Priority embarkation on Epic

I have recently read some horror stories about embarkation on the Epic. This is our first Norwegian cruise. We are staying in a Haven two bedroom family villa. I also have two sons on the autism spectrum. I have heard there is priority embarkation with staying in the Haven. Is this from when you first stand in line or after you go through metal detectors and they scan your carryon luggage? Should we be fine or would it be better to get special needs boarding? Thanks in advance for any advice!

We didn’t notice anything special before the scanners, but we really weren’t looking because there was no line. I’ve heard that if there is a lone, you can speak with an agent and they will hustle you through. After we got thru security, we said “Haven” to the first agent we saw and voila! It was like saying a magic word.

We just returned from the Epic and also stayed in the 2 BR Suite. We got to the port around 11:15. There was a lot of traffic getting into the terminal. Once there our driver dropped us off and we gave our luggage to the porters. We then had to make our way to the LONG line of others trying to get into the building. We didn't see any signs or staff waiting for Haven guests. We also didn't ask if we could be moved ahead. Once we got into the building we had to wait in another long line to get through security. It was only after that did we head to towards the Haven area. This is where you will check in, fill out your health forms and meet your concierge. It can get a little crowded as everyone is trying to fill out and turn in forms. They have chairs set up and some snacks. Once completed the concierge will take you into the ship. Be prepared for a long up hill walk on the platforms. You will then do your tour of the Haven and go to the Epic Club for lunch and wait for your room to be ready. Around 2:00 you can get in your suite and your butler will soon come around. We had Jane and loved her! We were in 16023.

I also recommend doing the carry off luggage option when you leave the ship. We left out 3 suitcases the night prior. We met with our concierge and waited in the lounge to be escorted off the ship. He told us of the "plan" to get your luggage before customs. There was no luggage to be seen and the line to customs was moving crazy fast so we got pushed through. (That up hill walk going on to the ship is oh so fast going down lol) Once we got through customs we could not go back to get the luggage. My husband and several other Haven guests had to be escorted by staff back inside, find the luggage and then go back through customs. Only one in each party was allowed back in the terminal so he had to get a porter to assist with the 3 suitcases. Thankfully we left the ship early and didn't have to rush to the airport. It was already 10:00 am and the line for the new guests was growing fast. I am not sure if it is better to get to the port a little later and miss the crowd???? I also think we may ask next time if we can move ahead being in the Haven. It can't hurt!

Despite the above mentioned issues we LOVED the Epic and even more so the Haven on the ship. We were home 2 days and booked the same room for next February! Best of luck!!!

Hi Trician,

I was very interested in your response re your disembarkation from the Epic.

We have been in the Haven 2brm suite 3 times now. The only frustration came as we were walking off. Waited for concierge......a long time while he gathered more and more people. Then we went to the exit deck. He delayed us for another long time while he engaged with some other passengers not in our group. Eventually my wife and I simply walked off without the others some of whom had pre arranged taxis and were now well beyong their arranged time.

This was the most pathetic organisation I have ever known on NCL (platinum).

Was the concierge BR-NO????

Just wondering!!!!!

Roll on next year.....we are off next month

Deeko