Jump to content

Breakaway - Takeaways - Week of 2/16


Recommended Posts

Sailed Breakaway week of 2/16 to Bahamas. Embarkation was simple and speedy. We arrived at port a little after 11 AM and were on the ship and in our cabin in less than 1 hour. Was really surprised cabins were ready so early it was about noon. Went to lunch at Savor and enjoyed the new menu options. NCL's new menu choices were available on this sailing and there were some very good new additions, even in the dessert category. The lunch menus changed daily in the MDR which was also a welcomed surprise, typically lunch menu stays the same all week. Luggage arrived at cabin after lunch and we were able to unpack and get into full vacation mode. Muster drill was up next and it was quick and simple but you could really feel the crowds when muster ended(ship was at capacity this week). Thankfully we didn't need to use the elevators which were overwhelmed, but nevertheless, we were pushed along in a sea of people trying to return to their cabins (or wherever).

 

Had a fun and lively Meet and Greet on Monday and enjoyed meeting fellow CC'ers. Thank you Rick for bingo and trivia, they were a hit. Officers attended in full force, with the exception of the Captain. Not sure if this has been anyone else's experience but all the M&G I've attended on NCL ships the Captain showed up (not that he is required to or should even be expected to waste his time) but this is my second M&G on BA and second time, no captain. Lattitude Party was held later in the week for Silver and Up, Captain attended but didn't address the group and it seemed he couldn't get away fast enough. Dan the Man (CD) pretty much hosted this event. Again, not my typical NCL experience usually the Captain is out and about throughout the week with his Officers, stopping to chat here and there. Whatever, no biggie, just my observation and experience on this sailing. Anyway, after M&G we headed to the casino for our Slot Pull. Lots of laughs and not much money but we came out a few dollars ahead.

 

The consensus of our group was food on this sailing was quite good. There was some "okay" moments but overall we enjoyed our meals. We ate in Manhattan first night and service though very, very slow was very good. They really tried hard to please but seemed to have a lot on their hands. We ate in Savor another night, then LeBistro, Cagneys, LaCucina, Teppenyaki, and Moderno. Service was excellent in all of these venues with the exception of Teppanyaki. Had to ask several times for glasses and chiller for the champagnes and wines we brought along. After about 1/2 hour an assistant came to her aid and things got better (we got glasses and chiller, the wines were flowing and all was well) Food was delicious though. There are so many dining choices on NCL it is impossible to not find something that will please you. I have learned to question the wait staff if I am not familiar with something on the menu or to just confirm that what I believe I am ordering I am actually getting (if I think it is a white sauce I ask because it could be red) and this reduces the chance of my not being happy with my selection. But honestly if you really don't like something they will have no problem bringing you something else.

 

Since I already attended most of the shows on my prior Bermuda sailing, only went to see Second City this time around. They did their usual thing and as usual I enjoyed their show. My friends went to see Rock of Ages and really enjoyed it, but said next time they would not book the show after a full meal with a full bottle of wine at Cagneys! Love Dancing with the ..... Stars but the Atrium was just way too crowded for 4 people to squeeze in so missed it. Fortunately, while relaxing in the cabin one afternoon I caught the replay of it and had myself a few laughs. Went to most of the themed dance parties up at Spice and they were lots of fun. Most of my other nightly entertainment came in the form of table games in the casino, guess that's why I made it to Golden Level this trip, but not until the last night. They gave me my 10,000 bonus points and Premium Drink Card and I look forward to my June Breakaway sailing and the added perks.

 

We had great weather in Florida and the Bahamas. Just lounged out in the sun while in Florida enjoying not being in another snow storm. GSC was by far my favorite port day. We were on the first tender over, got our lounge chairs in part sun/part shade and enjoyed Pina Coladas (with extra shot of rum) about $12 for a very nice beach refreshment. There seemed to be plenty of chairs and places to relax for everyone, even those coming over on the very late tenders. Had BBQ lunch, more drinks, and then back to ship @ 3:00. The island is really looking spectacular. Would have loved to have an overnight here and another full day. In Nassau we did some shopping, friends rented jet skis, and then ended the afternoon with drinks and laughs at Senor Frogs.

 

Though we had a great time I must admit this was not one of my favorite sailings. Breakaway has become my favorite NCL ship (replacing the Gem which held first place for a few years) but realized I appreciate all that this ship has to offer during warmer weather sailings where it just doesn't feel so crowded as everyone is spread out at all of the different venues both indoors and out. Day 1&2 and the last day during colder weather most everyone is indoors and the venues are much smaller (though there are many) on Breakaway. For example, Martini tasting on Day 1 in the afternoon, they turned people away because they said they were sold out. We were there early and participated but the other 2 in my party were not able to purchase the tasting (though they were seated with us). I have been to many (and too many) martini tastings on NCL and never saw this happen before, felt bad for all the first timers who were looking forward to it. Hopefully they attended the other tastings held later in the week (tastings are held on sea days and are $15 and lots of fun).

