Breakaway 3/22/2015 Sailing Pictorial Review, Dailies-FAQ/Tips-Extras- 10712 BD

[mking8288]

Do you remember the time that people were actually allowed to walk off with their luggage?

Each return to NYC is different, but ...

We're docking before 7 AM and gangway was up shortly. Express walk off began @7:35 AM and we came back from MDR breakfast to the cabin, and folks were up the Rooftop parking at 7:50 AM and we watched from our FWD balcony getting into the cars - leaving as we finish up our final prep to vacate our room.

 

send from my Google Nexus 5/7 via Tapatalk

[LorraineP]

Thank you!!!

[mking8288]

continued - Dailies - for Day 4 (Great Stirup Cay, Bahamas)

 

Important Reminder - be sure you have already picked/selected your Tender Ticket(s) & time - using Interactive TV or iConcierge App, for everyone by Day 2 (even better, on Day 1,) or if you have booked shore-ex, follow info/instructions. The early you go, the better choice for the shaded spot as midday sun & UV are strong. We have Priority Tender due to our status, so we're staging inside the theater & ready to go by 8:30 and began heading down to the gangway and in short, on the island before 9:30 and we took the (free) tram to the west side of the island to pick out our spot at the lagoon, etc.

 

D4.1 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032515.jpg

 

D4.2 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032515_0001.jpg

 

D4.3 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032515_0002.jpg

 

D4.4 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032515_0003.jpg

 

D4.5 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032515_0004.jpg

 

D4.6 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032515_0005.jpg

[mking8288]

continued - Day 4 and Day 5 - Nassau, Bahamas

 

Reminder - check your watches & all abroad time, or else, you will be famous for joining the "Pier Runner's Club" or worst, be left behind on the island.

Check your listing for the NCL "Port Agents" info to contact for possible help & advice, in case ...

 

D4.7 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032515_0006.jpg

 

 

D5.1 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032615.jpg

 

D5.2 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032615_0001.jpg

 

D5.3 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032615_0002.jpg

 

D5.4 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032615_0003.jpg

[mking8288]

continued - Day 5 (Nassau & activities on the ship) heading home today

 

D5.5 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032615_0004.jpg

 

D5.6 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032615_0005.jpg

 

D5.7 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032615_0006.jpg

[mking8288]

continued - Day 6, Sea Day ... homeward bound for NY (oh, no)

 

D6.1 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032715.jpg

 

D6.2 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032715_0001.jpg

 

D6.3 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032715_0002.jpg

 

D6.4 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032715_0003.jpg

 

D6.5 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032715_0004.jpg

 

D6.6 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032715_0005.jpg

 

Our Insider's Tips - you should be done with most, if not, all duty-free & gift shopping by now and selected most of the photos that you wanted to buy from NCL Photo Shop. Day 7 or the last full Sea Day is almost madness like a wild zoo, leave time for packing and to relax, and enjoy the ship. Do all those "must" ... today.

[mking8288]

almost home - this is it, Day 7 (last Sea Day)

 

D7.1 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032815.jpg

 

D7.2 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032815_0001.jpg

 

D7.3 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032815_0002.jpg

 

D7.4 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032815_0003.jpg

 

D7.5 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032815_0004.jpg

 

D7.6 https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/109650591/2015%20BA%20Dailies/NCL%20BA%20Daily%20032815_0005.jpg

 

Express Self-Walkoff or Luggage by Colors (Priority ??) - picked up & taken to inside of pier terminal, getting home or car service/taxi options, etc. Don't forget to empty out & check the mini-safe, etc. Enjoy a full day of fine dining - aren't you tired of the buffet yet ?? Get home safe ! If you must get outside ASAP after the ship docked and you "worked" your way past CBP (immigration/customs) - get a porter to hellp (be sure to tip CASH generously for services directly) as they have an "exclusive" fast lane to take your luggage along, and you follow & head for 12th Avenue or whatever in the morning.

 

Disclaimers: these dailies and the related info, maps & details are strictly intended as a guide, for general reference only - if you are sailing to Bermuda or doing a different itinerary for whatever reasons, or skipping GSC due to weather and/or rough sea conditions, etc. or the sequence of port stops are being changed for any & all unannounced operational reasons, you need to check the current Daily on the ship for special messages & details. Internet access to NCL's website is usually available on the ship at no cost and free, as long as you have satellite or shore connectivity. Check your iConcierge App to see if any special messages or alerts are posted, they might or might not - same for Interactive TV in your stateroom, there is an eMail function on it, typically with the "infomercials" but special announcements were released to all guests abroad once the Captain is making a course change/unscheduled port stop, etc.

 

If you are looking for details or info not posted here, we might or might additional links or ideas to help - or not. Check also under the homeports & ports of call for specific info on transportations, hotels, as the local CC "experts" are our best friends.

Edited April 7, 2015 by mking8288

[bangzoom6877]

I just looked through all the dailies, and I can't wait to go on my cruise in July! I see they still do some spa specials throughout the week. I'm hoping for a special on port days in Bermuda, we shall see. DH and I are definitely heading to the spa as soon as we board so we can purchase the thermal suite pass. We did that on our cruise on the Carnival Splendor 2 years ago, first time doing that, and it was so amazing and really made the vacation that much more relaxing. My sister and brother-in-law are also purchasing the spa pass. DH and I told our boys that while they're at their little camp, we will be at the spa which is our camp! ;)

[mking8288]

Reflections of our 2nd. time on the Breakaway (same itinerary - done 5 in total thus far on this route) - few thoughts on the ship, the crew, the (ours) experience, the ports (what we did / did not do) etc. before closing up our write-up. I will toss in a few more on food & loose pictures to add to the pictorial story.

