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We woke up around 8:30 and showered, packed and headed out of our hotel room. We decided to skip breakfast at the hotel and just grab some Starbucks or something at the airport. We went downstairs and stared longingly (and perhaps green with envy) at all the cruisers excitedly waiting for their ride to the port. It's so unfair that we are on our way home!

Husband called Uber and within about 5 minutes she arrived. I have to say that I've always had an excellent Uber experience.....until now! So our Uber driver pulls up and just sits there. Now, I know that they don't HAVE to get out and help us put our luggage in the car. But, I've always had Uber drivers get out of the car, greet us, and help us load our luggage. This lady didn't move. So, she popped the trunk and we piled all our luggage into the car, and climbed in with Ms. Uber. We told Ms. Uber we were going to the Miami airport - and off we went.

She had her phone on her lap so we couldn't see her route (usually they have them mounted on the dashboard). After awhile I see the exit to the airport. We drove right past it. WAIT! There goes the airport!! Huh?? Well, maybe she's going to the next exit. A more direct route maybe? So we then drive by the next exit and I know something's up. Husband mentions to her that we passed the airport - and she blamed it on Uber giving her the incorrect route. Uh no, I don't think so. She circled around and we backtracked to our exit. We find the terminal and she asks us what airline and we tell her United. So, of course she pulls up far from United and pops her trunk. Huh? At that point, I just want out - it would be quicker to walk the rest of the way ourselves. She apologizes for taking us on the scenic route and we grab our luggage and take off. Bye Ms. Uber. Husband said he thought she smelled like marijuana. I didn't smell anything, but he was up front with her so maybe?

We walk to United, check our baggage and went through security. Husband and son got TSA precheck and I didn't. Hey, what's with that?? Son thought that was pretty funny and waved to me while they got ushered through quickly. No worries, I slow everything down anyways with my bionic knees. I go through the xray scanner and they check out my knees and let me go. They don't feel the need to feel up my armpits like NCL I guess. Once through, we set off to find a Starbucks for coffee and food.

While drinking my coffee, I go onto my Uber app and rate my driver. I debated between two and three stars (I've never not given 5 stars before!) and decided on the two stars. Under comments I mentioned about our roundabout route to the airport which clearly cost us more money. Now, I should mention that I had a free $30 ride that I had been saving for the trip. Even with the scenic route, it still only cost around $21. But, I felt it needed to be mentioned. I also mentioned that she was unhelpful, and dropped us at the wrong entrance. I got a response fairly quickly back from Uber, apologizing and acknowledging that they checked the record and she had taken us the long way to the airport. And that they also noticed that we weren't out any money since it fell within our free ride. That's fine - I wasn't looking for anything - just felt they needed to know what a dud Ms. Uber was.

Our flight to Newark was pretty uneventful and we had a brief one hour layover before our connection back down to Virginia. Once again, we flew the scenic route. While in Newark, we went into the Red Carpet lounge for some free food. Obviously, we hadn't eaten enough this past week. I had some crackers and cheese and then found the trail mix and chocolate covered pretzels. I decided I had to bring some on the plane with me, so found some paper cups and filled them up. So now I'm hoarding food?? Wow, a new low for me. But without Marivic, what's a girl to do??

So we were on our next flight and a quick 45 minutes later we landed. Once outside the terminal we called an Uber. This must not be our Uber day, because our Uber driver cancelled on us. Once he heard we only lived 10 minutes from the airport, I guess he decided that we weren't worth his effort. I told husband let's bag the Uber and we took a taxi instead. Our taxi driver was slow as molasses but we eventually made it home.

Home, Sweet, Home. The cleaners had come while we were gone so at least it was nice to walk into the house. I had the terrible realization that I had to work the next day, and thus began my post-cruise depression. And what the heck was I going to fix for dinner?? The reality that our cruise was done set in - but what great memories we have!!

Thanks again for the review. I love your humor!

Thanks SO much!! :)

We got to the hotel and went to check in. The lobby was full of cruisers, checking out and heading to the port. Lucky them!! We checked in and as our room wasn't ready (which didn't surprise us) we checked our luggage into storage and found some chairs to set up shop. We sat around for about 2 hours - luckily we had plugs for our electronics and husband came through and brought gummy bears from our cabin. Our room was ready around 12:30 so we grabbed our luggage and went up.

The room was clean and I really don't have any complaints. Well, I guess my one complaint is the whole hotel seemed a bit old to me. We've stayed here before, and I don't remember it seeming old, so either my tastes have changed or it has aged. Again, the room was clean and the location was exceptional. Bayside Marketplace was across the street and the port was only a $6 ride away. So all was good.

