AC Penthouse cost & Size

[stingray195]

I went to NCL and other TA websites trying to find pricing/size of the AC Penthouse on the Epic. Although, the show the locations on the AFT of the ship with the color coded deck plans there is no price options or written descriptions of the rooms. Does the AC compare to the AE in both pricing and size of the Jewel Class ships.

Thanks

[FLAHAM]

I went to NCL and other TA websites trying to find pricing/size of the AC Penthouse on the Epic. Although, the show the locations on the AFT of the ship with the color coded deck plans there is no price options or written descriptions of the rooms. Does the AC compare to the AE in both pricing and size of the Jewel Class ships.

Thanks

Well, the Feb 2011 Epic sailing for which I have a reservation lists AC cabins at $2,549 (up from $1,749 a few months ago). A Pearl AE cabin, sailing on the same date, currently lists for $1,429.

[time2cruise1]

I went to NCL and other TA websites trying to find pricing/size of the AC Penthouse on the Epic. Although, the show the locations on the AFT of the ship with the color coded deck plans there is no price options or written descriptions of the rooms. Does the AC compare to the AE in both pricing and size of the Jewel Class ships.

Thanks

Same perks as an AE but much smaller. The AC is in fact just a bit smaller then an AF mini suite on a Jewel class ship. I believe the interior space is 231 SQF compared to 287 for an AE .
I first booked an AC but moved to an A3 for only $500 more at the time. You do get access to the courtyard and Epic club with the AC.

Here is the rendering of an AC
http://www.ncl.com/csimages/993/625/layout_penthouse_lores.jpg

[FLAHAM]

Same perks as an AE but much smaller. The AC is in fact just a bit smaller then an AF mini suite on a Jewel class ship. I believe the interior space is 231 SQF compared to 287 for an AE .
I first booked an AC but moved to an A3 for only $500 more at the time. You do get access to the courtyard and Epic club with the AC.




A couple of months ago I asked my PCC if AC and SA passengers would have access to the Epic Club and its associated lounge. She said she would check and the next day called me back and said no. Others wrote in this forum that they received advice contrary to this. Last week I wrote a letter to NCL in Miami posing this question. This morning a woman from NCL customer relations in Miami called me back and said no.

[time2cruise1]

A couple of months ago I asked my PCC if AC and SA passengers would have access to the Epic Club and its associated lounge. She said she would check and the next day called me back and said no. Others wrote in this forum that they received advice contrary to this. Last week I wrote a letter to NCL in Miami posing this question. This morning a woman from NCL customer relations in Miami called me back and said no.

I will go with the answer I got from Andy Stuart on the NCLU call. No other place for those few suites to get VIP breakfast & lunch.

[Zimomiller]

From the www.epic.ncl.com/the-experience/accommodations/the-villas/ web site

Courtyard Penthouse and Penthouse*
• Sleeps 2 guests
• 6 Courtyard Penthouses available in The Villas complex
• 7 Penthouses available on aft decks 10-13*
• Access to Concierge Lounge
• Living and dining area
• Luxurious bathroom with separate shower
• Exclusive access to Courtyard Area
• Exclusive access to The Epic Club (dining)

*Not part of The Villas complex

[FLAHAM]

From the www.epic.ncl.com/the-experience/accommodations/the-villas/ web site

Courtyard Penthouse and Penthouse*
• Sleeps 2 guests
• 6 Courtyard Penthouses available in The Villas complex
• 7 Penthouses available on aft decks 10-13*
• Access to Concierge Lounge
• Living and dining area
• Luxurious bathroom with separate shower
• Exclusive access to Courtyard Area
• Exclusive access to The Epic Club (dining)

*Not part of The Villas complex

Nicely ignores the Epic cabin reservations page which lists courtyard suites as having access to the Epic club and lounge and omits this for the AC and SA non-courtyard suites.