 

As New Yorkers, sailing out of NYC is a good compromise to avoid dealing with airlines and TSA at the airports; and, we do fly both domestic & international - repeating the same itineraries and ports are going to happen - especially with the 5 to 7 days limitations. We no longer get excited about seeing Nassau or Port Canaveral, but it is what is is - and, this time. the stars & galaxies aligned and weather cooperated, we made it to GSC with about 6 hours on the island for us, we're on the BA in 2014 and came to a full stop - waited and then left for a Fun Day at Sea as wave conditions simply were not safe for tendering. Miami used to be a stop but we got diverted in 2005 due to weather (storm) & also skipped GSC, went to Nassau to overnight for 2 days.

 

GSC is far more nicer & expanded since our 2011 visit (on the Jewel) and hiding over at the Lagoon on the western end was really relaxing to us - even it was late March, the water temperature was good enough to go in, play and swim a bit before retreating to the rented Clamshell for shelter & sun/UV protections.

 

Like many others stopping at Port Canaveral, we stayed on the ship to relax & watched for a while on our balcony - been to Coca Village & not wanting to ride over to the Mall to shop at Walmart (could do that at home - especially since we've cut back our consumption of sugar water a/k/a sodas) And, we're well packed with variety of OTC & Rx medications that we need (CVS across the street from the pier @Old San Juan, PR was the most important 'landmark' for us, to get refills & extras when DW wasn't feeling well back then ... and get sodas & chips, etc.

 

Each time we hit Nassau and besides heading over to Atlantas Resort, it has the potential to do serious "damages" to our credit card/wallet ... the sales & customer service at John Bull are convincing but we are not ready to come back yet with another pricey watch. Areas around the terminal & straw market is chaotic & disorganized so for us to best avoid it - but, there was a decent Chinese food takeout not far from the gated exit and one of our nephew's must stop for comfort food. It is more authentic than those served on the ship, LOL (subjective views, of course - food opinions are always, IMO - open for debate.)

 

This time, the ship felt more crowded and seemed busy compared to our 3/23/2014 sailing, almost exactly a year to the date - there're more children (school-aged & pre-schoolers) with their bilingual French-speaking parents, Canadians on Spring break well represented on this cruise. It was easy to spot them throughout the ship, which I won't go into ... Last year, there were about 4,500 sailing but this year, the counts should be higher - didn't get the chance to ask the question at our short Meet & Greet, it was over & the officers left before anyone got a chance to be offered to ask or comment on anything .... yelp !!

 

Should've gone to take the "short" Platinum Behind The Scene tour instead -

as we didn't do it last year. Schedule's time slot is NOT good & they knew it too. :mad:

 

Bars - most if not all of them, except Ice Bar on Deck 8 MID, were busy throughout the entire cruise, from breakfast to late night - including small clusters hanging out at / near O'Sheehans - even the lobby cafe place was busy especially on sea days & when the outdoors were closed for weather/safety reasons. The nearby internet Center as part of the atrium lobby was usually vacant as ship's WiFi are available everywhere on the ship.

 

Getting Around - we stayed on Deck 13 AFT last year almost right next to the elevators and it was easy to get around to most places, except the theaters - this year, we got upgraded to a FWD balcony on Deck 10, all the way up front - giving us plenty of walking exercises multiple times daily, except my set of bad knees began to "protest" just before we left - and I forget to pack a folded adjustable walking stick. Somehow, I managed the week & now that we are home - the pain is gone away, time for a semi-annual PE to the family PCP, that's the real signal, LOL. Hence, we ended up doing more meals at O'Sheehans than the Garden Cafe (buffet) comparatively, doing more meals in the MDR - breakfast, lunch & dinner. We also did a late day Room Service in our stateroom - the only way to get a bowl of hot chicken noodles soup, some chef's salad, plate of fruits, sandwich and cheesecake, plus a small pot of coffee to wash it all down - took about 25 or 30 minutes to deliver, not bad & DW tipped cash while I was in the shower (came back from GSC & one way to avoid the hungry crowd in whatever was opened then)

 

 

This sub-section below is highly subjective & our opinions - please feel free to read or just skip it if you dislike, followup questions are welcome but unwarranted comments aren't ...

 

Speciality dining - we ate only once in LeBistro last time and it was good, this time with just 2 of us - we ate twice, using our comp'd voucher with the wine and, somewhat disappointing. The lamb roast was good to excellent before but this time, it was just fair or acceptable - the starters & soup items and the desserts didn't disappoint as usual - service itself was very good, slightly less attentive on the details - not the team's fault as they're busy with all the guests seated - with # of empty & unoccupied / unassigned tables. Staffing availability might've been the issue, I hate to wonder what it will be like with the summer sailings (Bermuda being the port of call) as there will be more onboard with the UDP.

 

OTOH, Mrs. M's duck entree was very good to excellent and I tasted it myself. Yes, I chose not to sent the fatty pc. of lamb cuts back to the gallery to exchange for something else. Not getting a steak knife initially didn't help with slicing the meat either (see ... details !!)

 

On the 2nd. night, Mrs. had the fish soup entree (I usually get that myself) and finished it all, done just right while I opted for the swordfish (instead of salmon or beef selection) - it was okay but a little disappointing with its taste & look/presentation, the sides for it was unexciting. The chocolate fondue plus ice cream did it - and, I forget to bring my insulated coffee mug to save half a pot of French pressed coffee (excellent) again - we walked away with a full stomach. Our server was busy tonight so the debris & bread crumbs didn't get scraped away clean (like in the past, before getting dessert & coffee.) (see ... details !!)

