New to NCL. A few questions re; Port Canaveral terminal, GSC experience, Haven forward facing penthouse with balcony.

[Big Red 85]

Greeting!  The wife and I are booked for a Nov 29, 2025 Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Joy.  This will be our 50th wedding Anniversary celebration.  We have cruised on Disney a few times but this will be our first NCL experience.  We have been reading and studying but still have a couple questions.

 

We see there is a Haven lounge at the terminal in which we will check-in and wait until boarding but does the "Haven experience" start earlier, such as going through security or even the original line to enter the terminal?  We plan to park our car there.  Are there porters in the parking areas or do we drop off luggage and then go park?  Any tips or other general knowledge needed for a smooth embarkation?

 

We plan and hope to secure a Villa at Silver Cove.  Looks very calm, comfortable and quiet there. Do the Cabanas and Villas have a safe to store valuables?  I've read there is a pool there now as well as the two coves... is that correct?

 

We have elected to stay in cabin 10108, a forward facing penthouse with balcony, a HG category.  Looks perfect for two people.  Seems it would be a very quiet location.  Any other insights into that particular cabin or category or the general deck location would be appreciated.  We are greatly looking forward to the Haven and all that may offer.  

[Two Wheels Only]

1 hour ago, Big Red 85 said:

We see there is a Haven lounge at the terminal in which we will check-in and wait until boarding but does the "Haven experience" start earlier, such as going through security or even the original line to enter the terminal?

 

There is a separate line for Haven guests. There should be signs but if not, ask an employee at the terminal. You shouldn't have to wait in the lines that everyone else waits in but it can be a bit chaotic with so many impatient people in the terminal. 

 

1 hour ago, Big Red 85 said:

Are there porters in the parking areas or do we drop off luggage and then go park?

 

You can do either. You can drop bags then park or park and lug your bags across the street. 

 

1 hour ago, Big Red 85 said:

We have elected to stay in cabin 10108, a forward facing penthouse with balcony, a HG category.  Looks perfect for two people.  Seems it would be a very quiet location.  Any other insights into that particular cabin or category or the general deck location would be appreciated.  We are greatly looking forward to the Haven and all that may offer.  

 

Because it isn't very high, the view forward (from the bedroom) is partially obscured by the bow of the ship and the crew area....

 

...You can still see the water but the view is better on the higher decks. Also, being lower means a longer walk to the elevators. The higher the deck, the shorter the walk. If you go too high (deck 13), the balcony is partially enclosed and 13108 is wheelchair accessible which is one large room and one large bathroom (no separate living room/bedroom).  

 

The view from the balcony (on the side) will be good for looking straight down to the water. The ship does provide some protection from the wind while moving. If you can get 12108, I'd recommend that over 10108.

[poohbare19]

3 hours ago, Big Red 85 said:

We plan and hope to secure a Villa at Silver Cove.  Looks very calm, comfortable and quiet there. Do the Cabanas and Villas have a safe to store valuables?  I've read there is a pool there now as well as the two coves... is that correct?

 Yes the villas have a safe and there is an infinity pool( very cold!!)

[Beamco]

I really like the forward facing PH's on all Breakaway ships - I stayed in 10108 on the Joy  on a 17. day Panama Canal cruise - it vibrates quite a bit and is very loud when the Joy docks so beware  if you like to sleep in you will wake up when docking!

[Greenpea2]

5 hours ago, Big Red 85 said:

 

 

We plan and hope to secure a Villa at Silver Cove.  Looks very calm, comfortable and quiet there. Do the Cabanas and Villas have a safe to store valuables?  I've read there is a pool there now as well as the two coves... is that correct?

 

 

I would recommend to secure a Villa before you go. You can do that on the NCL website. Or you can wait and take your chances...When I was there last March there were only 2 empty. There was no pool last year--that's pretty cool that they have added that. 

[Big Red 85]

Thank you all.  Great feedback and answers.  Only about 600 days to wait. 🛳️

[Big Red 85]

Greenpea,

We saw that booking activities starts at 130 days out from the sail date.  Is that the same time frame for excursions?  We do plan to book a villa ahead of boarding.  Thanks.

[Greenpea2]

2 hours ago, Big Red 85 said:

Greenpea,

We saw that booking activities starts at 130 days out from the sail date.  Is that the same time frame for excursions?  We do plan to book a villa ahead of boarding.  Thanks.

Oh, ok.  I was thinking you were closer to the cruise date. Honestly, I don’t remember how far out I was able to book it. 130 days is probably right. You will love that villa. I have done it twice, it’s just so peaceful there! 

[CruzinMel]

I'm hesitant about this, because 600 days is a long wait and things change, BUT the Haven experience at the terminal has been the same for the last 2 years, so here goes:

 

There isn't anything particular for Haven parking or porters (except your luggage tags, which are mailed to you after you check in).  Whether you drop off luggage first, or park and drop off, it's all the same.  Where the difference comes in is that Haven guests need to locate the tent outside the terminal to begin their process.  (It is at the far right, if you are facing the terminal, but before the escalators.)  The tent has a tiny sign to indicate it is for Haven; a representative will check your name off their list, and then direct you to go up the escalator to security.  Haven guests have a separate security line; show your passports et al, then go through the metal detector.  Once past the detector, you will be at the entrance to the terminal.  If you are lucky, a Haven representative will pick you up and escort you to the Haven waiting area; if not, you will walk the entire length of the terminal, all the way down as far as you can go to the opposite end (it's easier to stick to the left side of the chairs lined up in the terminal.)  Halfway down, you will see a gold "Haven" sign - keep going.  The Haven waiting area will be on the left, at the end of the terminal, and by the time you get there, you should have an escort.

 

Once there, it's all smooth sailing - you will check in at the desk, and then while you wait there is tea and coffee and juices, and danishes if I remember correctly.  You have a separate waiting area, and will be escorted on first, through your muster station and straight to the Haven lobby itself.  After a short wait, the concierge will make introductions, and then you are free to explore the Haven and the ship, and grab some lunch.  You can drop off your bags in the room if you like, and wait in line for a concierge to assist you with reservations, etc.  Enjoy!

[Big Red 85]

CruzinMel,

Thank you for that most comprehensive explanation of the terminal process.  I read that NCL uses Terminal 5 and 10 at Port Canaveral and I assume the process is the same at either. 

 

Actually it is 690 days until cruise day.  I realize some things will change; prices, crew, menus, activities, excursions, etc..  The re-fit going on now for one.  The basics will probably remain the same. 

[slavetoabunny]

We just sailed out of Canaveral terminal 10 in December.  We dropped the luggage with the porters (it was really quick) and then hubby left me with our carry on's and parked the car in the garage.  There was no Haven tent outside, but once you go up the elevator you just say you are Haven and are directed to the separate security line.  Once through, a Haven representative greeted us and walked us to the Haven lounge.  We signed in on a sheet and the agents were taking people and checking them in in the order of arrival.  There were some good snacks and beverages to partake in while we waited.  It was a very short wait.  Then we have our pictures taken and were given our keys.  A few minutes later, a concierge escorted us on the ship.  We were first taken to our muster station and then to the Haven lounge and served champagne.  From the time we arrived at the terminal until we got to the lounge was about 30 minutes.  Our cabin was not ready yet, so we went to the restaurant and had a delicious lunch.  By the time we finished lunch, the cabin was ready so we proceeded there.  All in all, a seamless experience.  We were in cabin 14106 (forward facing penthouse) on the Escape.  The cabin was roomy (huge bathroom!) and comfortable.  The side balcony in the cabin was what they call a 'priva-sea' balcony, meaning is is partially enclosed.  I really liked it because it blocked the wind and I spent a lot of time out there while we were underway reading.  

[Big Red 85]

I must say that I am impressed with the quality of all the replies to my questions.  Thank you all.  

[Two Wheels Only]

4 hours ago, slavetoabunny said:

We were in cabin 14106 (forward facing penthouse) on the Escape.  The cabin was roomy (huge bathroom!) and comfortable.  The side balcony in the cabin was what they call a 'priva-sea' balcony, meaning is is partially enclosed.  I really liked it because it blocked the wind and I spent a lot of time out there while we were underway reading.  

 

On Escape, the bridge is on deck 15. The suites on deck 14 directly under the bridge have the PrivaSea (partially enclosed) balcony. 

 

On Breakaway, Getaway, Joy, Bliss, and Encore, the bridge is on deck 14. The suites on deck 13 directly under the bridge have the PrivaSea (partially enclosed) balcony. 

 

For all 6 ships, the deck 13 port side forward-facing Haven Suite is the wheelchair accessible one that doesn't have the separate living room/bedroom. 

 

I'm not a fan of the PrivaSea balconies but some people like them for the extra protection. There's also a bridge camera above you but I don't know how intrusive it is. 

[slavetoabunny]

6 hours ago, Two Wheels Only said:

 

I'm not a fan of the PrivaSea balconies but some people like them for the extra protection. There's also a bridge camera above you but I don't know how intrusive it is. 

We did notice the camera and wondered how much they looked at it.  Just keep your illicit activities indoors, LOL!

[Candy Apple 12]

20 hours ago, CruzinMel said:

I'm hesitant about this, because 600 days is a long wait and things change, BUT the Haven experience at the terminal has been the same for the last 2 years, so here goes:

 

There isn't anything particular for Haven parking or porters (except your luggage tags, which are mailed to you after you check in).  Whether you drop off luggage first, or park and drop off, it's all the same.  Where the difference comes in is that Haven guests need to locate the tent outside the terminal to begin their process.  (It is at the far right, if you are facing the terminal, but before the escalators.)  The tent has a tiny sign to indicate it is for Haven; a representative will check your name off their list, and then direct you to go up the escalator to security.  Haven guests have a separate security line; show your passports et al, then go through the metal detector.  Once past the detector, you will be at the entrance to the terminal.  If you are lucky, a Haven representative will pick you up and escort you to the Haven waiting area; if not, you will walk the entire length of the terminal, all the way down as far as you can go to the opposite end (it's easier to stick to the left side of the chairs lined up in the terminal.)  Halfway down, you will see a gold "Haven" sign - keep going.  The Haven waiting area will be on the left, at the end of the terminal, and by the time you get there, you should have an escort.

 

Once there, it's all smooth sailing - you will check in at the desk, and then while you wait there is tea and coffee and juices, and danishes if I remember correctly.  You have a separate waiting area, and will be escorted on first, through your muster station and straight to the Haven lobby itself.  After a short wait, the concierge will make introductions, and then you are free to explore the Haven and the ship, and grab some lunch.  You can drop off your bags in the room if you like, and wait in line for a concierge to assist you with reservations, etc.  Enjoy!

Great explanation!

12 hours ago, slavetoabunny said:

We just sailed out of Canaveral terminal 10 in December.  We dropped the luggage with the porters (it was really quick) and then hubby left me with our carry on's and parked the car in the garage.  There was no Haven tent outside, but once you go up the elevator you just say you are Haven and are directed to the separate security line.  Once through, a Haven representative greeted us and walked us to the Haven lounge.  We signed in on a sheet and the agents were taking people and checking them in in the order of arrival.  There were some good snacks and beverages to partake in while we waited.  It was a very short wait.  Then we have our pictures taken and were given our keys.  A few minutes later, a concierge escorted us on the ship.  We were first taken to our muster station and then to the Haven lounge and served champagne.  From the time we arrived at the terminal until we got to the lounge was about 30 minutes.  Our cabin was not ready yet, so we went to the restaurant and had a delicious lunch.  By the time we finished lunch, the cabin was ready so we proceeded there.  All in all, a seamless experience.  We were in cabin 14106 (forward facing penthouse) on the Escape.  The cabin was roomy (huge bathroom!) and comfortable.  The side balcony in the cabin was what they call a 'priva-sea' balcony, meaning is is partially enclosed.  I really liked it because it blocked the wind and I spent a lot of time out there while we were underway reading.  

