Norwegian Encore Review

Disappointing design choices by NCL in their newest fleet addition

Review for Transatlantic Cruise on Norwegian Encore
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TravelGalValerie
10+ Cruises • Age 40s

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Sail Date: Nov 2019
Cabin: Aft-facing Balcony Stateroom

Overall NCL Encore seems like a downgrade from it's Breakaway Plus class sisters/predecessors. NCL has removed some outside public deck space in favor of an expanded Vibe Beach Club (requires purchase of a pass, limited availability, adult-only). The lounge chairs in Vibe are not as comfortable or nice as previous iterations of Vibe and have allowed NCL to cram in more people. Parts of Vibe are also not accessible (there is a seating area on the main deck near the cabanas as well as the upper level). NCL has introduced Onda (Italian) and American Diner (lunch-only a la carte) specialty dining with Encore - though the food was fine, it was nothing to go out of your way for. The menus were disappointing and offered things that were already available elsewhere on board with a slight twist. NCL still hasn't solved the problem of too little seating in the social (using folding chairs during the inaugural transatlantic) and not offering accessible seating at the rear of the theater, though there is a reserved handicapped area at the rear of the theater utilizing standard theater seats. Kinky Boots was a fun show and welcome addition to the fleet's entertainment offerings. Speedway and VR Paviliion have unposted/uncommunicated weight and size limitations, you are also required to have closed shoes (such as sneakers) for the speedway - no sandals or other shoes with open toes or backs. Passengers should be prepared for uncomfortable conversations with assigned staff if there's a possibility that they won't be able to use the facilities within NCL's defined limitations.

Cabin Review

Aft-facing Balcony Stateroom

Standard aft-facing accessible cabin. Bathroom and cabin/room are well designed and laid out. Cabin lacks any seating other than the bed and a small swivel chair at the desk. Excellent storage. No bedside electrical plugs, USB plug located in bedside sconce.

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