 

However, both nights - we got to select our comp'd bottle of wines to take away, unopened as it is going home with us - basically a list of inexpensive "house" wines marked up on the ship. Timing & the pace of the meal was a little slower but we're told the gallery in the back was busy ... whatever, and, the food came out warm to hot, not 'hot' as in "hot" for temperature with the covered plate for the journey to our table. Well, it's also the nature of mass prepared gallery food, just like reheated F/J food served out of the airplane's "gallery" for its premium passengers - it's make believed & they don't serve lobster tails either (with exceptions, of course) - just like those "rubber" chicken at the hotel banquets. Not sure we're greeted by the maitre'd or manager more than once on both nights - they seemed busy - and imagine if all the tables were filled as even other diner's drink orders took a while, from what we saw.

 

Our friendly server - Mr. E is from Southeast Asia and took care of our table on both nights, while his assistant worked mostly as a runner for him & behind the scene to/from the Gallery. Mr. E. is also assigned to work in other dining revenue as we ran into him twice in the MDR on other days - did not get the chance to stop him & chat about the DSC, gratuity & tipping. When we tipped him cash for service at the end of our meal, he seemed slightly surprised, thanked us & then put it away into his inside chest pocket.

 

As for those that served us in OSH or the MDR, none of them made an impression, except for the one maitre'd who kept checking on us while dining - 5 times and we felt too much attention was given to us; and, we had no issues with service or the meal or anything else then. What's on our profile when they "swiped" our card checking us in with the reservation - besides seeing that we are Platinum tiered ... this is a confirmed CC regular & also blog/write reviews and is also active contribuor on the other major review sites, etc. ?? I really dunno.

 

Both LeBistro nights, the ship's photographer showed up & made his rounds, offering to take pictures - we liked ours & took both of the printed ones home, using OBC & got our 25% discount. Last year, we brought the 10 pic bundled deal but only a total of 3 - never found/saw some of the pictures in our binder. Never saw them coming around at lunch in the MDR, nor in the evenings as we never rushed thru our meals - it's a good thing we got our selfie stick to take many pictures on our own all over the ship.

 

 

Gaming - besides the bars, the very smokey casino is the focal point for many, plenty of slot & table game players gathered to get lucky - and "donated", also contributing to the crew's welfare funds. Let It Ride has a new rule, players can only touch the 3 cards single handed - or else, they will chop chop if you are caught 2 handed ... just kidding. Min. bet was $10, $5 for the 3-card bonus and the worst odds, $1 for the bonus payout. Variety of the newer slots are available, some machines will play up to 4 games per spin and can be easily switched to different denominations - pennies, nickels, dimes & quarters. It's fun to watch & costly to play, except the payouts are poor to very poor, IMO and we know as Vegas regulars. Late night around 11 PM, there is a secluded corner with a limited choice of finger sandwiches, fruits, cheese & one hot item as a quick snack - intended for players so your facial ID is match & fingerprint scanned (just kidding - anybody, adults can walk over and DIY, no fees & they don't check your Guest Keycard to review your point balance.

 

NCL really need to do something about installing & adding powerful vents to exhaust the smoke coming from the smoking guests in the casino - please do that at the first chance to dry dock. That also isn't helping to bring more customers to eat at the Shanghai Noodles Bar, especially at dinner time as it's 85% empty most of the time - doing somewhat better at lunch on Sea Days. Forward looking, if it's free & open to all, it should help and the food is good to very good.

 

The "star" of our cruise is our Room Steward, she worked by herself and has no assistant - unlike the earlier NCL days - she is often busy with the Haven/suite guest 4 doors down from us at the FWD corner - hopefully, she's taken care of the guests staying there, as we never once saw them coming out or going in. On embarkation day, all of them were busy & we didn't see her in the afternoon, left a note for her with 3 request - empty the minibar, ice for the bucket & facial tissue in the bathroom (was completely empty - maybe she forgotten to fill it) When we came back from dinner - it was all done, she also took DW's luggage & place it inside the room while we're at the mandatory life boat/safety drill downstairs at OSH. She introduced herself & asked if we needed anything else, etc. - mints already on the bed & turndown service completed. The rest of the week was uneventful too and gave us extra coffee pods without asking, and, asked us about timing so that she can allocate time to refreshen our cabin in the evening - just one minor detail overlooked, unimportant to mention it here. Nobody is perfect and the crew isn't exempt from these rules. Toward the end of the week, we also recognized her exceptional service to us - direct cash recognition worked best, yet she seemed a little surprised but grateful & politely thanked us.

 

Other crew members that we come across in our narrow corridor daily are just as friendly as they go about doing their work.

 

Still, I feel the overall synergy level is a notch or two below ... just figure out what's going on this week on the Breakaway, something is in the "air" about it.

[sjn911]

Thanks so much for your knowledgeable review and your good "geek" info which sadly I feel (sometimes)...I am so much permanently behind the 8 ball but learn every day and your info is so well written some makes a lot of sense and will more with each day and struggle..LOL.

 

My nephew at 20 and first semi-adult cruise of course had the time of his life so far just the week before you I think on the ship...and he was in your cabin type with 3....and it helps to have a more informed middle of the road view...glad you had a good cruise and thanks soooo much for your info...so thorough..and really fun to see the ship nephew was on more. He missed the bowling...this I know LOL... And I think perhaps God was with fools on the all day rented mopeds in Nassau after your comments..his favorite part.... but they had chaperones...at least older to assess mistakes soon after made...and were helped out by police on one place they should not have stopped in Nassau....he left out those details.