 

Always sad when last night of cruise arrives and bags get packed and vacation is coming to an end. We took our time disembarking in NY. Left our cabins about 8:30 and went for a sit down leisure breakfast. Left the ship @ 10 AM, picked up luggage and through customs, no problems. Now I guess I will patiently wait for Spring to arrive and for my next Breakaway sailing to Beautiful Bermuda.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Hi, Phyllis, Glad you enjoyed your last Breakaway cruise. Do you have the current list of the Senior Officers, Captain, etc? Any idea if Sean W will be coming back from the Getaway to the Breakaway for our sailing, July 6? Also any info of who else will be on the Breakaway then - We will be sailing on her the next week after you! It seems that we missed seeing you again this year and again by a week. Take care and maybe we will meet up again on another cruise. And thanks for your review. Carol

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Thanks for your review!

We watched your sailaway.

I think Breakaway will be my new fave as well.

:)

 

 

 

Sailing to Bermuda in the Summer on Breakaway I have no doubt you will Love Breakaway. This ship was designed for and meant to be enjoyed in warm weather, the outdoor venues are just amazing to enjoy: dining al fresco, dancing going on at night on all of the decks (especially outside Fat Cats), music filling the air, people dancing and having fun outside all the bars 'til the wee hours of the morning. Not to mention the sports deck with all it has to offer and the entertainment choices.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Hi, Phyllis, Glad you enjoyed your last Breakaway cruise. Do you have the current list of the Senior Officers, Captain, etc? Any idea if Sean W will be coming back from the Getaway to the Breakaway for our sailing, July 6? Also any info of who else will be on the Breakaway then - We will be sailing on her the next week after you! It seems that we missed seeing you again this year and again by a week. Take care and maybe we will meet up again on another cruise. And thanks for your review. Carol

 

Hey Carol. Hope you guys are doing well. From the handy dandy card they give out at the CC meeting here are the Officers from or sailing and a little note next to those that I know will be on my June 29th sailing and who will not (that I am aware of):

 

Hotel Dir: Prem Kainikkara (Not going to be on)

Assistant Hotel Dir: Sonja Sommeregger (will be on)

F&B Director: Mustafa Gulbahar (will be on)

Exec. Housekeeper: Marite Naz (I believe she will be on, I'm ? this)

Cruise Dir.: Daniel Olsson (Dan the Man)

Guest Srv Mgr: Michelle Taladhay

Restaurant Mgr: lulian Grumeza

Bev. Mgr: Dindo Ramos

 

As far as I know Sean is and will be on Getaway for quite sometime (I know how disappointing this is for you, me as well, Love Sean) but who knows, maybe schedules will get screwed up and changed around..... and you know, a girl can wish.

 

Enjoy your sailing and looking forward to sailing with you again.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

As far as I know Sean is and will be on Getaway for quite sometime (I know how disappointing this is for you, me as well, Love Sean) but who knows, maybe schedules will get screwed up and changed around..... and you know, a girl can wish.

 

Enjoy your sailing and looking forward to sailing with you again.

 

 

 

Thanks, Phyllis. Yes, Sean is the best! We will miss him. Maybe we will see you as we are coming onboard on the 6th. Take care. Carol

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Hey Carol. Hope you guys are doing well. From the handy dandy card they give out at the CC meeting here are the Officers from or sailing and a little note next to those that I know will be on my June 29th sailing and who will not (that I am aware of):

 

Hotel Dir: Prem Kainikkara (Not going to be on)

Assistant Hotel Dir: Sonja Sommeregger (will be on)

F&B Director: Mustafa Gulbahar (will be on)

Exec. Housekeeper: Marite Naz (I believe she will be on, I'm ? this)

Cruise Dir.: Daniel Olsson (Dan the Man)

Guest Srv Mgr: Michelle Taladhay

Restaurant Mgr: lulian Grumeza

Bev. Mgr: Dindo Ramos

 

As far as I know Sean is and will be on Getaway for quite sometime (I know how disappointing this is for you, me as well, Love Sean) but who knows, maybe schedules will get screwed up and changed around..... and you know, a girl can wish.

 

Enjoy your sailing and looking forward to sailing with you again.

 

Do you know who the Butler & Concierge will be on our June 29th Cruise ?

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Please sign in to comment

You will be able to leave a comment after signing in



Sign In Now
 Share

  • Forum Jump
    • Categories
      • Welcome to Cruise Critic
      • Hurricane Zone 2024
      • Cruise Insurance Q&A w/ Steve Dasseos of Tripinsurancestore.com June 2024
      • New Cruisers
      • Cruise Lines “A – O”
      • Cruise Lines “P – Z”
      • River Cruising
      • ROLL CALLS
      • Cruise Critic News & Features
      • Digital Photography & Cruise Technology
      • Special Interest Cruising
      • Cruise Discussion Topics
      • UK Cruising
      • Australia & New Zealand Cruisers
      • Canadian Cruisers
      • North American Homeports
      • Ports of Call
      • Cruise Conversations
×
×
  • Create New...