After dropping off our luggage, we decided to walk across the street for lunch. Son didn't feel like going so husband and I took off. We walked around the marketplace, partly just to get some exercise and also to decide where to eat. I wasn't that hungry and told husband that I really just felt like wings. So, we went to Hooters. Going from the Haven Restaurant to Hooters in less than 5 hours. Culture shock! I bet son now wishes he came with us!! :) I got son a burger and mozzarella sticks to bring back. After a margarita and my wings, we got son's food and went back to the hotel. He was watching NCAA girl's basketball and was very happy when I gave him his food. I put on my swimsuit and went down to the pool.

While laying on the lounger I started chatting with a family that was heading out the next day on the Carnival Glory. We chatted about my cruise, the weather we had (they were worried about rain) and why cruising is so awesome. It was hot though - so after awhile I went back to the room. I read for awhile, I might have dozed a bit (after all, I had been up since 5:30!) and we just relaxed. 4:30 pm rolled around and where was Marivic with my treats? Oh, this will take some getting used to!!

Soon it was time for my Ducks to play. We turned on the basketball game and watched the first half. We then decided to go across the street to Bayside Marketplace again. It was our last night in Miami and I didn't want to just sit in. I had originally planned for us to go to South Beach - but between my Ducks and just being tired, I don't think anyone was in the mood. So, we walked across the street and found a bar that had a TV (Chili's had a bar outside with some TV's) and great music playing. We watched the second half of the game sitting at the bar (son seemed a little too comfortable at the bar - will have to keep an eye on that!) and eating dinner. I ordered a Turkey Club sandwich that was actually pretty tasty! I also had two margaritas - unfortunately my UBP didn't work!! The second margarita I ordered after my Ducks lost! Both the Oregon Ducks and I are going home - what a truly sad day!

After the game ended and I was done drinking my sorrows away, we walked around the Marketplace. They had a great band playing on the main stage (Bayside Marketplace is a great place to be on a Sat night) so we sat, listened and people-watched for awhile. Husband and son went to Haagen-Dazs and grabbed a cone - I just didn't have it in me to stuff anything else in.

We walked back to the hotel, watched TV for awhile and then went to sleep. Husband and I loved the king sized bed on the Escape. We were now in a double. I kept telling husband to move over but he claims he had nowhere to go. I should have put him with son - who seemed quite comfortable over on the double by himself! Our adventure is truly done. Tomorrow we fly home and back to reality.

We went to bed sad, knowing that soon we would be forced off the ship. As we weren't flying home until Sunday, we were in no hurry to get off the ship. I saw that the Haven restaurant was only serving breakfast until 8:30 am, so we thought we'd sleep until 7:30 - which would get us to breakfast in time.

At 5:30 I was woken up by a beep. It was my text alert on my phone. I hadn't heard that noise in a week. I thought I had everything turned off, but I must have had just the roaming off - and once we were within range the texts came pouring in. Well, I don't think they actually poured - I think I only had 4, with one being from Dress Barn sending me a 25% off coupon.

I tried to fall back asleep but my mind started racing. Were we back at port in Miami? Were we still moving? I couldn't tell. I heard some moving around on the sundeck up above us. That was really only the second time I heard anything all cruise. Why would someone be on the sundeck at 5:30 am? I gave up on sleeping and went out to the balcony. I looked to my left and there were 4 men (they looked in the low 20's) on the sundeck talking and laughing. They seemed to have been up all night - I guess making the most of their last night on the ship. I didn't hear anything up above anymore - and my guess was it was them up on the sundeck - and now they've come down a level. As I looked out, I saw we were nearing land. I went and grabbed my bathrobe and a cup of coffee and came back out to sit.

Soon we passed by multiple other cruise ships. Wow, there are a lot in port already. I was a bit confused at where we were going, because we seemed to have passed where all the other ships were docked. It took about 45 minutes from when I first woke up, but then I saw it. The saddest sight one can see on a seven day cruise. I saw the exact balcony view we had on embarkation day. I recognized the road, houses, and other sights I saw from my balcony on that initial day. Well this is the pits. We really are back! Soon husband came out to join me, and we watched as we docked.

We woke up son at 8 am and went for our last breakfast. I usually get the steak and eggs my last day of a cruise. That way I have a huge breakfast and I'm full for the day. But - I was still full from the night before. So, I got a few eggs and my awesome bacon and called it a meal. I kind of went out with a wimper and not a bang - but, we got to see all our favorite servers one last time to say goodbye. After breakfast, we went back to our room and found Marivic. She gave us a huge hug goodbye and asked us to come back again. Oh - I sure hope we will!! I was glad I saw her (I didn't see her the night before) so I could give her an envelope with her tip. She earned it!!

I still needed to go look at our photos and decide what I wanted to buy. There were 5 photos I'm in love with from the ropes course and maybe one or two others from dinner. I don't have 10 I like, so the package didn't make sense. Husband was not happy with the prices (I agree - so expensive) so I needed to figure out what I was going to do. I went down and begged the lady for a discount. I was nice - and said please - but it didn't work. No discount other than my latitudes discount. So, what's a girl to do. I just couldn't justify spending that much money - so I bought one photo (of son and I together on the ropes course) and let the rest go. I'm still sad I didn't get the rest. My bank account is probably happy though! I returned to the cabin and husband was pleasantly surprised at my restraint.

