Addicted to cruising but new to NCL- need tips!

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

Hi-

 

Our landlocked family of 6 has developed a relatively recent, but serious cruise addiction that began in 2009- when we first sailed with CCL on the Elation. Didn't love that particular sailing but loved the concept-we also then sailed with CCL the Freedom- with 52 surprise guests- check out my review of the funnest trip we have ever had http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1668056 - and most recently on the Magic. We have also sailed on RCCL- the Serenade, the Freedom of the Seas, and most recently the Oasis, and have the Quantum booked for Spring Break. Since that fateful cruise in 2009, we also managed to squeeze in a Disney Fantasy cruise, and a 10 day catamaran trip. For a family who really thought we would NOT enjoy cruising, and being on the water confined on a boat, we now need a 12 step program . . . LOL.

 

Anyway, last night while experiencing withdrwal symptoms, we got a wild hair and booked a NCL cruise in November on the Epic. We know NOTHING about NCL, or how to do a Freestyle cruise- or even what that really means . . . :p We researched it for all of 10 seconds before booking. Being the addict that I am, I immediately want to turn to my friends at Cruise Critic for advice . . .

 

Anything we need to make sure we do or not do? What restaurants are a DONT MISS? What is the best place to have a delicious cocktail? Any tips about the ship? I know from researching other cruises that the help on this boards really can make a difference if you are a planner like me.

 

Thanks for any help you can give me!!! Thinking about and planning our upcoming cruise will be a ray of sunshine every day!:p:p:p

[Cruising Golfer]

Another cruise junkie, doesn't take much does it???:D

Freestyle cruising is just a way to say anytime dining with more places to dine.

Just go and enjoy it as you would any other cruise, you will learn as you go.

Have never been on Epic, but I'm sure it's a great ship...

Have a blast and a cocktail for me!!!:cool:

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

Another cruise junkie, doesn't take much does it???:D

Freestyle cruising is just a way to say anytime dining with more places to dine.

Just go and enjoy it as you would any other cruise, you will learn as you go.

Have never been on Epic, but I'm sure it's a great ship...

Have a blast and a cocktail for me!!!:cool:

 

Thank you! That is good advice! Cheers! :D

[Warm Breezes]

My favorite tip on the Epic....if you want a quiet place with a beautiful view for breakfast, get your breakfast at the buffet then head down the steps at the front of the ship in the buffet to the Italian restaurant. It is open seating for the breakfast buffet and few know of it. They have a drink and roll/danish station available down there to.

[Rhea98]

The Epic, with its "wave" Concept, seems to provoke a love it or hate it (probably not hate, really) attitude. I love her, but I like big ships and not cookie-cutter. Some people don't care for the bathroom situation (doesn't bother us, in fact, we like that it's split). @OP, you will like it because you love cruising! We're on a Nov cruise just to sail (we live in FL and don't care at all about the ports since we've been enough times) on her. When I discovered Epic was moving to Europe permanently, I booked her last TA.

@Warm Breezes, thanks for your mention of the Italian restaurant. I kept remembering that if was open for breakfast (waffles, for sure, in 2012), but I couldn't find any mention of it. Kinda thought it was a fantasy memory. ;-)

[grovesteve]

My with and I have done about 28 cruises so you can say we are addicted. We changed our affiliation to NCL last year after joining my sister and Brotherinlaw on their 40th wedding anniversary cruise on the Epic. Since then we have done the Epic again, the Getaway and the Star. Make sure you book your shows early for the ones you can but don't forget the entertainment that you can't book early. Fat Cats and Howl at the Moon ( in Headliners) are two great places to spend some time. Also the music in the Atrium is fantastic. If you love a great steak make your reservations at Carney's and try the sliders for appitizer they are great.

Just enjoy the ship it is a great ship.

 

Steve R. from Ill

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

My with and I have done about 28 cruises so you can say we are addicted. We changed our affiliation to NCL last year after joining my sister and Brotherinlaw on their 40th wedding anniversary cruise on the Epic. Since then we have done the Epic again, the Getaway and the Star. Make sure you book your shows early for the ones you can but don't forget the entertainment that you can't book early. Fat Cats and Howl at the Moon ( in Headliners) are two great places to spend some time. Also the music in the Atrium is fantastic. If you love a great steak make your reservations at Carney's and try the sliders for appitizer they are great.

Just enjoy the ship it is a great ship.