[david_sobe]

I just booked a Villa Penthouse on the Epic. I originally wanted a Spa Suite but they were sold out all of 2010. I did not check into 2011. So then I went to Penthouses and there was one left in 2010 on the 12/18/10 cruise. Dont ask me what I paid. It is in the Villas and in the front of the ship. The Villa penthouses are over $600 more expensive per person than the regular penthouses. Yes I agree they are smaller square feet than other ships but lets get real. These look amazing. The layout is great where the bed faces the balcony and slants to the TV. The curved walls and lighting look amazing. They may be smaller but are so modern and state of the art. The ship is 84% sold out for even Nov 2010. I was looking at suites on the RCCL Oasis of the Seas and their suites are the standard box suites with nothing special. The ship is so new but nothing modern like the Epic rooms. The Villas have such an amazing area to hang out. THis is the first ship to build a whole area only for suite guests. It is extremely expensive so I hope worth it :)

[david_sobe]

FLAHAM
Your question was the same as mine. When I was booking, even the NCL staff did not know the difference between the Penthouse and the Villa Penthouse perks if there were any. They first told me it was only the higher deck. But I told them it was so much more expensive I thought there had to be something else. It makes sense what they told you because there is a HUGE cost difference between Villa Penthouse and regular Penthouse. Unfortunately since the ship is so new and not even sailed yet, most NCL sales people dont know anything about any difference. The Spa Suites and regular penthouse suites get access to the Courtyard area with pool, spa and gym but not the restaurant, bar and posh. It is sad you have to learn this here instead of from NCL employees that are selling suites. I have a Villa Penthouse but it was only because it was the only penthouse available

[time2cruise1]

FLAHAM
The Spa Suites and regular penthouse suites get access to the Courtyard area with pool, spa and gym but not the restaurant, bar and posh. It is sad you have to learn this here instead of from NCL employees that are selling suites. I have a Villa Penthouse but it was only because it was the only penthouse available

You did not learn it here since it is not exactly correct. All the suites courtyard or not get access to all the same space, restaurants, and bars. In fact the Spa suites get key card access to the spa that the owners suites don't.

Spa Suite Deck 14 S9
The Spa Suites, built for two, are a great way to
experience a total spa vacation. These suites feature
a queen-size circular bed, hot tub, spa décor, private
key-card access to the Mandara Spa experience and
fitness center, as well as complimentary access to the
Thermal Spa Suites. In addition to your own private
balcony with an ever-changing incredible view and
a luxury bathroom. You’ll also have exclusive use of the
Courtyard area, Concierge Lounge and private restaurant
and bar. Includes butler and concierge service.
Aft-Facing Penthouse with Balcony
Decks 10, 11, 12, 13 S6
These Penthouses with a Balcony have so much to offer.
With room for up to two, you’ll have a separate bedroom
with queen-size circular bed and a living area, plus these
Aft-Facing Penthouses offer an unforgettable view from
the private balcony and include exclusive access to the
Courtyard area, Concierge Lounge and private restaurant
and bar. Includes butler and concierge service.

[KandJCruising]

FLAHAM
Your question was the same as mine. When I was booking, even the NCL staff did not know the difference between the Penthouse and the Villa Penthouse perks if there were any. They first told me it was only the higher deck. But I told them it was so much more expensive I thought there had to be something else. It makes sense what they told you because there is a HUGE cost difference between Villa Penthouse and regular Penthouse. Unfortunately since the ship is so new and not even sailed yet, most NCL sales people dont know anything about any difference. The Spa Suites and regular penthouse suites get access to the Courtyard area with pool, spa and gym but not the restaurant, bar and posh. It is sad you have to learn this here instead of from NCL employees that are selling suites. I have a Villa Penthouse but it was only because it was the only penthouse available

It will be interesting to see what the final answer turns out to be concerning access to the Epic Club and Posh. I have both an SA and AC (now classified as S6) booked, in part based on the advertised perks. If the perks turn out to be less than currently advertised I'll seriously consider cancelling or downgrading.

[familyof4cruising]

It will be interesting to see what the final answer turns out to be concerning access to the Epic Club and Posh. I have both an SA and AC (now classified as S6) booked, in part based on the advertised perks. If the perks turn out to be less than currently advertised I'll seriously consider cancelling or downgrading.

They both get ALL the same perks the Courtyard suites have. It is stated on the website and I received email confirmation from NCL. I guess anything can happen, but I would bet it will stay like that. Although the AC's are not as high priced as the courtyard penthouses, they still are much higher priced than the balconies. So NCL has to be offering something for the extra $100's in price that the AC's cost.