Every time we sail, I always say we will stay on the ship until 10 am. We aren't in a hurry, probably can't get into our hotel room this early, and I want to enjoy every moment possible on board. But, every cruise it's the same. Around 9 am or so, we're ready to leave. The ship somehow has a way of closing everything down so it's just not worth it to stay on. That, and I guess we just come to terms with the inevitable fact that we're leaving. So let's just get it over with. So, at 9:30 we took our last walk down to the Haven Lounge. We took our last elevator ride down our secret passageway, and took our last walk off the ship. Sniff. Sniff. As we were leaving, crew members were lined up waving goodbye. I asked one of them if I could stay. He said no! :(

We were off the ship in 5 quick minutes. We found our luggage easily inside and lined up to go through customs. That line also took probably 5 minutes at the most. The next thing we knew, we were outside. All around us we saw happy, excited passengers eagerly anticipating their week on the Escape. How envious I was! I may have snarled at a few of them. Ok, I didn't - but I did wish a few a great trip and told them how lucky they were and to enjoy every moment. We called an Uber which arrived in 5 minutes. $6 later, we were at the Holiday Inn Port of Miami.

Sorry about this change!! I'm glad you were able to rebook.

Loved your review and sense of humor......thankyou

Thanks!!

One thing I forgot to mention earlier is that we went back to the cabin and put our suitcases out in the hallway. We had packed up earlier in the day (how depressing) so it was easy to just place them out on the way to dinner.

After dinner we went by 5 O'Clock Somewhere to have a drink and say goodbye to Gene Bee. After my margarita, we went to Howl at the Moon. I really wasn't in a hurry to get there, as I found that I enjoy it more after 11 pm. That's when it's adult only and everyone (singers and audience) seems to have a bit more fun. Tonight at Howl at the Moon, they had a performer from After Midnight sitting in on drums. He was great - and really seemed to be having fun. I didn't go see After Midnight, as after reading the reviews, it just didn't seem like my cup of tea. I have read however how talented they are, and I saw that firsthand tonight.

11pm rolled around and things started hopping. The singers (and song choices) became a bit more vulgar. At that point, two young boys came walking in and sat on their mom's lap in the front row. They were probably 8 and 10ish. The performers stopped, mentioned to the parents that it was after 11 and adults only - and that if the kids were going to stay, be prepared for adults only material. I guess the moms didn't mind because they stayed the whole time we were there. They seemed to be enjoying themselves - especially hearing all the dirty words. We had a nice time and stayed until midnight. We wanted to go by and see Bong one last time so we left.

We went by to see Bong but he was closed! What? Oh no!! No last Raspberry Mojito. Bummer. We passed a few other bars as well that were closed (did everything close earlier - or did we stay out a bit later than most other nights??) so we decided to head back to the Haven bar. We got there and they were closing up also. I must have looked pitiful because he told me he'd make me my last drink!

I told him to surprise me and I expected something typical. Instead, he made me some concoction that was actually quite good. I don't remember what he even put in it, but he looked like a scientist in the middle of an experiment. He used an eyedropper and put a few blue drops of something just before serving it to me. Hmmmm, it was good. Interesting though - and it had no name. Just an invention. On a side note, the registers were already closed so he couldn't run my card for the drink. I appreciated that he still went ahead and made me one. Kudos to the Haven bar!

While he was making my drink we were chatting and I asked him what he thought of the UBP. His answer was interesting and something I've never thought of. He said the most of them find the UBP more work, BUT, it's a lot less stressful. He said that before passengers would get upset about their drinks, if they didn't like them, felt they weren't made right, or just because they felt like complaining to get a free drink. He said now the pressure is off, because the drinks are free - so there are less complaints and if there's an issue, they just order another drink. I didn't see this as him not caring anymore, or not trying to make a good drink (he was amazing BTW) but just noticing that although he's making more drinks, there's less stress.

Husband and I took our drinks out to the Haven pool area. We were there by ourselves and it was all lit up with the beautiful nighttime lights. It was so peaceful - and pretty. We sat down with our drinks and just soaked it all in for a few minutes. We then headed back to our cabin and sat out on our balcony on last time. Soon it was time to go to bed. We didn't want this day to end - because tomorrow means we are back in Miami. What a sad thought.

Bless you for the tip on the slide-stopping-tankini! That's my suit of choice...

 

Just love your review ~ I'm so ready for my cruise!

Yes, a tankini may be perfect for everything, other than the drop slide. Tuck it in, hold onto it, wear a different one........or get ready for the walk of shame, LOL.

Have a great time on your cruise!!!

