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Name: Warren Davis
Email: urwhd@uccvm.nyu.edu
Age: 36
Occupation: Database System Administrator
NumberOfCruises: 15
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: 2/3/96
Itinerary: E. Caribbean
FoodDiningRoom: 89
CruiseDirector: 89
CabinComfort: 90
FoodRoomService: 85
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck: 89
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 92
ShoreExcVariety:
FoodVariety: 89
DeckService: 95
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon: 95
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 90
GoodForFamilies: 95
LoungeService: 98
TenderService: 100
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 98
WheelchairAccess: 90
ExerciseFacilities: 95
EntertShowLounge: 90
OverallPortsofCall: 92
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 95
CruiseActivities: 95
Casino: 87
AirSeaProgram: 92
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 98
EmbarkDisembark: 95
DiscoNightclubs: 97
DeckSpace: 94
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 95
SpaceRatio: 88
OverallCruiseValue: 93
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 27 Aug 1996
Time: 10:40:11
Remote Name: 128.122.147.3
Remote User:
Comments
Don't let the unimpressive boarding lobby fool you. This is not the MV Big Atrium but
rather the
former ss France, a grand ocean liner. Great things await you once you begin exploring
this
"young" ship. She might be pushing 40 but the dame is every bit as elegant as
the new ships
coming off the assembly lines. Everything offered on the new megaliners can be found on
this ship
and then some. The spa is only rivaled by two other's that I've seen: QE2's and Celebrity
Century.
I think Norway's has the edge (true the Century's is bigger) because of the romance it
evokes. In
fact that's what sets the entire ship apart from every other mega liner - every where you
go on the
ship you are reminded that indeed this IS an ocean liner. The newest ships are beginning a
trend
of nostalgic interiors to allow you to imagine being on the grand liners of yesteryear. On
SS
Norway there is no need to imagine because she's the real thing. The Norway actually
improved
with age: she looks better now than when I first sailed her in 1983 (and she's scheduled
for
another spruce up in Sept. 96). NCL provides her with TLC. The food is OK, nothing
special,
certainly not the worst I've had (on RCCL's Sovereign). One area where she's lost some of
her
edge is her production shows. They need to be updated. Another complaint:the big 16 piece
orchestra is now a five piece band. It is true that Norway never docks, but rather tenders
you to
port from her anchorage. I think this is a plus rather than a negative especially in
St.Thomas. This
is because in St. Thomas the tenders bring you directly in to the heart of Charlotte
Amalie,
picturesque capital of USVI. The other ships dock across the harbor,isolated,and even
though
there is a shopping mall pierside, its really nothing more than four long ugly
wharehouses. Most
people then take a cab to Charlotte Amalie, which actually takes longer than arriving by
tender
from the Norway because of the traffic.
Name: Warren Davis
Email: urwhd@uccvm.nyu.edu
Age: 36
Occupation: database system administrator
NumberOfCruises: 15
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: 9/3/96
Itinerary: Transatlantic
FoodDiningRoom: 98
CruiseDirector: 100
CabinComfort: 95
FoodRoomService: 90
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 95
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 95
FoodMidnightBuffets: 89
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety:
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService:
ShoreExcValue:
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland:
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService: 95
TenderService:
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 95
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 97
OverallPortsofCall:
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside:
CruiseActivities: 100
Casino:
AirSeaProgram: 93
MedicalFacilities: 90
ShipCleanliness: 98_
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs: 99
DeckSpace: 99
Stabilization: 100
ShopsOnBoard:
SpaceRatio: 100
OverallCruiseValue: 100
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 18 Sep 1996
Time: 14:42:20
Remote Name: 128.122.147.3
Remote User:
Comments
I've just returned from my transatlantic voyage aboard S/S Norway.
Feb '96 I posted a review of the lady and so have several other people
this year. So this will not be a review of the physical aspects (public
rooms, decks, etc.). Instead I will try to provide a taste of a what
it was like being on this cruise.