NCL already changed the price point on the AC's. I think I remember hearing Andy Stuart say that the AC's were mispriced in the beginning. I was lucky enough to get one of those mispriced AC.;)

[sjbdtz]

It will be interesting to see what the final answer turns out to be concerning access to the Epic Club and Posh. I have both an SA and AC (now classified as S6) booked, in part based on the advertised perks. If the perks turn out to be less than currently advertised I'll seriously consider cancelling or downgrading.

I'm not responding to your post...but to your signature.

When we were on the Jade in the Black Sea last year, they said they were not planning on doing it for at least the next 3 years....but after that they'd reconsider.

Sorry it's not the news you were hoping to hear.

[david_sobe]

That is not correct
Go to the main NCL site and pull a cruise. Read the difference about the Villa Penthouse and Penthouse. The description on the Villa mentions about access to the private restaurant and bar. The Penthouse says they will make dinner reservations for you at restaurants or you can eat in your room. If you dont see this, I will post it for you. The Villa Penthouses are almost $1,000 more expensive per person. I agree they are not really that clear but there are other perks. Of course all suites get access to the courtyard area but this ship has another step above the ordinary suite level. Also, I dont think the people are lying when they said NCL called them back and explained this.
Just look directly on the NCL site. The regular penthouse never mentions access to the private restaurant and bar in the villas. In addition the ship charges other passengers if they want access to Posh.

[david_sobe]

Ok I went to the site and here it is
Courtyard Penthouse
30 EPIC EXCLUSIVE! Prices from $3,149
After a good night's sleep, you are more than ready to start your day. Whether it's a delicious breakfast in your queen-size bed or a cup of coffee on the private balcony, the choice is yours. With a maximum capacity of two, these Penthouses boast a luxury bath, separate shower, butler and concierge service and, of course, exclusive access to the Courtyard area, Concierge Lounge and private restaurant and bar. Category A4 Penthouses feature an open-air balcony while Category A7 Penthouses feature an air-conditioned solarium.

Approx Square Footage*: 322 (including balcony)

Max Capacity: 2

EPIC EXCLUSIVE
Only on Norwegian Epic will you have the opportunity to experience all the Courtyard Penthouses have to offer. From the privacy of your own balcony to the spacious living accommodations, luxury bath and of course butler and concierge service you'll find it hard to leave your room. Exclusive access to the Courtyard Area, Concierge Lounge and private restaurant

Now the regular penthouse
Penthouse
50 Prices from $2,449
Who doesn't want to stay in a Penthouse? With a maximum capacity of two, there's plenty of room to spread out. You can relax in the living area or lounge around in the bedroom complete with queen-size circular bed. The butler can also serve you a delicious meal out on the private balcony or if you prefer, you can ask the concierge to make dinner reservations. Sushi? French? Italian? So many choices. Also features exclusive access to the Courtyard area and the Concierge Lounge.

Approx Square Footage*: 322 (including balcony


Now the spa suite

Spa Suite
40 EPIC EXCLUSIVE! Prices from $2,549
With private key card access to the spa stateroom complex, you can go on a total spa vacation as these two-guest suites feature a queen-size circular bed, spa décor, and entry to the Mandara Spa experience and fitness center. Sound relaxing? Wait until the butler brings you a glass of champagne in your stateroom hot tub or as you watch the stars from the privacy of your own balcony. Also features exclusive access to the Courtyard area and the Concierge Lounge. Of course, the concierge would be happy to make dinner reservations for you, as well.

Approx Square Footage*: 322 (including balcony)

Max Capacity: 2

EPIC EXCLUSIVE
Only on Norwegian Epic will you have the opportunity to experience all the Spa Suites have to offer. With private key card access to the Spa Stateroom complex these spa décor accommodations include a hot tub in your room, private balcony, and of course butler service. Escape for a week of pampering...you know you deserve it.

It appears someone typed in something different since I cut and paste directly from NCL site. As you can read, the penthouse and suite spa do not mention andy private restaurant and bar. But either you typed that in or someone else posted it incorrectly from another site. I think you should be able to trust the NCL site
Too bad there is such misinformation out there. I dont think the are charging $1,000 more just for a higher deck

[familyof4cruising]

If the restaurant is in the Courtyard ,what do they do turn you down at the restaurant? I will have to leave the courtyard to eat lunch? ALL suites on all other ships have access to Cagneys. This restaurant is in substitution to Cagney's. I guess we will not know until the first sailing.