 

Steve R. from Ill

 

That is great to know! Thanks for the tip about the music in the atrium- i LOVE live music! Thanks!

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

The Epic, with its "wave" Concept, seems to provoke a love it or hate it (probably not hate, really) attitude. I love her, but I like big ships and not cookie-cutter. Some people don't care for the bathroom situation (doesn't bother us, in fact, we like that it's split). @OP, you will like it because you love cruising! We're on a Nov cruise just to sail (we live in FL and don't care at all about the ports since we've been enough times) on her. When I discovered Epic was moving to Europe permanently, I booked her last TA.

@Warm Breezes, thanks for your mention of the Italian restaurant. I kept remembering that if was open for breakfast (waffles, for sure, in 2012), but I couldn't find any mention of it. Kinda thought it was a fantasy memory. ;-)

 

I didn't know she was moving permanently . . . so lucky we booked this trip! Thanks!

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

My favorite tip on the Epic....if you want a quiet place with a beautiful view for breakfast, get your breakfast at the buffet then head down the steps at the front of the ship in the buffet to the Italian restaurant. It is open seating for the breakfast buffet and few know of it. They have a drink and roll/danish station available down there to.

 

Love this tip! Thanks!!!! :D

[Rhea98]

I didn't know she was moving permanently . . . so lucky we booked this trip! Thanks!

Actually, it may not be "permanent," but it appears to be that way for a long while. We have been eyeing one of her TA's since our Epic cruise two years ago. I was going to book her western TA for fall of 2015 when I saw she wasn't returning. Yes, lucky for you and us!

[Lovemygreekgeek]

I LOVED reading about your trip on the CCL Freedom. I was tearing up in the beginning because it's such a beautiful story and sounded like a blast. I think you'll find that Freestyle cruising on NCL isn't too different than what you're used to. More for a fee dining options, and less free food choices is the one thing I've heard about NCL when compared to CCL (and to some extent RCL, which I sailed a few years back).

 

Otherwise I think you'll find that the activities are similar to what you've been doing. I think Epic may be one of the ships where you can pre-book dinner in the main dining rooms and shows, make sure to check that out on MyNCL. I've pre-booked a few key dinners on the Breakaway on nights where I also booked shows...makes things a little easier on a big ship!

 

 

Hi-

 

Our landlocked family of 6 has developed a relatively recent, but serious cruise addiction that began in 2009- when we first sailed with CCL on the Elation. Didn't love that particular sailing but loved the concept-we also then sailed with CCL the Freedom- with 52 surprise guests- check out my review of the funnest trip we have ever had http://boards.cruisecritic.com/showthread.php?t=1668056 - and most recently on the Magic. We have also sailed on RCCL- the Serenade, the Freedom of the Seas, and most recently the Oasis, and have the Quantum booked for Spring Break. Since that fateful cruise in 2009, we also managed to squeeze in a Disney Fantasy cruise, and a 10 day catamaran trip. For a family who really thought we would NOT enjoy cruising, and being on the water confined on a boat, we now need a 12 step program . . . LOL.

 

Anyway, last night while experiencing withdrwal symptoms, we got a wild hair and booked a NCL cruise in November on the Epic. We know NOTHING about NCL, or how to do a Freestyle cruise- or even what that really means . . . :p We researched it for all of 10 seconds before booking. Being the addict that I am, I immediately want to turn to my friends at Cruise Critic for advice . . .

 

Anything we need to make sure we do or not do? What restaurants are a DONT MISS? What is the best place to have a delicious cocktail? Any tips about the ship? I know from researching other cruises that the help on this boards really can make a difference if you are a planner like me.

 

Thanks for any help you can give me!!! Thinking about and planning our upcoming cruise will be a ray of sunshine every day!:p:p:p

[brookie848]

If your group plans on going to the Cirque show, book as soon as possible (before you go). When we were on the ship earlier this year, we didn't book soon enough to get the day/time/seats we originally wanted. We have another trip planned for the spring and plan on booking as soon as we are able.

 

Howl at the Moon is a great time -- probably one of my favorite things on the ship.

 

If you can manage to have your cabin near the elevators, it will save you a lot of walking since there are no mid-ship elevators on the Epic. I would lean towards trying to be near the forward elevators since the buffet and entertainment venues are forward.