Do you know how to find out which terminal you’re sailing from? I’m on the Escape out of Oort Canaveral next month.  

[slavetoabunny]

2 minutes ago, Candy Apple 12 said:

Great explanation!

Do you know how to find out which terminal you’re sailing from? I’m on the Escape out of Oort Canaveral next month.  

Escape should be terminal 10.  Ships usually sail from the same terminal.  Signage is good at the terminal too.

 

[TSUmom]

Slavetoabunny this is completely off topic but your name just makes me wonder if like me pet rabbits rule your life? 

[Lupush]

On 1/9/2024 at 2:08 PM, Big Red 85 said:

We see there is a Haven lounge at the terminal in which we will check-in and wait until boarding but does the "Haven experience" start earlier, such as going through security or even the original line to enter the terminal?  We plan to park our car there.  Are there porters in the parking areas or do we drop off luggage and then go park?  Any tips or other general knowledge needed for a smooth embarkation?

 

We plan and hope to secure a Villa at Silver Cove.  Looks very calm, comfortable and quiet there. Do the Cabanas and Villas have a safe to store valuables?  I've read there is a pool there now as well as the two coves... is that correct?

 

There is no Haven lounge at Port Canaveral.  It's a room that is separate from the general boarding area.  You do get priority check in, however the boarding experience at Port Canaveral is nowhere near as pleasant as Haven boarding in Miami.  I highly recommend the Silver Cove Villa.  There is a safe to store your valuables.  Prices for the Villa will be considerably lower if you book it in advance.

[TSUmom]

12 minutes ago, Lupush said:

There is no Haven lounge at Port Canaveral.  It's a room that is separate from the general boarding area.  You do get priority check in, however the boarding experience at Port Canaveral is nowhere near as pleasant as Haven boarding in Miami.  I highly recommend the Silver Cove Villa.  There is a safe to store your valuables.  Prices for the Villa will be considerably lower if you book it in advance.

Thank you for the information about Haven boarding.  I believe I am a bit spoiled after boarding from the new NCL terminal in Miami.

[Sailing12Away]

On 1/9/2024 at 2:08 PM, Big Red 85 said:

Greeting!  The wife and I are booked for a Nov 29, 2025 Eastern Caribbean cruise on the Joy.  This will be our 50th wedding Anniversary celebration.  We have cruised on Disney a few times but this will be our first NCL experience.  We have been reading and studying but still have a couple questions.

 

We see there is a Haven lounge at the terminal in which we will check-in and wait until boarding but does the "Haven experience" start earlier, such as going through security or even the original line to enter the terminal?  We plan to park our car there.  Are there porters in the parking areas or do we drop off luggage and then go park?  Any tips or other general knowledge needed for a smooth embarkation?

 

We plan and hope to secure a Villa at Silver Cove.  Looks very calm, comfortable and quiet there. Do the Cabanas and Villas have a safe to store valuables?  I've read there is a pool there now as well as the two coves... is that correct?

 

We have elected to stay in cabin 10108, a forward facing penthouse with balcony, a HG category.  Looks perfect for two people.  Seems it would be a very quiet location.  Any other insights into that particular cabin or category or the general deck location would be appreciated.  We are greatly looking forward to the Haven and all that may offer.  

