It's not an attractive ship....

[PokerDave]

So I've been bemused to read all the "Epic is ugly" reviews even prior to her being built. This post really isn't about whether she is ugly or not, but more about whether or not it matters...

I've sailed 5 times on 5 different lines. Happen to have 2 more NCL's booked ( yes, one of them is Epic ). But not once has the ship's looks made even the slightest bit of difference to a booking. Itinerary, Price, Entertainment, etc... are all WAY ahead of asthetics of the kind people seem to object to on the Epic. I mean really, who gets on a cruise then at the end says, well it would have been great except the shape on the front of the ship really put me off as I was walking back from port...

There are many things I am hoping are not an issue on my xmas cruise on the Epic... How she looks from the outside doesn't even make the list for me...

Not wishing to trivialize what seems to be a real issue for some people, I just really don't understand....

[AFT_LOVER]

I am intrigued with Epic. Spa staterooms with 24 hour access to relax, take care of sore muscles & bones. The stone loungers make me feel that I will fall asleep & stay there overnight?

I read folks with their hate of the "Hat" which is for the folks with money that want their own ship within a ship aka Countyard. Now folks in suites want access to this area of high money, which to me is a joke. Those folks do not want a crowded area. So if you cannot afford one of those staterooms forget thinking that all suites have access. You have breakfast & lunch at a specialty restaurant that mini suite folks do not get but that is priced as a suite. SAME IDEA, IMHO.

So if you dislike Epic, then stay away making room for thoe of us who love her. I also look forward to new ports after Caribbean's year.

[TrikeRider]

I'm with you - doesn't matter what the ship looks like on the outside - it is what's inside that counts. I will be booking this ship when Summer 2011 is posted.

[mttwinmom]

I like the look of the ship, call me crazy

[gtalum]

I thought the artist's renderings looked a bti awkward, but he rlines look much better so far in real life. That said, I'm with the OP in that I've never given a thought to the exterior looks of a ship. It's about itinerary, activities, and amenities.

[CanadianTwosome]

I have to agree; it's like not wanting to wear a beautiful new dress because you don't like the bag it came in. :rolleyes:

[alicam]

I just recently booked a balcony on the Epic for March 2011....I didn't book it because of how it looked....I booked on it for what it offered...and it seems to offer a lot...

[ohioNCLcruiser]

I think she will look better in person then the renderings. The Pride Of America looks much worse in pics then she really does in real life.

[chachi]

I don't understand why so many people are saying it is ugly. What is it that people don't like about it? It looks fine to me. I prefer what is on the inside anyways.

[jame_g]

POA is a beautiful ship inside. She can look ugly in photos, but liked her in real life. We would like to sail her again in a couple years.

I dunno. The Epic is not attractive. And I can't say that I find anything about her appealing so far. Maybe that will change. But I can't be the only one that she doesn't appeal to at all so far. I just find ships the size and layout of the Dawn, Star, Pearl, Gem, etc. much more appealing.

[pokeypoke]

I don't think the ship is that ugly, but that is my opinion. I think many people are judging "the hat" and because of it, say the ship is ugly. The "hat doesn't bother me in the least bit. Like they say, "Beauty is skin deep" and what really counts, is what's on the inside:).

[alicam]

The ship isn't ugly...it is just different than what people presume a cruise ship to be....maybe it is time for a shakeup in appearance's

[rumcokenice]

I saw The Oasis at the dockside in Ft Lauderdale a couple of weeks back...now that's ugly!

[ddakrt]

I saw The Oasis at the dockside in Ft Lauderdale a couple of weeks back...now that's ugly!

Ya, the Oasis looks very...ummm...wide in the waist. :eek:

I understand that some (many?) don't think the Epic is attractive, but to say that it's one of the ugliest is stretching it a bit. Had these people not seen the atrocity that are the Princess duck beak ships (with or without the shopping cart handle)?

Now these are horrid looking ships.
http://caribbeancruiseletter.com/cozumel-cruise-getaway-grand-princess-26.JPG
http://www.clotheswithcharacterz.com/a_md060e.jpg

[luvmygoldens]

I have been on many lines and hands down I love NCL !!! I am booked on the Epic for next Christmas and can't wait. I love NCL Jewel she's my favorite ship.
I love the pic of the duck still laughing.

[Jerseyboy1]

I've only been on a few cruises, and they have all been on different lines. To me, that's part of the thrill of cruising, trying out different types of ships. That is why I wouldn't hesitate to book a cruise on Epic, Oasis, Dream or any other type of ship I didn't sail on in the past. The Epic's not ugly, just different. And as far as the Princess-type ships go, that "duck beak" feature allows people free access to walk around the entire ship. That simple perk seems to be going the way of the old steam engine on most new ships these days.

[JLC@SD]

I am intrigued with Epic. Spa staterooms with 24 hour access to relax, take care of sore muscles & bones. The stone loungers make me feel that I will fall asleep & stay there overnight?

I read folks with their hate of the "Hat" which is for the folks with money that want their own ship within a ship aka Countyard. Now folks in suites want access to this area of high money, which to me is a joke. Those folks do not want a crowded area. So if you cannot afford one of those staterooms forget thinking that all suites have access. You have breakfast & lunch at a specialty restaurant that mini suite folks do not get but that is priced as a suite. SAME IDEA, IMHO.

