Escape 2/20 - 2/27

[BMH5150]

The Norwegian Escape is an incredible ship.

 

My wife and I became obsessed with reading all of the positive and negative reviews about the Escape. We did indeed get ourselves worked up regarding the several postings regarding the extra motion that was felt on the ship. I've been prone to motion sickness for the last ten years. I'm very sensitive to any motion...I gets me ill instantly. That being said...I'm still a child at heart and I'm still a fan of roller coasters, amusement rides at theme parks, and fast cars and I still choose to ride them and suffer the consequences.

 

Well...I'm very aware that everyone's body will respond differently to motion...I'm pleased to report that I was not affected by the motion at all. I've cruised on Princess (got sick) and I've cruised on Carnival (got sick each time). Even though I felt the motion on the Escape (which seemed slightly more than usual) I did not get sick at all. It didn't phase me in the least.

 

I did not use the patch because they have failed me each time I used them in the past. I DID wear the Sea-Band. Even while wearing the wristband I felt so unaffected by the motion I stopped wearing it to avoid the tan line on my wrist. So...this is either a huge plug for the Sea-Band or the Escape...maybe both.

 

Food - The food was great. Every meal I had I fully enjoyed. My only complaint about the food was that I ate way too much of it. We enjoyed everything at O'Sheehans, Taste, Savor, and the Manhattan Room. The Beef Wellington and the Spring Rolls at the Manhattan Room were incredible. We did not have to wait in any lines to get any food in the Garden Café. Norwegian gets major props for this in my book. Everything was delicious! AND surprisingly enough...the coffee was GREAT. We've sailed on so many cruises with horrible coffee...this coffee was great. I'm not a coffee snob, I enjoy Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, Keurig brands...I was pleasantly surprised that the coffee was great also!

 

Ultimate Beverage Plan - What can I say about this besides two thumbs up! Being a former bartender myself, it was obvious that the drink was gonna be as good as the bartender was willing to make it. Grumpy bartender = weak drink. Happy bartender = happy strong drink. We did have to wait for some of our drinks because of the many cruisers with UBPs. It's really not worth complaining about...if something like this bothers you...relax...you're on a cruise with unlimited alcohol...order another drink for goodness sake! If you're a beer drinker...spend some quality time in the District Brewhouse. The live DougOut review had me salivating and I couldn't wait to get on this ship to enjoy all the brews in the Brewhouse.

 

Entertainment - We saw the BratPack supper deal...it was very enjoyable especially if you grew up in the 80's like I did. The Million Dollar Quartet was also great if you're a fan of early rock n roll. Even my 15 year old daughter enjoyed it and that type of music (good music) is not something she normally listens to. She is normally listening to hip hop/pop Justin Bieber type garbage so seeing her react to Elvis/Jerry Lee Lewis/Johnny cash music was a pleasant surprise. Don't miss this one...although I've heard rumors that the Escape is switching shows...not sure what's going on with that but if you have the chance to see the Brat Pack at supper club or Million Dollar Quartet I'd highly recommend it.

 

Lido Deck - was always busy...but...no different than any other cruise I've been on. No issues there. The layout was interesting but again...nothing to waste time complaining about...we were on a cruise...what's to complain about? We didn't understand the reasoning behind which pools were designated as adult pools versus family pools but it wasn't a real concern. Along with Mom and Dad, our 4 and 15 year olds both loved the pool, hot tub, and water park options. I'm pleased to say that my 4 year old son found his inner strength and bravery to swim underwater for the first time on the Escape!

 

St Thomas - For the last few trips to St Thomas we visited Coki Beach which was beautiful each time but we wanted to change things up and try something different this year. We did our own excursion to St John which was absolutely beautiful and well worth the added effort to Trunk Bay. Everything went fine without any issues. We just kept an eye on our watch and made sure we had plenty of time to make it back to the ship. I snorkeled at Trunk Bay. My self guided snorkeling adventure was a personal highlight for me on the cruise. I only wish my wife and kids were brave enough because I felt like they missed out on some beautiful underwater scenery. Luckily enough I had my GoPro with me to capture some of the underwater beauty.

 

Sidenote...buy a GoPro to capture video on a cruise. If you can afford a cruise you should be able to afford a GoPro. Taking video in the water, underwater, down waterslides is a priceless souvenir to have and you wont be disappointed. Save your money and skip the overpriced boring photos with fake backdrops and capture the fun while it's actually happening!

 

Tortola - This was our first time in Tortola, we can't wait to go back! Next time we won't choose Cane Garden Bay. Although it was nice, we had just spent the previous day at Trunk Bay in St John so the bar was set pretty damn high. It was a bit of a let down (even though it was still beautiful). Cane Garden Bay does have all the amenities but you're on a cruise...you have every amenity you need while on the ship...I'd rather spend my day on a beach with less amenities and more tranquil peacefulness...then hook back up with the needed amenities on the ship (just my 2 cents). Next time we'll be doing The Baths or Smuggler's Cove for sure!

 

Bahamas - We took a 20 minute taxi ride to the Melia resort which was great. For $25 a person we enjoyed their pool, beach, beach chairs, buffet and bar for the entire day. I was also able to enjoy a wonderful fake Cuban cigar which I purchased from a local vendor on the resort's beach. He tried convincing me that it was a real Cuban. Once he realized I knew my cigars, he dramatically lowered the price. Needless to say, I bought a few extra fake Cubans for my friends back home...they won't know the difference! I smoked my fake Cuban on the beach away from the public or any children...another personal highlight.

 

My wife wants to book a room at Atlantis next time we cruise to Nassau. As expensive as the excursions are at that place...why not book a room for the entire day and have access to everything while we are at port? It hasn't been completely thought out yet but it's something to think about. I'm sure I'll get some feedback on this.

 

Well, my ADD is kicking in and this review is taking up too much of my time here at work ;)

 

These last two sentences should sum up our feelings about the Escape. We already booked our next cruise on the Escape for this December 3rd. Let the countdown begin.

 

Happy Cruising,

 

Brian

Edited March 1, 2016 by BMH5150

[Jenjer]

Thank You for your review

[Clarea]

Nice review, thanks.

[Keith1010]

very nice review.

 

Keith

[14cruise]

Great review A few questions I hope you can answer

1. Lido Deck My daughter is 10 and worried she will not be able to swim She is almost 5 ft and thinks a kid pools will be no fun.

2. What day was the beef wellington

3. The place you went to in Nassau how did you book it and do you remember the cost for the cab ride

[tartan cruiser]

Just off the Escape the week before you. Our experience, while good, was a little different than yours. We had at least 800 (according to the cruise director's staff) children on board so the ship felt very crowded and noisy almost all the time. I knew that more kids than normal would be on this sailing but wasn't prepared for kids playing football in the elevator lobby (deck14) attending late night comedy, filling the hot tubs, etc. We are use to traveling with kids having just returned from a cruise on Freedom of the Seas (1/17/2016)with the grandchildren. While that cruise had many children onboard also, it just seemed like they had more adult only areas. Thankfully we upsold ourselves to a balcony just days before we sailed. Just wanted to mention this so anyone who is considering booking this date next year is aware of the potential number of children, if this matters to you. Getaway 1/15/2017 booked for next year with the grandchildren. At least I know what to expect and can be prepared!

 

I'm curious about the Nassau excursion you took. Can you give a little more detail regarding what was included for $25. Was that just the transportation or did that include the chairs, food, drinks, etc? Been there many times so always looking for new options.

 

I'm thinking of doing a full review of our 2/13/2016 Escape once I get some time and get all my notes and thoughts together.

[14cruise]

I am looking up that resort I am seeing 35 per person but looks very nice and close to port I am not sure if we can get it the day we go there Hope he replies

[BMH5150]

Great review A few questions I hope you can answer

1. Lido Deck My daughter is 10 and worried she will not be able to swim She is almost 5 ft and thinks a kid pools will be no fun.

2. What day was the beef wellington

3. The place you went to in Nassau how did you book it and do you remember the cost for the cab ride

 

1A. How good of a swimmer is she? Both pools are about 5' deep. She will not be disappointed. My 4 year old had a blast in the pool and in the water park.

 

2A. I believe the Beef Wellington was served Thursday night at the Manhattan Room.

 

3A. My wife booked it before the cruise...and I stand corrected...it was $35pp. The taxi ride was $5pp. We just grabbed the first taxi cab driver we saw.

 

Hope this helps!

[BMH5150]

Just off the Escape the week before you. Our experience, while good, was a little different than yours. We had at least 800 (according to the cruise director's staff) children on board so the ship felt very crowded and noisy almost all the time. I knew that more kids than normal would be on this sailing but wasn't prepared for kids playing football in the elevator lobby (deck14) attending late night comedy, filling the hot tubs, etc. We are use to traveling with kids having just returned from a cruise on Freedom of the Seas (1/17/2016)with the grandchildren. While that cruise had many children onboard also, it just seemed like they had more adult only areas. Thankfully we upsold ourselves to a balcony just days before we sailed. Just wanted to mention this so anyone who is considering booking this date next year is aware of the potential number of children, if this matters to you. Getaway 1/15/2017 booked for next year with the grandchildren. At least I know what to expect and can be prepared!

