Having cruised for the first time with Norwegian, on the Pearl in June 2019 and getting stranded in Barcelona Spain, due to a failed motor, I would not have sailed Norwegian again. Included in this experience was very poor dining room and guest services. Norwegian offered a generous credit, so, I booked the Norwegian Getaway for their Caribbean Cruise out of New Orleans Jan. 5-12, 2019. Totally different experience!
Although embarkation was slow, they were processing 4,800 guests, the lines kept moving and the staff was very efficient. Once on board, around 1:30 PM, my balcony stateroom was ready and I was able to unpack and start my adventure. I typically start by familiarizing myself with the ship, top to bottom. This ship was recently refurbished, summer of 2019 and it is beautiful, in my top 3 (Princess Regal is my #1).
Having read recent reviews, mostly negative, and based on my recent experience I did not partake on this cruise with high expectations. It ends up that I was blown away. This is in part due to my cruising style. Yes, all of the public rooms are smaller than previous cruise ships, but, there were more of them offering greater diversity both in dining and entertainment. I am an early diner and the reviews referencing long waits and poor service were not my experience. Quite the contrary, customer service was spot on.
The stateroom was clean, well maintained and very functional. Yes, the balconies are small, but, not a high priority for me. We had high waves and winds and the cabin did creek a little but, not excessively. It is protected by staterooms above and below, side to side, thus, no unexpected noises. Good value.