I always laugh when I see people get excited about the pre-embarkation lounge areas. Genuinely curious what advertising people have come across that make them get all excited about some folding chairs, fruit flavored water, and a couple of pastries. Not trying to be mean or poke fun at anyone, the FB groups are 100x worse, but it's really not something to plan on getting there early for to 'experience'. If you're flying in day of the cruise and getting there early, sure, it's a comfortable place to sit and wait. But no, not something I would ever recommend people intentionally plan to experience or go early for. Our best trips with smoothest embarkation have been those where we get to the port after 11am, and typically get checked in and walk right on with minimal lines, no fuss, no muss, just go through the process and get right on board.

 

Silver Cove - will be there for the first time ourselves next month. You can book the villas under the excursions section of your account when you log into the NCL website and your reservation section. We have a large group of friends and friends of friends that will be on this trip with us. So we booked the 2 bedroom villa. There's only 2 of them, and since we're already up to 10-12 people, figured it was better to grab the biggest one now and can downgrade in a few weeks to just the 1br if it will only be the 12 of us. Rather than the group keep growing (we may have 16) and not have the 2br available if needed. Looking forward to just a relaxing day in the sun hanging out with friends. Pool has been installed in the Silver Cove area, near where the gazebo was previously. Not sure if there's a second pool in the non-Silver Cove area too.

 

Joy is one of our favorite ships. But we prefer the HH, HI, HJ cabins on decks 14 & 15. Much bigger rooms and balconies at a much lower price point than the rest of the Haven cabins, and s very short flight of stairs up to the Haven areas. Curious to see how the Joy looks after her dry dock this month.

[cruiseny4life]

1 hour ago, Sailing12Away said:

I always laugh when I see people get excited about the pre-embarkation lounge areas. Genuinely curious what advertising people have come across that make them get all excited about some folding chairs, fruit flavored water, and a couple of pastries. Not trying to be mean or poke fun at anyone, the FB groups are 100x worse, but it's really not something to plan on getting there early for to 'experience'. If you're flying in day of the cruise and getting there early, sure, it's a comfortable place to sit and wait. But no, not something I would ever recommend people intentionally plan to experience or go early for. Our best trips with smoothest embarkation have been those where we get to the port after 11am, and typically get checked in and walk right on with minimal lines, no fuss, no muss, just go through the process and get right on board.

I tend to agree with you....but after having a very delayed boarding in Miami, I was grateful to be in that gorgeous Miami Haven lounge rather than, say....Manhattan or Barcelona (my only other experiences with NCL). We arrived at 9, because my husband just HAS TO BE THE FIRST (he doesn't annoy me often, but sometimes haha)...so we're used to waiting a bit. But when 11 came, then 12 came, then 12:45, then 1....well, the couch we secured was perfectly comfy for a four hour wait to get onboard. Much better than those plastic chairs in either of those places I mentioned above. 

[slavetoabunny]

7 hours ago, TSUmom said:

Slavetoabunny this is completely off topic but your name just makes me wonder if like me pet rabbits rule your life? 

Well, they are the bosses.  I have six pet bunnies that live in the house.

[TSUmom]

1 hour ago, slavetoabunny said:

Well, they are the bosses.  I have six pet bunnies that live in the house.

Only two for me. Ricky and Lucy and free roam in my house also 

[slavetoabunny]

31 minutes ago, TSUmom said:

Only two for me. Ricky and Lucy and free roam in my house also 

I love those names!  I've had pet rabbits since 2004.  Numbers have varied between 3 - 9.  I volunteer for Gainesville Rabbit Rescue too.

[TSUmom]

On 1/12/2024 at 4:42 PM, slavetoabunny said:

I love those names!  I've had pet rabbits since 2004.  Numbers have varied between 3 - 9.  I volunteer for Gainesville Rabbit Rescue too.

Mine are spoiled rotten and when I go to work they make a mess because I keep them in one room.  They decide to pay me back for being gone by tossing their hay everywhere....When I go on vacation by pet care neighbor tries to keep it cleaned up to no avail.