[KandJCruising]

I'm not responding to your post...but to your signature.

When we were on the Jade in the Black Sea last year, they said they were not planning on doing it for at least the next 3 years....but after that they'd reconsider.

Sorry it's not the news you were hoping to hear.

I appreciate the update. Azamara and a couple of others also hit that area, so we might try another line for that itinerary.

[KandJCruising]

I'm not debating/arguing any points anyone has posted here, just noting the confusion in some of the info out there right now.

For grits and shins I pulled up an itinerary months out (July 2011). Here's how ncl.com describes the rooms:

For the AC/S4, Courtyard Penthouse w/ Balcony:
With a maximum capacity of two, these Penthouses include a queen-size bed and luxury bath with separate shower. In addition to the private balcony with a fantastic view, you'll also have exclusive access to the Courtyard area, Concierge Lounge and private restaurant and bar. Includes butler and concierge service.

For the AC/S9, Aft-Facing Penthouse w/ Balcony:
These Penthouses with a Balcony have so much to offer. With room for up to two, you'll have a separate bedroom with queen-size circular bed and a living area, plus these Aft-Facing Penthouses offer an unforgettable view from the private balcony and include exclusive access to the Courtyard area, Concierge Lounge and private restaurant and bar. Includes butler and concierge service.

For the SA/S6, Spa Suite:
The Spa Suites, built for two, are a great way to experience a total spa vacation. These suites feature a queen-size circular bed, spa décor, entry to the Mandara Spa experience and fitness center, as well as complimentary 24-hour access to the Thermal Spa Suites. In addition to the private balcony with incredible views and luxury bathroom featuring a hot tub, you'll also have exclusive access to the Courtyard area, Concierge Lounge and private restaurant and bar. Includes butler and concierge service.

All are 322 sq ft.

I certainly can't explain the difference between the Courtyard and Aft Penthouse price points, other than to assume the prime courtyard location is the difference?

In any case, we'll have the full story after the 24 Jun sailing. I just hope what I researched/expected when I booked is valid.

[pcreek]

Well, from reading what david_sobe posted - sounds like the Spa Suite gives the biggest bang for your buck!
All the perks of the Courtyard / AFT Penthouses...plus in-room hot tub, Plus SPA access...and the same 322 sq footage! What is not to love?!?

And, speaking of buck... the spa suites were originally grossly mis-priced, as when we booked back in May the price was listed @ $1749.pp. Now $800 pp more?! :eek:

Soooo glad we booked when we did! :D:D:D

I love NCL! :D

[time2cruise1]

I certainly can't explain the difference between the Courtyard and Aft Penthouse price points, other than to assume the prime courtyard location is the difference?

In any case, we'll have the full story after the 24 Jun sailing. I just hope what I researched/expected when I booked is valid.

Just like real estate, location location location. The AC/S6s are as far from the courtyard as you can be. Using that area will be like packing up to go to the main pool area. On the plus side nothing better then that aft view and the sound of the wake.

Clearly much better to wander from your room to grab a morning coffee poolside in the courtyard rather then walking the full length of the ship. In fact even the Garden Café is as long a hike. One of the things I like about the courtyard on the other ships I could jump in the hot tub or endless pool and slip back in my room to change and not have to travel the length of the ship. I know those that were booked in the AAs on the Gem or Jade rarely made the trip to the courtyard.

In short all the perks are at your finger in the courtyard. Is it worth the difference in price that is the question. For some it must as they are selling.

[david_sobe]

Yes you got the sale of the century with the spa suite. I tried to get one but they are sold out for a whole year. I was forced to grab the last suite (that was not owners suite) for the year of 2010. It was a Penthouse Villa. It was so expenisve and I went way over budget. So if I find and catch any spa suite people in our private area, I will personally throw you over board (that was a joke people, dont start typing threats). It is strange. The spa suites are the cheapest suites on the ship. They have the great perk of the spa. BUt for that price, how would they also get the most perks on the ship, even more than the owners suite. The owners suite does not give access to the spa. So, I really think the courtyard gym, bar, and restaurant are for Villa guests. That would have to make sense, right? How does a suite with the same square feet and cost $2,000 less have more perks than the Penthouse Villa? They would even have more perks than the Owner's suite? That is so crazy to be true. I guess we will find out. I was told that the Villas units are only accessable through a secure area. I will be patrolling that area for you spa people. Lets make a deal, I let you in the bar and restaurant if you let me in the spa. Deal?