But first a few words and a caveat. NCL had a large contingent of
French aboard. Originally the French were to have booked the entire
ship. When they were unable to fill all the cabins, they agreed to
allow NCL to open up the bookings to Americans, British, as well as some
other markets. This is why the cruise was announced so late in the game
and in fact NCL was somewhat unprepared and disorganized throughout the
booking process. A shipboard source (suffice it to say a high ranking
crew member) filled in the missing pieces of what seemed to be a chaotic
mess. When the French agreed to allow other passengers aboard, they
stipulated that since they represented the largest contingent, they should
have first shot at accommodations, dining room assignments, and meal sitting.
Approximately two weeks before the cruise, the entire French contingent
wanted to be switched from early seating to late, plus many were unhappy
with their cabin assignments. The result: many of us were notified that
our cabins were being reassigned and we were being moved from late to early
sitting. Without the full explanation, NCL appeared to be incompetent, and
I for one teetered on the edge of cancellation. An explanation prior to the
cruise would have smoothed some ruffled feathers. In addition NCL said
that evening attire would consist of two formal nights with the remainder
being casual. I encountered many people on board who claimed to have done
what I did: we called NCL to confirm that they actually planned a casual
crossing. Once aboard the preview for the cruise announced three formal
nights with the remainder being jacket and tie. Suffice it to say I and
many others did some creative mix and match. Thankfully I packed one extra
jacket "just in case" plus an extra formal shirt different enough to
create the illusion that I had more clothes than I actually packed.
Now the caveat: None of what I am writing applies to a Caribbean cruise
aboard s/s Norway. The experiences I will relate uniquely apply to this
transatlantic cruise. Finally, I boarded in NYC. Those who boarded in
Miami had a rough trip up to NY because of Edouard. The call at Charleston
was cancelled for the same reason so those passengers were flown up to NY.
Tuesday September 3. 6AM: My alarm did not have to ring because I couldn't
sleep all night. I jumped out of bed brewed a thermos full of coffee,
toasted a bagel and took the elevator up to my building's roof garden.
I didn't want to miss Norway's arrival up the Hudson. At 8:30 I was ready
to give up. Perhaps she arrived early? The thermos was empty causing a
call by nature. Just as I decided to go back downstairs a tug boat cleared
the building blocking the down river view. It stopped for a few moments,
then started again in a zig zag course that appeared to be a "dance."
Suddenly that unmistakable blue bow poked its head. And there she was!
Two other tugs were nuzzling up to her while the first tug continued its
dance. Traffic slowed on the West Side Highway. Thankfully nobody appeared
to be around the adjoining roof tops because I suddenly realized I was
jumping up and down, waving my arms like a wild man, crying and laughing at
the same time. A police helicopter escort spotted me, flew over and circled
a couple of times I suppose to make sure I was just a nut case and not
a threat. Satisfied it flew back to the river and continued its escort.
1PM: Boarded the lady accompanied by a violin/keyboard combo playing French
favorites.
2PM: Went to open seating lunch and was seated with 7 French. We couldn't
understand each other but the excitement we were all feeling transcended the
language barrier. We shared a warm animated lunch, laughing at our attempts
to welcome each other aboard.
3PM: Life boat drill announced both in English and French. In fact all
announcements throughout the week were. S/S Norway was no longer the
Caribbean matriarch that started the megaship trend. She was transforming
herself, if just for this week, back into the S/S France!
5PM: The ship's orchestra begins playing standards from the 30's & 40's
on the aft pool lido as the ship departs. Bottomless champagne glasses
are provided to each passenger. As the ship points its bow downriver
towards NY harbor, the orchestra strikes up New York, New York.
