*LIVE PHOTO BLOG* - Ben the Bendy Man's Breakaway Adventure April 28 to May 4, 2013

[kylenyc]

Wow, good that I arrived before 11am, that looks really crazy. What earned you the priority line? Platinum Latitudes?

Yes. Gold and Platinum members go on a different line. VIP members (whomever they are) however get ushered by a concierge through the bat cave into a secret entrance (not far from the truth).

[kylenyc]

Day +1 -Sunday, April 28, 2013

Boarding

After check-in, Ben eagerly headed up the gangway getting a long months awaited close up view of the ship. He entered onto Deck 5 which is a cabin deck and not onto the promenade and atrium like ships departing New York City. This maybe particular to the Rotterdam Cruise Terminal or other reason? There was no champagne reception here (maybe elsewhere on the ship?) but Ben made a beeline to his cabin and then to lunch. He prefers his rum punch to champage anyways :grin:

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Edited April 30, 2013 by kylenyc

[kylenyc]

Day +1 - Sunday, April 28, 2013

Boarding the new Norwegian Breakaway \o/

Ben felt sorry for his personal concierge who was lugging around all those bags of human curiosities and running on adrenaline after being awake 24 hrs. So he had him make a beeline to the cabin taking a few shaky photos along the way. It's a good thing his assistant is efficient at converting caffeine into camera and keypad clicks.

 

Ben usually waits until things quiet down mid-cruise to take photos and sneak about the ship :p... Besides there will be many CC members on the cruise some excellent photographers who will take better pics than this amateur point-an-shoot b(endy)-list paparazzi.

 

?Lounge area at the entrance to the much larger O'Sheehan's restaurant pub?

 

 

 

 

 

Entrance to Splash Academy

[kylenyc]

Day +1 - Sunday, April 28, 2013

Studio Cabin and the Studio Lounge (aka ?The Living Room?)

Ben's squire had a bit of trouble finding the studios having been so comfortable finding his way around Jewel-class ships. It didn't help that a few crew members were still learning too when trying to direct him. When he finally found it, he entered a hall dimly lit in blue/purplish mood lighting. The studio cabins have frosted windows along the hallway walls which let this light in. A lovely touch which allows the studio to feel more open than the inside cabins with no windows. The windows have venetian blinds and sliding blackout covers for those who want the extra privacy or like to sleep in pitch darkness.

 

The headboard and walls are covered in a rich white (?faux?) leather and the cabinets have a matching shimering white verneer. The cabin is very comfortable and even more space efficient than the Jewel-class ships. The cabinets slide out an inch and then to the side instead of swinging out in an arc.

 

The modern decor is matched to the modern lifestyle... Extra electrical sockets adorn the cabinets for Ben's numerous gadgets. At least four US 120V and 3 EU 220V if Ben's sleep-deprived butler remembers correctly. However it took the butler several minutes to figure out how to power them up... He had to slide his cabin card into a slot near entrance... All part of the ships eco-friendly design. From reading old articles he also remembers some mention about the HVAC also powering off or running in eco-mode when passengers leave the cabin.

 

Unfortunately, there's no refridgerator, bottled water, mini-bar, and the ice bucket was empty (no drinks to chill in the first place). However, the studio lounge is stocked with multi-function coffee machine (lattes, expresso, american, etc), tea, and snacks. Ben didn't check for ice dispensers in the lounge. The coffee in the studio is substantially better than he's had on other Norwegian cruises including their flat Lavazza. Ben didn't try coffee in other areas of the ship.

 

Ben was overall very pleased and the minor inconveniences and quirks are worth the cost savings for future solo/single travelers as the price normalizes in the future. However, Ben paid a premium for this maiden voyage and he has high expections for the studio experience on the 7-day transatlantic. He also wonders how to chill his mixers for the bottle of Captain Morgan waiting for him.

 

 

Studio cabin hallway

 

Inside Ben's studio... New cabin smell!

 

 

 

 

 

Ben jumps up and down on the bed and falls back, stretched out to relax... Now where's his butler's quarters? Deck 1 near the anchor?

Window letting in the hallway mood light.

 

Edited April 30, 2013 by kylenyc

[kylenyc]

Day +1 - Sunday, April 28, 2013

The Studio Lounge (aka ?The Living Room?)

After freshening up, Ben passed through the Studio Lounge on the way to lunch. Entrance to the lounge is for studio passengers except during the evening's solo traveler's gathering. The entrance is a non-descript door that's easily missed and access is via cabin key card... Probably not enough to keep out tailgaters with a nose for fresh brewed coffee.

 

Studio Lounge spans two decks. Small and cozy. Oliver mentioned that it's smaller than the one on the Epic.

 

 

 

Complimentary coffee vending machine and snack case.

 

The snacks and beverages are more for convenience because there's nothing you can't get in the main dining venues, and out of necessity because there's no coffee maker or fridge in the cabin. Ben hopes there will be more amenities for studio guests on the 7-day transatlantic. He and others are paying a premium to be in the studios...They cost more than a double-occupancy inside cabin.