[perrys]

I think that NCL's current, updated information posted here by a couple of members can put any doubt to rest about these perks. They are clearly included for both the aft facing penthouses and the spa suites. The Epic site has a cool little chart you can refer to as well that has a check list of perks. All doubt has been put to rest. The folks who booked them early got a great deal because since the pricing has been adjusted it is not that different than the same square footage courtyard location. I agree with the other posters , that difference is simply real estate.

[familyof4cruising]

I think that NCL's current, updated information posted here by a couple of members can put any doubt to rest about these perks. They are clearly included for both the aft facing penthouses and the spa suites. The Epic site has a cool little chart you can refer to as well that has a check list of perks. All doubt has been put to rest. The folks who booked them early got a great deal because since the pricing has been adjusted it is not that different than the same square footage courtyard location. I agree with the other posters , that difference is simply real estate.

Just like real estate, location location location. The AC/S6s are as far from the courtyard as you can be. Using that area will be like packing up to go to the main pool area. On the plus side nothing better then that aft view and the sound of the wake.

Clearly much better to wander from your room to grab a morning coffee poolside in the courtyard rather then walking the full length of the ship. In fact even the Garden Café is as long a hike. One of the things I like about the courtyard on the other ships I could jump in the hot tub or endless pool and slip back in my room to change and not have to travel the length of the ship. I know those that were booked in the AAs on the Gem or Jade rarely made the trip to the courtyard.

In short all the perks are at your finger in the courtyard. Is it worth the difference in price that is the question. For some it must as they are selling.


I agree with both of you that it is ONLY about location. It will be a long walk for me to go from my AC ( I love Aft balconies) to the Courtyard. All perks are exactly the same. I debated on cancelling my AC and moving up, but with the price difference right now it doesn't make sense. Exercise will do me good that week.;)

[time2cruise1]

I agree with both of you that it is ONLY about location. It will be a long walk for me to go from my AC ( I love Aft balconies) to the Courtyard. All perks are exactly the same. I debated on cancelling my AC and moving up, but with the price difference right now it doesn't make sense. Exercise will do me good that week.;)

With the current pricing on the 6/24 TA I would have stayed in my AC and loved it. At the time of booking it was only 275 pp to move to an A3 and 450 SF. Today it is more like $1275 pp.

[familyof4cruising]

Yes you got the sale of the century with the spa suite. I tried to get one but they are sold out for a whole year. I was forced to grab the last suite (that was not owners suite) for the year of 2010. It was a Penthouse Villa. It was so expenisve and I went way over budget. So if I find and catch any spa suite people in our private area, I will personally throw you over board (that was a joke people, dont start typing threats). It is strange. The spa suites are the cheapest suites on the ship. They have the great perk of the spa. BUt for that price, how would they also get the most perks on the ship, even more than the owners suite. The owners suite does not give access to the spa. So, I really think the courtyard gym, bar, and restaurant are for Villa guests. That would have to make sense, right? How does a suite with the same square feet and cost $2,000 less have more perks than the Penthouse Villa? They would even have more perks than the Owner's suite? That is so crazy to be true. I guess we will find out. I was told that the Villas units are only accessable through a secure area. I will be patrolling that area for you spa people. Lets make a deal, I let you in the bar and restaurant if you let me in the spa. Deal?

The villas on the Epic are just like all the other ships. You have a key that gets you into the villas that you access from the elevator. There will be nothing different there. On the NCL ships now the AA owners suites are not in the villas and they have access with their door key, as will the AC and SA on the Epic. All suites have access to Cagney's for breakfast and lunch now, so the Epic will probably be no different. The AC and SA are paying less for not having the convenience of being in the Courtyard Villa, thats all. They are getting the same perks.

[familyof4cruising]

With the current pricing on the 6/24 TA I would have stayed in my AC and loved it. At the time of booking it was only 275 pp to move to an A3 and 450 SF. Today it is more like $1275 pp.


I love my AC. I double and triple checked with NCL that I would get the same perks before I booked. I booked the first week it came out to get the price I have.