Just had to show that to my wife just to see her reaction. Priceless !!! She had just as many chuckles as I did . Love the way you describe what's going on. Somehow I don't think she will go for this ride.

Tell your wife I double-dog dare her! :)

So son and I decide to head back to the Haven so I can get a drink and he can change to head out to Entourage. Husband headed back to the cabin after my Drop Slide fiasco. He didn't want to leave my bag etc on a chair as we went down the Aqua Slide, so he took everything back with him. I asked him to leave our shoes, my coverup and son's shirt. We grab our things and set off for the cabin. Wait? Our key cards are in the bag? What? How are we going to get into the Haven?? This is really not my day!

I told son that we will just head over there, and then call the room from the phone near there. Hopefully husband is in the room and not at the bar. I picked up the phone across from the Haven and just as I start to dial, husband walks out the Haven door. Now that's timing! It seems that son's phone vibrate and husband heard it. As he looked into the bag at the phone, he saw my key card and knew we couldn't get in. So, he came out to wait for us. Yay husband!!

I stopped by the Haven bar and grabbed a drink. I took my well-earned Pina Colada onto our balcony, grabbed my Kindle and settled into the lounger. The Carnival ship parked next to us was blasting some great music, and I alternated between reading, checking out the Victory across from us, watching the MSC Divina pull out, and looking for pier runners. It was nice and relaxing after my earlier escapades.

Son was still out at Entourage so husband and I showered and went to the Brewhouse to check out his ranking. What? Still 9th place? It seems that he is destined to finish in 9th - at least he made the top 10. Husband ordered a few beers and I got a few specialty drinks from their menu. Great service - as always! We stayed at watched the UVA game (Go Hoos!) and then walked over to the theater for the Crew Talent Show. We hadn't been to the theater once this trip (other than mustering) so I told husband we had to at least attend one show. The talent show was fun. There were several singers, a couple dancing and a few other acts. It wasn't anything over the top talent-wise but considering it was crew members, I thought they did fine. As always, the night ended with the crew all marching in singing and waving goodbye.

We debated where to go to dinner after the Talent Show finished. I was considering Food Republic (it was THAT good!) but decided to save money and we went back to the Haven Restaurant. I ordered Prime Rib yet again. One issue with the Haven Restaurant is there aren't too many options for non-seafood eating folks. I wasn't in the mood for chicken and I do love Prime Rib, so why not. I'm not complaining - it was good - just kind of seemed like I was in a rut. But who cares. I was going to order some white wine but went for a Cosmo instead. Delicious! While the service tonight was great, our food order took awhile to arrive. They kept coming over and apologizing. No worries. I don't have anywhere to go! I got the chocolate mousse for dessert which was devine. Mmmmmmm.

I'm loving your review!

 

I sail in two weeks and I wasn't going to do the drop slide because what if I get stuck? But maybe I'll try it now because I know what to do ;)

Do it! Honestly, I will do it again. I just couldn't handle trying it again that same day - can you imagine how humiliating that would be to get stuck twice in one day. I'd walk the plank and keep going if that happened again!

On a side note- it really was fun!.........I think :)

Now everyone knows what to do when stuck..........

Great review. NCL owes you a commission. We are booked on the Oct 22 Escape cruise in a mini suite, large balcony cabin. After reading your review in The Haven, I called our TA and upgraded to The Haven for an extra $1000. The problem is that I'm trying to surprise my husband with this upgrade. I have to contain my enthusiasm. Your review is the first I've seen from this cabin. Where can I see pics of your review? You mentioned something about Facebook. Where? Still 6 months away UGH!

You will love the Haven - great move on your part!!! :)

I only posted one or two photos on my private Facebook page, not any other sites. I can try to put a few on here at the end. I will just need to figure out how to do that!! :) I'm a bit technologically challenged at times.

I'm dreaming about returning to the Escape in October! It will be a more last-minute decision depending on finances - but maybe I'll see you on board!!

OMG. It took me a few minutes to wipe the tears rolling down my face from laughing so much. We are on the Escape on May 21 with our 21 year old Grandson I will most likely try this slide but may not suggest it to my wife.

LOL, definitely don't show your wife my review!! I'm all for laughing at me - I still can't believe it happened!! You definitely need to try the slide - and report back to me!!!

After boarding a few weeks ago, we went to Entourage to sign our son up for the week. In front of us, there was a family of 3 - with the oldest turning 18 that day! They were hoping he could attend Entourage with his siblings. The worker called her boss to check to see if they'd make an exception. They couldn't allow him to attend, even though he was just turning 18 that day. She was very clear that once you are 18, even the day of sailing, you couldn't attend.

That said - I wanted to share what they told the family. The 18 couldn't enter Entourage at all - due to his age. BUT, he was allowed to participate in any activity that they had throughout the ship. So, for example, when they had the dodgeball tournament on deck, or any other activity outside of the Entourage facility,he could participate. The age requirement was only for the Entourage facility itself.