 

The real 'amenity'/advantage for future studio guests is reduced cost (after cabin costs normalize) as compared to paying a 200% single occupant surcharge and opportunity to meet other solo travelers.

To the left, a vending machine that dispenses wine for a cost

Edited April 30, 2013 by kylenyc

[tiffygirl]

The real 'amenity'/advantage for future studio guests is reduced cost (after cabin costs normalize) as compared to paying a 200% single occupant surcharge and opportunity to meet other solo travelers.

To the left, a vending machine that dispenses wine for a cost

 

I wondered what that was. That machine was not on the Epic. I will have to try for curiosity sake:D

[The P]

Kyle, I'm so glad you're in a studio. I booked one for a 12-day next January so I'll be curious to see how you feel about it as your cruise progresses. You've already helped clarify the "no fridge but there is a TV" question I had. Did I see a hairdryer in one of those cubicles by the sink? Don't want to pack one if I don't have to. Will either studio deck prove to be "better"; are the entry doors into the area noisy? My Ben, who currently resides in my kitchen, is extremely jealous of his brother Ben and made me promise to bring him along next January. What a prince!:rolleyes:;)

[roe2ship]

Just found this....fabulous start! Looking forward to your comments and photos.

 

Enjoy your cruise!:)

[espo56]

This is such a great thread. I ave read your other reviews and they were fabulous. Just friended you on Facebook too. Just love the Bendyman.

[crusingisthewaytogo]

Thank you. I'm in a studio on June 2nd and your comments/photos are very helpful.

[cazzi]

Just found this review and will friend you on. FB Ben have a great trip and I can't wait to read more !!!!:D

[whobean]

Day +1 - Sunday, April 28, 2013

The Studio Lounge (aka ?The Living Room?)

After freshening up, Ben passed through the Studio Lounge on the way to lunch. Entrance to the lounge is for studio passengers except during the evening's solo traveler's gathering. The entrance is a non-descript door that's easily missed and access is via cabin key card... Probably not enough to keep out tailgaters with a nose for fresh brewed coffee.

 

Studio Lounge spans two decks. Small and cozy. Oliver mentioned that it's smaller than the one on the Epic.

 

 

 

Complimentary coffee vending machine and snack case.

 

The snacks and beverages are more for convenience because there's nothing you can't get in the main dining venues, and out of necessity because there's no coffee maker or fridge in the cabin. Ben hopes there will be more amenities for studio guests on the 7-day transatlantic. He and others are paying a premium to be in the studios...They cost more than a double-occupancy inside cabin.

 

The real 'amenity'/advantage for future studio guests is reduced cost (after cabin costs normalize) as compared to paying a 200% single occupant surcharge and opportunity to meet other solo travelers.

To the left, a vending machine that dispenses wine for a cost

 

I'll be on the October 20th sailing. This studio lounge is adorable! Also happy my parents have a fridge in their room since I have supplements that will need to be kept cold. Makes me wonder how their accommodating guests with chilled medications.

 

I must say...the hallway of the studio cabins is giving Bliss a run for its money.

 

Can't wait to meet all the friendly faces! Thanks for posting!

[cabincop]

Yes. Gold and Platinum members go on a different line. VIP members (whomever they are) however get ushered by a concierge through the bat cave into a secret entrance (not far from the truth).

 

that cracks me up. ps I am a night owl too:D

[cabincop]

OMG I find myself looking for Ben in every picture it is kinda like where's Waldo only it's called where's Ben muahhhhhhhhhhhh

[TravlGrl]

Haven't seen Ben today. What's up? :confused:

[kylenyc]

Day -1 - Sunday, April 28, 2013

First impressions while strolling to lunch

 

Ben's hungry hyper-caffeinated blister-toed personal paparazzi managed to snap a few photos along the way to find Savor - This main dining room was open for lunch. Better and more detailed photos coming when Ben takes the 7-day transatlantic.

 

 

Deck 6 Atrium with its video screen, lounge, and the Internet Cafe in the distance and overlooked by O'Sheehan's above.

Famous Carlos Bake Shop of TV's Cake Boss fame, Atrium Cafe, and Atrium Bar are nearby as is Guest Services, Restaurant Reservations, and Shore Excursions Automated Reservation Kiosks. Touch screen LCDs are located near elevator banks throughout the ship where guests can make restaurant and show reservations, or find venues.

 

 

 

 

Passing by the entrance to Le Bistro to the left, casino above, and Headliners night club.

 

 

 

 

 

The Mixx bar between the entrances to Taste and Savor main dining rooms.

 

The ship is beautiful and the crew is in their Sunday's best and top form greeting and assisting passengers.

 

Edited May 2, 2013 by kylenyc

[WaldosPepper]

Kyle, your photos are wonderful, and I'm loving every post! Thank so much for doing this.

