Although it only seems like yesterday, I sailed on the brand new Norwegian Getaway from March 22-29, 2014. While trying to get the new website up, unfortunately my review and pictures were delayed so I’m terribly sorry about that.
The Norwegian Getaway is the sister ship to the Norwegian Breakaway and debuted February 8, 2014 with great artwork on the hull by acclaimed artist Lebo. A large ship with double occupancy capacity of 3,969 passengers and 1,640 crew members, you can definitely find something for everyone onboard this ship that currently sails from Miami with 7-day Eastern Caribbean cruises. From the 1/4 mile Waterfront with shops, restaurants and bars to 28 different and unique dining experiences that include French, Italian, sushi, and more, including Ocean Blue by Geoffrey Zakarian. Don’t forget about Legally Blonde the Musical and the Illusionarium featuring world class magicians performing during dinner.
Embarkation at the Port of Miami was relatively effortless despite the ship’s size and two areas of entry depending on your cabin location, which you will find on your paperwork that you need to print out before arriving at the port. Inside the port, I presented my passport, paperwork, and credit card and I was on the ship in no time.
Once onboard, I was able to drop my bags off, grab my cameras, and head up to the pool deck for sail away. As you can see here, the party had already started with the Getaway’s new cruise director, Sinan Ulucay, who was busy dancing and getting the party started. Sinan is a popular cruise director and was previously on the Norwegian Gem. Below you can see him with assistant cruise director Joel.
You might even recognize Joel and these two crew members from the “Happy” video that Norwegian Cruise Line created onboard the Norwegian Getaway in honor of #HappyDay. Let’s just say everyone on deck was definitely feeling happy!
This part of my review entails some of the activities that you can take part in while on the Getaway. For the daredevil and more agile passenger, I highly recommend the Ropes Course with over 40 elements to master located Aft on deck 17. Did you know that this is the largest ropes course at sea?
For the true adventurer, try taking a walk out on The Plank 8 feet off the side of the ship!
Perhaps you’d rather join in a pickup game of basketball or soccer? Don’t worry! Norwegian has got you covered on the Sports Court. There were always games going on no matter what time of day or night.
Maybe a round of 9 holes of mini-golf is just the right speed for you. Located near the Ropes Course on Deck 17, Aft, the mini-golf was always a popular place for adults and kids to hang out and play day or night.
Next you’ll definitely want to try your hand at the rock climbing wall! After gearing up, you’ll ascend the wall and attempt to ring the bell at the top. The 24 foot Spider Web, an enclosed climbing cage complete with a spiral slide, is also great for those feeling the need to climb the walls.
If the kids prefer to spend time indoors, there’s always Splash Academy located on Deck 12, Forward.
Norwegian Cruise Line separates the children out by age groups to ensure that everyone will have a good time in an age appropriate groups.
Age Groups:
Guppies: 6 mos.-3 years (at least one parent must attend with the child)
Turtles: 3-5 years
Seals: 6-9 years
Dolphins: 10-12 years
Here’s what Norwegian says about their Splash Academy program:
Our new program is specifically designed to engage active and creative kids ages 6 months – 12 years old. Whether it’s learning to juggle at circus school and performing at the “Big Top at Sea” show presented by Hilario Productions, working on arts & crafts projects or getting the high score on the all new Nintendo Wii™ U, there’s plenty of fun for everyone throughout the ship.
Let’s not leave out the teens! There’s supervised fun for them as well.
Introducing Entourage, our latest and greatest program for teens ages 13-17. Play a pickup game of soccer. Take part in a theater or fashion workshop. Dive into an interactive pool party. With so much to do around our ship, your teens can choose the activities they want to do. Now let’s have some fun!
Whether you’re planning some alone time for a port day or feel like a romantic dinner for two, Norwegian has got you covered. Group sitting services are available for children ages 3-12 for a small fee.
Of course, there are many other activities onboard the Norwegian Getaway for children and adults alike including the pool area and Kid’s Aqua Park, which we will cover in another post.
Up next, what everyone always wants to read about — the food!