Seasoned Cruiser-My View July 24th Epic Sailing

[rogerwaters]

 

One other cool thing they did, they will check your carry on bags in the Headliners Club (you go by it as soon as you board) until your room is ready. I did not need it, but I think it is great.

 

Question from a newbie here.

 

My hubby & I plan to bring on just a rolling bag. And maybe a small carry-on each. Would we be able to bring this to check-in our bags at Headliners, or are they looking to check-in only small bags, like backpacks?

 

We are very light-packing travelers (we are all about the vacation and NOT about "dressing to impress") so we usually bring just a small rolling bag each when we travel (the kind that fits into the overhead bin on airplanes). :D

 

I don't mind checking in bags with porters, but since we will both have small, manageable rolling bags I am certain we will easily be able to bring this on board with us, but I also don't wanna annoy the folks at Headliners if they aren't looking to check in someone's rolling bag and instead want to use this service for, as I said, backpacks & smaller bags like that.

 

Any info would be appreciated! Thanks so much! :p

[rolloman]

They took anything that you would bring on. Keep in mind only certain size bags can be carried on. As long as they fit in the Xray machine, you can board with it, and anything you boarded with you could check in at headliners until your room opened up (around 2pm).

[rolloman]

thanks for great review, we are staying in an aft cabin also 13278 were you able to put a lounger on your balcony?

One would have fit with no problems but we opted not for one. We had them bring us a high chair instead so we could eat breafast on our balcony each morning.

[Merc]

One would have fit with no problems but we opted not for one. We had them bring us a high chair instead so we could eat breafast on our balcony each morning.

 

thanks so much for the info.

[mitsugirly]

Thanks for your review. So glad you had a good time. I can't get enough of the reviews. Only 38 days to go for me. :D

[orangegrove]

This is not the normal Pier for NCL. They let us park downtown to show off the ship since it was its first visit.

 

I'm not so sure about that. This is the 3rd time I've been to Coz on NCL and this is where we docked each time.

[rolloman]

I'm not so sure about that. This is the 3rd time I've been to Coz on NCL and this is where we docked each time.

 

Maybe....I was basing it on crew response when we were porting and the fact I have been to Cozumel at least Fifteen Times and all I have seen parked there is Disney or Carnival. So if so.. good, another reason to sail Epic.

[Floridacruisers5]

July 24 to July 31 Epic Review

 

Check in was smooth and boarding started at 1145 A.M.

Check out- EXTREMELY smooth, 20 minutes from room to car after walking off at 9 AM.

First impression -gave the wow factor as in wow this is going to be fun, lots of venues and restaurants. The chandelier in the center of the ship is stunning. Negative-Too many visitors before sail away, this really gave an impression of being crowded when in fact once they left, the ship never felt crowded again during the entire cruise.

Cabin-I had a BA aft balcony, looking straight at the wake. I always book this cabin on ships and the view was incredible. I still do not know why it stood out compared to other ships but I can assure you everyone loved the view while in my cabin. There is no way around it though, the cabin is small and cramped. The sink was fine unless you have claws for hands. Negative-Lots of storage but the overhead cabinets were impossible to open, maybe after a few sailings and broken finger nails the hinges will loosen up. If NCL decides to put handles on these it will make them easier to open and also help people realize this extra storage space exists. I can't tell you how many times I heard people say there was no storage.

Pool area was spacious, some small pockets but several wide open areas. I think it is one of the best pool decks I have been on. The adult area was quiet and never crowded, kid area had a huge splash zone. Garden Cafe (buffet) was well laid out and actually pleasant. Negative-TOO many chairs though, why they put 6 chairs at 4 top tables is beyond me. During crowded times like the first day, it was a mess.

Restaurants- Taste and Manhattan were good, limited menus though. O-Sheehan's, fun, noisy, good lunch spot, open 24 hours. Teppenyake, too expensive, my chef seemed to be more about show than cooking the food. He made lots of mistakes, gave everyone the wrong order, overcooked the food, had to order more food to recook. It was neat the first time I tried it on the Pearl but at 25.00 pp, it is just not worth it. Give me 25 dollars and I will flip a shrimp in my hat for you. Modern- nice location, food was good but not outstanding. I enjoyed the buffet part more than the meat. Shang Hei- great experience, loved everything I ordered. Priced right, highly recommend. One question though, where is the Won Ton soup? Cagney and Le Bistro I did not go to this cruise, been there done that many times before.