So if you dislike Epic, then stay away making room for thoe of us who love her. I also look forward to new ports after Caribbean's year.

Well the hat sure sticks em up there where everyone will know where the "special people" are. I thought that First ad Second Class cruising was abandoned a long time ago.

And by the way.....the higher up the ship you are....the more movement you will experience.....especially in rough seas.......;)

[ddakrt]

And as far as the Princess-type ships go, that "duck beak" feature allows people free access to walk around the entire ship. That simple perk seems to be going the way of the old steam engine on most new ships these days.

I agree that is a great feature, especially that it's open (the Jewel and Star class ships have full promenades that you can walk all the way around too, but the front is not open like the Princess ships); but they really are incredibly ugly lol.
Give me a bow section that you can walk onto, I'd much rather have that than the hidious duck beak.

[Jerseyboy1]

I agree that is a great feature, especially that it's open (the Jewel and Star class ships have full promenades that you can walk all the way around too, but the front is not open like the Princess ships); but they really are incredibly ugly lol.
Give me a bow section that you can walk onto, I'd much rather have that than the hidious duck beak.


Ok ddakrt....you win..! I too would also trade a "duck beak" for a "walk-on bow"...and yes it is nice to walk around the Dawn's promenade deck, but it would be nicer with wind in your face and a closer connection to the sea..IMHO:)

[JPACHTMAN]

So I've been bemused to read all the "Epic is ugly" reviews even prior to her being built. This post really isn't about whether she is ugly or not, but more about whether or not it matters...

I've sailed 5 times on 5 different lines. Happen to have 2 more NCL's booked ( yes, one of them is Epic ). But not once has the ship's looks made even the slightest bit of difference to a booking. Itinerary, Price, Entertainment, etc... are all WAY ahead of asthetics of the kind people seem to object to on the Epic. I mean really, who gets on a cruise then at the end says, well it would have been great except the shape on the front of the ship really put me off as I was walking back from port...

There are many things I am hoping are not an issue on my xmas cruise on the Epic... How she looks from the outside doesn't even make the list for me...

Not wishing to trivialize what seems to be a real issue for some people, I just really don't understand....

Who cares what it looks like!!! It's brand new and will be great. I'm going on the 9/4/10 sailing.

[fin]

Ugly is in the eye of the beholder, and therefore subjective.

Five thousand fellow passengers is very objective, and not an experience that some people are anxious to try.

[ignorance]

During each cruise, I take one picture of the ship from shore because it gives a frame of referece to the rest of the pictures. Other than that, I don't really look at the ship from that angle.

I'm more concerned about where it goes and how much it costs.

[jplotts865]

Sorry to disagree...well, not really...as from a design standpoint the new NCL Epic is probably the ugliest ship ever to set sail! It looks top heavy and the lines are out of proportion - and then the added insult of "tarting up" the thing with all those awful painted graphics is just too, too much. The first time I saw a picture of the ship I thought it HAD to be a mistake...and was amazed to find out that, no, that's how ugly it really is! Never been a big fan of NCL anyway so the point is moot...can't forgive the line for starting all that "freestyle" dining which has infiltrated (and ruined) traditional cruising for me.

[FLAHAM]

come on in to the 21st century, Jay. I just got off a 7-night Caribbean cruise on the NCL Jewel and greatly enjoyed seven dinners in seven restaurants. I think the Epic has distinctive looks that will forever make it instantly recognizable out of all of the world's ships.

Neil/Miami

[pokeypoke]

Sorry to disagree...well, not really...as from a design standpoint the new NCL Epic is probably the ugliest ship ever to set sail! It looks top heavy and the lines are out of proportion - and then the added insult of "tarting up" the thing with all those awful painted graphics is just too, too much. The first time I saw a picture of the ship I thought it HAD to be a mistake...and was amazed to find out that, no, that's how ugly it really is! Never been a big fan of NCL anyway so the point is moot...can't forgive the line for starting all that "freestyle" dining which has infiltrated (and ruined) traditional cruising for me.

NEXT!!!:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[ddakrt]

Sorry to disagree...well, not really...as from a design standpoint the new NCL Epic is probably the ugliest ship ever to set sail! It looks top heavy and the lines are out of proportion - and then the added insult of "tarting up" the thing with all those awful painted graphics is just too, too much. The first time I saw a picture of the ship I thought it HAD to be a mistake...and was amazed to find out that, no, that's how ugly it really is! Never been a big fan of NCL anyway so the point is moot...can't forgive the line for starting all that "freestyle" dining which has infiltrated (and ruined) traditional cruising for me.

Except the Epic was designed from the inside out, so from it's design standpoint the ship looks just about perfect because it was intended that way.

I've mention this before somewhere else, but the Oasis looks far more top heavy. Look how the rest of the ship is quite a bit wider than it's hull. THAT'S top heavy.
http://images.vesseltracker.com/images/vessels/midres/Oasis-Of-The-Seas-302262.jpg
http://images.watoday.com.au/2009/09/28/758031/Oasis-of-the-Seas-Sea-Trial-2-600x400.jpg

[jplotts865]

Too sooth the wounded NCL egos...I don't like the Oasis Class RCI has introduced either - ditto Solstice at Celebrity. These huge new "ships" are really no longer ships but have become floating self-contained all-inclusive resorts where the focus is nearly totally inward and AWAY from the ocean that used to be the reason one went on a cruise. I was interested to learn that the rather unattractive Epic was designed from the inside out - at least that explains the (non) design of the exterior. I am one of those people who LOVE ships and ocean liners - obviously this new trend - the "block of flats" look - is going to be disturbing to us purists. And I've always hated ANY ship that's got graphics splashed all over the bow and sides - it's sort of insulting to the ship and I'm hoping the phase will go away eventually. But I think the marine architects really goofed on this one...I'm sure they could have done a much better job...it looks like it was really rushed into service to compete with Oasis and Solstice in the current size war.

