NCL Epic
NCL say that the Epic is the next generation of cruising..........it certainly has many new innovations that are not on any other ship. I would say expect the unexpected on this ship!
There is so much on this ship that I don't have space to put everything down but the main features are :-
Accommodation :
No Oceanview staterooms - all have a balcony
New - Studio (TS) Grade - a completely new concept for singles. These are very modern in design and priced exclusively for solo travellers with key card access to the private Studio Lounge - 'The Living Room', a lounge with video jukebox, flat screen TV's, a bar, comfy seating and wi-fi.
The Villa - ship-within-a-ship complex. Exclusive, invitation only, two-deck villas complex, equipped with pool, hot tub, lounging area and private sundeck.
Deluxe Owner's Suites feature living room with dining area, separate bedroom with king size bed, access to Courtyard and butler and concierge service.
New Wave Staterooms (I stayed in a BB grade balcony no. 10247) are a leap forward in cruise ship accommodation, with open living space, unique bathroom with each separate shower, toilet and vanity unit areas. Curved walls give the feeling of extra space. There is more storage in the cabin than I have ever seen on other ships.
The disadvantage of this new type of cabin is the privacy. The curtain that pulls across the cabin to give privacy for the shower and toilet leaves the sink area still in the main cabin which I feel is a design fault, also the shower and toilet are by the cabin door meaning that the shower is right next to the main door. Other than that I did like the cabin.
Entertainment :
Very impressive choice and too much to list here, includes :-
Blue Man Group - famous Las Vegas act and the only place to see them at sea
Cirque Dreams & Dinner -in the Spiegel Tent. This is the venue for interactive entertainment and dining experience.
Legends - tribute show
Howl at the Moon at Headliners - Comedy Troupe sketch comedy, spontaneous entertainment and audience participation.
Spice H2O - the pool floor rises to become a dance floor. A giant screen projects visuals and aerial performers mix dance and acrobatics.
Posh - beach club for guests of the The Villas and Epic Club Lounge also for Villa guests only
Bliss Ultra Lounge - nightclub
Ice Bar - one of only 14 in the world and the only true ice bar at sea - everything is ice and you slip on faux fur coats to keep you warm.
Plus 15 other bars and lounges
Casino - ofcourse!
Tip : Now you can book selected on-board entertainment online up to 45 days before sailing date.
Spa :
Currently the largest Spa and Fitness Centre at sea. Everything from a mani/pedi to acupuncture and BOTOX, via hot stone massage and facials. Also, relax on the thermal benches or the in the multi-treatment pool.
Family Friendly :
Lots of connecting cabins
Bowling - in 2 different venues - O'Sheehans and Bliss
Aqua Park, amazing 3 multi-storey slides including Epic Plunge, a 200-foot tube and bowl slide.
Recess - children's club and Entourage - teen club
Nickelodeon at Sea - meet SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer on board
Sports Complex - full-sized basketball court, climbing wall
Dining :
More than 20 authentic global dining choices on board.
Tip - You don't have to pre-book your table, but you can reserve your table with 24 hours (48 hours for guests in Balcony Staterooms and above) of your preferred dining time. If you haven't booked and your preferred dining choice happens to be full, ask the Restaurant Manager for a beeper and then relax in a bar - and they will give you a call when your table's ready.
This ship is for those wanting lots of entertainment, freestyle dining, lots of choice and family friendly fun. It definitely has a WOW factor and you would be hard pressed to get round everything on this ship on one sailing. If you need to know further details please give me a call.