 

One other thing -- if you go as a group to O'Sheehan's and order appetizers, the servings are small (3-4 mozzarella sticks or chicken tenders per order). Not a big deal -- order as many as you like -- but one order is not going to feed a group of six. We found that out earlier this year!:D

 

We really enjoyed the Epic and chose her for next year's cruise since she will soon be moving to Europe for an extended (or permanent) stay.

[mjkacmom]

I LOVED reading about your trip on the CCL Freedom. I was tearing up in the beginning because it's such a beautiful story and sounded like a blast. I think you'll find that Freestyle cruising on NCL isn't too different than what you're used to. More for a fee dining options, and less free food choices is the one thing I've heard about NCL when compared to CCL (and to some extent RCL, which I sailed a few years back).

 

Otherwise I think you'll find that the activities are similar to what you've been doing. I think Epic may be one of the ships where you can pre-book dinner in the main dining rooms and shows, make sure to check that out on MyNCL. I've pre-booked a few key dinners on the Breakaway on nights where I also booked shows...makes things a little easier on a big ship!

 

I've never sailed on the Epic, but the Breakaway had lots of free dining - 3 MDR's, the pub, uptown grill, hot dog truck, room service, buffet... Do the other lines have a lot more?

[gcjstri]

MyFamilyLoves2Criuse,

 

 

I LOVED reading your reviews. You are an awsome writer. I think you should chage your profession. I thourouly enjoyed reading all of your posts. Your husband is a very lucky man, and i am sure you are a luciky woman too.

 

cindi :):)

[Sauer-kraut]

Check out the band/group that will be playing nights in Fat Cats! On my sailing it was Charlie Love and his Silky Smooth Band and I really really liked his show.

 

Free snacks and finger foods late night in the Casino, go past the cash cage and its in the back slots room.

 

Popcorn is on the counter of the Atrium Cafe for the late night movie shown on the big screen in the Atrium.

 

The Ice Bar cover charge is $20 but it includes 2 vodka drinks....

 

There's a LOT of purple in Bliss Lounge....... and a bowling alley is up there. Cages, couches, settees and some funky big cube seating.

 

Bowling in O'Sheehans too.....bring socks! Shoe rental is included in the bowling fee.

 

The spa is GREAT!! If it is in your budget, go for it. It has an aft balcony with padded loungers and beds up there. Heated tile loungers as well, and the pool..... love the bubbles! (Of course there are co-ed and single sex saunas and steam rooms too).

 

 

O'Sheehans had a good corned beef hash for breakfast, also check out the daily special chalk board for lunch and dinner. I got bangers and mash for lunch (I miss the daily bangers in the MDR for breakfast). This is an included restaurant and its 24/7. There is the bar section on the other side of the atrium.

 

Adults only up in Spice 2o until 6 p.m Small pool up there with a big screen showing stuff. Great bar service and you can find snacks up there gratis.

 

Sooo much to do, so little time. :D

Edited September 26, 2014 by Sauer-kraut

[Freespir8]

Welcome to NCL! We love the freestyle cruising and the service is always amazing. So hopefully you will love it! I really enjoyed reading your other review. Your relationship with your husband sounds very special. I had goosebumps reading about the surprise! Knowing what an amazing writer you are, I can't wait to read your review when you get back. :).

 

One thing not to miss are the crepes in the buffet that are served in the evening, Le Bistro and their escargot, filet mignon and creme brulee, and the Teppanyaki grill. Le Bistro and the Teppanyaki grill are both specialty restaurants and charge a small fee. It is well worth it and highly recommended! Enjoy your cruise!

[Linda the Book Lover]

Epic fun times:

 

The spa just to relax in the water.

Cirque show -- I got to perform (not what you think...lol)

Posh -- the DH hangout...heaven

Martini tasting -- yum!

 

There is alot to do and the ship is fun. The only annoying part for us is the ship layout where you have to go up and down escalators in certain sections to get to another area.

 

Enjoy!

[timmo44]

Breakfast in Taste is good. It's near the water line so ask for a window seat as when docked you can get nice views of the port etc.

 

The walking track is handy to get some exercise. It's alongside the lifeboats and is rarely busy. 4 laps = 1 mile - never did manage that 40 lap session I was planning...

 

Deck 13 has a viewing room behind the bridge where you can see what's happening. You can just go up there any time.

 

Try the 10 pin bowling too - it's just shoe hire to pay for.