 

Overall I think it is a neat new type working ( and making enought to travel) mans's ship with tons of terrific entertainment options which I want to do in a heartbeat... I am however sad about all this tipping nonsense...sigh..enough said...thank you so...i still have to read the very end and you helped me decide with just me..maybe i shall do a studio in the middle of this MEGA ship type sometime....Sarah

Edited April 8, 2015 by sjn911

[bangzoom6877]

We also love cruising out of NYC for the convenience, plus I hate flying and haven't flown in 15 years. My mom hasn't flown in 19 years. But after this cruise, we will have done all the NYC itineraries with the exception of the RCCL one out of NJ...I think the only island that goes to that the others don't is St. Maarten. DH and I were saying that our next cruise should be the Western Caribbean because I was only there once, in 1994, and he and the kids have never been there. My outlook and DH's outlook on cruising are different. I love being on the ship, and while to some extent I care where it goes (SOOOO excited about Bermuda for 3 days this summer!), I truly would be happy on any cruise no matter where it goes. DH on the other hand feels the ships are all the same and all very good and very nice, and likes to explore different ports. We've repeated the Bahamas/Florida sailing a few times and we try not to do that one anymore, at least avoiding it for a while. We don't even get off the ship in Florida or even the private island anymore, but on the Jewel in 2011 we took the kids to the pool on those days and basically had the run of the place. That was really amazing and very relaxing, and the kids really had a blast...they still talk about that cruise.

 

But when DH and I talk about doing a western Caribbean cruise, we talk about driving down to Florida instead of flying. We drive down to Disney World (and sometimes southern Florida as well) every other year, and it's cheaper than flying, plus we see things and visit people along the way (I went to university of Maryland and we visit some of my old college friends who live down there). DH and I are teachers so we have the gift of time in the summer and so we have the time to take a couple of days to drive down to Florida. So possibly for 2 years from now, right after we both turn 40, we will look into the western Caribbean. Of course there is also the issue of having to make the first of two bar mitzvahs the following spring after that so who knows if we will even cruise again in 2 years. We talk about "stretching out" our Disney Vacation Club points (Disney's version of the timeshare) during the few years of bar mitzvahs and in between, so possibly going there every July for 5 nights at a time instead of every other July for 10 nights at a time to offset vacation costs. (We also get $100 off annual passes so we could go later in the summer one year and earlier the next and use it twice to save on tickets).

 

I wish we could cruise in the summer our of NYC and go to the western Caribbean but it's far and would be much longer than 7 or 8 nights, so I'm sure that's why they don't do it. A 12-night sailing probably wouldn't sell as well in the summer months.

[mking8288]

Other happenings on the ship & food:

For 7 days/nights on the Breakaway, it's not practical to explore & get to know everything on and off the ship with the ports of call, whether it's Bahamas/Florida or Bermuda (excluding too - CTN for 1 or 2 nights) and I say this after being on her twice now. This time, we spend very little time outdoors on deck 15 (pools, hot tubs - heated/steam rising & folks enjoying it, the loungers or the buffet) and did not go to deck 16 for the Uptown (Bar &) Grill or the jogging track, etc. Weather was still chilly on sea days but the Waterfront outdoors are great to sit, relax, and do whatever - there're simply too much to do. For Day #7 - many outdoor areas were closed & shut down due to high wind for safety reasons and it was chilly for our sailing - temps in the low 40's with seas described as "large waves" at 14.5 ft.

 

There is always something going on somewhere - however, we did not play Bingo, stopped "contributing" money 10 years ago as prices/payout were just out of the leagues. There was no push or sale of those "Snap-It" or "Instant Win" inside the theater while waiting for showtime, just liquor sales although not a lot of servers avaiable, it seemed. There was plenty of "free" drinks with the various "Art Auctions" but not for us - fun to sit & watch, but if you are thinking of buying or bidding, please do your homework first & read up. The library has very limited open hours for taking out books to read, plan accordingly or better yet - load them on your own eReader or tablet/iPad. Next to the nearly always busy atrium lobby is the internet center, it is often secluded & a place to sit, write & perhaps read - bring a set of small in-line (noise reduction/cancellation) headset to block out the noises. We also downloaded several movies in MP4 format for playback - and I managed to "cast" it onto the ** bigger screen via my own HDMI cable - not for the non-geeks to ** attempt, however.

 

On the often asked "hot" topic of lobster (tails, chunks or whole, etc.) - lobster tails were no longer served in the MDR on any given night as a special back in March, 2014 and no change last month (March 2015). Lobster tails were served one night only, on the evening of Day 2 in the Garden Cafe (buffet) and dished out by crew members behind the steamed table - I got 2 pieces, no problem. As of end of March (23rd) 2015 - lobsters (all variants) no longer served in the buffet either - it became a "Seafood & BBQ" themed night on Day 2 ... what exactly they had, I do not know as we ate in LeBistro that evening, where lobster was available for an additional upcharge of $10 per person as an entree item. I won't get into comp'd dinner, UDP or similar specials not of a general nature on whether it was free - search & read those threads with 25 different responses for the particulars if you wish. Lobster (frozen tails, meat, chunks, etc.) were also available at extra cost and upcharge at Cagney's steak house.

 

In March 2014, there was a Surf & Shrimp special in the MDR, but we did not see that in March, 2015 - we could've missed it. As for fish, it's basically salmon, tilapia or plain white fish fillet - in past years including 2014, monk fish & grouper was listed and available as special for the evening.