Entertainment- Outstanding, BlueMan I have seen 4 times and it was great once again. Sound Quality superb. Legends was fun, better than I thought it would be. I heard Brittany Spears was next, I would like to see her versus Elvis. Circe of Dreams- Was just ok for me but the family loved it. Oddly enough, It is not for kids though too many sexual overtones and I saw a few parents cringe a couple of times. Fat Cats, good music but sparse crowd attendance. Nick breakfast, fun, kind of early start time and the breakfast was the worst one I had all cruise, Sadly I paid 15.00 per person extra for it.

Room Service- One of the best at sea, big selection compared to most lines. Used it every day for the little one.

Casino- I think NCL has the best casinos at sea, and the Epic does not disappoint, lots of perks, new and different slots . Make sure to sign up in the casino when you board. I was fortunate enough to come out ahead this sailing. The hot machines seem to be the Wheel of Fortune dollar slots. Lots of big payouts. Roulette was great fun and often crowded. Numbers 32,34, 15, 18 were hot.

Kids club- what a wonderful surprise. The absolute best experience to date for my little 2 yr old. She loved it and they took such great care of her. While other lines like Carnival look to disqualify your child for crying upon check in, EPIC staff said no problem and catered to the child. I saw one 8 year old who wanted to leave because he was shy and felt like he did not fit in and one of the staff members took him under her wing to get him acclimated into the group activity. I have nothing but praise for the team. Go to the family board for my detailed review.

Staff- Friendly, helpful, one of the best crew I have ever encountered. They truly wanted to make sure you were having a good time. Klaus, the hotel director was everywhere, either that or he has a twin brother on board. His extension is 8888 and he means it when he says call me if you have any issues.

Overall- Beautiful ship, world class officers and staff, great food, lots of fun, well worth the money and I highly recommend. Extremely important you make sure your cabin selection fits your needs prior to booking. Keep in mind this ship is set up for you to spend onboard dollars, if you have the idea of going onboard and escaping with a zero final bill, your cruise experience will be greatly diminished. I am not saying someone could not pull it off, what I am saying though is pick another ship if you are focused on saving just enough to board this ship.

 

I'm sorry you had a bad experience at Teppenyake - we had just the opposite experience. We only ate in the MDR one night and rest were spent in the specialty restaurants and Teppenyake was one of our favorite - the filet was wonderful!!

[rolloman]

I'm sorry you had a bad experience at Teppenyake - we had just the opposite experience. We only ate in the MDR one night and rest were spent in the specialty restaurants and Teppenyake was one of our favorite - the filet was wonderful!!

I did not say I had a bad time there, I said it was not worth 25.00 dollars over the good already paid for meals in Manahatten or Taste. The food was good, he just had to cook it a couple extra times lol. I think 20.00 should be the max for any surcharge restaurant. Lets face it, for 25.00 pp I can go to Bennehana. If you factor in the food you could have eaten at no surcharge, put that price on top of the 25.00 then you are paying way more than Bennehana and trust me, Teppenyake is no Bennehana.

[wack001]

Yes I did the reservations online with no issues. On the first day you can stand in line and get confirmation for peace of mind. It was a long line and a waste of my time as my online entries were correct. I will say there is a lady who seems to be in charge named maria luca? Some lady in the long line did not think she was working fast enough and this resulted in security being called. I think it was a bit overboard by both parties but don't mess with her. She is really very good at her job or she needs to be replaced, I do not think there is an in between. I base this on the fact I asked her a simple question mid cruise and she came at me real strong, I assumed the fetal position and she took care of my issue.

You are correct.... Since I only ate at Manhatten twice I am not sure of the different menu change items, I only remember the last night the Captains Choice was Tom Turkey. Which makes me laugh because it seems every cruise I have been on the last night is turkey....what is up with that...it must have a greater meaning lol.

 

Rolloman;

Thanks but can you clarify as we are a party of 11. We plan on doing Blue Moon first night and getting our tickets online, getting to the door early does it guaratee better seats?, same question for Cirque as we are also going on 2N, party of 11?

Thanks

[rolloman]

Rolloman;

Thanks but can you clarify as we are a party of 11. We plan on doing Blue Moon first night and getting our tickets online, getting to the door early does it guaratee better seats?, same question for Cirque as we are also going on 2N, party of 11?

Thanks

That is a great question. It is festival seating, there are no assigned seats. First come first served. If you want the best seats I advise showing up at least 30 minutes prior. Especially for Circque of Dreams or the Nickalodean breakfast. It seems they open the doors about 15 minutes prior to show start, so if you get there 30 minutes ahead of time only 15 will be spent standing in line before they check you in.