Unbelievable. I'm so glad my cruise was before yours. I never would have done the Free Fall slide if I read your review first.

 

Great review though. I've laughed out loud several times.

I'm still laughing too - if I don't laugh, I'll cry! :) I still can't believe that happened. Husband says "only you"!

Hopefully I didn't scare anyone away from the slide. It was fun!.......at least while it lasted!! LOL

There is no line at the drop slide so son and I go right up. Fail. I'm wearing my wedding ring so back down I go to take it off and give it to husband (who is staying down below with the camera and bag). I climb back up to the top again and watch son as he easily goes into the slide and down he goes. Now - son has done this earlier in the week with friends. Me? I'm new at this. You'd think this NCL guy would help me. I climb in, look at him (ok, maybe plead at him) and say "do I cross my arms?". I mean, could the man have told me what to do? Something? At this point, I'm only semi-terrified. I like roller coasters - how bad can this be. Right? I cross my arms and wait. Don't they count you down? Don't you get a warning? NO.

The next thing I know, the bottom drops out and I fall. I fall fast. Holy crap. It's horrible, and exciting and exhilarating all at once. As I'm falling I remember trying to decide if I should lift my head up or keep it back. I think I'm having fun (even though my life is flashing before me)and can't believe how fast I'm going. But wait? I stopped!!!!

What? How can I stop when I was going SO fast? I am there, stuck, inside this tube. OMG, I am THAT ONE. The one that will need to take the walk of shame! Wait. What do I do? I'm stopped literally 3-4 inches from the next drop. Surely I can make it there and then keep going. I try to pull myself forward - so I can continue on. But there's nothing to grab onto. I try to push, pull or somehow prod my way over the last 4 inches over the hump. Ok, don't panic. Think. Where is the trap door? I saw it from the outside but where is it now? I'm not panicking.......yet. But, I have to figure out what to do. Will they notice I'm missing? Will my family miss me if I never get out of this tube?? Wait. Here's the biggest question of all......How in the heck did this happen? And why me???? I weighed 135 when the cruise began - not too much, and not too little.

All of a sudden I hear a voice. My savior!! I love him - whoever he is!! I hear him from behind me - but I can't understand what he's saying. I think he said "drop back" but I'm not sure. Drop back? What can he mean? I look back. Maybe he means to let myself fall down the slide backwards - towards where I just came from. But if I do that, what if that's not what he said and then I'm even further away from this said trap door. Then I had another thought. OMG, have I eaten SO much on this cruise that I now weigh over 300 pounds???

I decide to go for it and let myself fall backwards. Ahh, there's my savior. My hero. I fall back and see an NCL employee smiling at me from the open trap door. I've been rescued. This wasn't the same not so nice guy that was at the top when I dropped, but instead a personable, smiling man who immediately explained to me what happened.

Take note everyone - because I hadn't read about this at all. Maybe I missed it - but here it is again. Beware of the tankini!! So I was wearing swim shorts and a tankini top. My fearless rescuer told me that my bathing suit top (which is somewhat loose and floats up at times when I'm in the pool) must have created drag when I dropped, which slowed me down. Had I known this ahead of time, I could have tucked my top into my shorts. I wish they would have said something to me up top.

So, I step out of the trap door - mortified - and go look for son and husband. Son comes running up to me smiling, "did you get stuck?" Uh no, I didn't.......I just decided to just take the first half of the slide and then get off. I told son about the bathing suit theory and he immediately asked me to tuck my top in and try it again. I just didn't have it in me. Honestly, if I were stuck again and needed rescuing again I really would just have to stay in there forever. Or at least until nighttime when I could slink out in shame. I told him that my PTSD (Post Traumatic Slide Disorder) would probably keep me from trying the slide again this trip. Sorry.

Son and I went on to the Aqua Racer while husband went back to our cabin. The line was a little longer on this slide, but it still wasn't bad at all - maybe 5 to 10 minutes at the most. After the slide I decided I really needed a drink. Son and I walked back to the cabin but I stopped at the Haven bar and asked for something stiff. Ok, well maybe it was just a pina colada, but I earned it!!

OMG! Tell me you're kidding. :eek:

LOL, wish I could.............

We got up to the Haven Restaurant around 2:05 pm. Oh no, we're late. They close at 2 pm. Will they take us? I wished I had realized the time, as we lollygagged a bit on the way back to the ship. Although she had a big smile, the hostess told us we missed out on lunch, so no last Haven lunch for us. We debated for a few minutes where to go. Honestly, were we even hungry? We hadn't been hungry in a week - we will survive! I'm sure we can find food somewhere.

After going back to our cabin to change into swimsuits, we went to the Haven pool. Son headed out to see who was around at the Teen Club and grab some food at the Garden Cafe. We arranged with son to meet him at the cabin at 4 pm to hit the waterslides! Today was the day I would tackle the drop slide!

