Tips, Tricks and Insider Info for NCL Breakaway?

[ColumboRocks]

We'll be on this ship later this year and have never sailed NCL.  I understand that there are threads/Official Reviews of this ship, but I'd love to hear from recent cruisers!  Small details that you think can help or hurt a trip;  Love/Hate stuff; cabin advice if you feel comfortable sharing!  Since we will be first timers, we'd love to hear from other first timers!

o

[RocketMan275]

If you're cruising out of NOLA, you should be aware that embarkation there is a mess.  As in other ports, no one is allowed to board  until all passengers from the arriving cruise have left the ship, ie, the ship is at zero.

NOLA has a very small waiting area.  When if fills, NOLA stops processing passengers through security.  You may wind  up standing in the security line for quite some time, an hour or so.

The Hack is arrive very early so you get through security in time to get a sear.

Or, arrive around 1130 after the ship is at zero and the security line is moving.

In either case, you'll wind up waiting until around 1130 to board.

[www3traveler]

(1) Immediately once you board, find your Muster Station and check-in-- takes just a few minutes.

 

(2) Shortly before the scheduled sailing time, get outside to watch the ship sail.  The Breakway comes in and docks pointing up the Mississippi.  As She slowly pulls away from the pier, clears the ship docked in front of Her, She will slowly make a "U" turn in mid River before heading down River.  It is fascinating to watch.

 

(3) If you can come in or stay a couple of days to see New Orleans.  Try to avoid Mardi Gras (the weekend before Ash Wednesday).

 

Most importantly enjoy the ship, your cruise and your time together.

 

 

[graphicguy]

-Must see.....band in Syd Norman's.  Get in line early.  It's worth the wait.

-The Waterfront.....drink and dine outside as much as possible.  This area is great for both.

-French Onion Soup in LeBistro

 

Could go on, but that will get you started!

[MagnoliaBlossom]

To add to the above post, if you want to see the French Quarter as you sail by be sure to be on the port side before sailaway, so when you turn you will be on the correct side.  The Quarter is only visible for a very brief time so be prepared.

 

the sites along the way include Jackson Barracks, the Dominos sugar refinery, and the Chalmette Battlefield.   There are several wonderful MS river guides posted here that do a great job of pointing out landmarks along the way.  You’ll just have to search for them.

 

You will not reach the Gulf til almost midnight depending on river levels and marine traffic.  Refineries will light up the night sky along the way and you will pass towns that you usually hear about on the Weather Channel following a hurricane on the coast.

 

if you are lucky enough to pass an inbound cruise ship it’s pretty cool.  They, like us, are all lit up and it seems as though you could almost touch the other ship.

 

 

[dexddd]

Welcome to CC.  Sailed BA once, no desire ever again.

 

Drop slides fun though.  Crowded feeling common complaint, especially atrium area.

[MagnoliaBlossom]

If you are driving, do NOT park in the “whale lot”, NCLs designated parking area.  Lots of break ins there.  We park at Fulton Place.

 

we were on the BA in December and February and enjoyed relaxing in the area right outside Vibe.  Good bar service, nice bathroom that is right there, not much traffic, but not much shade either.   The promenade (waterfront) on deck 8 has lovely seating and easy access to several bars and restrooms.  Our favorite place to hang out and read.

 

if you are a napper you may want to steer clear of rooms on deck 9 that are close to the shuffleboard courts.  I don’t nap but when I was on the balcony reading or playing cards it was noticeable.  Didn’t bother us, but it might others.

 

O’Sheehans has a very nice Cuban plate that was my favorite dish there.

I always find embarkation day stressful.  So much hurry up, and never knowing what curve balls NOLA will throw at you (it’s rarely the same two cruises in a row), that by the time we are onboard I’m ready for some pampering.   We love going for a sit down meal in the MDR and a nice adult beverage.  I highly recommend it.

 

sometimes, but not always 🤨 they offer a bag drop in one of the lounge areas near the atrium.  It allows you drop you rolling carryons, plus whatever else you’re u don’t want to lug around, in a safe spot.  Look for and ask for it, as it makes lunch much nicer, especially if you’re going to the buffet.

 

 

Edited July 1, 2023 by MagnoliaBlossom

[MagnoliaBlossom]

13 minutes ago, dexddd said:

Welcome to CC.  Sailed BA once, no desire ever again.

 

Drop slides fun though.  Crowded feeling common complaint, especially atrium area.

I agree, the atrium is awful.  Not the quiet place for relaxing with a beverage and new friends like on older ships.  No idea why they decided the atrium should replace the theater for game shows, trivia,etc.   We rarely visit the atrium unless we need to visit customer service and then it’s a pain because the noise level is such that communicating with the CS people is nearly impossible.