I think I posted before that you had no choice but to go to an A3 - that was a given with that pricing.

I hope you all come back from the TA and can answer all our questions and bring back tons and tons of pictures.

[time2cruise1]

I hope you all come back from the TA and can answer all our questions and bring back tons and tons of pictures.

We should be able too. I may even post some pictures from the Epic. Maybe put a blog on the Epicmadhatters website. The roll call has passengers in ACs,SAs,A2,A3,A4,Balconies, Family Balconies, Studios......

[KandJCruising]

We should be able too. I may even post some pictures from the Epic. Maybe put a blog on the Epicmadhatters website. The roll call has passengers in ACs,SAs,A2,A3,A4,Balconies, Family Balconies, Studios......

I look forward to the full scoop after your TA.

Based on the price delta, I'll gladly make the hike from the spa suite and aft penthouse. The exercise should be good for me. :)

And based on the price hike, it will probably be the last time I stay in the spa suite.

[david_sobe]

I hope you guys are right but just be prepared. NCL staff have made calls back to posters on this board telling them they would not have the same access and I even posted directly from the NCL site that clearly did not say Spa Suites or Reg Penthouse suites have access to the private restaurant and bar.
I have found that NCL sales people that have told me 2 different things. We will find out shortly but one thing we can all agree on is that there is confusion and it is not us. NCL has not been very specific but how can they when the ship is being built and not sailed yet.
I would comment on the person who said this ship is like other suite ships. That is not correct. I have stayed in other suites on NCL. The Epic is the first cruise ship built with a whole special area for suites. Most other suites are thrown together or maybe next to eachother. The Villas are entirely separate. So it is different that any other ship.
In any event, I hope we all have a great time and great cruise. I cant wait to hear back from you summer cruisers on the Epic so the rest of us know what to expect.
It would be insane that the cheapest suites have the most perks and other perks that even the owners suite does not have so please check with your agent so you are not disappointed. So many here seem to believe that and I would find that hard to believe.

[InTheCruisingYearsOfLife]

I agree with both of you that it is ONLY about location. It will be a long walk for me to go from my AC ( I love Aft balconies) to the Courtyard. All perks are exactly the same. I debated on cancelling my AC and moving up, but with the price difference right now it doesn't make sense. Exercise will do me good that week.;)

I'm in the same boat as you, literally. Moreover, it has been DW's and my practice to eschew all elevators on our previous cruises, in favor of a-shoe'ing the stairs for the entirety of the cruise, except for when the porter is showing us to our suite. Combined with lots of walking, this has assured us of returning from our cruises no more portly than when we started, high-on-the-hog eating and booze-swilling be damned.

I recommend the practice, albeit a greater challenge on the taller Epic than the ships I've so far patronized.


InThe

[familyof4cruising]

I hope you guys are right but just be prepared. NCL staff have made calls back to posters on this board telling them they would not have the same access and I even posted directly from the NCL site that clearly did not say Spa Suites or Reg Penthouse suites have access to the private restaurant and bar.
I have found that NCL sales people that have told me 2 different things. We will find out shortly but one thing we can all agree on is that there is confusion and it is not us. NCL has not been very specific but how can they when the ship is being built and not sailed yet.
I would comment on the person who said this ship is like other suite ships. That is not correct. I have stayed in other suites on NCL. The Epic is the first cruise ship built with a whole special area for suites. Most other suites are thrown together or maybe next to eachother. The Villas are entirely separate. So it is different that any other ship.
In any event, I hope we all have a great time and great cruise. I cant wait to hear back from you summer cruisers on the Epic so the rest of us know what to expect.
It would be insane that the cheapest suites have the most perks and other perks that even the owners suite does not have so please check with your agent so you are not disappointed. So many here seem to believe that and I would find that hard to believe.