 

I'm curious about the Nassau excursion you took. Can you give a little more detail regarding what was included for $25. Was that just the transportation or did that include the chairs, food, drinks, etc? Been there many times so always looking for new options.

 

I'm thinking of doing a full review of our 2/13/2016 Escape once I get some time and get all my notes and thoughts together.

 

I'm always expecting every cruise that I go on to be overly crowded. Since I'm not Burt Reynolds and I don't sail on expensive private yachts with super models I expect crowds and some children ;) I really didn't notice that many kids until we brought our son down to Splash Academy. He enjoyed Splash Academy so much he wanted to be there instead of with us, and he's only 4!!

 

Details on Melia...I stand corrected...it was $35pp for all of the outside amenities at the resort. Pool, beach, towels, and beach chairs. AND we walked right up to the outside buffet and got food (I'm not sure if this was included but nobody said a word). We also got free drinks at the bar but the bar drinks weren't that good...the taxi ride to Melia was $5pp we just grabbed the first taxi driver we found after getting off the ship. That took about 5 seconds! lol

 

Hope this helps!

Edited March 1, 2016 by BMH5150

[tartan cruiser]

Thanks

[Sotermarler]

I understand the hotel next door to Atlamtis is cheaper and has access to all the amenities. I am not sure of the name, but worth a shot.

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

[cruisinQ]

I understand the hotel next door to Atlamtis is cheaper and has access to all the amenities. I am not sure of the name, but worth a shot.

 

 

Sent from my iPhone using Forums mobile app

 

It's the Comfort Suites. I have done it twice and it is easy and much cheaper!

[TheDougOut]

Brian - great review... thanks for taking the time to share your thoughts!

 

Something tells me that the Escape is acquiring its fair share of loyalists. I've found myself scanning the pricing for upcoming sail dates more than once since I've returned.

[Kfamilycruise]

The Norwegian Escape is an incredible ship.

 

 

 

Well...I'm very aware that everyone's body will respond differently to motion...I'm pleased to report that I was not affected by the motion at all. I've cruised on Princess (got sick) and I've cruised on Carnival (got sick each time). Even though I felt the motion on the Escape (which seemed slightly more than usual) I did not get sick at all. It didn't phase me in the least.

 

I did not use the patch because they have failed me each time I used them in the past. I DID wear the Sea-Band. Even while wearing the wristband I felt so unaffected by the motion I stopped wearing it to avoid the tan line on my wrist. So...this is either a huge plug for the Sea-Band or the Escape...maybe both.

 

 

I'm so grateful that you wrote this. I get very sea sick (which stinks because I love cruises!) and was worried about trying the Escape. What cabin did you have? It seems that does also influence people's opinions on motion on the ship.

Thanks

[brookie848]

I'm so grateful that you wrote this. I get very sea sick (which stinks because I love cruises!) and was worried about trying the Escape. What cabin did you have? It seems that does also influence people's opinions on motion on the ship.

Thanks

 

I was on the same cruise and for us the motion was very noticeable and it did make me sick (the same as on the Epic). We were in 17104, so high and far forward, but we felt the motion throughout the ship.

 

We really enjoyed our cruise and the motion wouldn't stop us from sailing the Escape again.

[NLH Arizona]

Thanks for your review. I've always shied away from the mega ships, but with all the good reviews....well, maybe I'll have to cruise on one.

[Yorkvillain]

Great review Brian. Thanks.

[crimsnlady]

We too, were on the 2/20/16 sailing of Escape and I agree with your review. We had a wonderful time, beautiful aft cabin (11314), outstanding service throughout the entire week. While we did feel some ship movement at times it was relaxing with no motion sickness issues whatsoever. The only disappointment for us was our dinner at Bayamo. Food was fair at best. All other dining and entertainment was excellent.

 

Additionally, we stayed at the Intercontinental Hotel for one night pre-cruise. Lovely hotel, great service and amazing view of port. Highly recommend!

Also used South FL Limo to and from FLL. Price comparable to taxi but much superior in service. Again, highly recommend!

 

Love Escape and NCL!