[Twolittleboys]

1 hour ago, MagnoliaBlossom said:

I agree, the atrium is awful.  Not the quiet place for relaxing with a beverage and new friends like on older ships.  No idea why they decided the atrium should replace the theater for game shows, trivia,etc.   We rarely visit the atrium unless we need to visit customer service and then it’s a pain because the noise level is such that communicating with the CS people is nearly impossible.

 

I completely agree. I just came back from my first cruise with Norwegian, a transatlantic on the Getaway. I had a great time but was surprised about how little comfortable/quiet indoor spaces there were. It was fine on our cruise as the weather was good but I probably would not book a winter transatlantic on Breakaway/Getaway as it felt so crowded. 

 

I hated the Atrium. I generally enjoy quiz shows/trivia etc. but couldn't stand the space they were held in. And when I had an issue and went to guest services I made sure to wait until there was not much going on in the Atrium as it was so loud and noisy there. 

Luckily, the outdoor spaces are great on the ship though!

[RocketMan275]

3 hours ago, MagnoliaBlossom said:

If you are driving, do NOT park in the “whale lot”, NCLs designated parking area.  Lots of break ins there.  We park at Fulton Place.

 

we were on the BA in December and February and enjoyed relaxing in the area right outside Vibe.  Good bar service, nice bathroom that is right there, not much traffic, but not much shade either.   The promenade (waterfront) on deck 8 has lovely seating and easy access to several bars and restrooms.  Our favorite place to hang out and read.

 

if you are a napper you may want to steer clear of rooms on deck 9 that are close to the shuffleboard courts.  I don’t nap but when I was on the balcony reading or playing cards it was noticeable.  Didn’t bother us, but it might others.

 

O’Sheehans has a very nice Cuban plate that was my favorite dish there.

I always find embarkation day stressful.  So much hurry up, and never knowing what curve balls NOLA will throw at you (it’s rarely the same two cruises in a row), that by the time we are onboard I’m ready for some pampering.   We love going for a sit down meal in the MDR and a nice adult beverage.  I highly recommend it.

 

sometimes, but not always 🤨 they offer a bag drop in one of the lounge areas near the atrium.  It allows you drop you rolling carryons, plus whatever else you’re u don’t want to lug around, in a safe spot.  Look for and ask for it, as it makes lunch much nicer, especially if you’re going to the buffet.

 

 

Would that Cuban Plate be this: Lechón Asado Cuban Roast Pork, Plantains, White Rice, Black Beans?

[RocketMan275]

2 hours ago, MagnoliaBlossom said:

I agree, the atrium is awful.  Not the quiet place for relaxing with a beverage and new friends like on older ships.  No idea why they decided the atrium should replace the theater for game shows, trivia,etc.   We rarely visit the atrium unless we need to visit customer service and then it’s a pain because the noise level is such that communicating with the CS people is nearly impossible.

There is a theory that high noise levels create excitment and a more enjoyable experience.  (I don't subscribe to this theory.)

[Sand and Seas]

19 minutes ago, RocketMan275 said:

Would that Cuban Plate be this: Lechón Asado Cuban Roast Pork, Plantains, White Rice, Black Beans?

Mmmm.... love those sweet plantains.  I ask for them as a side dish.  

Also love to order Lobster rolls at Ocean Blue walkup window on sea days

[ColumboRocks]

3 hours ago, MagnoliaBlossom said:

If you are driving, do NOT park in the “whale lot”, NCLs designated parking area.  Lots of break ins there.  We park at Fulton Place.

 

we were on the BA in December and February and enjoyed relaxing in the area right outside Vibe.  Good bar service, nice bathroom that is right there, not much traffic, but not much shade either.   The promenade (waterfront) on deck 8 has lovely seating and easy access to several bars and restrooms.  Our favorite place to hang out and read.

 

if you are a napper you may want to steer clear of rooms on deck 9 that are close to the shuffleboard courts.  I don’t nap but when I was on the balcony reading or playing cards it was noticeable.  Didn’t bother us, but it might others.

 

O’Sheehans has a very nice Cuban plate that was my favorite dish there.

I always find embarkation day stressful.  So much hurry up, and never knowing what curve balls NOLA will throw at you (it’s rarely the same two cruises in a row), that by the time we are onboard I’m ready for some pampering.   We love going for a sit down meal in the MDR and a nice adult beverage.  I highly recommend it.

 

sometimes, but not always 🤨 they offer a bag drop in one of the lounge areas near the atrium.  It allows you drop you rolling carryons, plus whatever else you’re u don’t want to lug around, in a safe spot.  Look for and ask for it, as it makes lunch much nicer, especially if you’re going to the buffet.

Thanks for this...especially deck 9 warning and the food suggestions!