[Jerseyboy1]

Except the Epic was designed from the inside out, so from it's design standpoint the ship looks just about perfect because it was intended that way.

I've mention this before somewhere else, but the Oasis looks far more top heavy. Look how the rest of the ship is quite a bit wider than it's hull. THAT'S top heavy.
http://images.vesseltracker.com/images/vessels/midres/Oasis-Of-The-Seas-302262.jpg
http://images.watoday.com.au/2009/09/28/758031/Oasis-of-the-Seas-Sea-Trial-2-600x400.jpg

Yes, she really does look top-heavy. The Oasis is listed on Nauticalcities as having a beam of 154 feet. I've been told that's the width at the waterline...no? Then I read somewhere that the total width of the ship is 207 feet. That would leave over 26 feet hanging over each side of the hull. Yeah top-heavy....:eek:

[Rochesterboatingdotcom]

We sailed the Solstice this year and I actually think she is an attractive ship. Epic is ugly, but who cares. We booked her for October 2, can't wait!

http://inlinethumb54.webshots.com/18485/2186039130035125439S600x600Q85.jpg (http://travel.webshots.com/photo/2186039130035125439aRlRkZ)

[ddakrt]

^^^I too like the Solstice, the curved "character line" on it's hull looks neat.

For modern ships, my favourite design is the NCL Jewel and Jade. The forecastle looks really sleek with the sloping area where the forward suites are.

I also really like Carnival Conquest/Valor/Freedom/Liberty, etc. I think they also look great, with the exception of their aft design; which looks extremely dated.

Funny thing is that I quite dislike the new Carnival Dream even though it's basically a rounded and updated Conquest. The front of that ship reminds me of grampa Simpson when he has his hair slicked back.
http://www.skyauction.com/cruiseImage/38932
http://z.about.com/d/animatedtv/1/0/W/B/epoldmankey.jpg

[signora]

Hey You Xmas Cruise Folks! Please post on the roll call! We're just dyin' to meet you! (Jagger) I happen to think the ship looks nice. IS there a wrap around promenade? Just got off the New Year's Eve cruise on the Pearl and can't wait to be cruisin' again!

[time2cruise1]

IS there a wrap around promenade?

Nope :)

[mek]

Well, I'm platinum on Carnival, but no big fan of the ships' interiors. After a day or two, I stop noticing it and the decor really has no impact on how much I enjoy the cruise or fun I have. I think the exterior of the Epic will probably be the same - something to laugh about if it turns out to be really ugly when the ship is finished. All I know is the interior looks really cool and the entertainment fantastic. Can't wait for my October Epic cruise.

[fin]

Sorry to disagree...well, not really...as from a design standpoint the new NCL Epic is probably the ugliest ship ever to set sail! It looks top heavy and the lines are out of proportion - and then the added insult of "tarting up" the thing with all those awful painted graphics is just too, too much. The first time I saw a picture of the ship I thought it HAD to be a mistake...and was amazed to find out that, no, that's how ugly it really is! Never been a big fan of NCL anyway so the point is moot...can't forgive the line for starting all that "freestyle" dining which has infiltrated (and ruined) traditional cruising for me.

Actually the first time I saw a photo of Epic, several of us thought it was a photoshopped joke. We were on the bridge of another NCL ship at the time, and the ship's officers appeared plainly embarrassed at the look of the ship as well as cruisers' reaction to it.

The lack of a promenade deck probably shouldn't surprise me, I suppose. They are quite apparently hot on the heels of a very different demographic.

[JLC@SD]

Actually the first time I saw a photo of Epic, several of us thought it was a photoshopped joke. We were on the bridge of another NCL ship at the time, and the ship's officers appeared plainly embarrassed at the look of the ship as well as cruisers' reaction to it.

The lack of a promenade deck probably shouldn't surprise me, I suppose. They are quite apparently hot on the heels of a very different demographic.

Frankly.....I think it is an effort to do something different and goes too far......especially with the split and compartmentalization of the bathrooms in the cabins. I will be interested to hear how popular this new concept will be.

and.......how do cruisers that want separate beds book those wave rooms.....

[ddakrt]

Actually the first time I saw a photo of Epic, several of us thought it was a photoshopped joke. We were on the bridge of another NCL ship at the time, and the ship's officers appeared plainly embarrassed at the look of the ship as well as cruisers' reaction to it.

The lack of a promenade deck probably shouldn't surprise me, I suppose. They are quite apparently hot on the heels of a very different demographic.
http://174.132.191.24/%7Eexpertcr/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/f3.jpg

The above was the first picture of the Epic that I saw, and like you I thought someone was trying to pull a fast one. I couldn't believe my eyes and thought whoever designed the ship had got to be blind. :eek:

Over time though, I grew to actually like (kinda) how the Epic looks. Don't think it'll win any beauty contests, but I definitely think there are far uglier cruise ships among us today than the Epic.

