Norwegian Escape
As if the destination wasn’t enough (who wouldn’t salivate over a holiday spent in the sun-drenched Caribbean), Norwegian cruise line has launched another ship to tempt you out to this engaging part of the world.
The coast of Grenada. Image – Lynn Houghton/theroamingscribe
The itinerary will be The Bahamas; St Thomas, in the US Virgin Islands; Tortola, in the British Virgin Islands; St Maarten and Cozumel just off the coast of Mexico. White sand and glistening green seas await!
4248 passenger, Norwegian Escape
The new 4,248 passenger, 164,600 GT 15 deck Norwegian Escape will sail seven night itineraries from its home port of Miami. The vibe of the Caribbean is not only on the ship , but even painted on the hull. An enormous, captivating mural wraps around and displays a Marlin, dolphins, sea turtles and other creatures from the depths – all painted by Miami artist Guy Harvey.
Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville at Sea
On board, it is Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville at Sea up on Deck 17 that caught my eye. I could just imagine sipping a frozen beverage after whipping and sliding through the twisty, turning, adrenaline fuelled Aqua Park up on Deck 18 and 19. Keeping cool and wet while trying out the Aqua Racer in the hot Caribbean sun sounds like just my cup of tea. And there are duelling water slides as well. And in the evenings, Spice H2O is the outdoor dancing and bar venue that will keep on going into the wee hours.
678 Ocean Place
On the other end of the relaxation spectrum, the snow room in the ship’s Mandara Spa keeps guests very cool. Imagine coming out of the sauna and straight into the snow? The thermal suite is an extra charge but certainly worth it before or after a spa treatment. Cost is: Day pass – $54 (port days only, limited supply) 7 night pass – $219 (limited supply)
Snow Room in the Mandara Spa
Guests order from iPads in Food Republic
678 Ocean Place is spread over three decks and has all the entertainment and dining you could ever want in one area. There are 19 different dining options on Norwegian Escape and most of them are here. Food Republic, the trendy Brew House as well as the Pincho Tapas Bar will certainly grab the attention of the younger guests. Teppanaki is where your food is created in front of you as you are seated at your table, while Savor and Taste Restaurants are the mainstream options on board.
Teppanyaki Restaurant
La Cucina
Le Bistro Restaurant serves delightful French cuisine and La Cucina is the Italian restaurant. Carney’s Steakhouse and Modern Churrascaria share the same space, aft of Deck 8, and both also offer outdoor dining on the Waterfront. Yes, the Waterfront is the outdoor balcony seating for many of the restaurants. Such a nice breezy option for guest’s dining experience when sailing in a hot climate.
Courtyard of the Haven
The piece de resistance is, of course, The Haven. This is a luxury ‘ship within a ship’ complex that has private key access and features a private pool and sun deck, private bar and restaurant as well as a private lounge. All suite accommodation has exquisite bathrooms and stunning views. The beds look incredibly comfortable and all the amenities absolutely shriek lavishness. There is even a 24 hour private butler and concierge for guests staying in the haven.
This is the second ship in the cruise line’s Norwegian Bliss class, the first being Norwegian Breakaway.
To book visit Norwegian Cruise Line or ring 0845 201 8900.