 

O'Sheehans (as all the Blue Lagoon's are renamed & changed into) have theme nights - on the Breakaway - they were as followed (sometimes, also available in the buffet = Garden Cafe or GC) - info here is a guide, not a definitive reference so please refer to the actually posted Daily as being final, always subject to change with & without written notice or prior annoucements, etc. -

Day 1 - OSH & GC - Prime Ribs

Day 2 - OSH - BBQ Night & GC - Seafood

Day 3 - OSH - Chicken & GC - Country Western

Day 4 - OSH - Prime Rib & GC - Asian

Day 5 - OSH - Fried Chickenn & GC - Lamb Leg

Day 6 - OSH - BBQ Pork

Day 7 - OSH - Prime Rib & GC - Mexican

 

What are some of our favorites and (biased, subjective) views on dining and best to recommend:

Overall, with the menu changes in the MDR, expect the same Lunch Menu daily, with minor variants on one or two days. The Atlantic crab salad was good as was the crab cakes as starter or entree (embarkation day). Shrimp salad burger is nicer over salmon burger, with waffle fries - yummy.

 

For breakfast, we prefer the MDR, more relax & nice to be seated & have everything served to you - plate of fresh fruits, juice & mini-croissants, and both the regular Eggs Benedict and the Eggs Benedict with smoked salmon, and the hash browns (improved) plus the "house" blend coffee ... Bagels & Nox also available. On the morning of Disembarkation, there are fewer hot items available in the MDR for breakfast - it is still great.

 

For dinner in the MDR, expect to see nearly identical starters like salmon tartae & garden or caesars salad repeated, along with French onions soup, items like prime rib and pork ribs were good, as well the striploins and even lamb (equal/better than LeBistro, IMO - of course). Choices are fewer than in past years, as expected and even for desserts - expect to see items being repeated often. Everyday menu choices for dinner, i.e. breast of chicken and fish were good alternative if all the specials for that evening are not appealing - they do serve decent curry dishes (yellow) & also upstairs in the buffet. Ice cream & sherbert are available by asking, but NOT listed on the menu - ask for coffee/tea if you wanted them or else, busy server/assistant might not ask or bring them automatically. We had 2 sets of current menu from last month on the Breakaway posted up-thread as FYI - if it's been changed, ask NCL directly about it.

 

Specialty dining has always been fun and a treat, at extra cost, but the choices are fewer these days - changes & enhanced menu are said to be forthcoming, so what's true & accurate now could well be different. The gaps between MDR & Specialty are closer with the former improved and the latter, apparently, slipping a bit - with possibly a lower grade or cut of meat, even the "side" items have been re-scaled for lighter calories (he he ... creative descrptive writing) We set aside 2 nights out of 7 for specialty, with 90+ minutes for the full meal service and that's good enough - leaving time to enjoy & tryout things elsewhere. It's not my money and feel free to spend yours to do premium meals and if it's "free" to you, great & enjoy.

 

After a meal and if you are stiill feeling hungry, it's okay to visit another revenue - like the buffet (it closed at 9:30 PM usually, for dinner service) or OSH for anytime comfort food - currently still free with no extra charges or fees. The buffet section will still have some food/late night snacks (items from earlier) available up to 11:30 PM. Coffee, tea bags, ice, water & flavored water are available 24/7 upstairs in the buffet - always use a clean & new glass to pour water dispensed into your own water bottle or thermos.

[Kenlorz]

Thank you kindly for the extensive and informative review! Your last entry intrigued me. You mentioned possible enhanced forthcoming specialty dining menus? Hadn't heard this before. Was this something you heard on board? Can you elaborate?

[bangzoom6877]

Thank you again for more info! I can't get enough info about the Breakaway before we go in 3 months.

 

My boss went on BA last summer and she said the same thing you did, that there's just not enough time to do everything, but that there's truly something for everyone. DH and I don't spend time by the pool. We're not swimmers, plus I can't be in the sun too long. We prefer the spa pass for the week,and when the kids are at the kids club that's where we go to relax and have a true vacation. Our first stop when we board is to buy the spa pass, even before we eat lunch! The waterfront also sounds amazing and we plan to spend some time there when we want to relax outdoors. Sounds much nicer to us than the pool area, for our tastes.

 

We plan to take the boys to the water slides the morning we arrive in Bermuda. When everyone else is rushing to get off the ship at the same time, we will enjoy a relaxing breakfast and some time outside by the water park area. We will get off the ship later on that day and do some exploring. And we will enjoy Bermuda the next 2 days as well! That's the plan and I hope it's a good one and that everyone else doesn't have the same idea. ;)

 

The food sounds awesome. It's one of the things I look forward to most on a cruise. Still plenty of choices and something for everyone. DH and I encourage the boys to try new foods on cruises since that's the best time to do it, with it being included and all, and they've discovered things they like that they wouldn't have known. DS10 is more limited as he's allergic to shellfish, tree nuts and peanuts, but there are still always plenty of choices for him. Both boys tried frog legs on Carnival 2 years ago and loved them! DS7 had lobster tail with a side of chicken nuggets one night and ate it all! I told him no more lobster, and the first thing he asked was of they still have shrimp and I told him they will have it sometimes so he was a happy camper.

 

We are all really looking forward to this cruise. Planning is such a big part of the fun for me! :)

[mking8288]

... possible enhanced forthcoming specialty dining menus? ... Can you elaborate?

Sure, the operative key term is "possible" as I tried to incorporate real-time "intel" info from these forums & other sources, as best as I can - it's not easy to try to stay cool & calm and somewhat objective, and impartial in put the review together. Thankfully, if someone can get nice ideas & tips from checking out the pictures alone - I've done my share to contribute & help give back to the CC circles.

NCL themselves confirmed that Cagney's menu is being revised & "enhanced" and I'm hoping it's not just another round of "re-scaling" (noticed that I'm saying upsized or downsize, for obvious reasons, I think) and re-pricing, or going with the old vs. the new tiered model. We should get a preview/official words soon & hopefully not another surprise onboard that got the "minority" among us flipping out.

