lightingafire

oh yes, I do know DSC.  Just as wonderful as the "free" drinks and dining packages. 

What a horrible experience for those people.  How very sad.  

1 hour ago, ColinIllinois said:

Yes, that did happen.  It's the new NCL policy when someone wants to remove their DSC.

What's a DSC?

I heard a rumor that someone was kicked off the Escape last week.  Did anyone hear anything about this?  What normally happens when this occurs?  I am curious.  🙂

For example, all of the meat products (steak, bacon, chicken) were very fatty.... Probably half fat, half meat on average. One night my boyfriend ordered a steak in the Manhattan room and he said it was the fattiest and worst steak he has ever eaten.

I wanted to give a review of the Escape, but don't have time to write out every single detail so I've narrowed it down to some pros and cons.

To give you some background, I have been on RC and HA before, though it has been over 10 years since my last cruise. My boyfriend also cruised with Princess almost 20 years ago. Since it has been so many years, it would be unfair to compare those other cruises to this one. We had heard excellent things about NCL from people who sailed with them previously and decided to book with them, especially since we live so close to the NY port.

Pros: The ship is impressive; An adult only area is available (Spice H20); Every cruise employee was friendly and eager to please; The room steward (Jerome) always had our room in great shape; A variety of food options available; It was nice having 3 days in one port (Bermuda); The self-debarkation was fast.

Cons: Food was only a step above cafeteria food (I don't blame the chefs, but believe NCL purchases cheaper items to keep costs low. While I've eaten in high-end restaurants before, I also love a good Costco hotdog and Kraft mac and cheese and those items would have been better than what we ate.); Service was very slow in restaurants (wait staff was friendly and eager to please though-maybe the kitchen was far?); It is difficult to get reservations at the specialty restaurants (which often remained empty even when they said they were booked); Crowds were overwhelming (It was difficult to get around the ship at times. Elevators were impossible. The first day especially was unpleasant with so many lines and people crowding in different areas.).

Overall, we had a great time together and in Bermuda, but found the cruise to be just okay. We probably wouldn't cruise NCL again unless they had some unbelievable deal available. As I mentioned earlier, other people have said great things about NCL, so maybe your experience will be different. Just wanted to give my 2 cents!

Oh, Sorry, Status will be on Port side coming back! Ships with a 8am return time on itinerary are often entering the outer harbor at 5am and passing the statue around 5:30am, could be sooner or later but probably earlier that you expect! We were docking at 6am last time.

Good to know the timing! I will keep that in mind and should be up to see it! Thanks!

On one of the CC boards, I had read a tip to get into Vibe... If it is sold out when you get onboard, check the next day or two because some people may purchase it and then decide not to use it and get a refund. Good luck!!!

Not an answer to your question, but a thought on the best spot on your return. You will sail back into port before dawn. It's worth getting up to watch the ship sail past Lady Liberty on your way back. It's just spectacular to see her lit up. We were fortunate to have a balcony on the Statue of Liberty side. If you don't, go up on deck.

Great idea! I have a forward room, closer to starboard side so maybe I can see it from my room? If not I will go up to the deck as suggested. I guess it depends on what time we sail into the city! I am usually up pretty early, so hopefully, I will be up early enough to catch it!

Go to Deck 19, all the way forward. Stand against the wall to the Haven for fantastic views of Manhattan, SOL, and the Bridge.

 

Plan: After you embark, make your way up to Deck 19 forward viewing deck to make sure you know where it is. Immediately after muster (the minute it ends), head up to Deck 19 and stake a claim on the rail. Expect to stand for a couple of hours in the sun.

Thanks! Sounds like a good plan!

Anyone have recommendations as to the best spot to stand on the Escape while it departs NYC? I want to make sure I can see it all without having to run back and forth. :)

hi all

heading out on the escape in early Sept to Bermuda

I have cancer and tire easily, was thinking of renting a scooter from special needs at sea

any reviews? does it fit in the cabin?will people hate me?

thanks

You should do whatever you need to to make your trip a fun and comfortable one! Like someone mentioned, as long as you aren't obnoxious about it, you have every right to use a scooter and anyone who gives you a problem is not very nice. You are going on vacation to please yourself, not others! Have a safe and fun trip!!!! :cool:

This link has the prices. https://boards.cruisecritic.com/showpost.php?p=55846008&postcount=50

 

The main thread to that page will answe other Escape questions.

Thanks! Good to know!

Anyone know the cost of the different fitness classes offered on the Escape? I may work up the motivation to exercise while on the ship. ;p

It's not much of a secret spot anymore, but the waterfront on deck 8 has some shade. My DH could be sitting in the shade while I slid my chair closer to the rail for some sun. While not loungers, they do have some comfy chairs & sofas. Have a great cruise:cool:

Will keep this location in mind! Thanks!

I wish!!! Doubt I will be that lucky! Here's hoping though!

So my BF and I will be sailing the Escape in less than 2 weeks. I look forward to lounging out in the sun and getting a tan, while he prefers to lounge in the shade. Are there any areas on the ship where we can sit near one another? Thanks! :cool:

When I called NCL to reserve an excursion, the person I spoke with said that you can do this. This worked out nicely since I had $50 per stateroom in excursion credits, so the price was cheaper than booking through the company itself (which is always cheaper than through the cruise line). Just don't reserve online-you have to call, otherwise, any excursion credits you have will be turned into more onboard credit. Once you receive your final statement on the cruise, they will apply the OBC.

Great to see so many people united by OCD trip planning!!!! We are either the best or worst people to travel with!!!!

Finally leaving! What time does it usually leave port? I will be on the ship 2 weeks from today and really want to watch as we leave the port and city, but the only reservation I could get for Teppanyaki was at 5:45 that Sunday, so I'm hoping I won't have to miss it!!!

Awesome, thank you!!! Have a fantastic cruise! :cool:

I agree. If you have your PADI open water I wouldn't bother with the discover scuba excursion. Just let the dive master know you haven't dove since your class. Maybe review the basics on your own before you go.

Thank you! Yes, I have been trying to refresh my knowledge! :cool:

I would just book the certified dive unless there is a minimum number of dives required or some other requirement you do not meet. Just be honest about your experience.

Thanks! I may do that. :)

I am going to Bermuda on the Escape in 3 weeks and have my $50 excursion credit to use. I received my PADI certification in May of 2017 but have not gone scuba diving since, so I believe the Discover Scuba Dive may be my best bet. Has anyone done this excursion before and if so, what was your experience? Any other info on Bermuda diving/excursions/activities is welcomed as well! :D

Thanks! Very helpful! I have my iconcierge app downloaded!

Thanks all! Great advice!