It does sort of have a promenade, not a full one where you can walk all the way around, but it looks like the two sides are connected in the front. I can't imagine it would be a nice promenade with all those lifeboats blocking the entire deck though.

[ddakrt]

Doing a couple of quick searches, seems like the Oasis and Carnival Dream both have pretty bad promenades.

The Oasis is just like the Epic, pretty much all enclosed with view of the seas in only a couple of areas while you'll be looking at the lifeboats the rest of the time.
The Dream is a bit better, the promenade is very open, but also has very tall glass like some areas on the top deck.

This is too bad, I quite like the promenade decks.

[fin]

Looking at the pic you posted reminds me of driving miles and miles through wide open countryside and suddenly coming to a section with huge houses, all nearly touching each other, where obviously a developer wanted to get maximum money out of his plot of land, regardless of the quality of life which it would impose on those who buy one of the jammed-in houses.

It just sort of screams "greed" and "lack of taste".

Which I guess makes it pretty trendy and contemporary, huh.

[orangeh3]

Looking at the pic you posted reminds me of driving miles and miles through wide open countryside and suddenly coming to a section with huge houses, all nearly touching each other, where obviously a developer wanted to get maximum money out of his plot of land, regardless of the quality of life which it would impose on those who buy one of the jammed-in houses.

It just sort of screams "greed" and "lack of taste".

Which I guess makes it pretty trendy and contemporary, huh.

And I see it as a great way to cruise...with the entertainment, food venues and being different is appearances...which to me means freestyle!

[ddakrt]

Looking at the pic you posted reminds me of driving miles and miles through wide open countryside and suddenly coming to a section with huge houses, all nearly touching each other, where obviously a developer wanted to get maximum money out of his plot of land, regardless of the quality of life which it would impose on those who buy one of the jammed-in houses.

It just sort of screams "greed" and "lack of taste".

Which I guess makes it pretty trendy and contemporary, huh.

Honestly I fail to see the connection here. Real estate on the seas are obviously at a premium, this is how it's been since the beginning hasn't it?

[fin]

Honestly I fail to see the connection here. Real estate on the seas are obviously at a premium, this is how it's been since the beginning hasn't it?

Just the way it looks. This whole thread revolves around the way the thing looks.

[jplotts865]

Sorry...I STILL think its the ugliest ship ever to be launched! What on earth were they thinking? God-awful in my book...

[ddakrt]

Sorry...I STILL think its the ugliest ship ever to be launched! What on earth were they thinking? God-awful in my book...

Aha, you already mentioned this. It's not like anyone expected your opinion to change in a bit over a month. ;)

[pokeypoke]

Aha, you already mentioned this. It's not like anyone expected your opinion to change in a bit over a month. ;)

Amen:D!

[ddakrt]

Came up with a very quick and dirty photochop, changed up the forecastle area a bit so it look more like the Jewel and Dawn ships. I like it more like this, got a "family" look to it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/ddakrt/NORWEGIAN_EPIC5copy.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/ddakrt/NORWEGIAN_EPIC.jpg

[boeckli]

ddakrt - not sure I can spot any difference :confused:

[ddakrt]

Area below the bridge. :D

The Jewel and Dawn class ships both have forecastles that slope down further towards the bow.

The 'chop doesn't change anything that people hate about the Epic aesthetics wise (mainly the "hat"), I just thought it makes the Epic closer in appearance to other NCL ships is all. :p

[larry1365]

Looking at the sea trials photos...it is still an ugly ship. Granted, one doesn't "book" a ship on appearances; but, these new mega-ships are plain ugly. No style at all and that, to me, is a shame.

[negc]

Looking at the sea trials photos...it is still an ugly ship. Granted, one doesn't "book" a ship on appearances; but, these new mega-ships are plain ugly. No style at all and that, to me, is a shame.
I tend to agree and the "hat" issue aside, I find that the chopped off/squared off aft section that so many new ships now feature is especially unattractive and detracts from the overall appearance of such vessels.:)

[negc]

Came up with a very quick and dirty photochop, changed up the forecastle area a bit so it look more like the Jewel and Dawn ships. I like it more like this, got a "family" look to it.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/ddakrt/NORWEGIAN_EPIC5copy.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/ddakrt/NORWEGIAN_EPIC.jpg
Guess that you'll have to describe it as a "family of one".;)

[Cruisin'cockney]

I think the truth of the matter is, if you want amenities you have to sacrifice looks. The cruising public tend to book cruise holidays for the sheer number of activities, dining experiences and facilities and it is difficult to squeeze everything into an old fashioned "liner" shaped ship.

Show me a 150,000 ton ship with a "traditional" look and I will show you a cruise company about to go out of business. Small may be beautiful but will never appeal to the mass market.

That said, I would rather be on the Epic looking out than off the Epic looking in! :eek:

[ddakrt]

I think the truth of the matter is, if you want amenities you have to sacrifice looks. The cruising public tend to book cruise holidays for the sheer number of activities, dining experiences and facilities and it is difficult to squeeze everything into an old fashioned "liner" shaped ship.

Show me a 150,000 ton ship with a "traditional" look and I will show you a cruise company about to go out of business. Small may be beautiful but will never appeal to the mass market.