We are getting "worn out" by the #choices #variety #cough choices on the LeBistro menu, especially that's our usual & only venue for specialty - DW is not into red meat & we don't care for Italian or Asian, we got the best around us at home and some excellent German cuisines & steakhouses too.

NCL can't please everyone and I recognize that, just roll them out & do it fairly and we can all try to maintain our cruising partnership or ...

 

Thank you again for more info! I can't get enough info about the Breakaway before we go in 3 months ...

Great to hear, I love Bermuda but DW still have nightmares about her first rock-n-roll ride on the small "Crown" But, she said if the price is good, book it first & ask questions next.

You triggered a "hunger alert" for food, frog legs & OMG, they're very, very good on the Splendor & I had a doubled serving, if they do a Thai style with chilly salt & pepper - watch out :D - here I come. Last month, the MDR's crab cake for lunch @ embarkation was wow, I liked it - all those who rushed to the buffet, too bad & more for us. I'm sure that got even better items in the "exclusive" Haven zone but this is good to very good, keep us happy plus that Atlantic crab salad & a hot soup to kick off the cruise ... can't complain about it, even if the servers & gallery is a little slow that day. Tell your son that the shrimp was about "medium" in size but fresh & "spongy" good, cooked right - I can handle 3 plates full of them. Fresh lobsters, live & bigger ones are now $15 per pound here so I don't have any problems not seeing them on the ship's MDR or buffet.

Arrrh, it's re-heating pizza for lunch w. some pork chops from yesterday's dining out & a side salad, but we got a group reservations tonight at one of the favorite Italiano place with valet parking on a special deal, so I'm going to follow a "Cooking Light" style for eating shortly.

[mking8288]

... I am so much permanently behind the 8 ball but learn every day ... He missed the bowling...this I know LOL... And I think perhaps God was with fools on the all day rented mopeds in Nassau ... he left out those details ... sad about all this tipping nonsense...sigh..enough said ... maybe i shall do a studio in the middle of this MEGA ship type ...

Thanks & you are welcomed and happy to shared our very, very tunneled vision of the ship - everyone's experience sailing the ship is unique & special.

Bolding my/our feelings too, as well - not so much on what's trending everywhere, prices are rising but "HOW" NCL did it ... back on topic, right - or, else, I'll have to put on PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) to guard flaming and hijacking next.

We passed by the Studio lounge/private corridor entrances down the FWD hallway several times or more daily, and it seemed very exclusive & quiet, and very tranquil, saw housekeeping coming out or going in with their carts. So, if you find the studio a good match - why not ... check out any & all BA/GA reviews of the studios, I know I saw some written up.

I know, heard & were aware of mopeds & cruise pax riding in Bermuda and ... but didn't realize in Nassau too. Trust everybody involved was okay & made it home with some life lessons - never too old & too wise to not learn something different, maybe new each week.

Regards. :)

Edited April 9, 2015 by mking8288

[bangzoom6877]

Great to hear, I love Bermuda but DW still have nightmares about her first rock-n-roll ride on the small "Crown" But, she said if the price is good, book it first & ask questions next.

You triggered a "hunger alert" for food, frog legs & OMG, they're very, very good on the Splendor & I had a doubled serving, if they do a Thai style with chilly salt & pepper - watch out :D - here I come. Last month, the MDR's crab cake for lunch @ embarkation was wow, I liked it - all those who rushed to the buffet, too bad & more for us. I'm sure that got even better items in the "exclusive" Haven zone but this is good to very good, keep us happy plus that Atlantic crab salad & a hot soup to kick off the cruise ... can't complain about it, even if the servers & gallery is a little slow that day. Tell your son that the shrimp was about "medium" in size but fresh & "spongy" good, cooked right - I can handle 3 plates full of them. Fresh lobsters, live & bigger ones are now $15 per pound here so I don't have any problems not seeing them on the ship's MDR or buffet.

Arrrh, it's re-heating pizza for lunch w. some pork chops from yesterday's dining out & a side salad, but we got a group reservations tonight at one of the favorite Italiano place with valet parking on a special deal, so I'm going to follow a "Cooking Light" style for eating shortly.

 

In 1991 when I was 14 and on my second cruise, we sailed on the tiny Meridian out of NY to Bermuda (Celebrity cruise line back when it was still owned by Chandris). On the way home, we hit a tropical depression, which ended up strengthening to a hurricane after we got back. It was the night right after we had left Bermuda, and the second formal night. I remember taking portraits with my family and struggling to maintain my balance, as well as walking around the ship. The dining room was only about 2/3 full that night, plenty of people were sick...but we were all fine and ate plenty! The next day from morning until early afternoon it was very rocky too. We were at Bingo (my parents and their friends liked to play), and I remember looking out the window on one side of the ship and seeing all sky while the other side of the ship we saw only ocean. That was a tiny ship though, compared to today's mega ships.

