Norwegian Escape: What To Do And Where To Go!

The colorful Norwegian Escape debuted in November 2015 as Norwegian Cruise Line’s most innovative cruise ship taking 4,200 passengers on weekly voyages to the Caribbean. Norwegian enthusiasts will find many signature restaurants and popular entertainment including 28 dining experiences and original production shows.

The public areas are bright and glitzy, full of artwork and novel signage throughout Decks 6, 7, and 8, which is cleverly named 678 Ocean Place and it’s where the action is! Energy-efficient staterooms come in all sizes for all budgets and include studios for single travelers to massive Deluxe Owner’s Suites.

We’ve collected some tips to help guests navigate their first cruise on Norwegian Escape:

http://www.cruises.com/promotion/cruise-videos/ship-reviews-and-tours/norwegian-escape.do

Before even boarding, guests are advised to review the dining venues and menus for the many specialty restaurants. These restaurants are very popular, especially during prime time, so choose favorites and make advanced reservations online. Once on board, experienced cruisers often find it easier to go to the restaurant (vs. calling) to make reservations and request a special table directly with the maître d’. Also remember to inform Norwegian of any special diets and allergies and confirm all arrangements upon boarding.

Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville at Sea has become an indoor/outdoor restaurant with assigned seating, full service, and al fresco seaside dining. Its popularity has also brought à la carte charges for food and long lines. But you can score an icy-cold margarita and a delicious Cheeseburger in Paradise by planning to visit while the ship is in port, which means fewer passengers on board, or go early before the lines form.

With 16 passengers decks, it’s easy to get turned around while trying to find your stateroom, but there are digital screens by the elevators where guests can utilize a “GPS” system to find directions to their accommodations. Also helpful, guests should watch for the “carpet fish,” which swim upstream toward the front of the ship so you don’t head off in the wrong direction.

Packages on board are designed to provide good value on a variety of services. The two most popular packages are dining and beverage. Currently, the dining package, while good value, is limited to a few restaurants, so it’s worth reviewing the venues before committing. Moderate drinkers should take advantage of the beverage packages, which are both excellent value and save time by not having to sign for all drinks. Guests who love to sample unique mixed cocktails and the bevy of beers in The District Brew House (74 different types!) will benefit from purchasing the premium beverage package.

Norwegian Escape has entertainment galore and the majority of it is complimentary. For the shows primarily in the theater, tickets are required and should be obtained upon boarding or as soon as possible. It’s open seating, so arrive early for the best seats.

Don’t wait to book this super-exciting Norwegian Escape cruise today!