That said, I would rather be on the Epic looking out than off the Epic looking in! :eek:
You know I was thinking that a ship with similar volume as the Epic but with traditional looks that ship will have to be physically huge in size.

Then I remember the QM2... It's not much smaller in volume than the Epic but it's not really much bigger in physical size either. The QM2 is about 50ft longer and 2 ft wider though, both are about the same height.

It does have far less cabins, so maybe that's why the QM2 can have that traditional look and many other cruise ships can't.

[donaldsc]

Extremely ugly. However, any ship built to maximize the amount of interior space and the number of passengers will be ugly. Only the true ocean liners could be described as attractive and how many of them are there left?

DON

[ColinIllinois]

When I was in the Navy we stopped in Guam for a week to do some ship repairs. I happened to meet a Navy nurse there that was definitely challenged in the looks department and a bit portly at the water line.

Turned out to be the best week of my life. :)

Don't judge a book by it's cover.

[zoomerica]

First off, quite nice bit of photoshop on the above pictures.

That being said, the Epic and Oasis are not attractive at all. I had no idea how unattractive Oasis was until this thread, so thank you for that. ;)

I think the problem with Epic is how contrived and "last minute" the hat looks. Really unbalances the whole thing. Personally not fond of the flat backside either, but thats me. As someone above has mentioned, the QM2 to me personifies what ships should look like. I find that one Very appealing. One ventures to guess QM2 will handle rough waters better than Oasis or Epic.

That being said, its all words...if someone gave me tickets to either of the monstrosities, I would be on board faster than a tick onto a sweaty hound.

Cheers
Zoo

[david_sobe]

I would never attack someone else's opinion. I dont understand how anyone can say they like or hate a ship that is still being worked on in a ship yard. We only get work in progess real photos or annimated photo shopped photos of what they expect the ship to look like. I was not that crazy about the "crown area" but it has grown on me and it looks very royal with a shining crown on top. You cannot judge a ship by the outside. The Oasis of the Seas is so big and bulky from the outside but the videos I see from the inside are amazing. The Epic looks state of the art with curved walls, neat lighting, and top notch entertainment and restaurants.
I dont care what a ship looks like from the outside. I just want to have a great time at sea on the ship. From what I see from the Villa suite that I booked, I may be living like a millionaire for 7 days
Haters beware!
:)

[tntornadox]

I wonder why they couldn't have put the Villa Complex down right in front of the funnel like they did on the Jewel class ships? They could have pushed the slides forward, like Carnival does... and it would have been MUCH more balanced?

[zoomerica]

I wonder why they couldn't have put the Villa Complex down right in front of the funnel like they did on the Jewel class ships? They could have pushed the slides forward, like Carnival does... and it would have been MUCH more balanced?


Agreed. The nose (crown :rolleyes:) just looks so heavy. Your solution would have balanced it out quite well. The QG restaurants on QE and QV are there and it looks rather nice. Like a peak or something.

[zoomerica]

I would never attack someone else's opinion. I dont understand how anyone can say they like or hate a ship that is still being worked on in a ship yard. We only get work in progess real photos or annimated photo shopped photos of what they expect the ship to look like. I was not that crazy about the "crown area" but it has grown on me and it looks very royal with a shining crown on top. You cannot judge a ship by the outside. The Oasis of the Seas is so big and bulky from the outside but the videos I see from the inside are amazing. The Epic looks state of the art with curved walls, neat lighting, and top notch entertainment and restaurants.
I dont care what a ship looks like from the outside. I just want to have a great time at sea on the ship. From what I see from the Villa suite that I booked, I may be living like a millionaire for 7 days
Haters beware!

:)

I respectfully disagree...we shall duel with lawn darts on the promenade at 3.15p :D

You are right that we probably shouldn't judge an unfinished ship. As I understand it, they have released actual photos. Not that they would hide my issue with this particular ship.

As to your descriptions of the inside (of Epic and Oasis) you are right. Both these ships and most new ones are delightful...but oy vey the exteriors...

[david_sobe]

Remember
Epic is a different ship. It is not Jewel 2 or Pearl 2. The whole ship design is different. The different look is throwing people off. This is not your normal or typical cruise ship. They have moved most suites or villas to the crown and separate from the rest of the ship. The design was to purposely design a different ship. Who wants to keep sailing on another Pearl, Dawn, or Jewel. They are all so similar. Doesnt anyone want anything different?

[ddakrt]

I wonder why they couldn't have put the Villa Complex down right in front of the funnel like they did on the Jewel class ships? They could have pushed the slides forward, like Carnival does... and it would have been MUCH more balanced?