[MAMA "B"]

Were you able to book all 11 reservations to the Blue Man Group at one time...from one computer? Or did each cabin have to book their own? We are traveling with a group of 8 and will be reserving next week. Thanks for the great review.

 

Yes I did the reservations online with no issues. On the first day you can stand in line and get confirmation for peace of mind. It was a long line and a waste of my time as my online entries were correct. I will say there is a lady who seems to be in charge named maria luca? Some lady in the long line did not think she was working fast enough and this resulted in security being called. I think it was a bit overboard by both parties but don't mess with her. She is really very good at her job or she needs to be replaced, I do not think there is an in between. I base this on the fact I asked her a simple question mid cruise and she came at me real strong, I assumed the fetal position and she took care of my issue.

You are correct.... Since I only ate at Manhatten twice I am not sure of the different menu change items, I only remember the last night the Captains Choice was Tom Turkey. Which makes me laugh because it seems every cruise I have been on the last night is turkey....what is up with that...it must have a greater meaning lol.

[mitsugirly]

Were you able to book all 11 reservations to the Blue Man Group at one time...from one computer? Or did each cabin have to book their own? We are traveling with a group of 8 and will be reserving next week. Thanks for the great review.

 

My husband and I have 2 cabins booked. When I booked my reservations, it did not give me a drop down box for the amount of people to book (like it did with the dinner reservations). I wasn't even thinking about it when I booked. My reservations were confirmed. When I went to go print my e-docs (over a week later), I discovered my mistake (that I hadn't booked his reservations along with mine because he has a different cabin number). So, I had to go back and book his reservations under his room number. I was still able to get the same day and time with no problems. So, my guess is only the amount of people you have in the room is what you'll be able to book. Each room will have to do their own. :)

[Cuchie]

I didn't know that. It was perfect though. Carlos & Charlies was right there. :) What did you think of that little 270 degree maneuver backing out?

 

 

I think the Captain was showing off the ship :) as there were people at the pier watching us leave and taking pictures, especially those on the vessel, TransCaribe, which was on the same pier.

[MAMA "B"]

Thanks for the information. I guess either I have to get the other 4 cabins sign in information or they'll have to do it on their own. I know a reminder call will go out to them from me.

Enjoy your trip.

My husband and I have 2 cabins booked. When I booked my reservations, it did not give me a drop down box for the amount of people to book (like it did with the dinner reservations). I wasn't even thinking about it when I booked. My reservations were confirmed. When I went to go print my e-docs (over a week later), I discovered my mistake (that I hadn't booked his reservations along with mine because he has a different cabin number). So, I had to go back and book his reservations under his room number. I was still able to get the same day and time with no problems. So, my guess is only the amount of people you have in the room is what you'll be able to book. Each room will have to do their own. :)

[mitsugirly]

Thanks for the information. I guess either I have to get the other 4 cabins sign in information or they'll have to do it on their own. I know a reminder call will go out to them from me.

Enjoy your trip.

 

You're welcome. You have a great trip too.

[RickinNYC]

Negative-Too many visitors before sail away, this really gave an impression of being crowded when in fact once they left, the ship never felt crowded again during the entire cruise.

 

this is from the ncl faq

Are visitors allowed on board?

Due to security reasons, unfortunately, no

 

Whatever the site says, I can speak from my own experience. There were quite a few visitors onboard the ship in Miami. They were all sporting a lovely sticker that said "VISITOR". Strange but true.

 

And Rolloman, great meeting you in the casino! Just sorry we didn't meet earlier to chat over a few beers.

 

P.S. The second leg of our B2B was fantastic!

[RMS Olympic]

Visitors at the port of embarkation

Usually travel agents getting a tour for marketing purposes. When in other ports of call...the visitors maybe owners or managers of hotels at that port of call....they are treated like VIPs.

 

Now Princess has a new program....bon Voyage package for visitors...$35 gets you on the ship for a tour and lunch with your friends sailing. Again a marketing ploy to interest future cruisers.

[rolloman]

Whatever the site says, I can speak from my own experience. There were quite a few visitors onboard the ship in Miami. They were all sporting a lovely sticker that said "VISITOR". Strange but true.

 

And Rolloman, great meeting you in the casino! Just sorry we didn't meet earlier to chat over a few beers.

 

P.S. The second leg of our B2B was fantastic!

 

Hey Rick, great meeting you and your friends as well. Everyone had a great time, glad to hear the 2nd leg was just as fun!!! FYI thanks as well for the Amtrak info!!!