3 hours ago, MagnoliaBlossom said:

 

 

[ColumboRocks]

4 hours ago, graphicguy said:

-Must see.....band in Syd Norman's.  Get in line early.  It's worth the wait.

-The Waterfront.....drink and dine outside as much as possible.  This area is great for both.

-French Onion Soup in LeBistro

 

Could go on, but that will get you started!

Mmmmmm.....French Onion Soup!

[ColumboRocks]

1 hour ago, Twolittleboys said:

 

I completely agree. I just came back from my first cruise with Norwegian, a transatlantic on the Getaway. I had a great time but was surprised about how little comfortable/quiet indoor spaces there were. It was fine on our cruise as the weather was good but I probably would not book a winter transatlantic on Breakaway/Getaway as it felt so crowded. 

 

I hated the Atrium. I generally enjoy quiz shows/trivia etc. but couldn't stand the space they were held in. And when I had an issue and went to guest services I made sure to wait until there was not much going on in the Atrium as it was so loud and noisy there. 

Luckily, the outdoor spaces are great on the ship though!

Ruh Roh....this is a winter transatlantic!  May I ask what category cabin you were in or would suggest?  We are currently in a BB balcony on deck 10.  I'm considering moving it to a PrivaSea balcony, thinking it might be better in cold winds.  This is our first time on NCL and also our first Transatlantic.  It sounds like the Atrium is no good for quiet reading so I might need to count of the balcony for that.  

You said you had a great time...what did you enjoy the most?

 

[Twolittleboys]

6 minutes ago, ColumboRocks said:

Ruh Roh....this is a winter transatlantic!  May I ask what category cabin you were in or would suggest?  We are currently in a BB balcony on deck 10.  I'm considering moving it to a PrivaSea balcony, thinking it might be better in cold winds.  This is our first time on NCL and also our first Transatlantic.  It sounds like the Atrium is no good for quiet reading so I might need to count of the balcony for that.  

You said you had a great time...what did you enjoy the most?

 

 

I was traveling as a solo and had an oceanview room which I loved (I am not a huge balcony person). On my cruise, a balcony would have been nice but not sure it is worth it in the fall/winter. I had a balcony on an October Med cruise on the Harmony of the Seas two years ago and it was rather chilly  so I spent little time out there. I am not sure how much time you would want to spend out there in the winter out in the Atlantic (it gets windy and even on my sunny cruise this June it wasn't hot but pleasant).

 

The main complaint I had of the Getaway was that there was so little public indoor space. I have previously cruised with Celebrity, Cunard, and mostly RCI and I don't recall ever noticing a lack of indoor space. Basically, you have the Atrium (very noisy), the Casino (smells strongly like smoke), the Pub, a couple of smallish bars (they are nice but way too small). On sunny days I could usually find a place to sit inside but our first couple of days were rainy and it felt very crowded. 

 

Though I did not use it, I have heard a lot of good things about the Thermal Spa. You have to buy a pass that isn't exactly cheap (around $350 I think for the 12 day ta) but I would probably splurge if going on a winter ta on Breakaway/Getaway.

 

There were many things I loved on this cruise: I liked my oceanview cabin (for a solo traveler the window is basically a tiny enclosed balcony), the seas were incredibly calm/smooth. Entertainment was good. Fellow passengers were very friendly and outgoing - it was extremely easy to meet new people (I am an introvert and that is not always the case). It was just a fun loving ship and the vibe was great!

 

I actually just wrote up a very long and detailed review of my transatlantic cruise for my blog. Not sure if I am allowed to post a link here but if you are interested let me know and I would be happy to pm you the link!

 

[ziggyuk]

The atrium is very crowded and they try to do all the entertainment from there, Deal or no Deal, Bingo etc etc, get there early or you wont get a seat, it gets very crowded with people sitting on the stairs.
Why the heck they don't do these activities in the Bliss lounge that remains closed during the day is beyond me. Not a ship I will repeat.
Anyway that is my tip, get in early to get a seat.

[Twolittleboys]

28 minutes ago, ziggyuk said:

The atrium is very crowded and they try to do all the entertainment from there, Deal or no Deal, Bingo etc etc, get there early or you wont get a seat, it gets very crowded with people sitting on the stairs.
Why the heck they don't do these activities in the Bliss lounge that remains closed during the day is beyond me. Not a ship I will repeat.
Anyway that is my tip, get in early to get a seat.

 

I know - what is up with the Bliss lounge? There is so little space and then they don't seem to use what they do have (also the Illusionarium was mostly closed).

