Who doesn’t like seeing their ship in the distance the day of your cruise? The image of the ship in the distance grows larger as you approach it and so does the anticipation of the cruise you are about to embark on, be it your first cruise or not. I had the chance to tour the Norwegian Dawn while it was in port in Boston so I could share what I discovered here on the website with all of you.
The Norwegian Dawn entered service for Norwegian Cruise Line on December 7, 2002 after a christening ceremony in Manhattan with actress Kim Cattrall. The Norwegian Dawn is the third ship purpose-built for freestyle cruising and is the sister ship to the Norwegian Star. With a gross tonnage (GRT) of 92,250, this ship can fit 2,224 (double occupancy) guests and 1,066 crew members. Some of the highlights of this ship include 14 dining options, 11 bars & lounges, the El Dorado Spa and Fitness Center, a beauty salon, a sports court, 2 swimming pools, 6 hot tubs, an Internet cafe, the Teen Club, and the T-Rex Kid’s Center.
What did I love about the Norwegian Dawn? To begin with, I was in awe of the crew who all seemed happy and excited working there that day. Ask anyone who has been on a cruise if the mood of the crew affects their vacation and they will answer a resounding, “Yes!” Everyone was friendly to the guests, making jokes, and offering compliments, and I even saw a few dancing on deck. What a great way to start your vacation! I was so jealous! In addition to the crew, the ship itself was immaculate and with the new changes made last month with its refurbishment, she looks brand new. Included in the refurbishment is the addition of Moderno, a tempting Churrascaria restaurant and 50 new staterooms. Additionally, there were changes to the location of the Spinnaker Lounge, Blue Lagoon restaurant, the gift shop, art gallery, and photo gallery. Additional changes include an overhaul to the casino, the Kid’s Crew and Teen Club areas, the fitness area, the Garden Cafe, and the Atrium lobby. This is the lobby and I loved the modern hotel look it has. The entire ship is modern in appearance without looking tacky or overdone as some other cruise lines might look. I won’t mention names, but you know who you are!
Cabins: Loved the cabins on the Norwegian Dawn! We were able to see a variety of cabins from the entry-level Inside cabin at 142 sq. ft. all the way up to the Owner’s Suite at 721 sq. ft. This picture is of the living room area of the Owner’s Suite. Sorry about the shadow – I was running around like a crazy woman and not really paying attention to the lens hood on my camera. This suite is great for up to four guests and has double balconies. It includes a living room, dining room, and separate bedroom with king-size bed. Along with a mini-bar, luxury bath with whirlpool tub, and an amazing double balcony. Includes butler and concierge service. Are you ready to go? I sure am!
Remember if you sail from your home port, you save money by not having to fly anywhere. Getting to the port was incredibly easy and parking was readily available. You can see in this picture that the people just getting off the ship weren’t packed in like sardines and were calmly waiting for their rides and looking incredibly relaxed.
Within the next day or so I will post all of the pictures from this ship inspection on the Travel Shop Girl FaceBook page and I will also have part II to this tour next week so make sure you come back to read more about this great ship!
