valleyvillage

I love the cheese plate for dessert in Le Bistro, but it is, as you feared, fresh from the fridge. And nothing special in the way of flavors, but I still enjoy it. I have had better luck with the Butler, asking for some nice cheese and crackers served early enough to reach at least room temperature. Same varieties, however.

Did that work? It was certainly your best move!

Risotto is an Italian rice dish cooked with broth until it reaches a creamy consistency. The broth can be derived from meat, fish, or vegetables. Many types of risotto contain butter, onion, white wine, and Parmesan cheese. It is one of the most common ways of cooking rice in Italy.

I have had several veggie experiences at Cagney's. Yes, once the Napoleon. Next time I asked they found some pasta. The next time I received a polite lecture about the nature of a steak house and how they really could not accomodate vegetarians. Then the chef came out and told me he was going to fix me a nice portion risotto! And then the child's pizza. Basically, I am ready for anything at Cagney's! Always got enough to eat!

In our experience Cagney's has not had a vegetarian option. Ocean Blue has the cauliflower steak and Le Bistro has the Vegetable Napoleon. I usually get a bunch of sides. One time I just ordered the pizza from the child's menu. And I was very happy!

No, not really. There are fewer staterooms starboard, so possbily quieter. However, all 6 times we have sailed in this class of ship we were portside and did not have any noise complaints.

We stayed in 18124 next door for three weeks on Encore. It was quite handy for going to the Haven Restaurant. We did not notice that much traffic from people entering through the door to the lobby there. Loved that little sun deck! The balcony is definitely not a large balcony. This video has a good look at one.

I especially love the Hawaii Beverage Package! Also includes fountain soda, freshly squeezed juice, bottled water (flat and sparkling), non-alcoholic beer, and speciality coffee (limited to dining rooms only).

I found an article about those "Been There" mugs on NCL and did not list Star as one of the ships for the first series.

Here's hoping you and your BIL have a great cruise! You will find accessible cabins on most if not all ships sailing out of Boston. The cruise lines are terrific when it comes to access. NCL has an access desk to make sure of what you need. I'm sure other lines do as well. Bon Voyage

Our experience has been: corkscrew, wine glass, mini fridge AND ice bucket. YMMV

Here's the thing. When you eventually get to the accessibility and medical questionnaire, you will see the following disclaimer: We cannot accommodate halal, organic or vegan menus or meal requests. In practice, I have found them to be accomodating as much as they can. You can do it by meeting with the access desk in advance for some options. Or meet with the Maitre d' in advance. Or you can do what I do which I call going commando. I take the menu and see what I can make work. There is always something!

POA has no Haven restaurant. So you will do specialties, buffet, or the free dining rooms.

Happy Anniversary! One thing in your favor, slightly, is that Joy has more Haven staterooms than other ships. If you would like even the smallest chance, you need to bid the maximum.

You are so generous and thoughtful! Thank you!

Before the cruise you can do that through the Concierge Desk. Once on board the concierge will help you directly. NorwegianConciergeDesk@ncl.com. 855-625-4283

This link has a ton of pictures, should answer your questions!

Short pants are ok while sitting outside. OB is one of our favorites. We love the basil sorbet! Never had anything like it. Delicious!

Ship?

We have done both and found no clear preference. It's nice on 18 to be right across from the Haven Restaurant and on 17 it's nice to have easy access to the Horizon Lounge. We would be happy with either one.

FYI, the lunch and dinner menus are different in the Haven. My favorite embarkation lunch is a caesar salad and mushroom flatbread appetizer!

All the way down the street from where you drop off the luggage is the entrance to the port building. There is a sign for Haven and Accessible passengers on the right side. It is clearly marked. That line is where they just check your name and cabin number to make sure you are in the right place, and after that, there is a security line for everyone except us folks with disabilities.

Welcome to Cruise Critic anc congratulations! The Encore is one of our favorite ships. The atrium on Deck 6 has space as well as some meeting rooms.

Thank you for your kindness and generosity in taking time with this great review!

We like to drop off at the far end of the terminal where there is a special Haven entrance. It's on the west side of the terminal building, if I recall correctly.