Gene Bee immediately came to take our order. I had the chicken caesar wrap and onion rings. Wow, those onion rings were good! The wrap came with fries too. I didn't want to hurt the chef's feelings so I managed to eat most of those too. Gene Bee asked for my drink order, and I told her I'd just have unsweetened ice tea (she seemed shocked, LOL).

We sat off to the side at one of the tables, and the chairs were very comfortable. After eating all our food, we moved over to a lounger. The Haven pool area was nice and empty. I was one with my kindle, and soon was reading away. Before I knew it, it was time to meet son to head out to the slides.

There was NO line at all for the drop slide. So, now was the time! I'd seen the drop slide before, and son even pointed out the trap door at one point. I thought "wow, that must be awful to get stuck". Luckily, I don't weight anything near 99 pounds or 300 pounds, so I should be good to go. I've read on CC about someone seeing someone getting stuck. But, who knows what really happens or even what to do if one does get stuck. Again, not my worries........right???????

Is anyone seeing where this is leading????????

Nassau.....what to do, what to do. I went back and forth thinking about this port. We're been to Nassau before and had a great time. We went to Atlantis and we had that best family day ever. My boys all still say that was the best waterpark ever! Another time in Nassau I went to the Sheraton Nassau Beach Resort (now it's a Melia) and had a perfect day of sun and fun. I had pretty much decided to just go to an all-inclusive and relax for the day when we got our Haven upsell.

With coming up with another $1,000 for the cruise, I started wondering if an all-inclusive made sense. We have unlimited drinks on the ship, we definitely have food, we have a pool. Ok, so we don't have sand, but remember, husband isn't fond of sand anyways. SO, I nixed the all-inclusive idea and decided we should just stay on the ship and enjoy the day. By ditching the all-inclusive, it saved us a chunk of money. I also prepared an alternative in case we decided to get off. I printed out a map, I poured over CC and Tripadvisor and made a list of places to visit including distilleries, museums, forts, bars, etc. I had everything ready and figured we would play it by ear and that morning we'll decided whether we get off the ship or not.

We slept in this morning and woke up around 9 am. Just like every other morning, I made my coffee and went out onto the deck. We woke son up a little while later to see if he wanted to keep sleeping or join us for breakfast. He decided to join us and soon we were all up, dressed and ready to go. We once again went to the Haven Restaurant and were seated immediately. I got a yogurt parfait from the buffet and then ordered bacon (surprise) and eggs. We had a great breakfast - I will sure miss my daily crispy bacon.

After breakfast son wanted to play ping pong. We had tried one other time but the table were occupied. We walked over and found an open table. There was one paddle on the table - where was the other?? Oh, there it is in the corner on the floor. Why would someone do that? Really. Keep the paddle on the table. The issue now is there weren't any ping pong balls. Son went running around to the other tables looking for an extra ball. None to be found. My guess is we could have gone somewhere to get one. But where? Guest services? I had no idea - and really didn't feel like looking. Son was fine giving up the ping pong idea so we went back to the cabin.

By this time we were arriving in Nassau. We went onto the balcony and watch the land come into sight. We got to the port and saw multiple other ships there. How is this big ship going to fit in the little parking spot? I had no idea how this was going to happen. I have to admit I'm like the ultimate parallel parker - I impress myself constantly. That said, I think I'll need to pass my parking crown on.......the Escape wins it hands down. We did a sweeping 180 degree turn and next thing you know we are nestled in next to the other ships. Impressive!

I am used to having one, and sometime two Sea Days at the end of our vacation, heading back to port. It's the time to do all those last minute activities, enjoy the ship one last time and generally soak up every ounce of ship life before there is no choice but to leave. I don't think I like having Nassau on the last day. It's a wham, bam, you're done - and doesn't ease me back to life after cruising. SO, the more I thought about it during the week, the more I wanted to stay on the ship. I need my Sea Day - even if I was at port. I wouldn't mind finding some wifi for awhile though, just to check my email and maybe post a picture or two on Facebook. Remember, husband cheated during the week with his data, but I didn't. I was faithful to the end. Well, or to Day 7. So, the plan was to go find wifi, then come back and enjoy the day on the ship. You should have seen the delight on son's face when I told him we were off to find an Internet connection for him. Pure joy!

We went down to the Haven lounge once the ship was cleared, and we took our back elevator/secret passage out. Having been to Nassau before, I knew right where we needed to go. The main street out front is bound to have Internet. We passed two places immediately that seemed expensive and pretty quickly saw a Starbucks. Starbucks charges $3 per hour for their wifi, but you can only use one device per $3. SO, son and I each bought an hour of Internet - husband used his own data. I also bought an iced coffee. Yum. We went upstairs and found a table and hung out for an hour. Just an FYI in case this helps anyone - the Starbucks in Nassau isn't compatible with Starbucks rewards or gift cards.