 

We don't mind slower service at breakfast or lunch in the MDR, embarkation day or any other day. We're not in a rush at those times, and it is good to slow down on vacation with all the running around we do regularly. I'm with you...let the masses deal with the crowded buffet, especially on embarkation day. We will eat in the MDR and relax. That was one thing I didn't like about the Splendor. There was only one option for lunch and it was the buffet. And the way the buffet was set up, it wasn't all out in one open area like I remember from the Jewel. A little harder to navigate, especially the first day of the cruise when everyone was there at the same time. The burrito bar kind of made up for that though. ;)

 

Lol at the "Cooking Light" style of eating! I always watch what I eat on a regular basis (Lifetime Member of Weight Watchers for over 7 years, and still doing it). But on a cruise or any other vacation, I don't follow WW. I exercise almost every day at home too, and that's something I'll actually do on vacation. I use the gym on cruise ships early in the morning before the rest of the family is up. It's quiet in there and very few people go that early, I've found. And I'm done before 8am. Usually when I get back to the cabin, DH and the boys are just waking up so it's a quick shower and then off to the MDR for breakfast...or O'Sheehan's on this upcoming cruise, or possibly the breakfast buffet at Moderno if it's not too crowded. Once I get home from a cruise or other big vacation, it's time to fight the weight gain but I go back to my good habits right away. Of course, I'm getting older and anticipating taking much longer to take off the cruise weight as the years pass.

[bjtravelnews]

 

Last but not least - watching pier runners is a cool "event" at sailing time to post them on social media, unless you are the subject of focus acting it on as there is no fun by missing the ship. Saw that in Canaveral & heard that in Nassau - but AFAIK, thankfully, the Captain waited & everyone was onboard coming home. That won't happened to us & hopefully not to you - we've done our shares over the years chasing airplane gates at hub cities & rushing down the jetbridge before L2 or L1 is shut.

 

Thanks so much for your very thorough review and all your comments. We sail in June and are so anxious to go. Regarding the "Pier runners"... we were on the Carnival Splendor last summer and docked in Nassau. We had a balcony and were able to watch people coming back to the ship. It was amazing how many people were coming back right at the time we were supposed to leave. We kept hearing announcements for certain names to report and it was about 15 minutes after the time we were scheduled to pull out. There was a Disney ship docked next to us and a group of men were clapping and yelling. We looked down at the dock and there were two women running like ___ to get on the ship. The ramp had already been pulled up. The closer they got to the ship, the louder everyone was cheering them on. It was really funny to watch! The women had to wait while the crew put the ramp back in place.

We were on another cruise and had already left the dock when a small boat pulled up. Apparently, there were several people who had missed the ship. There was some type of net/ramp thrown from the ship to the small boat and the people had to maneuver over the net (they were given life vests in case they fell in the water). Wish I would have thought to take a video. I was so entranced at watching the spectacle that I didn't think about it.

[mking8288]

... finally a chance to sort out other loose pictures taken during our cruise a month, organized them as these should be helpful to answer some of the FAQ relating to the sailing the Breakaway & also the NY pier.

 

Supplemental photos w. brief descriptions - Manhattan Cruise Terminal's parking @ Pier 88 & Laundry Info:

Here's 3 photos of Pier 88 roof-top parking, directly above the terminal - the huge elevators can be seen here across our balcony on deck 10, starboard FWD - it goes down to level 2 for check-in and street level for outside/ground/bus transportation (and, to walk across 12th. Avenue at 48th Street to the yellow taxi stand on the corner) - detailed parking/driving directions with photos by other CC'ers & alternate options can be found under the East Coast Departure sub-forum section.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_1419%281024x768%29.jpg

 

This is another view of the parking lot entrance/exit - with security checks (upon entry: before being allowed to park - luggages can be unloaded here first before driving further out for an available parking spot.) A 2nd. set of elevators can be seen on the far side of the parking lot with a covered awning. Taken on the morning of disembarkation where Express Self Walk-off were called at 7:35 AM for our sailing, pax are seen here on the rooftop with luggage heading to their vehicles to drive home/leave the pier at 7:50 AM - a very quick process in clearing CBP plus all the walking from the gangway, into the terminal and out to the front of the building for the elevators.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150329_0753.jpg

 

The Intrepid Musuem is seen in the background, a very short walking distance from the piers - it is possible to dropoff most of the luggages early in the morning, i.e. 8:30 or 9 AM outside at the curb first - without checking in first - except for very light carry-ons, and tour it first. Then, return to clear security & complete check-in at least 2 hours before sailaway time (1 PM for 3 PM sailings or 2 PM for 4 PM sailings)

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150329_0755.jpg

 

Street-level view of Pier 88in front of yellow taxi stand (+ a minivan taxi) - across 12th Avenue at 48th Street, heading northbound toward the G.W. Bridge -

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/MCT%20Pier%2090%20-%20IMG0265.jpg

 

On Laundry - the size of the paper NCL laundry bag is 24" by 17" and a lot can be fitted inside - roll it, squeeze it & then stuff it (best to double bag it, or, ask the steward for a spare pillow case as a liner inside the bag to avoid breakage) & follow instructions given on how to get it washed. Even on Laundry Special Day (of All You Can Fit, currently priced at $27.99) - you might need to fill out an itemized slip for an accurate count, so that they can be returned properly. 2nd. photo here showed the big pile of washed & neatly folded items being returned to us via our Room Steward by the morning of day 3 after ours were send out (ours were out late afternoon on day 1)

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/NCL%20Cruising%20-%20General/IMG1504171326NCL-LB.jpg

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150328_1107.jpg

[mking8288]

Supp info - photos (continue) Deck 10 FWD - Starboard - regular Balcony Category "BD" #10712 - bedding for 3 people, passing Studio Lounge area & FWD Inside Cabins.

