Epic is a defective product that NCL is somehow able to fill, as there are so many cruisers now that they don’t have to worry about repeat customers. I would not accept a free cruise on the Epic going forward.
From design to service to maintenance, it is not up to standards for any middle market cruise line.
Do NOT walk through that area of Nassau - boarded up businesses, ship storage and repair areas, etc. Not safe, even by day.
You cannot enter the lobby of the Royal Tower - they have “hall monitors” turning cruisers away. Little to see except shops and casino.
Whatever they are, they will look great on paper and stink upon execution.
The math never works out in the passenger’s favor, but the marketing spin hides that fact.
Ditto from the Epic 3/12 sailing. Meeting place for many groups was in the casino. We didn’t even have a sight line to the demo, and it was too loud with pax talking to hear the demonstration. We got no info on which boat we were assigned to. If the ship is going down, I’m rushing to my boat, not the casino!!
We’ve had success in using air plus and asking that the tix be paid well in advance so we can pick seats. Done this more than once, so it’s not a fluke, although we use a good travel agent, that many on here say is not “worth it”. It’s no cost, folks!
Morning train is currently at 11:43AM, so if that’s what you’re on, you’ll have plenty of time to stop for a pastry and coffee and get there in plenty of time. It’s a flat walk and mostly scenic route. A few great restaurants near the fish market area. (Where the blue and grey dots diverge)
Speaking of beer, NO Irish beers in O’Sheehan’s, and we were there on St. Paddy’s day! For shame!! ☘️
There was, however, plenty of Jameson’s on board. 🥃👍
Just got off the Epic in San Juan.
We bought NCL transfers, so we were assigned to second group off, after Lattitudes. It was a piece of cake for a ship with 4600 on it! We think cruise line transfers, although they cost more than a cab, are worth the extra $$ in avoided aggravation.
By the way, walk offs started moving at 6:30AM!! YMMV.
Note re:boarding.
We went to pier after 11 last Sunday and had no problem with boarding.
About a 30 minute security line wait, and plenty of sign in folks - no wait at all there.
Another tip - take the deck plan that you’re given onboard with you every time you leave your cabin. This is the most confusing ship layout we’ve ever encountered!!
On the Epic now.
Normal occupancy - 4100.
Our occupancy - 4600!! Total zoo.
We lay a tip on the bar in order to get service without waiting 10-15 minutes. Also tip a server who now stops by often.
You do what you have to in order to enhance your experience.
Bergen was great fun to walk around. It’s small enough that you can easily do it on your own, so I’d recommend the Hoho route. The Floribanen was a must see for us and resulted in great pictures. IMHO, trying to do two funiculars would be overkill and take away from your walkabout time.
People we’re very friendly and helpful. Be sure to have a beer at one of the outside venues, although beers start at $10! Fish is outstanding if you’re a seafood person. You’ll love Bergen!
And the next time you travel, use another TA!
He’s making a commission on a trip he didn’t even book and still won’t call.
Probably a big box TA - We love you, now go away!!