After our hour was up, I considered walking around a bit more or going to find a place for a drink. I was thinking about someone I spoke with in Bermuda. He told me that the restaurants and bars were really struggling lately - as so many people return to the ship to eat and drink. If I planned on spending the day off the ship, I would gladly buy food/drinks off the ship, but given the fact that we were heading back anyways, it just didn't make sense. The ship was calling my name, so we headed back. On the way back, we peeked in some stores for t-shirts. I still hadn't bought anything for my other sons. I just didn't see anything I liked for them so we kept walking. We were back on the ship by 2 pm, ready for lunch!

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After the ropes course, son headed off to Entourage. Husband and I went to put bathing suits on and headed over to the Haven pool. We found two loungers next to the pool and set up shop. Gene Bee came right over for my drink order (I believe I went for the Mojito) and I relaxed in the lounger, satisfied with my day so far. I had my Kindle, my mojito and the Haven roof was open and the sun was shining down on me. I was in my happy place, and didn't plan on moving anytime soon.

Over the next few hours, they came around with shrimp, fruit kabobs, cookies and ice cream. I may have had a few more drinks too!! :) As I relaxed I thought about how amazing the Haven really is. Any doubt or concern I had about "missing out" on the pool experience was gone. Especially after I had seen how crowded that pool started getting after we finished the ropes course. Just because I hadn't eaten enough, or maybe just because I could do it, I ordered a cheeseburger and fries. And a delicious margarita to go along with it. That cheeseburger was SO good.

We went back to the cabin around 4 pm and husband put a movie on. I went out on the balcony with my Kindle. We had multiple treats today that Marivic brought, to include sandwiches, cheese plate, fruit plate and a delicious dessert plate. Not that I was hungry, but I managed to help husband eat some of it. We will definitely have to do a late dinner this night - although I had no doubt we would find a way to get that food in! At some point, we showered and got ready for dinner.

Once ready, we went to the Brewhouse so husband could try to climb his way out of 9th place on the All-Star list for the week. We then headed over to the Atrium to watch the 55 to Stay Alive game show. We found two chairs at the bar, so we were able to sit, have a drink and watch. I slipped away to go to the Cruise Next desk to ask a few questions and see about booking another cruise date. I never did end up booking a second trip - I hope I don't regret that - I really had hoped to grab the Pick 2 promotion for several future cruises.

The game show finished and husband told me he wanted to go to Pincho again for more tapas. What? I thought we were going to Manhattan for dinner. So, husband just wants some appetizers there. Like we haven't had enough food. So off we went, to Pincho Tapas - yum! He got two fishy type plates and just because, I decided to get the Datiles con Almendras. I just can't say enough about how delicious these are. And cheap!! So $12 or so later, we finished. We went on to Manhattan for dinner. By this time it was around 8 pm or so. We didn't have to wait for a table and were seated immediately. I ordered the Beef Wellington (I don't remember what appetizer I had) and had a Cosmo. The food was all delicious, as always, and the service was good. The service wasn't quite as spectacular as the other night, but no complaints at all.

Once dinner was finished we went to spend some time with Bong. One can never have enough Raspberry Mojitos! The Mojitos in the Haven can't compare with Bong's! After spending some time there and chatting with others, I wanted to go back to the Brewhouse to watch some NCAA. My Oregon Ducks were playing - and I needed to go cheer them on.

We left the Brewhouse and went to Spice H20 to check out the Glow Party. It was hopping there and looked like a great party - but not really our music or our "thing". Maybe if my Ducks weren't playing I would have stayed for the party. We went back to the cabin and watched basketball. I was very happy that we could get the games in our cabin as well. The first weekend on board, we couldn't find the games anywhere!

Our last Sea Day was winding down. We had the perfect day. A mix of good food, numerous drinks, great service, Haven spoiling, challenges with the rope course and just enjoying everything the Escape had to offer. We love this ship!! Son had returned as well and after we finished watching basketball, we headed to bed. Reality hit and we realized we only had one more day left. After waiting over 450 days after booking this trip, it's soon going to just be a memory. Well, that's depressing..........

I woke up at 9 am, happy with the knowledge that we didn't have to rush off the ship. As much as we loved our port days, I always enjoy a good Sea Day -and honestly could be happy spending each day at sea. Husband was already awake, playing on his phone. Weren't we going unplugged? I made my traditional morning coffee and took it out onto the balcony. The water was glistening on the horizon and was so beautiful I had to take a few more photos. Evidently the 20 other photos I've taken every other morning wasn't enough!!

I woke up son so we could all get ready to go to breakfast. We were seated right away at the Haven Restaurant and the service this morning was fantastic. As I decided it was time to venture into something new, I ordered the Eggs Benedict which was delicious. I'll leave you all to guess what I ordered on the side (starts with B!). Son stuck with the pancakes, although today he went with the "no syrup please". Not sure what's up with that. Husband had his bagel, salon and cream cheese and an omelette.

