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Norwegian Cruise Line

MS Norwegian Sky

Your Rating:
Reviewed by: Sheldon Davis
# previous cruises: 8
Date of Trip: January 9, 2002
Itinerary: Caribbean - Eastern

We filled out our comment card indicating that after two Norwegian Cruises to date, we can only say that NCL can only be described by us as "Mediocre". Mediocre ship, food, crew, and itinerary. After experiencing NCL's "Freestyle Cruising" and listening to fellow cruisers comments, we don't believe this will become an industry standard.

Sky is starting to show some need of refurbishment after it's first two years in service. Seven Sea's Restaurant was cleaner and more comfortable than most other public areas. Garden Cafe (buffet area) could be cleaner and has restricted walking and sitting space. Stardust Lounge had a very small stage and restricted crew space to perform. Other ship areas were "OK" but not as nice as other ships we've sailed.

Seven Sea's Restaurant could be rated a "5" on a scale of 10 for food quality and presentation. The dining room staff was considered average (at best) by us. Most staff (including supervisors) - not very friendly, slow pace, not good at English language, not willing to extend themselves.

The Garden Cafe buffet could not receive higher than a "3" on a scale of 10 by anyone we talked to. Most passengers complained about the quality of the food as well as the cleanliness. Buffet staff worked at a very slow pace and seemed generally unhappy. The Sports Bar had good pizza, 24 hours a day.

The BA Ocean View Stateroom with Balcony was smaller overall than other ships we've sailed. Minimal drawer space (3 small drawers in closet area). Bathroom was "tiny" as was the shower and sink. Cloth shower curtain could not contain all water and we found ourselves standing in water frequently.

Cruise Director fit "Freestyle" image. Casual clothes, unkempt appearance (compared to other ships crews). Shows in general were average. Several nights with a magician or singer/comedian and a couple nights with Jean Ryan Company. One show did stand out above most however, it was "Sea Legs Cirque" and captivated all age groups.

On board activities included the standard pool side activities (not as well done as some other ships), three golf "driving" cages, and a nice size basketball court. Crew pushed the Bingo sessions really hard and for good reason (bingo games cost as much as $59 for some sessions with only small jackpots paid out).

Itinerary indicated "Western, 50's, 70"s and Caribbean" nights. Usually these activities encompass dinner through midnight buffet hours. On the Sky it was just 1 hour from 11:30 - 12:30. Costumes we took to participate generally went unused. Very poor planning by Cruise Directors staff.

Itinerary stop at Nassau on Sunday when many shops were closed and hours of 8am to 11am did not allow much time ashore. One day in St. Thomas with 8-5 hours in which to tour and shop. Third stop was San Juan from 8-5. Two At Sea days and one half (unimpressive) day on private NCL island of Great Stirrup Cay. Much better itineraries available on other ships.

Great mix of people from all over world. Lots of Canadians, Cruise had a special for western music lovers and several private shows for them. Fair amount of small children (we had 2 grand children under 3 years old) and plenty to keep them entertained. Good mix of young and old.