 

I have to say, the ship looks amazing, but one thing that really jumped out at me is the entrance to Le Bistro! I just love that they have created the look of a cobblestone area, with the tables-for-two all around the front. That just added a whole new layer to Le Bistro. :)

[alg7334]

Have a great trip! Looking forward to more of your review :)

[kylenyc]

Day +1 - Sunday, April 28, 2013

Embarkation lunch in Savor

 

Ben enjoyed a relaxing lunch in Savor. He was immediately seated and enjoyed a river view. The waitstaff were pleasant, quick, and attentive, and the food was served quickly as well. He was happy to see everything run so smoothly on day one.

 



 

 



 

 



Main dining room lunch menus which are the same every day across the Breakaway's three main dining rooms - The Manhattan, Savor, and Taste.

 



Shrimp Caeser Salad.

 



Chicken Milanese

 

[coneygal]

Day -1, Friday, April 26, 2013

Two days until the Breakaway, Making his way from Amsterdam to Rotterdam

 

Ben spent the last of his 3 days in Amsterdam sightseeing and spending as much time as he could before leaving for Rotterdam and joining the Breakaway. Amsterdam is a beautiful and vibrant city. Our amarillo adventurer was wide-eyed and awestruck from the instant he arrived in the city by train and stepped outside of Amsterdam Centraal Station. He marveled at the steady streams of commuters, tourists, passing trams, and bicylists, and the magnificant buildings and canals.

 

In the afternoon, Ben took a free guided walking tour with Sandemans New Amsterdam tours. For a modest 3 euros per person, our guide Rob took the tour group throughout the city and gave us an in depth commentary on the city's rich history. The tour is amazing and highly recommended. However, you'll definitely need an excellent pair of comfortable walking shoes. The tour is 3 hours with lots of walking.

 

Here are some pictures from Ben's three days in Amsterdam.

 

Hustle and bustle of pedestrians as Ben exits Amsterdam Centraal Station (picture of the station itself later on)

 

Trams arriving and departing every minute from throughout the city

 

Some of the picturesque canals throughout the city

 

 

 

 

(5 am in Rotterdam and Ben's typist is starting to nod off. Will post more pics in the morning as he makes his way to Rotterdam... Thanks everyone for joining Ben on his latest adventure!)

Amsterdam looks like NYC after Sandy!

[kylenyc]

Check-in - Day +4 - Thursday, May 4, 2013 at 2:30 am

Crossing the Atlantic aboard the Breakaway, 7-Day Maiden Voyage

 

Having trouble uploading photos to the server. Pictures are getting truncated. Will try again one more time but burned 50 minutes internet time just uploading for one post. So if you don't see another post tonight... sorry and good night all. At 40 cents per minute for the bulk package (250 mins for $100) need to post efficiently. So if you don't see much tonight... sorry and good night all.

 

Have had a wonderful time and met many new friends from Cruise Critic, the solo gatherings, and crew. Surely will miss names or get them wrong ... Karen (cruisercl), Yemi (something cookie monster), Glenn & Rhonda, Oliver & Stephani, Barry, Brian & Erica, Mark, Sabrina, Val, Aimee, James, Marianna, Barbara, Maxinne, paiagirl, $hip$hape, grizzman, Meaghanne (Studio Host)... many more by face or screenname :o

 

Meet & Greet very nice and even Keven Sheehan made an appearance. He and all the officers (including the captian even stayed to chat for a few minutes and didn't make a swift exit after introductions which is unusual).

 

Dined in Savor, Taste.... and Ocean Blue (wow). Fat Cats blues and jazz club awesome. Crew overall wonderful and already met a few that truly shine. Friends planning to dine in Shanghai's, Manhattan, Raw Bar, and Le Bistro over the next few days.

[royalprincess290]

This is a wonderful posting of a brand new ship. I look forward to more adventures of your bendy guy.

 

Great pictures. I am waiting for more.:)

[Beachlover1964]

Simply beautiful! Thanks for posting the pictures. Can't wait to see more.

[cabincop]

Kyle you and Ben take a day or 2 off and save the money(go get a drink)we can wait hun

[kylenyc]

Live aboard the Norwegian Breakaway, Friday, May 3, 2013

After burning through 150 minutes of internet time, finally figured out how to upload pictures to the server. Had to find a workaround as Internet Cafe technicians are likely still tweating the internet service and firewall. Now back to Ben's (time-delayed) live blog.

 

2 pm sitting in Famous Carlo's after nice evening at a solo dinner gathering hosted by Meaghanne in the Manhattan dining room. Beautiful ambiance with excellent live jazz band performances. Service still consistently slow in multiple dining rooms (lunch or dinner) with mistakes with orders as the crew gets used to their new routine and ship. However, the food was excellent and service expected to improve.

 

Rumor has it that the Cirque dinner show is not to be missed... this comes from passenger Brian who's seen Cirque du Soleil's 'O' in Vegas and had high expectations going in.

 

Ben had lunch yesterday in Shanghai's Noodle Bar which was nice but again a little slow and friend rice arrived warm not hot... Could have something to do with Kevin, Klaus, and other VIPs at the open bar getting all the attention over us common folk :grin: