Norwegian Getaway Cruise
I stayed in a balcony cabin. The balcony was a great addition to the room which precluded it feeling too confined. I took advantage of the in-room dining option and enjoyed a continental breakfast on my balcony, watching the sun rise over the Mediterranean sea. There was also a breakfast buffet option for those who wished for greater choice, plus another couple of a la carte outlets. The dining options were plentiful. Inclusive of the package was a dinner buffet, three dining rooms, and a few other restaurants. There were also fine dining restaurants on board at additional cost, which were well worth it. I ate at the Brazilian Steakhouse, Seafood and Italian speciality dining restaurants, all of which I would highly recommend.
During the day guests could take advantage of the pools on offer. I spent most of my time sunbathing at the adults only pool bar ‘H2O’ at the rear of the ship, which boasts a panoramic sea view. Those wanting more luxury could book a cabin within the “Haven”, which offered an exclusive lounge, restaurant and pool deck and access to fine dining at no extra cost.
There was a whole host of entertainment options on offer throughout the day and the schedule was updated daily on the NCL app. I attended three shows; ‘Burn the Floor’ which was a Latino dance show, Syd Norman’s Pour House Band, who on the night I attended, played 80s hits, and ‘Duelling Pianos’ which saw two professional pianists take audience requests and perform together. The entertainment was amazing and a highlight of my trip.
For those who wanted even more entertainment, there were events hosted on the deck and other areas around the ship each day. Parents can rest assured that children would be spoilt for choice. The kids club* affords parents time to unwind, whilst shopping, at the casino, or relaxing in the spa.
This was my first cruise experience, and I was not sure what to expect. Overall I had a really enjoyable time, and would definitely recommend it to those who want a stress-free, social and varied holiday. There is no better time to cruise, with lower prices, reduced capacity and the ability to visit many destinations without having to adhere to covid flying restrictions. Get in touch if you’re interested in booking your own.
*currently not operating due to covid vaccination restrictions
Covid FAQs
What do you need to have in order to board the ship?
- Full vaccination status (at present there are no exemptions for children) - if you want an adults only cruise, now is the time to do it!
- A negative Covid test (this is done at the port and took 15 minutes or so)
- Covid pass from the NHS app
- Online check-in via NCL app (the Norwegian cruise line app)
- As the cruise departed from Italy, I also had to satisfy the Italian entry requirements. This will vary depending on which country your cruise departs from.
What were the restrictions onboard?
- Currently all ships are operating at reduced capacity, so it felt extremely spacious
- Masks to be worn in all indoor spaces except when eating and drinking
- Hand sanitising stations are available all over the ship
- Hand washing station before entering the buffet area
- The buffet is not currently self-serve
- Reservations were required for all speciality dining and most shows
What do I need in order to disembark the ship?
- Entry requirements for the country of disembarkation. For most port stops the rules are often relaxed for those entering via cruise ship as opposed to flight, which is a huge benefit during covid times (no forms or tests were required for me to Disembark in Palma). You can go off and do your own thing, opt into an organised excursion, or remain on the ship at your leisure.
- Covid tests were offered onboard and included in the price for those who required them.