[NeurosurgeryNP]

I am too new to NCL (free cruise won -going with Mom on the Beakaway) and usually cruise Princess.

 

So, can you give me tips on the Breakaway, and also I've heard no formal nights, dress code very relaxed?

[Sauer-kraut]

I am too new to NCL (free cruise won -going with Mom on the Beakaway) and usually cruise Princess.

 

So, can you give me tips on the Breakaway, and also I've heard no formal nights, dress code very relaxed?

 

Yes its relaxed. You can get away with shorts in several of the dining rooms and just a collared shirt. No need to pack sports jackets nor ties and ladies needn't bring anything fancier than a pair of capris. :D

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

MyFamilyLoves2Criuse,

 

 

I LOVED reading your reviews. You are an awsome writer. I think you should chage your profession. I thourouly enjoyed reading all of your posts. Your husband is a very lucky man, and i am sure you are a luciky woman too.

 

cindi :):)

 

Thank you so much! You made my day! :D

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

If your group plans on going to the Cirque show, book as soon as possible (before you go). When we were on the ship earlier this year, we didn't book soon enough to get the day/time/seats we originally wanted. We have another trip planned for the spring and plan on booking as soon as we are able.

 

Howl at the Moon is a great time -- probably one of my favorite things on the ship.

 

If you can manage to have your cabin near the elevators, it will save you a lot of walking since there are no mid-ship elevators on the Epic. I would lean towards trying to be near the forward elevators since the buffet and entertainment venues are forward.

 

One other thing -- if you go as a group to O'Sheehan's and order appetizers, the servings are small (3-4 mozzarella sticks or chicken tenders per order). Not a big deal -- order as many as you like -- but one order is not going to feed a group of six. We found that out earlier this year!:D

 

We really enjoyed the Epic and chose her for next year's cruise since she will soon be moving to Europe for an extended (or permanent) stay.

 

GREAT TIPS!!! I am going to book Cirque today! Thank you!

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

Check out the band/group that will be playing nights in Fat Cats! On my sailing it was Charlie Love and his Silky Smooth Band and I really really liked his show.

 

Free snacks and finger foods late night in the Casino, go past the cash cage and its in the back slots room.

 

Popcorn is on the counter of the Atrium Cafe for the late night movie shown on the big screen in the Atrium.

 

The Ice Bar cover charge is $20 but it includes 2 vodka drinks....

 

There's a LOT of purple in Bliss Lounge....... and a bowling alley is up there. Cages, couches, settees and some funky big cube seating.

 

Bowling in O'Sheehans too.....bring socks! Shoe rental is included in the bowling fee.

 

The spa is GREAT!! If it is in your budget, go for it. It has an aft balcony with padded loungers and beds up there. Heated tile loungers as well, and the pool..... love the bubbles! (Of course there are co-ed and single sex saunas and steam rooms too).

 

 

O'Sheehans had a good corned beef hash for breakfast, also check out the daily special chalk board for lunch and dinner. I got bangers and mash for lunch (I miss the daily bangers in the MDR for breakfast). This is an included restaurant and its 24/7. There is the bar section on the other side of the atrium.

 

Adults only up in Spice 2o until 6 p.m Small pool up there with a big screen showing stuff. Great bar service and you can find snacks up there gratis.

 

Sooo much to do, so little time. :D

 

Your post is getting me really excited about our trip! Great ideas- thank you!!!

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

Welcome to NCL! We love the freestyle cruising and the service is always amazing. So hopefully you will love it! I really enjoyed reading your other review. Your relationship with your husband sounds very special. I had goosebumps reading about the surprise! Knowing what an amazing writer you are, I can't wait to read your review when you get back. :).

 

One thing not to miss are the crepes in the buffet that are served in the evening, Le Bistro and their escargot, filet mignon and creme brulee, and the Teppanyaki grill. Le Bistro and the Teppanyaki grill are both specialty restaurants and charge a small fee. It is well worth it and highly recommended! Enjoy your cruise!

 

Thank you so much! :D I am going to make a Le Bistro reservation now!

[myfamilyluvs2cruise]

Epic fun times:

 

The spa just to relax in the water.

Cirque show -- I got to perform (not what you think...lol)

Posh -- the DH hangout...heaven

Martini tasting -- yum!

 

There is alot to do and the ship is fun. The only annoying part for us is the ship layout where you have to go up and down escalators in certain sections to get to another area.

 

Enjoy!

THanks!!!