6PM: The first of seven special dinners are served. Two guest French Chef's
and a pastry Chef join NCL's executive chef in preparing recreations of
various seven course dinners served aboard the famous French liners
throughout the century. Dinners had names like the Charlie Chaplin dinner,
the Cary Grant dinner, the Red Dinner (everything was red or had red in
the name). One bit of confusion: the menus are fixed in traditional french
style. Many passengers complained that they didn't have choices. In fact
there were choices. One could bypass menu items. The spa menu (with very
tasty selections) was always available as was the vegetarian dish, and
a steak or chicken could be ordered off menu any night. I saw some
hamburgers come out of the kitchen the same night I dined on lamb.
A history of each menu was provided, along with news bullets of the day
it was originally served.
Contrary to someone's prediction, NCL was not scraping the bottom of the
freezers. Fresh whole live lobsters were brought aboard. There was beef
wellington, filet mignon, salmon, caviar, sushi, delicious soups, venison,
out of this world desserts on decorated plates. Premium champagne
compliments of NCL served with several dinners. Complimentary wine with
cheese. Sweetbreads, escargot, cornish hens. Everything was perfectly
prepared and served at the appropriate temperature or swiftly replaced.
These were not the ordinary meals designed to please everyone normally
served on mass market ships. One might have believed this was Crystal,
the QE2 Queen's Grill, Sea Goddess.
Those who boarded expecting just another cruise on s/s Norway with its
standard menu were disappointed (and for some reason refused to acknowledge
that CHOICES were available). The rest of us appreciated NCL's effort
to make each and every dinner unique, special for this voyage only.
My tablemates and I agreed that we would try everything on the French menu,
even dishes we had never ventured to try before. To be honest, one or two
items didn't hit the mark, but again we appreciated the attempt. 98% of
the menu was superb.
The Windward dining room was once again the famous Chambord, once hailed
as one of the finest French restaurants in the world. Chambord was the
original name for this restaurant, the first class dining room on SS France.
Days 2-7: At SEA (yess!!!) One didn't hear "where's bingo?", "what time are
the pool games with stuff the bikini?" (although these activities were
scheduled) The question was "what time is this morning's maritime lecture?"
Here is a taste of who was aboard and spoke: The chief engineer of the
SS France, the chief purser, various historians with slide shows of
famous liners, artifact collectors. The most poignant (and thrilling for
me) was Tage Wandborg, the naval architect that transformed the France into
the Norway. His lecture was memorable not so much for the details he
conveyed, or his revelations of why he made some of the design choices, but
rather the love affair he has with the ship was very evident and moving.
The most festive and crowded public room was Club Internationale. Each night
until 1 or 2 am, this underutilized quiet ballroom in the Caribbean, was
alive with tuxedo clad gentlemen and sequined ladies dancing the waltz, rumba,
cha cha, and yes, the tango! Never mind the shows playing in the theater.
Never mind the disco. This was the place! The Norway has completed her
transformation back into a transatlantic liner!
Tuesday 9/10: Noon until 2pm: I stepped out on deck to find the Norway was
several miles off the coast of France and at a dead stop. A very regal
looking woman with a hat and cape pronounced something in French to me.
Almost embarrassingly I admitted I didn't speak French. Then in a very
proper British accent and a wave of her hand toward the coast she
exclaimed "We have arrived!"
For a moment I found myself in a black and white movie from the 40's.
Le Havre's version of newschoppers started buzzing around
the Norway. Police boats came out and circled the ship. Then way off in
the distance tiny white dots seemed to be forming on the water and coming
toward the grand damme. Slowly it became clear: this was a flotilla, no
an ARMADA, of sail boats, pleasure craft, fishing boats, ferries, tour
boats, and tugs coming to greet us. The Norway resumed an almost
imperceptible glide toward the coast. We met the flotilla half way and
they formed an escort. There were hundreds of them! Near the harbor
entrance (a gate formed by two breakwaters) a fire tug started spraying.
Much to everyone's chagrin and eventual delight, the winds blew the
spray towards the ship. We were drenched! No matter, there were squeals
of laughter rather than protests! Then the Norway started blowing her
whistles. The escorts did their best to salute back.
