front of you. Daily staples include a ginormous salad bar, burgers, chips, ht dogs and chili con carne. There are pre-made sandwiches and wraps with fillings alternated daily. Indian and Chinese meals are available with a multitude of European and American dishes! After stuffing ourselves to the point of bursting, we once again returned to our room in the hope that our bag would have arrived and we could change into our swimsuits! Alas...no such luck! The next few hours were spent up and down to the waves pool-bar where we got familiar with the range of available cocktails!

 

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By 19:30 pm we were eager to start preparing for dinner however this was proving difficult with no evening wear, all of which had all been packed away in our large suitcase. At this point I once again asked my room steward who directed us towards guest services on deck 5. On arrival to guest services we were led into a room packed with undelivered cases. My anxiety levels began to rise as our suitcase was nowhere to be seen. Visions of myself dining in pyjamas began to creep into my head however these were cut short when a crew member appeared with a large trolley on which my suitcase was sat. Attached to the front of the case was a large sticker which read '' extension cable''- I immediately realised that this was referring to the only electrical item I had brought-my hair straightener. I was advised by a crew-member that new regulations meant that straighteners were prohibited on board and that I would be handing over my GHD and succumbing to a week of frizz!

 

That evening we dined in the Manhattan Room- the more formal of the two dining rooms (While the menus are the same in both, the luxurious decor and live band meant the Manhattan room was the obvious choice for us). I ordered steak and chips with pepper sauce and Gary had the pork loin. The pepper sauce was delicious however the steak was a little tough (my own fault as I ordered it well-done!). For dessert we ordered Warm Chocolate Lava cake which was possibly the tastiest dessert I've ever had- I proceeded to get it on 5 out of 7 nights! The evening was finished off making good use of the ultimate beverage package and losing a modest 17 dollars in the casino (though that was set to go downhill throughout the week!)

 

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Why cant hair straighteners be brought on board??

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Why cant hair straighteners be brought on board??

I'm not too sure JAWalsh...mine was taken off me but I seem to be one of the only ones-perhaps the inspection officer that saw my case was confused! She told me it was a new rule as I had no problem last year. I'd bring yours in your carry on if u are taking one so your case isn't held up and you can easily take it out if asked!

 

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  • 3 weeks later...
I'm not too sure JAWalsh...mine was taken off me but I seem to be one of the only ones-perhaps the inspection officer that saw my case was confused! She told me it was a new rule as I had no problem last year. I'd bring yours in your carry on if u are taking one so your case isn't held up and you can easily take it out if asked!

 

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Thanks Alicia! Wonderful and entertaining review!

 

 

We brought our 110v hair straightener on board our recent cruise with no problem. But when we plugged it into the 110v outlet by the desk, it made a light humming sound and hardly warmed up. So we immediately unplugged it and never used it on the ship again. It works just fine when we returned home. Anyone has this experience?

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Great review, also from Ireland and have sailed the Epic twice in the Med. Once with family and second time with friends and going back same ports for the third time July 2018 with the same friends.

 

Looking forward to spending more time on board this time and a quite ship especially Rome day.

 

If you do get a chance id highly recommend the Caribbean, found it way better port wise and cheaper to get around than Europe . We did sail in the Haven in the Caribbean , but still found it cheaper than the Med.

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Enjoyed reading your review. I'm back on Epic for the 3rd time in October and can't wait. Reading this has made me even more excited!!!! Hoping the weather is still nice beginning of October so I can chill by the pool. I've done some of the ports before so fingers crossed I'll spend a lot of time by the pool. I'll remember to pack my swim wear in carry on!

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Great review, also from Ireland and have sailed the Epic twice in the Med. Once with family and second time with friends and going back same ports for the third time July 2018 with the same friends.

 

Looking forward to spending more time on board this time and a quite ship especially Rome day.

 

If you do get a chance id highly recommend the Caribbean, found it way better port wise and cheaper to get around than Europe . We did sail in the Haven in the Caribbean , but still found it cheaper than the Med.

 

Thanks Keith- glad to hear of someone else as in love with the epic as we are! We're looking at doing the Caribbean next year so delighted to hear you recommend!

 

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Amazing review. Makes me want to go on the Epic. Alas I'm on the Navigator of the seas from Southampton next week. Was thinking of doing a review, but wouldn't be able to live up to your's.

Really enjoyed reading it. Well Done.

Thanks for such a nice comment IrishComet! Have a wonderful time on the navigator and I'd love to read a review if you get the chance!!

 

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Enjoyed reading your review. I'm back on Epic for the 3rd time in October and can't wait. Reading this has made me even more excited!!!! Hoping the weather is still nice beginning of October so I can chill by the pool. I've done some of the ports before so fingers crossed I'll spend a lot of time by the pool. I'll remember to pack my swim wear in carry on!

Lucky you Misself- have a fabulous time!

 

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  • 3 weeks later...

Great review. I've just read to see some current dailies as we are back on The Epic soon for the 4th time. I'm glad you enjoyed it.

 

Good to see young couples enjoying cruising. We first cruised when I was 35 and my wife 33 and we regret discovering it 'so late' in life. We are making up for lost time though. [emoji16]

 

 

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Just read your amazing review. We will be on this cruise this time next year! Couple of questions for anyone that knows:

1. Loved looking at the Dailies. Any idea what Slide Spider Mountain is? I see the Aqua Park is open all day (which I assume includes the water slides?) but as there is a time slot for sliding Spider Mountain I wondered if this is in fact the water slides and they are open reduced times?

2. At the airport you mentioned going to your gate as soon as your gate was announced, then hitting the passport control queue. Can you go through before your gate is anniunced?

 

Thanks!

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Just read your amazing review. We will be on this cruise this time next year! Couple of questions for anyone that knows:

1. Loved looking at the Dailies. Any idea what Slide Spider Mountain is? I see the Aqua Park is open all day (which I assume includes the water slides?) but as there is a time slot for sliding Spider Mountain I wondered if this is in fact the water slides and they are open reduced times?

2. At the airport you mentioned going to your gate as soon as your gate was announced, then hitting the passport control queue. Can you go through before your gate is anniunced?

 

Thanks!

Spider mountain is like an enclosed climbing frame mainly for kids

Aquapark open most of day but not all the time..i think it lists time on dailies..as far as I remember it was open about 10am to 1pm and 2pm to 7pm

 

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Just read your amazing review. We will be on this cruise this time next year! Couple of questions for anyone that knows:

1. Loved looking at the Dailies. Any idea what Slide Spider Mountain is? I see the Aqua Park is open all day (which I assume includes the water slides?) but as there is a time slot for sliding Spider Mountain I wondered if this is in fact the water slides and they are open reduced times?

2. At the airport you mentioned going to your gate as soon as your gate was announced, then hitting the passport control queue. Can you go through before your gate is anniunced?

 

Thanks!

Hi Bucket List Ticked- I'd definitely head through passport control well before your gate is called once you know what area it will be in!

 

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