Getaway Haven - Jan 17/15 Review

[kpms]

NCL Getaway – Jan 17/15 – Heaven Review

 

Bio; This is our 3rd cruise and 2nd with NCL. We previously have cruised on Holland America and the Breakaway (Transatlantic from Southampton) We enjoy the Haven for the quiet and serenity that it provides however we like the big ship activates so we have found our niche

Booking: We booked this cruise back in May 2013 with our Cruise Deposit from the Breakaway. We were able to select the specific stateroom and received $450 OBC along with extra latitude points. The prices never dropped since we booked and it was just a matter of time waiting. We booked our flights with our Credit Card rewards and were flying from Vancouver Canada to Miami.

 

Arrival & Embarkation: We arrived in Miami 9:30 PM Jan 16 and had booked the Mariott in Biscyone Bay – Which we found to be a great hotel close to the Port. We had a good night sleep and could see the cruise ships in the distance when we woke up. We ordered items from Amazon (Wipes, Sunscreen) items and had them delivered to the Hotel – Great idea! Just try to group all your orders into one box as the hotel charged $5.00 per box (We had 3) still was a time saving measure. We took a taxi from our Hotel to Terminal C at around 11:00 proceeded through Security and went to the Heaven Check-in. We had our Keycards and were ready to roll. We walked to the boarding area and were escorted directly to the ship. We bypassed the elevators and went straight up to the Heaven lounge. We know the Matri’d Raluca from our previous cruise and were excited to see here again on the Getaway. We had a nice lunch while waiting for our luggage to arrive. In total time from arriving in the pier to sitting down for lunch 30 minutes.

 

Stateroom: We booked 16118 as it was close to the Haven complex and we just went with the Penthouse (We had booked before on the Breakaway the 2Bedroom Villa) I will say that this Courtyard Penthouse was flawless – It felt opulent & chic. There were a few housekeeping things that could be touched on (A little deep clean maybe some dusting) but overall the stateroom felt fresh and inviting. During the cruise though we could hear the chairs being scrapped across the deck not a huge problem but could get loud if you were having a nap. There was plenty of storage in the room along with the bathroom being big enough to accommodate us both at the same time. The balcony was a little on the smaller side but we still utilized it – especially while in Ports. We had Jorge as our butler – and I will say he was just ok. We found that he was hardly ever around – we didn’t meet him until the 3rd day. This was after him attempting to come into the stateroom 2 different times while we were getting out of the shower. Or our room steward was always happy but one thing was (and this was just not us) was how late the rooms got made up (Sometimes not till 3:00 PM) by this point we are wanting to come back and have a nap.

 

The Haven: Now this is where they spoil you, no request goes un-fulfilled. I had previously requested to book the behind the scenes tour and the Chef’s table which were both already noted on our file. Our Concierge was Adrian and always was greeted with a smile and a wave. He was truly a highlight of the trip making sure all our requests were always granted. The Haven lounge/restaurant were great the menu a little small so that was a little disappointing however the ambience and services was always impeccable. We used the sundeck most of the time while traveling to our first port. When we booked the room we booked on the shady side of the ship so we made sure to use the space. There were servers always taking our drinks, cool towels and treats. I had prebooked all our shows prior to boarding the ship along with our specialty restaurants.

 

Dining: The food to us was great! There were a couple things that were not the best but that would be personal preference. The food was always hot and always served promptly. We dined in Le Bistro, Cagneys and the Haven Restaurant. Our final night we had ordered in room service my spouse ordered from Le Bistro The Grilled Beef Tenderloin and I ordered from Cagneys Filet Mion, both arrived in our stateroom right on time and perfect temperature. It was such a treat to sail away from Nassau while eating a beautiful dinner in the comfort of our room. Lunches we would usually eat in the Haven Courtyard. We had purchased the ultimate dinning package and we utilized it to the fullest potential. Which is a bonus if you’re staying in the Haven you can order room service from any specialty restaurant without having to pay the cover charge.

 

Ports: This trip was all about relaxing and enjoying the heat – Both of us work very demanding jobs sometimes upwards of 16 hour days and wanted to relax. So we didn’t book too many excursions or do anything that required lots of effort. While is St. Martin we booked the Maho Beach which we were a little disappointed with the size of the beach – it’s small. The beach was extremely crowded and the people were a little rowdy. We only stayed for a few hours and then went into the town and did some shopping. While in St. Thomas we went into the city and wondered the shops but found them to be a little to “Gift Shop” like in quality and merchandise. We went back to the ship to enjoy the Slides while the ship was quiet from everyone in ports. For Nassau I had booked a “Resort” for the day at the British Coloional Hilton. We found it to be a nice beach and the loungers were a little rough – They could use a little refresh. It was fun to watch the Princess ship turn around and back in. We left Nassau around 2:00 and headed back to the ship and enjoyed lunch in the Courtyard.

 

Entertainment: This again is always subjective to the parties. We found that Legally Blond was ok but not something I would go see on Broadway. My opinion is that NCL Should do non Broadway shows or create their own type of Entertainment as we found it to be a little rough. We did not partake in any cruise games (Bingo Deal or No Deal) We very much enjoyed Wine Lovers the Musical – We found the pairings of the wines to go along with the story line to be hilarious. The acting was perfect and the food was not bad. We booked the illusionarim the first night (Got it included with our Ultimate Dining Package) and because of being Haven Guests we were seated at the front. It gave a good vantage point but I would have preferred to be one row back to see more of the stage again not a compliant just an observation.

 

The Ship: Overall the ship is beautiful and innovated there is so much in the details and by going on the behind the scenes tour it was great to see how it all comes together. The tour was very informative and got to meet some of the people who “Make things work” that you don’t even think about. They ended the tour with a visit to the Bridge along with a nice portfolio with a picture the ship and the itinerary. We found that the elevators were always in use so we always used the stairs – Only way to burn off all that extra food we had been eating (3 Deseret’s in on night)

 

Overall Impression: We had a great time ! We met some fabulous new friends and got to see some familiar faces! We were treated like royalty and every crew member would always say Hello and how are you. It was a very engaging ship the staff are what make it special. We found everything in the room to be in working condition The only minor compliant was the room was a little dusty and the bed sheets had a rip in them (Not something I would be complaining about) but just little things you notice.

 

I am in the process of getting my pictures organized and cleaned up. I also have some great video footage that I need to Edit. Once that it does I will amend my review with them. If you have any questions please do not hesitate to ask! :) Happy Crusing

 

P.S. We are now booked on the Star in May 2016 for North Baltics cruise!

[Keith.W]

Great review, we have booked a Haven Penthouse Forward for September and looking forward to trying a suite, have only cruised twice and both times on the epic in a studio and mini suite.

 

We have UDP included so great to know that we can have specialty restaurants delivered to our suite and getting good seats in illusionarium.

 

Looking forward to your pictures and video

[countess5]

Thanks for the information. We will be sailing this Saturday in the Haven, Aft Penthouse Suite deck 12. This will be our first time sailing with NCL. We are looking forward to the HAVEN life.

 

We are starting the trip at the same Marriott checking in on Thursday. Any suggestions for dinner would be appreciated. Shared with NCL that we would like to attend the chef's table also. Were you able to attend and how was the event? We have participated with RCCL chef tables before and enjoyed them. What time of night was it help, I believe it is held Tuesday night.

 

Was Adrian staying onboard and do you think he will be there this weekend? As you said he is great and I have heard many good things about him.

Any other thoughts before we go would be great.

 

Thanks

[kpms]

Thanks for the information. We will be sailing this Saturday in the Haven, Aft Penthouse Suite deck 12. This will be our first time sailing with NCL. We are looking forward to the HAVEN life.

 

We are starting the trip at the same Marriott checking in on Thursday. Any suggestions for dinner would be appreciated. Shared with NCL that we would like to attend the chef's table also. Were you able to attend and how was the event? We have participated with RCCL chef tables before and enjoyed them. What time of night was it help, I believe it is held Tuesday night.

 

Was Adrian staying onboard and do you think he will be there this weekend? As you said he is great and I have heard many good things about him.

Any other thoughts before we go would be great.

 

Thanks

 

Hi! Sorry I can't really offer any suggestions for dinner as we got in quite late we just went straight to bed. In the morning we ate breakfast at the Hotel (They gave us a $15 food voucher) for singing up for Mariotts rewards

 

A tip as well - Publix (A grocery store) is just a few blocks away it has a huge selection of things you may need for your trip. I use Apple Cider Vinegar for my stomach and was able to find a great quality one there (Plus one less thing to pack)

 

We were invited for the Chef's table however looking over the menu we chose not to participate in it (As well it's $99 per person) which we utilized in other ways.

 

I am not sure if Adrian will still be on board I heard there are rumors he maybe leaving :( Simply one word for him is "Fantastic"

 

Let me know what you think of Aft Facing - We are always worried about the smell of the Fumes and Vibrations.

 

Welcome to NCL - I am sure you're going to love it

[countess5]

Thanks for the info, I saw that Publix was close by. May have to make a stop.

Will give my feedback on the AFT when we return. I have heard everything on the Afts like you hear about food. :p

 

Just have to get there with this weather.

[AF-1]

Thank you for posting, a very good and informative review. I am glad you were satisfied with your cruise. As a suite guest did the behind the scenes tour cost extra or included with your suite? Thanks. Also, did you use your expresso machine in the suite; if so, did you like the coffee?

[kpms]

Thank you for posting, a very good and informative review. I am glad you were satisfied with your cruise. As a suite guest did the behind the scenes tour cost extra or included with your suite? Thanks. Also, did you use your expresso machine in the suite; if so, did you like the coffee?

 

Hello!

The behind the scenes tour was an $79 charge however for me it was worth it. I think if you're Platinum it's one of the perks.

 

I used the espresso machine once and wasn't too thrilled about the coffee. I preferred the french press coffee from the Haven Res. to be quite honest. Again it's taste preference...

[kpms]

Hi, Here are the photos of our stateroom - 16118

 

 

 

 

 

 

[kpms]

 

 

 

 

 

[maja651]

Great review! I'm jealous you had Adrian as your concierge, as he is our favorite! (We had Anoop in June). My favorite quote from Adrian from our Epic cruise, "I don't do lines, and neither will you!" And boy was he right, that is almost my favorite perk of a Haven suite, not having to wait in long lines.

 

Thanks for sharing and glad you had a good time! :)

[kpms]

Great review! I'm jealous you had Adrian as your concierge, as he is our favorite! (We had Anoop in June). My favorite quote from Adrian from our Epic cruise, "I don't do lines, and neither will you!" And boy was he right, that is almost my favorite perk of a Haven suite, not having to wait in long lines.

 

Thanks for sharing and glad you had a good time! :)

 

HA! I laughed so hard with your quote! I can see his expression as well as he's saying it!

[Sparky38]

Thanks for the information. We will be sailing this Saturday in the Haven, Aft Penthouse Suite deck 12. This will be our first time sailing with NCL. We are looking forward to the HAVEN life.

 

We are starting the trip at the same Marriott checking in on Thursday. Any suggestions for dinner would be appreciated. Shared with NCL that we would like to attend the chef's table also. Were you able to attend and how was the event? We have participated with RCCL chef tables before and enjoyed them. What time of night was it help, I believe it is held Tuesday night.

 

Was Adrian staying onboard and do you think he will be there this weekend? As you said he is great and I have heard many good things about him.

Any other thoughts before we go would be great.

 

Thanks

 

We are also at The Marriott! Arrive on Friday!!!! Not long now!!!!

[Coastalbreezes]

Great review! You really got me excited to go this Saturday. I've stayed in 16118 on Breakaway and will be in that same cabin on GA.

 

Also nice to know that Raluca is in the Haven restaurant; I got to know her on BA and she is lovely. Hoping Adrian stays on for at least one more week as he is absolutely my favorite concierge.

 

Tracy

[AF-1]

KPMS, great pics of your cabin. Thanks for the info on the Lavazza machine

[TSUmom]

Thank you for the review and pictures. We are staying in a forward PH but not until next year...We were torn between actually staying in the Haven or being in a larger cabin. The larger cabin won:D

[countess5]

We are also at The Marriott! Arrive on Friday!!!! Not long now!!!!

 

Fiona and Nick

 

Looks like we are going to be travel mates, you have the other corner aft Penthouse on 12 don't you. Crazy if we are floor mates at the Marriott! :D

 

see you soon.

[Sparky38]

Fiona and Nick

 

Looks like we are going to be travel mates, you have the other corner aft Penthouse on 12 don't you. Crazy if we are floor mates at the Marriott! :D

 

see you soon.

 

Can't wait - safe travels!!!! x

[Keith.W]

Any pics of the Haven itself

[MandyMommyof2]

Great review! Thanks for sharing!! :D My dream is the Haven. Hopefully in a few years!!

[kpms]

Hi,

Just wanted to update you with the video I made from our Cruise...

 

Let me know what you think.

 

 

Kristopher

[Windy56]

Hi,

Just wanted to update you with the video I made from our Cruise...

 

Let me know what you think.

 

 

Kristopher

 

Thank you for posting the video, Kristopher. You look like you had a very relaxing time! We are leaving for two weeks on this ship, this Saturday. It appears that you might have purchased a day pass at a resort. I saw a pool and what looked to be a nice property. Could you give me some details, please. Where was it and what was the cost? Was it worth it?

 

Happy future sailings to you and your partner!

[kpms]

Thank you for posting the video, Kristopher. You look like you had a very relaxing time! We are leaving for two weeks on this ship, this Saturday. It appears that you might have purchased a day pass at a resort. I saw a pool and what looked to be a nice property. Could you give me some details, please. Where was it and what was the cost? Was it worth it?

 

Happy future sailings to you and your partner!

 

Hi Windy!

 

That would have been Nassau Bahamas at the British Colonial Hilton.

We booked the pass through

 

http://www.resortforaday.com/

 

Overall it was a nice beach (a few of the loungers were a little ratty but the water and beach area was nice) it was about a 10 min walk from the Cruise ship with the pool deck and bar area to be stunning.

 

All the best on your future cruise.

[Poop_Deck]

Thanks for the information. We will be sailing this Saturday in the Haven, Aft Penthouse Suite deck 12. This will be our first time sailing with NCL. We are looking forward to the HAVEN life.

 

 

 

 

We are in Aft Penthouse 12304 in October- also our 1st sailing with NCL. Would love to hear what you thought of your cabin & the Haven in general!

[rcclfanbp]

Hi,

Just wanted to update you with the video I made from our Cruise...

 

Let me know what you think.

 

 

Kristopher

 

Nicely done. Thank you for sharing!

[remajm]

Great review, we have booked a Haven Penthouse Forward for September and looking forward to trying a suite, have only cruised twice and both times on the epic in a studio and mini suite.

 

We have UDP included so great to know that we can have specialty restaurants delivered to our suite and getting good seats in illusionarium.

 

Looking forward to your pictures and video

Interesting to know also, as I was told you could not order from the specialty dining and have delivered to your stateroom. I will check into this again.