I am under the impression that NCL wanted the lido to be as big and uninterrupted as possible, and with the process of elimination the hat ended up where it is now.
The villa complex is also much larger than before too, if you place the villas in front of the funnels it would take up the entire pool deck! :eek:

I would never attack someone else's opinion. I dont understand how anyone can say they like or hate a ship that is still being worked on in a ship yard. We only get work in progess real photos or annimated photo shopped photos of what they expect the ship to look like. I was not that crazy about the "crown area" but it has grown on me and it looks very royal with a shining crown on top. You cannot judge a ship by the outside. The Oasis of the Seas is so big and bulky from the outside but the videos I see from the inside are amazing. The Epic looks state of the art with curved walls, neat lighting, and top notch entertainment and restaurants.
I dont care what a ship looks like from the outside. I just want to have a great time at sea on the ship. From what I see from the Villa suite that I booked, I may be living like a millionaire for 7 days
Haters beware!
:)
Even though the ship isn't finished, the shape of the ship isn't going to change any. When I saw the first renderings (the leaked black and white ones) I was flabbergasted, couldn't believe how horrendous the hat and the vertical aft looked.
I've just came to accept and even like it now, but I fully understand why many don't. Putting it nicely the Epic is definitely unconventional and unique. :D

[david_sobe]

It will be interesting once the ship sails and we see how wonderful or what a let down our expectations will be.
I dont think any of us are ship designers so there is ALOT of stuff we are commenting on and know nothing about. Some may not like the design but the designers sat down and created a ship that would give everyone the most space and creative design. This is not Jewel 3 or Pearl 2. How many times is a car remodeled or redesigned and we like the former model. We fail to initially realize the new design is bigger inside with more options and suddenly the new design we fall in love with. I think this is the same. I would have agreed not long ago that the crown area looked funny. But now, it is like a crown of royalty and there will be alot of envy from the outside.
Having said all of this....... I repeat..... It is what is inside that counts. I cant belive we are even commenting on cruise critic about the exterior of a ship that is not finished. It is your cruise experience, cabin, shows, food, excursions, and inside that matters the most. The ship could be painted black and purple with a Partidge Family bus design. I would not care if I had the best cruise ever with Vegas dinner shows every night, ice bar, roof top posh club with morning yoga, tube water slides, funky cabins and great restaurants. (Gosh I hope I am right)
:)
By the way. Has anyone ever boarded a beautiful ship on the exterior only to find out there was nothing special on board? Boxy cabin rooms, bad buffet areas, not so good shows, etc. Think of the opposite of what we discuss.

[Cruisin'cockney]

It will be interesting once the ship sails and we see how wonderful or what a let down our expectations will be.
I dont think any of us are ship designers so there is ALOT of stuff we are commenting on and know nothing about. Some may not like the design but the designers sat down and created a ship that would give everyone the most space and creative design. This is not Jewel 3 or Pearl 2. How many times is a car remodeled or redesigned and we like the former model. We fail to initially realize the new design is bigger inside with more options and suddenly the new design we fall in love with. I think this is the same. I would have agreed not long ago that the crown area looked funny. But now, it is like a crown of royalty and there will be alot of envy from the outside.
Having said all of this....... I repeat..... It is what is inside that counts. I cant belive we are even commenting on cruise critic about the exterior of a ship that is not finished. It is your cruise experience, cabin, shows, food, excursions, and inside that matters the most. The ship could be painted black and purple with a Partidge Family bus design. I would not care if I had the best cruise ever with Vegas dinner shows every night, ice bar, roof top posh club with morning yoga, tube water slides, funky cabins and great restaurants. (Gosh I hope I am right)
:)

I agree entirely. I am on the Epic in September and will dock alongside the Disney Wonder in Nassau. The DW is a beautiful ship with traditional lines and it will look much better in photographs but, given the choice of which ship I will board to sail off into the sunset then, based upon the facilities (and price!) the Epic wins handsdown.

[softsands]

...the ship designers got for building 'Epic', but they shoulda got life...with no chance of parole....

[negc]

It will be interesting once the ship sails and we see how wonderful or what a let down our expectations will be.
I dont think any of us are ship designers so there is ALOT of stuff we are commenting on and know nothing about. Some may not like the design but the designers sat down and created a ship that would give everyone the most space and creative design. This is not Jewel 3 or Pearl 2. How many times is a car remodeled or redesigned and we like the former model. We fail to initially realize the new design is bigger inside with more options and suddenly the new design we fall in love with. I think this is the same. I would have agreed not long ago that the crown area looked funny. But now, it is like a crown of royalty and there will be alot of envy from the outside.
Having said all of this....... I repeat..... It is what is inside that counts. I cant belive we are even commenting on cruise critic about the exterior of a ship that is not finished. It is your cruise experience, cabin, shows, food, excursions, and inside that matters the most. The ship could be painted black and purple with a Partidge Family bus design. I would not care if I had the best cruise ever with Vegas dinner shows every night, ice bar, roof top posh club with morning yoga, tube water slides, funky cabins and great restaurants. (Gosh I hope I am right)
:)
By the way. Has anyone ever boarded a beautiful ship on the exterior only to find out there was nothing special on board? Boxy cabin rooms, bad buffet areas, not so good shows, etc. Think of the opposite of what we discuss.

There is much merit to what you say, but as far as providing passengers with more space, how do you reconcile that with the passenger/space ratio of the Epic when compared to many other ships currently sailing? Epic will carry hundreds more passengers on a ship approximately the same size as RCI's Freedom class ships. Unless the Epic's designers have pulled off something just short of miraculous, Epic passengers will not have "more space" than passengers on Freedom of the Seas or its sister ships.

[time2cruise1]

There is much merit to what you say, but as far as providing passengers with more space, how do you reconcile that with the passenger/space ratio of the Epic when compared to many other ships currently sailing? Epic will carry hundreds more passengers on a ship approximately the same size as RCI's Freedom class ships. Unless the Epic's designers have pulled off something just short of miraculous, Epic passengers will not have "more space" than passengers on Freedom of the Seas or its sister ships.