These corridors are long & narrow - especially when service carts & other items are in the hallway, not passenger friendly for those using walkers & wheelchairs, etc.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_1347%20%28768x1024%29.jpg

 

View from stateroom looking toward the FWD elevators & stairs - about 145 steps - it's a long walk, good for daily exercise without going to the fitness center, not recommended for those with mobility issues ... (ours was a GTY upgrade, we're happy with the assignment)

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_1345%20%28768x1024%29.jpg

 

Ours is the 3rd. regular balcony, all the way in the front - the corner Haven suite #10705 is hidden in this photo, Oceanview #10704 is straight ahead with the door facing the long hallway directly. This area is very quiet in terms of foot traffic.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_1348%20%28768x1024%29.jpg

 

Behind the door & about eye-level are two toggle switches, one marked for DND (Do Not Disturb) & 2nd. one for Make Up Room - when activated, it will alert the Room Steward. Just above waist level is another slot, where the Guest Keycard (or another used Hotel Keycard, expired credit/debit card, etc. can be inserted) is dropped in to turn on the electricity for the stateroom, for energy saving purposes. These are very common at hotels in Asia & other parts of the world - we always carry a spare blank card so that device charging can be least interrupted.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_1350%20%28768x1024%29.jpg

 

Looking into the cabin from the doorway -

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150328_1100.jpg

 

From the sofa/convertible single foam bed - looking toward the doorway/bathroom. Distance between the side of the bed & the closet is about 18"

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_1351%20%28768x1024%29.jpg

[mking8288]

Supp. photos - Breakaway Balcony #10712 - Category BD

 

It's tight spacing between the bed & the closet, where the mini-safe (4 digit combo, user-set) is located, distance of about 18" The bedside nightstand is narrow with 2 open shelves, and can be moved so that the entire bed is shifted away to make more room for getting to the closet.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_1354%281024x768%29.jpg

 

There is usable but narrow wall storage space above the bed, good for magazine, tablets & ipads & even small water bottles.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_1355%20%281024x768%29.jpg

 

The balcony door can & should be locked - and high above on the sliding door, there is a knob to turn double lock it for extra security (you can see that in the mirror's reflected view) - oh, our 2 bottles of comp'd wine & 1 bottle of bubbles, part of our Platinum perk.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150327_1631.jpg

 

The standard balcony, it is small, room for 2 chairs & extra small coffee table, barely enough to put a small room service tray on top if ordering breakfast. Sea is a little rough, waves at 12 ft. rising to 14.5 ft. - still felt very moderate to us in terms of motion.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150328_1109.jpg

 

Lots of creative storage space, vertical & slim space below the HDTV and as part of the dresser (the mini-refrigerator took up most of the 'big' space, however) but behind those 2 hinged door panels, shoes & pocketbooks, rolled up or folded clothing items, etc. can be stored on 2 shelves. Remember to check it before disembarkation. The stool has storage built-in storage. https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150328_1111.jpg

 

We have a set of Elemis SpaHome products in the bathroom - shampoo, bath & shower gel, soap & lotion, etc. - but regular dispenser-mounted soap and shampoo are the given. Bring your own preferred hand lotion & other toiletry items, including shavers, cotton balls, Q-tips, toothbrushes & toothpaste, etc. and, shower caps (once provided, along with shoe polish cloth)

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG1504222125.jpg

P.S. - Tumi toiletry pouch shown here not included, amenity kit flying Delta "F" class - durable, compact & great for storage of personal items (we used it to store meds)

[mking8288]

View of the extended balconies/mini-suites below on deck 9 and deck 8; slot machines in the casino; and, HDMI signal to the HDTV.

 

Our balcony is on top of the extended balconies below on deck 9 - very noticeable difference in comparative size. Look further down on deck 8 - those are mini-suites with long balconies, check the deckplan if you are trying to decide.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150323_1843%20%28768x1024%29.jpg

 

The view below us directly from above - looking down from our balcony.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150323_1843%20%28768x1024%29.jpg

 

Pictures of some of the slot machines in the casino, deck 7 midship

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150324_1940%20%281024x768%29.jpg

 

More slot machines

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150324_1941%20%281024x768%29.jpg

 

For demo purposes - it is possible to connect via HDMI-1 (default) port (used by the stateroom TV to bring in the home signal to the HDTV set) to one's laptop/notebook PC for playback of pre-loaded DVD or mp4. A bluetooth speaker or mini-portable soundbar is optional but highly recommended for best audio (Big Blue by Brookstone is what we travel with due to its portable speakerphone/conference call functions on the go/road/in-car) Here, our Sony Vaio's display is screen casted onto the 21" Sole HDTV monitor, Windows 7's desktop is shown here. 6' HDMI cable will suffice but a 10' is better.

https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/64025118/2015%20NCL%20BA/IMG20150322_2327%20%281024x768%29.jpg

[bangzoom6877]

Question...the MyNCL site is allowing me to reserve shows for our July cruise on BA. 6 out of 7 of our dinners are at 5:30, and the other one is at 6:30. The MDR dinners are all at 5:30, as well as Cagney's, because my baby nephew has to eat at a certain time and we're with a group of 11 in our family.

 

Burn the Floor has show start times at 7:00 and 9:30. The problem is that the kids club ends at 10:30. Is the show more than an hour? If we have dinner at 5:30 in the MDR, is it possible to make it to a 7:00 show? Worst case scenario we will go at 9:30 and pay extra for the late night that night, which we let the kids do once or twice throughout the cruise (would do it when the next day is a sea day so they can sleep in).

 

Rock of Ages start times are 6:30 and 9:30. How long is this show? We saw it on Broadway 4 years ago. Do you think it's worth the effort to see it on BA or maybe we would be disappointed since we saw the actual Broadway production of it? For this I'm sure it's a long show and we would have to go to the 9:30 and the boys would stay in the late night kids club. It's $10 per hour for the two of them together to stay there past 10:30.

 

And finally, if we have a 7:00 Burn the Floor reserved, if we get there at exactly 7:00 do you think they would still let us into our reservation? Thanks!