Once breakfast was finished, the three of us decided to go hit the ropes course. I hadn't tried it yet since I was worried about my ankle. Although it still hurt a bit (I was still forced to penguin down the stairs), I felt it had improved enough that the ropes course was doable. Son hadn't done the ropes course either yet, as he wanted to wait to do it with husband and I. I thought it was sweet that he wanted to do it with me, until I realized he probably just wanted to laugh at me, LOL. I had read on CC about needing closed-toe shoes so we all went to breakfast in athletic shoes so we could head right over. I had no idea if there would be big lines or not. It's a Sea Day - but only about 11 am. As we were walking over to the ropes course past the pool, I began to think about how little time (really none) we've spent out on the pool deck. I totally love the Haven, but wondered if I've missed out on anything by not spending any daytime hours near the pool. Usually we enjoy listening to the music/bands, watching some of the games at the pool, and just enjoying the atmosphere. Don't get me wrong - the Haven is the bomb! I would take it again in an instant. But I do wonder how many experiences I missed out on. What a nice, 1st world problem to be pondering, right?

We got to the ropes course and got in line. I soon have another "fail" moment, as I'm wearing a sleeveless shirt. I was so worried about making sure we all had closed-toe shoes, but I never realized we needed to wear sleeves also. How did I miss that with all I read on CC about the Escape? So we got into line (it was very short!!) and I looked up and saw a big sign telling me my shirt wouldn't do. Husband and son wait there as I run back quickly to put on a different shirt. I got back quickly and we got into line. The line probably took about 5 minutes, not bad at all. The next thing I know, we're getting all strapped up. Yikes, this is really going to happen. Once our gear is on and we all have major wedgies, it's time to walk up the stairs.

Husband went first, then son and then I brought up the rear. So, husband made it look pretty easy, then son went. Now it's my turn. It really doesn't look bad (or high) until it's your turn to go. Gulp. The first "obstacle" to cross is like a balance beam. Really the first step was the hardest. Here I go!! Son is on the other side watching, so I need to look cool. There's a young girl behind me who was nervous enough already - so I certainly didn't want to scare her. So, I went. One foot in front of the other, and holding on to my rope for dear life. I did it!! It wasn't so hard once I got started. I crossed the next one (I think it was the rope ladder, but don't remember exactly) and then the NCL photographer was there. Son and I took a great photo that we ended up buying later. Then it was time to walk the plank. I didn't see husband do it- not sure why unless I was crossing something. I did watch son walk the plank and he made it look easy. You walk out then turn around for a photo. Son smiled, looked relax, and came back. So now it's my turn. Here I go. I go about halfway, and the photographer says "turn around" so I do. I smile, hanging on tightly to the rope. I mean I really hang on tightly to the rope. My hand would be sore the next day!! After the photo, I turn around and get my feet back onto that boat as quick as possible. Son teases me that I didn't go all the way to the end, but I told him I was pretty much there. Later I look at the photo and realize son was right -I'm only halfway out. Oh well - at least I made it halfway.

Soon after the plank come the ziplines. Then we went up to the next level. By now I'm a pro. We went through the entire rope course, and I did it all. Go me!! Before we knew it, we're at the end. We thought we could go around again but it was blocked off and we had no choice but to go down the stairs. Once down, we were unhooked and de-wedgied and we were done. Despite two bionic knees, a bum ankle and a slight fear that I didn't know I had until I was up there, I managed to complete the course. I considered kissing the ground or saying a prayer of thanks, but instead I decided I needed a drink!!

Great to hear you had a fantastic time sailing from Tortola, we're also headed for Norman Island/Pirates bites for some snorkeling with Aristocats/Lionheart through Scott. Coincidentally, for St. Thomas we have reserved a mini van also via Alvin. Now we're very curious to hear about your adventure on Nassau!

 

(PS: you cracked me up when I read about your view over Aida's FKK area! That was the only area we avoided when we sailed the Aida :D )

You will love the Aristocat/Lionheart. I can't wait to sail with them again!!! I will be interested to hear what you think of Alvin. He is an interesting fellow - (he came through with exactly what we requested so I don't have any complaints though).

LOL about the Aida. They sure seemed to be having fun on that ship!! I guess you didn't make use of your bathrobe like that others, LOL.

Thank You, thoroughly enjoying reading you review!

Totally enjoying your review and cracking up........you are too funny.....

Thanks to both of you. I'm flying back home later today so if I can, I hope to get started again tonight.

Once again, great video!!!! We should have had you follow us around the ship as our official videographer of our trip! :)

Great review!! Thanks for posting. We sail on the 16th!

Lucky you!!! Enjoy it - unfortunately the week goes by too fast!!