Need Help

[bwvpam]

We have taken 4 Disney cruises in the past with kids, but hubby and I are planning one just for the two of us this November/December to celebrate our 30th anniversary. I have something booked on the EPIC because we want to spend a few days in Orlando anyway before cruise. Got the dining/drink package which is what swayed me to book with NCL. We originally thought of RCCL because the ships look so cool.

 

I am so far out of my comfort zone as I know nothing about either cruise line. The more I am reading about NCL and concerns with EPIC I am wondering if we made a huge mistake. Still lots of time to change - but just don't know what to do. We booked a mini-suite.

 

Any thoughts??

 

Thanks,

[NMLady]

We have taken 4 Disney cruises in the past with kids, but hubby and I are planning one just for the two of us this November/December to celebrate our 30th anniversary. I have something booked on the EPIC because we want to spend a few days in Orlando anyway before cruise. Got the dining/drink package which is what swayed me to book with NCL. We originally thought of RCCL because the ships look so cool.

 

I am so far out of my comfort zone as I know nothing about either cruise line. The more I am reading about NCL and concerns with EPIC I am wondering if we made a huge mistake. Still lots of time to change - but just don't know what to do. We booked a mini-suite.

 

Any thoughts??

 

Thanks,

 

I suggest you post this on the NCL forum where you can read more about Epic and get replies from current Epic cruisers. I have personally read very little negative about the Epic other than cruisers don't like the bathroom layout in many of the cabins. There are lots of positive posts.

[SuiteTraveler]

Since this is your 30th anniversary, can you upgrade to a Spa suite or a Penthouse Suite as I believe that would be most appropriate for your special vacation? Also, I want to strongly suggest that you book a spa pass for both of you - the spa on this ship is absolutely amazing. My husband thought he was not a spa guy and I had to practically drag him to go finally on Wednesday of our cruise. After that, he was in there morning noon and night - he LOVES the spa - even more than me! LOL! Make reservations for all the specialty dinners. On this ship, Le Bistro is a beautiful and romantic restaurant, so I recommend that for the night of your anniversary. Teppanyaki is fun, Moderno is a meat fest, Cagney's is a nice steakhouse.

 

The advantage of a full suite, Penthouse or above is that you are then in the Haven. The Haven Spa Suites have a round bed and a tub for 2 in the room and the largest showers with rain heads and jets - I think they are ideal for an anniversary as they feel exotic. They also have large balconies, butler service, concierge service, access to the spa, access to the Haven including the Epic club - which has great food - we always went there for breakfast and lunch and sometimes for dinner as well. The Haven pool is quiet and serene. I think you would really love this experience and you only have one 30th anniversary.

 

Of the Haven Spa Suites, I recommend 14151 which has a balcony almost as big as the suite itself!

 

Epic (as well as Getaway, Breakaway and Escape) is a direct competitor to RCCL Oasis class ships - the difference being that Epic has a full scale waterpark and ropes course, whereas Oasis class has the flow rider and ice skating rink. Oasis class feels like being in a major theme park whereas NCL's mega ships feel like being in a new Las Vegas Hotel/Casino with a waterpark and great spa. If you like going to the spa and enjoying the thermal suite with a water circuit, NCL is better. If you prefer hanging out by the pool all day, then RCCL is better unless you are in the NCL Haven. In terms of suites, NCL's are better and you get a lot more amenities. In terms of MDR/buffet, I think NCL's are nicer and the food is marginally better. Certainly the Epic has one of the largest most comprehensive buffets at sea, however, it can feel like a madhouse at rush hour. RCCL's buffet - I often could not find anything I wanted and wound up having to go to Park Cafe or Cafe Promenade to get a sandwich or salad. In terms of specialty restaurants, I would rate the steak houses on both ships as about equal. Sushi is better on RCCL as is Italian. Churrascaria is better on NCL than RCCL. Le Bistro (NCL) is better than 150 Central Park(RCCL). Shows on RCCL are more family oriented and all require a reservation. Shows on NCL are more adult and reservations are required as well for the shows in the main theater and the Cirque du Soleil show (which is really good.)