[17cruisesnsl]

I'm so grateful that you wrote this. I get very sea sick (which stinks because I love cruises!) and was worried about trying the Escape. What cabin did you have? It seems that does also influence people's opinions on motion on the ship.

Thanks

 

After 20 cruises I still get seasick but am happy to say that I did not have a problem on the Feb 6-13 sailing of the Escape. I wore sea bands most days (I have the tan lines from them and took them off at night because the acupuncture point was hitting the carpal tunnel nerve resulting in numbness). I did not have to take Bonine or open my Queze-ease and do not use the patch ever because of its side effects.

 

We were in 12226 so mid-ship mini in the middle of the decks. Spent most daylight hours in Vibe and late nights in the casino. We are in the Haven for the first time in June on the BA and I am nervous about being so far forward - but it was too tempting to try the Haven.

 

Enjoy your cruise

[Zena2005]

We too, were on the 2/20/16 sailing of Escape and I agree with your review. We had a wonderful time, beautiful aft cabin (11314), outstanding service throughout the entire week. While we did feel some ship movement at times it was relaxing with no motion sickness issues whatsoever. The only disappointment for us was our dinner at Bayamo. Food was fair at best. All other dining and entertainment was excellent.

 

Love Escape and NCL!

 

Glad to hear you enjoyed the AFT balcony. This will be our first time in that type of stateroom. We will be in 14304 and we are excited. However, if there is an opportunity for an upsell to the Haven, not sure what we would do (probably take the upsell).

 

Haven't heard much about Bayamo so I was wondering exactly what you didn't like (specific dishes)? We booked it for our first night of the trip with hopes of eating on the waterfront.

[crimsnlady]

Glad to hear you enjoyed the AFT balcony. This will be our first time in that type of stateroom. We will be in 14304 and we are excited. However, if there is an opportunity for an upsell to the Haven, not sure what we would do (probably take the upsell).

 

Haven't heard much about Bayamo so I was wondering exactly what you didn't like (specific dishes)? We booked it for our first night of the trip with hopes of eating on the waterfront.

 

Re: Bayamo

We had difficulty finding anything on the menu that even sounded appetizing and that was after being explained by our server. My husband chose a quinoa corn chowder. He almost gagged after first taste. I tried it and it was awful and I am not a picky eater. He ordered steak which was served sliced with an odd sauce on it. Taste and texture was just 'off'.

 

I had a lobster appy suggested by server. It was ok but not anything i would have expected for fine dining. I also had a lobster dish with a tomato sauce entrée. Lobster was tough and sauce was mediocre.

 

We were so disappointed we did not stay for dessert. We went to the buffet for dessert!!! That being said, dining on The Waterfront is wonderful and our server Edelyn was excellent. Hope you have a better experience.

[Zena2005]

crimsnlady,

 

Thank you for the insight, we appreciate it. Hopefully we have a better experience.

[17cruisesnsl]

Haven't heard much about Bayamo so I was wondering exactly what you didn't like (specific dishes)? We booked it for our first night of the trip with hopes of eating on the waterfront.

 

I loved Bayamo; my mother did not. I think you need to be slightly adventurous to enjoy it. We ordered 2 appetizers each - mom had the quinoa soup which she loved and the lobster salad which she didn't. I ate and loved her lobster salad and the salinas. The other ceviche not so much. Mom's swordfish was dry but she didn't want to try another one or an alternative, which was immediately offered when the hostess saw the fish as she happened to be passing by the table. My Wagyu beef was excellent. We ordered one dessert to share and they brought out 3! The sorbets, the chocolate hazelnut and a house dessert. Neither of us have a sweet tooth and I was stuffed from dinner but these were so good. It was a shame we hardly made a dent in them.

[Ontario cruise duo]

Something to consider should you decide to book a day at the Atlantis because it is cheaper than going to the resort directly or booking through the ship, if for some reason the ship just sails on by because of possible weather problems, the room that you've paid for is non refundable. Are you willing to lose that money. Two years ago we had booked through the ship because I've always wanted to go there, if only for a day, and guess what, that is exactly what happened... The ship just sailed right on by. Waters too choppy, while we could have probably docked, the captain was afraid that we wouldn't be able to get out. Big grown up disappointment, but at least we were refunded for our excursion.

[LakeWobegon]

You had me at beef wellington - and beer. Mmmmm. Beeeeeer. GREAT review. I just bought a GoPro a few weeks ago and have been testing it out. Seems like a great all around camera for family adventures besides just the water activities. The only negative is the image stabilization but I'm willing to look past that.