Keep in mind the open decks of unusable space in the promenade go into the calculation of tonnage on the Freedom class ships.

[ddakrt]

Just found a pic of the Oasis sitting next to the Costa Atlantica. :eek:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v158/ddakrt/Ad_3386_11.jpg

That view alone is worse that any angle of the Epic lol.

[goinonvaca]

The way I see it is simple . . . I'm not at work. That said, I don't care what the ship looks like on the outside, I just want to be on it. Once I am on, and sitting on my balcony, that's it for me. Heaven. I say if you don't like what the ship looks like on the outside, then don't stare at it. It's the experience you have once you board that matters.

[lynnquenby]

The way I see it is simple . . . I'm not at work. That said, I don't care what the ship looks like on the outside, I just want to be on it. Once I am on, and sitting on my balcony, that's it for me. Heaven. I say if you don't like what the ship looks like on the outside, then don't stare at it. It's the experience you have once you board that matters.

totally agree - well said!! :)

[Head Shot]

I like fat ugly girls :D

What can I say

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo186/HeadShot_Images/Cruises%20and%20Vacations/Oasis%20Of%20The%20Seas%20February%202010/IMG_8497.jpg?t=1267952837


Ain't she a beaut ?

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo186/HeadShot_Images/Cruises%20and%20Vacations/Oasis%20Of%20The%20Seas%20February%202010/IMG_2414.jpg?t=1267955291

Perhaps some of you are jealous with size envy:p

[ColinIllinois]

I couldn't care less what the ship looks like on the outside. This is my first cruise so maybe there is some time where they actually hang you from the yardarm and you have to inspect the hull or something?

Otherwise........who cares?

[Jerseyboy1]

http://i374.photobucket.com/albums/oo186/HeadShot_Images/Cruises%20and%20Vacations/Oasis%20Of%20The%20Seas%20February%202010/IMG_2414.jpg?t=1267955291

Perhaps some of you are jealous with size envy:p

I've seen you post this picture on other threads before. We get it. Oasis is a large ship. So what? IMO both the Oasis and Epic are not as attractive as some other ships in the traditional sense and being bigger is the reason they turned out looking less appealing than their smaller counterparts. While both being engineering marvels, both suffer from ugly design ideas. Epic has the "hat structure" built exclusively for the beautiful people and Oasis has that "aqua theatre" thing with those silly inside balconies. Also both have those hanging lifeboats that block your views from the outside "promenade deck". I hate that aspect of these new ships the most.

You know there isn't really going to be any competition with Oasis in regards to size since the other cruiselines have expressed no desire to go bigger.(thank God)

So everyone...scream at the top of your lungs..."OASIS IS THE LARGEST CRUISE SHIP IN THE WORLD"...LOL:)

[david_sobe]

Am I allowed to say that BOTH ships are beautiful inside and outside. I dont see how anyone can say either ship is ugly. I think they are modern and extremely cool. It would be a pleasure to sail on either of them.
In fact, I suspect that sailing on either of them is going to spoil you. How do you go from such a large ship to a normal cruise ship again?
Everything will seem so small and old once you get to experience these gems

[negc]

I've seen you post this picture on other threads before. We get it. Oasis is a large ship. So what?

Does anyone really think that any of the ships pictured are beautiful in the traditional classic cruise ship style of beauty? Functionality began trumping beauty in cruise ship design years ago and the latest newbuilds are simply an outgrowth of that trend. Before I would commit myself to the proposition that no other line is interested in building a ship that will compare in size to Oasis, I would wait until the economy improves and see if Carnival doesn't resurrect some of its earlier designs for megaships. It was basically the economy that caused NCL to halt construction of a sister ship to EPIC, not concern that she wasn't "beautiful".:)

[Jerseyboy1]

Does anyone really think that any of the ships pictured are beautiful in the traditional classic cruise ship style of beauty? Functionality began trumping beauty in cruise ship design years ago and the latest newbuilds are simply an outgrowth of that trend. Before I would commit myself to the proposition that no other line is interested in building a ship that will compare in size to Oasis, I would wait until the economy improves and see if Carnival doesn't resurrect some of its earlier designs for megaships. It was basically the economy that caused NCL to halt construction of a sister ship to EPIC, not concern that she wasn't "beautiful".:)

Well to answer your question, the most traditional looking ship out of that bunch would have to be the Disney ship IMO. As far as some line trying to build bigger than Oasis, I don't see it happening again IMO. I agree NCL or RCCL for that matter don't care that the ship looks beautiful. They are concerned with cramming as many paying customers on their vessels as possible. One of the problems I see as a direct result of being larger is the places these ships can't go. They can't transit the Panama canal, can't visit lots of ports that are either too shallow or don't have large enough docking facilities and they can't or won't drop anchor and try to tender 4000 to 6000 passengers ashore.

That being said, as I mentioned in other posts, I still hope to one day be able to sail on both ships just to try them out. Maybe my opinion will change, but for now I would be perfectly content to sail smaller ships without my male ego being threatened as that one post implied. There's no envy here as I don't have to compensate for any shortcomings with a large ship. ;)

[bubba88]

Believe it or not, there is one cruise line trying to get the Panama government to redesign or widen the current canal so their new large ship can squeeze through. As I am an older poster, and my uncle was a canal pilot for many years when the US had the contract, I understand that is not geographically feasible. In my opinion, let the smaller ships built for the canal diminsion go thru, and if you build a ship too big, go other routes. And thanks for the beautiful pictures.....:o

[bubba88]

First off, quite nice bit of photoshop on the above pictures.

