For those of us lucky enough to make the three night cruise sandwiched between Hurricanes Ike and Hanna we had two very pleasant surprises.  The first one was great weather and the second one was a cruise that exceeded most of our expectations. 

The Norwegian Sky is now the newest ship in the three and four night market and more important featuring more balcony cabins than any of her competitors.  Fresh off a May/June dry dock the ship looks absolutely as good as new, if not better. 

This version of NCL’s Freestyle Cruising has 6 restaurants, 3 of which do carry a surcharge, 9 bars and lounges 2 swimming pools, 5 hot tubs, spa, gym and the other normal offerings on a large ship.  This ship does have dedicated meeting facilities as well.  With a capacity of 2,002 guests the ship certainly doesn’t feel crowded. 

The balcony cabins are spacious and feature pillow top mattresses, fine bedding, bathrooms, the best bathroom amenities in the 3 and 4 night market, full stocked mini bar and a fruit menu that allows you to order a selection of fresh fruit daily.  These are by far the best standard balcony cabins in the 3 and 4 night market. 

So why did this cruise exceed our expectations?  The most common comments from our group was the service was really, really good at all levels.  The second most common comment was that food was by far better than any of use expected.  Other noticed items were the ease of both embarkation and disembarkation.  On disembarkation both the main dining room and the buffet line are open and serving until 9 am and you have to be off the ship by 10 am.  A very relax and civilized way to end your cruise. 

NCL recently implemented an up-grade program fleet wide in all of their dining venues and it is very noticeable.  Even more importantly they added a significant amount of money to the food budget and it shows.  The food, selection, presentation in all dining outlets was head and shoulders above many of the competitors.  Alternative dining venues include a Steak House, a French/Mediterranean venue and an Italian restaurant.   All of which presented us with great meals plus excellent selections of courses.

The wide variety of lounges makes it easy to find one that is active or quite depending on what you desire.  The majority also feature live music in the evenings which is always nice.  The sports bar features late night snacks in case you get the munchies. 

The three night cruises are Friday to Monday and feature Nassau and NCL’s private island Great Stirrup Cay.  The four night cruises at Monday to Friday and go to Grand Bahama Island, Nassau and Great Stirrup Cay with both departures being from Miami. 

If you have a 3 or 4 night program and looking for a more up market ship you now have choice. 

Give us a call for more details.