[coffeebean]

July 24 to July 31 Epic Review

 

Cabin-I had a BA aft balcony, looking straight at the wake.

DH and I have booked a BA with the wake view. This will not be our first time watching the wake and we love that view.

 

From pictures I've seen, Epic's BA aft balconies appears to be part of the supra structure but not hulled balconies. Hope I'm explaining that correctly. Were you able to have a great view of the water from inside your cabin as we have had on other ships? Also, is this balcony appears to be completely covered and completely private from folks in upper decks. Is that correct??? Thanks.

[justschuttme]

July 24 to July 31 Epic Review

 

Kids club- what a wonderful surprise. The absolute best experience to date for my little 2 yr old. She loved it and they took such great care of her. While other lines like Carnival look to disqualify your child for crying upon check in, EPIC staff said no problem and catered to the child. I saw one 8 year old who wanted to leave because he was shy and felt like he did not fit in and one of the staff members took him under her wing to get him acclimated into the group activity. I have nothing but praise for the team. Go to the family board for my detailed review.

 

Thanks again for the review here and on the Family thread. My question is about diapers while in the kids club. Was it an issue? I know they give you a phone to come change them or if there are issues, but I just wanted some input from someone who has been on Epic. Thanks again. :)

[rolloman]

Thanks again for the review here and on the Family thread. My question is about diapers while in the kids club. Was it an issue? I know they give you a phone to come change them or if there are issues, but I just wanted some input from someone who has been on Epic. Thanks again. :)

It was not an issue, my little one never stayed much longer than 2 hours at a time. We only got the call once and I went there right away and changed her in a huge restroom equipped with changing table. Funny thing was her diaper was not even soiled, she is on the cusp of being potty trained and now tells everyone when she is ready to go. She told the staff, they called me and I got up there so fast that I guess she had not finished lol. But for peace of mind, their facilities are truly great.

[rolloman]

DH and I have booked a BA with the wake view. This will not be our first time watching the wake and we love that view.

 

From pictures I've seen, Epic's BA aft balconies appears to be part of the supra structure but not hulled balconies. Hope I'm explaining that correctly. Were you able to have a great view of the water from inside your cabin as we have had on other ships? Also, is this balcony appears to be completely covered and completely private from folks in upper decks. Is that correct??? Thanks.

Correct, it is a covered balcony. I book afts all the time and I absolutely loved the view from in my room as well as on the balcony. If you lean over the glass you are able to look 100% straight down into the water/wake/props with zero obstructions.

[snorklinbarb]

We will see next week. :rolleyes:

 

Just fyi we also used the "usual" pier on the Aug. 7 cruise, exactly like every other time I've ever stopped in Cozumel with NCL.

 

Never heard about the captain "showing off" the Epic or it being just a temporary situation.

[snorklinbarb]

The free Dining rooms Taste and Manhatten also O'SHeehans were all nice and I did not eat anything I did not enjoy. Room Service is fast and has quite a few items to choose from. What I do not care for is the menu stays the same everyday except they add the Captains Choice entree each day in Taste and Manhatten Club. It sends the message that if you like variation you need to pay extra. I am not sure what you enjoy the most but whatever it is , one of the places will have it for you. The menus are posted outside all restaurants for all to view.

 

One other cool thing they did, they will check your carry on bags in the Headliners Club (you go by it as soon as you board) until your room is ready. I did not need it, but I think it is great. Also your pictures go into a folder with your room number on it down on deck 5. Now that is cool to have a folder to put your photos in. I do not know how many times in the past we have found a picture we liked but waited to buy it, then had to do an easter egg hunt all over again to find it.

 

Enjoyed your review. Sounds like you had a great time!

 

As for the main DR menus, besides the unchanging side (with about 6 entrees) there is the daily specials side which featured a couple of appetizers and soup as well as a few (maybe 3?) extra entrees. On the last night, as you mention, turkey was one of the daily specials along with a couple of others. There were enough choices that we didn't feel like NCL was pushing you to the pay restaurants if you like variation. All the meals we had in Manhattan Room at night (tried Taste only for breakfast and lunch but same menu in both places) were quite good, notably the lamb shank, beef short ribs, lobster tail, chicken piccata, pork loin.

 

We also really enjoyed the specialties. There are some "extra charge" entrees in Cagney's, like you describe, but it also exists in Le Bistro - for the lobster tail or 32 oz. cote de boeuf, for example, it's an extra $10 on top of the $20 - majority of menu is $20 though.