That being said, the Epic and Oasis are not attractive at all. I had no idea how unattractive Oasis was until this thread, so thank you for that. ;)

I think the problem with Epic is how contrived and "last minute" the hat looks. Really unbalances the whole thing. Personally not fond of the flat backside either, but thats me. As someone above has mentioned, the QM2 to me personifies what ships should look like. I find that one Very appealing. One ventures to guess QM2 will handle rough waters better than Oasis or Epic.

That being said, its all words...if someone gave me tickets to either of the monstrosities, I would be on board faster than a tick onto a sweaty hound.

Cheers
Zoo

I totally agree with you, pass me a ticket and I am on either. But to me, a classically beautiful ship is the Wind Star. Those sails are striking and beautiful. And the NCL Spirit is gorgeous. But you can't beat the Cunard line for old fashioned clean line, sleek elegance. I don't think they can engineer a 4,000 passenger vessel using those same lines, so I respect those designers and engineers who are providing me, an old fogie, something new to spectulate on. Personally, I prefer the smaller midships that HAL has, but I am booked on the Epic and am thoroughly excited to see her, both inside and outside. It's all choice, if someone doesn't like a ship, sail on another!! And if anyone out there has a free ticket on the Wind Song or Wind Star (I think these are their names.......), please pass along to me!!! P:D

[zoomerica]

It will be interesting once the ship sails and we see how wonderful or what a let down our expectations will be.
I dont think any of us are ship designers so there is ALOT of stuff we are commenting on and know nothing about. Some may not like the design but the designers sat down and created a ship that would give everyone the most space and creative design. This is not Jewel 3 or Pearl 2. How many times is a car remodeled or redesigned and we like the former model. We fail to initially realize the new design is bigger inside with more options and suddenly the new design we fall in love with. I think this is the same. I would have agreed not long ago that the crown area looked funny. But now, it is like a crown of royalty and there will be alot of envy from the outside.
Having said all of this....... I repeat..... It is what is inside that counts. I cant belive we are even commenting on cruise critic about the exterior of a ship that is not finished. It is your cruise experience, cabin, shows, food, excursions, and inside that matters the most. The ship could be painted black and purple with a Partidge Family bus design. I would not care if I had the best cruise ever with Vegas dinner shows every night, ice bar, roof top posh club with morning yoga, tube water slides, funky cabins and great restaurants. (Gosh I hope I am right)
:)
By the way. Has anyone ever boarded a beautiful ship on the exterior only to find out there was nothing special on board? Boxy cabin rooms, bad buffet areas, not so good shows, etc. Think of the opposite of what we discuss.


On these points, we shall agree. I have read a bit more about this ship and the thoughts they had while designing and building it, I have to commend them for thinking outside the envelope. There are a lot of facets of the ship that sound alluring. I was surprised to find no MDR as we know it, etc.

Therefore, your statement about in v out is spot on. Can't see the "crown" or rear while at a show in the theater or eating in one of 23 restaurants.

[Friscorays]

Believe it or not, there is one cruise line trying to get the Panama government to redesign or widen the current canal so their new large ship can squeeze through. As I am an older poster, and my uncle was a canal pilot for many years when the US had the contract, I understand that is not geographically feasible. In my opinion, let the smaller ships built for the canal diminsion go thru, and if you build a ship too big, go other routes. And thanks for the beautiful pictures.....:o

Straying way off topic here, but the Panama Canal expansion project has actually been ongoing for several years now and is scheduled for completion in 2014:

http://www.pancanal.com/eng/plan/documentos/propuesta/acp-expansion-proposal.pdf

P.S. Both the Epic and Oasis are ugly ships, IMHO. I agree, the looks of the ship have very little to no impact as to the quality of the cruise experience for the large majority of customers. I do think it is possible for new ships to be relatively good looking though, for example the upcoming Oceania Marina and Disney Dream.

[negc]

Believe it or not, there is one cruise line trying to get the Panama government to redesign or widen the current canal so their new large ship can squeeze through. As I am an older poster, and my uncle was a canal pilot for many years when the US had the contract, I understand that is not geographically feasible. In my opinion, let the smaller ships built for the canal diminsion go thru, and if you build a ship too big, go other routes. And thanks for the beautiful pictures.....:o

Bubba, better do some more research. ;) The government of Panama has already begun the construction of new locks that will allow passage of today's much larger ships, not just cruise ships but commercial freighters as well. It is due to be completed in 2014. This is not the result of any one cruiseline trying to get the Panamanians to do something that is "not geographically feasible". :rolleyes: Actually there are many more commercial shipping companies than cruise ships that will benefit from the new locks that will permit post panamax ships to use the canal.

[Giventofly]

See my Avitar........

[gaiamother]

I agree that the Epic's kind of wierd looking but I'm booked for next January. I'll judge her on food, service, etc. Not exterior appearance:-)

Tanya

[zonkiethegreat]

I honestly think the Epic is just fine! I really don't care what the exterior looks like, as long as it has good service, food, and entertainment. Really who cares?