It's not insane. It's just the way NCL priced them. If they were priced the same why would anyone want to stay in those suites so far from the Villas.



http://www.epic.ncl.com/the-experience/accommodations/the-villas/

Right from the website:
Courtyard Penthouse and Penthouse*
• Sleeps 2 guests
• 6 Courtyard Penthouses available in The Villas complex
• 7 Penthouses available on aft decks 10-13*
• Access to Concierge Lounge
• Living and dining area
• Luxurious bathroom
• Exclusive access to Courtyard Area (http://www.epic.ncl.com/the-experience/accommodations/private-courtyard/)
• Exclusive access to The Epic Club (http://www.epic.ncl.com/the-experience/dining/the-epic-club/) (dining)

*Not part of The Villas complex


CHOOSE COOL SOPHISTICATION WITH A FLARE.
The Epic Club offers exclusive private dining for guests staying in Suites and The Villas. The haute design is highlighted with pearl drapes, glass sculptures, silk chandeliers and leather seating for 127 guests. It’s the perfect place for privacy with ultra-modern meals and wine selections from our impressive collection.

[familyof4cruising]

We should be able too. I may even post some pictures from the Epic. Maybe put a blog on the Epicmadhatters website. The roll call has passengers in ACs,SAs,A2,A3,A4,Balconies, Family Balconies, Studios......

Looking forward to it!

[time2cruise1]

It's not insane. It's just the way NCL priced them. If they were priced the same why would anyone want to stay in those suites so far from the Villas.
.

Do you thing those in the lone AC on deck 13 will ever see their butler :D

[familyof4cruising]

Do you thing those in the lone AC on deck 13 will ever see their butler :D


I bet you are right.
I am on deck 13, but I am not a big butler user so it's OK.

[sjbdtz]

I hope you guys are right but just be prepared. NCL staff have made calls back to posters on this board telling them they would not have the same access and I even posted directly from the NCL site that clearly did not say Spa Suites or Reg Penthouse suites have access to the private restaurant and bar.
I have found that NCL sales people that have told me 2 different things. We will find out shortly but one thing we can all agree on is that there is confusion and it is not us. NCL has not been very specific but how can they when the ship is being built and not sailed yet.
I would comment on the person who said this ship is like other suite ships. That is not correct. I have stayed in other suites on NCL. The Epic is the first cruise ship built with a whole special area for suites. Most other suites are thrown together or maybe next to eachother. The Villas are entirely separate. So it is different that any other ship.
In any event, I hope we all have a great time and great cruise. I cant wait to hear back from you summer cruisers on the Epic so the rest of us know what to expect.
It would be insane that the cheapest suites have the most perks and other perks that even the owners suite does not have so please check with your agent so you are not disappointed. So many here seem to believe that and I would find that hard to believe.

But there are many of us who have heard this (and have it in writing) from Director-level or above at NCL.... PLUS which.... Klaus is onboard.... if anything goes wrong, you know it'll be fixed before you have a chance to find it upsetting.

[familyof4cruising]

But there are many of us who have heard this (and have it in writing) from Director-level or above at NCL.... PLUS which.... Klaus is onboard.... if anything goes wrong, you know it'll be fixed before you have a chance to find it upsetting.

TRUE! very true!

[JoeWill]

I went to NCL and other TA websites trying to find pricing/size of the AC Penthouse on the Epic. Although, the show the locations on the AFT of the ship with the color coded deck plans there is no price options or written descriptions of the rooms. Does the AC compare to the AE in both pricing and size of the Jewel Class ships.

Thanks

Just returned from the Gem today, 2/3, out of NYC. My wife and I occupied a double villa courtyard suite. You must be at that level to have access to the courtyard and private deck. We caught a few people attempting to sneak in to the area for a quick peak and they were quickly escorted out. It's pretty easy to get to deck 14, but not so easy to mingle unless invited.

[erdoran]

See http://www.epic.ncl.com/the-experience/accommodations/spa-staterooms/ for spa suite amenities & privileges:
Spa Suites (pictured):
• Sleeps 2 guests
• Domed ceiling with guest-controlled colored room lighting
• Window to corridor
• Deluxe circular bed
• Unique curved walls and soothing décor
• In-suite Hot Tub
• Separate shower
• Living area
• 8 available
• Exclusive access to Courtyard Area (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/the-experience/accommodations/private-courtyard/)
• Exclusive access to The Epic Club (http://boards.cruisecritic.com/the-experience/dining/the-epic-club/)

This doesn't address the spa access, which is talked about elsewhere, but it leaves nothing to the imagination about having the same privileges as the other suites. There's also a mini website, http://www.nclsuitesandvillas.com with lots of details about the different levels, including which suites get which privileges.

