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Norwegian Cruise Line

MS Norwegian Sky

Your Rating:
Reviewed by: Rip Davis.
# previous cruises: 10+
Date of Trip: January 9, 2002
Itinerary: Caribbean - Eastern

Your web site rating of four stars and comment of "Service and quality of food on board are very good, probably better than most of the other ships in the NCL fleet" would have brought boo's from most of the passengers aboard. This 1999 built ship is of the old style (smaller cabins and public areas, less glass) and can only be rated as "mediocre". "Automatic Tipping" and "Free Style Cruising" schemes result in lackluster service. Crew feels they get paid same whether they provide good service or not.

Found passageways and public areas smaller than most newer ships. Wading pool was popular to young and old. 3 small golfing nets and a large basketball area were not well attended.

Four Seasons Restaurant could be rated 3 stars as food quality and presentation were "average". Buffet areas drew considerable negative comments from passengers as quality and cleanliness was poor. Found it unusual that Eggs Benedict and Omelets were not offered more often than every third day in main dining areas. Bright spot was 24 hour Pizza service. Very well accepted.

BA Ocean Stateroom with balcony was smaller than expected. Only 3 small drawers in cabin. Bath was smaller than accustomed to also. Plastic shower curtain diverted water to bathroom floor frequently.

"Sea Legs Cirque" was very good. Most other evenings entertainment consisted of standard Magician and singing solos.

At Sea activities were standard fare, but rather subdued. Itinerary offered "Western, 50's, 70's and Caribbean" Theme nights, found they were scheduled from 11:30-12:30pm after most passengers had retired (we counted 28 people at 50's activity). Usual Midnight Buffets were replaced by one "Chocoholic" buffet.

Nassau: Arrived Sunday am. 3 hour shore period. most stores closed, not sufficient time four tours. St. Thomas: Nine hours. Standard fare. San Juan: Nine Hours. Again standard offerings. Great Stirrup Cay (Private NCL Island): Took 3 hours to tender 1200 passengers ashore. Very crowded beach area, poor BBQ offering, etc. (recommend passengers stay aboard).

Good mix from small children through seniors, and from many cultures. Found most interesting and courteous.