Norwegian Epic Ship Review

by Teresa Tennant
 After reading our cruise reporter, Ralph Grizzle’s report of his experience on the new NCL Epic, I wasn’t sure what I would think about the boxy, noisy ship.  My experience was a calmer one, and I found the ship to be fun, exciting, and beautifully decorated with excellent service, cuisine and entertainment.

The ship has attractive glass, photography, paintings, and murals throughout the vessel.

Glass bubbles at the champagne bar

Glass bubbles at the champagne bar

Artwork at the Garden Café Entrance

Artwork at the Garden Café Entrance

I was able to visit staterooms in every category – the Courtyard villas were ready for viewing and truly impressive.  I could easily adapt to the floor-to-ceiling view of the water from the Owner’s Suite bedroom or the equally enjoyable view from the bath! 

Owners Suite Bedroom

Owners Suite Bedroom

Owners Suite Bath

Owners Suite Bath

The balcony, inside and studio staterooms were all beautifully appointed with glass art panels, attractive curtains and throw pillows, duvets and colorful coverlets on the beds.  We found the new divided bathroom concept convenient for two people getting ready at the same time in the morning.  It’s also nice to have the sliding glass door for the shower instead of a shower curtain sticking to you.

Balcony Cabin BF

Balcony Cabin BF

 The new studio staterooms are small, but made very good use of their space.  Guests in these staterooms have their own private Studio Lounge area if they want to get away from any crowds, too.

Studio Stateroom

Studio Cabin

Studio Cabin's Community Lounge

Studio Cabin's Community Lounge

The fitness center is huge and includes separate rooms for Pilates, spinning and TRX equipment.  The spa is the largest at sea and the “Recess” area for kids in several age groups is also very large.

Pulse Fitness Center - Cardio area.

Pulse Fitness Center - Cardio area.

In the 90 degree weather we experienced in Miami, the Aquapark was a big hit with adults and kids alike.  The three water slides were compared and contrasted – most felt the Epic Plunge was the best – and I have to say it was my favorite, too!

The Epic Plunge!

The Epic Plunge!

With only two days onboard, we were not able to sample all 20 restaurants and lounges.  We enjoyed lunch at the Garden Café and dinner at Shanghai’s the first day – very attentive staff and great food in both.  On the second day, it was breakfast at O’Sheehan’s, lunch at Taste, and dinner at La Cucina – another successful round!

La Cucina Restaurant

La Cucina Restaurant

I absolutely agree with Ralph’s opinion that The Blue Man Group put on one of the best shows I have ever seen at sea!  My friend and I also enjoyed The Second City comedy improvisation show and found the Nashville Songwriters session a totally unexpected gem!  These four Number 1 hit and/or Grammy winning singer/songwriters performed their music in the Fat Cats Jazz & Blues Club while telling the stories behind them – the crowd started out small and just kept growing – they were fantastic musicians and entertainers! 

All in all, it was a very enjoyable mini cruise!

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2 Responses to “Norwegian Epic Ship Review”

  1. mike g Says:

    My experience on the epic was horrible. Staff was rude and service was slow.

  2. Alysia Murillo Says:

    We’re sorry your cruise did not live up to your expectations. This was not the experience that our staff had onboard. We value your response and we would be happy to pass on your comments to the cruise line. Could you provide us with the cruise date and some more details on your experience. Thank you.

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