I don't think there is any question after reading these sites and pages that the spa suite does have the same goodies, plus in-room hot tub and spa access--but yes, its location isn't right at the courtyard. The whole point of that room is to be close to the spa. I would have preferred courtyard but hey--I'll take the lower price just like the other poster here said!

[justcake]

There's also a mini website, http://www.nclsuitesandvillas.com with lots of details about the different levels, including which suites get which privileges.

I don't think there is any question after reading these sites and pages that the spa suite does have the same goodies, plus in-room hot tub and spa access--but yes, its location isn't right at the courtyard. The whole point of that room is to be close to the spa. I would have preferred courtyard but hey--I'll take the lower price just like the other poster here said!
[/quote]

I was just about to link that same area. http://www.nclsuitesandvillas.com/pages/suitesvillasmore.php

It specifically shows that the Epic Penthouses get perks not available on other ships which is the access to the courtyard. I think it is clear that the penthouses get the same perks as those suites in the courtyard area. When we booked in August of last year for December of this year, the price of the AC was so low I had to jump on it. At that time the courtyard villa (that fits 6) was very close in price to what we paid for the AC and adjoining balcony but we decided to with the AC because of the Aft. We've always wanted an aft suite and this will be the first time. Regardless of the perks, I wish it was December!!!

[BettyNL]

Similar situation & question here:

Booked S6 AFT.......is that now considered an AC Penthouse or Suite???

Also, what exactly are the refund 'rules' on deposit if cancelled before final payment is due??

[KandJCruising]

Similar situation & question here:

Booked S6 AFT.......is that now considered an AC Penthouse or Suite???

Also, what exactly are the refund 'rules' on deposit if cancelled before final payment is due??

The AC Penthouse was renamed the S6 Aft Penthouse w/ Balcony when NCL announced the new itineraries and cabin nomenclature.

I don't know the refund particulars off the top of my head, though I'm certain someone here will.

[familyof4cruising]

Similar situation & question here:

Booked S6 AFT.......is that now considered an AC Penthouse or Suite???

Also, what exactly are the refund 'rules' on deposit if cancelled before final payment is due??

For a AC or S6 Aft the refund policy is the same as any other cabin NOT in the Villas.

[BettyNL]

THANKS for your quick & precise answers........

BettyNL

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

For a AC or S6 Aft the refund policy is the same as any other cabin NOT in the Villas.

For those who have no prior experience with NCL - could you elaborate on this? Is the (pre-final payment) refund policy different based on category/cabin type?

The Epic has caught my eye (interior wise I might add :)) - the style of the rooms are attractive. I am considering an Aft Penthouse or Spa Suite.

THANKS!

Tom

[time2cruise1]

For those who have no prior experience with NCL - could you elaborate on this? Is the (pre-final payment) refund policy different based on category/cabin type?

The Epic has caught my eye (interior wise I might add :)) - the style of the rooms are attractive. I am considering an Aft Penthouse or Spa Suite.

THANKS!

Tom

All the cabins have the same fully refundable deposit pre-final except the Courtyard suites. Deluxe Owners, Courtyard Villas, Courtyard Penthouses have a $250 pp penalty that kicks in I think 120 days out and final is do at 90 days. Penalty after final are higher.

Aft Penthouse and Spa suites are the same as balcony, inside, or studios.

Details are here:

http://www.ncl.com/nclweb/cruiser/cmsPages.html?pageId=IndivTermsConditions#cancella tion

[Tom-n-Cheryl]

All the cabins have the same fully refundable deposit pre-final except the Courtyard suites. Deluxe Owners, Courtyard Villas, Courtyard Penthouses have a $250 pp penalty that kicks in I think 120 days out and final is do at 90 days. Penalty after final are higher.

Aft Penthouse and Spa suites are the same as balcony, inside, or studios.

Details are here:

http://www.ncl.com/nclweb/cruiser/cmsPages.html?pageId=IndivTermsConditions#cancella tion

Thanks! It's always a good idea to be aware of such minor details!

Tom

[izodlacoste]

Do you think that the courtyard area is going to be too crowded with all of those people allowed in? Any thoughts? FYI i just booked a European Epic cruise for 2011 in a Courtyard Villa and probably won't be there too much anyway due to the great ports. However, I paid extra for the CV to avoid the crowds.