A Transatlantic Adventure: Cruising in Style on the Norwegian Escape

Back in November, I embarked on an unforgettable journey aboard the Norwegian Escape for my first-ever transatlantic cruise. Having sailed on the Escape earlier in the year, I felt comfortable navigating the ship but was filled with anticipation about what lay ahead—a six-day, six-night voyage across the Atlantic from Madeira to Antigua. Would there be rough seas? Chilly winds? Sunny skies? With no way of knowing, I packed my trusty 23kg suitcase full of clothing options and set out for Barcelona, where my adventure would begin. Setting Sail from Barcelona - After a smooth boarding process, I settled into my port-side club balcony suite, a choice I had made strategically to maximize sunlight during the journey from east to west. Clever planning paid off as I basked in the warmth of sunny Barcelona during the sail-away. Although the port itself wasn’t particularly picturesque, it was thrilling to be underway. European Stops: Cartagena, Málaga, and Funchal - The itinerary included three European stops, each offering unique experiences. First up was Cartagena, where I enjoyed an unstructured day, soaking in the charm of cobblestone streets and vibrant local culture. In Málaga, I participated in an extraordinary private food tour, sampling local delicacies at bustling markets and tapas restaurants. The last stop before crossing the Atlantic was Funchal, Madeira, where I explored the area with a Hop-On, Hop-Off bus and indulged in a quintessentially touristy cable car ride to the gardens, followed by an exhilarating basket ride—an absolute must-do! The Atlantic Crossing: Calm, Sunny, and Blissful - As we left Funchal, anticipation filled the air—what would the next six days at sea bring? To our delight, we were greeted with calm seas, sunny skies, and temperatures consistently over 26°C. It felt as if we were cruising the Mediterranean in August! The unseasonably perfect weather created the ideal setting for sunbathing and evening strolls along the open promenade and upper decks. It was a crossing to remember, and I couldn't help but wonder if I’d been spoiled for any future transatlantic voyages. Caribbean Delights - After the crossing, the cruise concluded with stops in Antigua, Puerto Rico, and the Norwegian Cruise Line’s private island, Great Stirrup Cay, each offering their own slice of paradise. Life Aboard the Norwegian Escape - The Norwegian Escape proved to be the perfect vessel for this journey. With its well-designed solo cabin spaces and relaxed atmosphere, it catered to a diverse group of travelers. The ship's many venues—including bars, the casino, theatre, and Headliners (a piano bar and comedy venue)—provided endless entertainment. Highlights of the shows included the captivating Choir of Man in the main theatre and a Fleetwood Mac tribute in Syd Norman’s Pour House. Dining was another standout feature - I frequented specialty venues like Bayamo (Seafood), Le Bistro (French), and Cagney’s Steakhouse, with outdoor tables adding an extra touch of magic to meals. Pre-dinner drinks at the Prime Meridian bar were a personal favourite, with the Black Forest Martini earning a special mention. Final Thoughts - This transatlantic cruise was nothing short of spectacular. The Norwegian Escape’s cheerful crew, engaging entertainment, and thoughtfully planned itinerary made the journey unforgettable. Paired with the stunning weather, it was a dream voyage that will always hold a special place in my heart. If you’re considering a transatlantic cruise, don’t hesitate—this adventure might just become your trip of a lifetime!