Photo Tour of the Spirit - November 2012

Photo Tour of the Spirit - November 2012

We have just returned from a 9-day cruise on the Norwegian Spirit, out of Barcelona to the Canary Islands. It was an amazing trip that we won't soon forget.

Besides visiting new ports, it was on our favorite NCL ship....the third time on the Spirit for us.

I will post my Cruise and Port review on a different thread, but this thread will address the age-old Spirit question.

I know there are dozens of past posts asking just what is so special about this ship...any many answers are the same:

"...I just can't explain it, but this ship is beautiful and special."

This time, I prepared my answer in pictures. Here is a photo tour showing the classic design and the beautiful appointments of this grand lady.

I hope it gives you a sense of what makes the Spirit unique.

The root of the Spirit's charm lies in its heritage...originally christened as the Star Leo for tenure in the Far East.

The Asian decor remains intact throughout the ship.

The era when it was constructed was dominated by sheer quality; you can see it everywhere. It may be an NCL 'urban legend,' but they say that the carpet in the public areas cost over a million dollars and it is still the original in place...and it still looks new.

Let's begin with the cabin decks and head to the public areas.

Aft on Deck 6 is Windows, the Main Dining Room

Our favorite area when dining at sea...

Up to Deck 7, walking forward, you can see the style that is consistent throughout the ship.

The Cagney's is on Deck 7 and has a layout unlike any other ship

At the end of the long hallway, you reach the Atrium.

Off in a corner is the Java Cafe

Two hallways leave the Atrium, heading forward. One dead-ends at Henry's Pub

...the other hallway leads you to the Blue Lagoon and the Shanghai Bar

Tucked around behind the Shanghai is the Video Arcade

Continuing forward brings you to the Maharajah's Casino

Forward of the Casino is a continuation of the theme called Maharini's Nightclub, adults only lounge.

The back side of the Henry's Pub non-hallway is the location of Le Bistro, reached from the casino side only.

From here, a quick climb up the stairs to Deck 8 and the Photo Gallery

...and the Galleria Shop

The Duty Free Shop and the Columbian Emeralds are separate shops in the mezzanine area of Deck 8

...along with Champagne Charlie's Bar

The hallway leading aft, called Sunset Boulevard, brings you to the Shogun Asian Restaurant, which is really three venues in one: the Asian Fusion, the Sushi Bar and Teppanyaki.

If you want Teppanyaki, book early! ...there is only one table.

At the aft end of the hallway on both Deck 8 and Deck 7 are entrances to the Stardust Theater

An unusual layout, the theater is aft on the Spirit, with the stage at the forward end of the venue.

Leaving the theater, we'll hop on an elevator and go up to Deck 12 for Raffles Court, the buffet.

Unlike many of the newer ships, the buffet does not have a kitchen on the same deck, so there is seating on both sides of the serving areas...giving it a very open and uncrowded feeling.

After a short break...and we'll go topside.

I am enjoying your review so far......the Spirit looks like a nice sized ship. Now I want to take a cruise on her.:D

A key element of the Spirit is that Deck 7 is a true Promenade Deck, circling the ship entirely.

Up to Deck 10 Aft for a quick look at the Kid's Club

...and some play area for not-so-kids.

Outside on Deck 10 is the Kid's Pool and Play area

The aft design of the Spirit, to me, embodies the charm of the ship...

...a three tier open area for lounging, eating, drinking...or just hangin' out.

This area is just behind Raffles...so food is merely a few steps away, and there is a 'convenient' bar as well.

...with a great view to boot.

Up the stairs from here to the Sports Deck, for b-ball and the golf cage.

...and a short walk forward to the Roman Pool

The Bier Garten overlooks the pool, with plenty of shade and some dynamite burgers and hot dogs all day.

Tucked away on Deck 13 is a curious "Parent-Free Zone" that turned out to be the Teen Club...very nice facility

Sliding down the bannister to Deck 12 and we find the Spa and Fitness Center

There is no Thermal Suite on the Spirit, hence there is no "Spa Pass."

But...be aware that the Steam Room and Sauna (Men's and Ladies) facilities are located within the Spa and are complimentary.

Just go to the desk with your key card and they will give you a locker key. Robes and towels provided.

In the same hall as the Spa... the Library and Internet Room and the Game/Card (Lifestyles) Room