Edited July 1, 2023 by Twolittleboys

[ColumboRocks]

42 minutes ago, Twolittleboys said:

 

I was traveling as a solo and had an oceanview room which I loved (I am not a huge balcony person). On my cruise, a balcony would have been nice but not sure it is worth it in the fall/winter. I had a balcony on an October Med cruise on the Harmony of the Seas two years ago and it was rather chilly  so I spent little time out there. I am not sure how much time you would want to spend out there in the winter out in the Atlantic (it gets windy and even on my sunny cruise this June it wasn't hot but pleasant).

 

The main complaint I had of the Getaway was that there was so little public indoor space. I have previously cruised with Celebrity, Cunard, and mostly RCI and I don't recall ever noticing a lack of indoor space. Basically, you have the Atrium (very noisy), the Casino (smells strongly like smoke), the Pub, a couple of smallish bars (they are nice but way too small). On sunny days I could usually find a place to sit inside but our first couple of days were rainy and it felt very crowded. 

 

Though I did not use it, I have heard a lot of good things about the Thermal Spa. You have to buy a pass that isn't exactly cheap (around $350 I think for the 12 day ta) but I would probably splurge if going on a winter ta on Breakaway/Getaway.

 

There were many things I loved on this cruise: I liked my oceanview cabin (for a solo traveler the window is basically a tiny enclosed balcony), the seas were incredibly calm/smooth. Entertainment was good. Fellow passengers were very friendly and outgoing - it was extremely easy to meet new people (I am an introvert and that is not always the case). It was just a fun loving ship and the vibe was great!

 

I actually just wrote up a very long and detailed review of my transatlantic cruise for my blog. Not sure if I am allowed to post a link here but if you are interested let me know and I would be happy to pm you the link!

 

Thank you so much for all this!  I'd love to read more about it on the blog...

[Twolittleboys]

3 minutes ago, ColumboRocks said:

Thank you so much for all this!  I'd love to read more about it on the blog...

 

I tried to message you but the function was disabled so I will stick the link here for now 

REVIEW TRANSATLANTIC CRUISE ON NORWEGIAN GETAWAY - Kitty meets World

 

Let me know if you run into any issues looking at the post (my blog is fairly new and I am still ironing out some problems).

[www3traveler]

Both the Bliss Lounge and the Illusionarium are too small to be used for large events.

Bingo is done in the theatre when possible.  Most theatre time is used for rehearsals.

If I want a seat, I go upstairs to the Local and grab a bar stool along the railing.

I never have trouble finding a place to read--(1) the library off the atrium,(2) during the day any of the bar space along Deck 8,(3) in nice weather the Waterfrontand(4) the area between the buffet and the pool deck.

[ziggyuk]

7 minutes ago, www3traveler said:

Both the Bliss Lounge and the Illusionarium are too small to be used for large events.

Bingo is done in the theatre when possible.  Most theatre time is used for rehearsals.

If I want a seat, I go upstairs to the Local and grab a bar stool along the railing.

I never have trouble finding a place to read--(1) the library off the atrium,(2) during the day any of the bar space along Deck 8,(3) in nice weather the Waterfrontand(4) the area between the buffet and the pool deck.

 

The Bliss is small but has more room than the atrium and not everyone in the atrium is even there for the show, spreading the masses makes far more sense that cramming everyone into one venue.
We tried night after night to take a bar stool up stairs without any success, it was so bad people were sitting on the stairs blocking them, it was ridiculous.

Edited July 1, 2023 by ziggyuk

[Twolittleboys]

3 minutes ago, www3traveler said:

Both the Bliss Lounge and the Illusionarium are too small to be used for large events.

Bingo is done in the theatre when possible.  Most theatre time is used for rehearsals.

If I want a seat, I go upstairs to the Local and grab a bar stool along the railing.

I never have trouble finding a place to read--(1) the library off the atrium,(2) during the day any of the bar space along Deck 8,(3) in nice weather the Waterfrontand(4) the area between the buffet and the pool deck.

 

You may be right that Bliss/Illusionarium are too small for some events.

 

I loved the Waterfront and I did usually find a spot just where you said - the bar space on Deck 8. However, we were lucky and had mostly good weather. On the one day with rain it did feel very crowded. I don't think it would be much of a problem on a regular cruise but with six or more sea days in a row I did feel there would be an issue if the weather turned bad...

[ColumboRocks]

19 minutes ago, Twolittleboys said:

 

I tried to message you but the function was disabled so I will stick the link here for now 

REVIEW TRANSATLANTIC CRUISE ON NORWEGIAN GETAWAY - Kitty meets World

 

Let me know if you run into any issues looking at the post (my blog is fairly new and I am still ironing out some problems).

Got it...thanks!  I just registered with CC yesterday so maybe need to fix some settings.

[ziggyuk]

2 minutes ago, ColumboRocks said:

Got it...thanks!  I just registered with CC yesterday so maybe need to fix some settings.

 

Private messages are blocked for everyone on CC.

Edited July 1, 2023 by ziggyuk