As the Norway started entering the harbor, the most thrilling and
exciting part of the entry became clear. Without exaggeration, THOUSANDS
upon THOUSANDS of people were crowded on to all the piers, jetties, beaches,
bulkheads. The docked Island Princess began a salute. Not one eye was
dry on deck. For almost an hour every boat and ship in the harbor returned
S/S Norway's continuous whistle salute. This entry into port was so
moving, so thrilling, tears were running down everyone's faces. Officers,
crew, passengers. There was hugging, laughing, crying all at the same
time. It is impossible to convey the emotional impact in words. You had
to be there.
Le Havre: A special French line exhibit, highlighting the France, was
waiting in town hall. It seems that residents were given the day off.
The pier had a carnival atmosphere the entire day. Families with
strollers, grandpa in a wheelchair, Aunt Gigi with her walking stick
continually flowed down to the S/S Norway's berth to catch a glimpse.
News crews buzzed around. Speeches from a red-carpeted podium were
made by officials. A band played the French, Norwegian, American, and
British anthems.
The afternoon newspapers feature the ship's arrival on the front page
with articles throughout chronicling its history. This passenger felt
like a celebrity walking through town.
SUNSET: Search lights are trained on the lady. She has every external
light glowing. We crowd the decks once again as she salutes while
slipping away toward the harbor gate. Those thousands of people are
still crowded on to every square inch of the harbor. Beaches outside
of the harbor are crowded too. As the Norway's bow pierces the gate,
the breakwaters that form the gate EXPLODE! Bright white fire works
shoot up, and as the ship passes through the firegate you can see that
the entire wall is set ablaze! The same flotilla that escorted us in
to port is waiting beyond the gate. Hundreds of twinkling lights form
against the black sea. Then from boats outside of the harbor, more
fireworks! This must have been a sight to behold from shore. Once
again every one on deck is deeply moved.
And so ended the triumphant return of the SS France and the maiden call
of the SS Norway to its birthplace. To understand the historical nature
of this voyage I will relate something the captain revealed to those of
us who didn't know. When France agreed to sell the ship to the Norwegians
it was stipulated in the contract that the ship would never again enter
French waters. To be aboard this great lady as she was embraced upon
her return was indeed a once in a lifetime event. This was my sixth
cruise on the Norway (one passenger had sailed her 24 times) but in many
ways I felt like I was experiencing the true ship for the very first time.
Her personality changed during the voyage. I think she rediscovered her
true heritage. Crossing the North Atlantic she was once again in her
element, at long last performing the duties she was designed for. Perhaps
it was imagination, and maybe I'm still giddy from the experience, but
during the voyage SS Norway hit her stride and she seemed quite pleased
with herself.
Well done NCL! Thank you for a a truly impressive, unforgettable voyage.
Warren Davis
Name: Tom White
Email: tflorida@erols.com
Age: 48
Occupation: Auditor
NumberOfCruises: 3
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: August 1993
Itinerary: Eastern Carribean
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 88
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 85
FoodMidnightBuffets: 95
CabinSteward: 95
ShoreExcVariety: 90
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 75
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 88
GoodForFamilies: 85
LoungeService: 88
TenderService: 90
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 85
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 85
EntertShowLounge: 95
OverallPortsofCall: 88
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 80
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino: 85
AirSeaProgram: 90
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio: 95
OverallCruiseValue: 93
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 22 Sep 1996
Time: 12:17:31
Remote Name: 206.161.187.7
Remote User:
Comments
Food and entertainment were excellent!
Name: Lynne Vellante
Email: (none given)
Age: 24
Occupation: Higher Education Administration
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: May 4, 1996
Itinerary: Eastern Carribean
FoodDiningRoom: 90
CruiseDirector: 85
CabinComfort: 80
FoodRoomService: 85
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck: 88
DiningRoomService: 99
CabinQuietness: 75
FoodMidnightBuffets: 95
CabinSteward: 85
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 85
DeckService: 95
ShoreExcValue: 85
GoodForHoneymoon: 80
CasinoStaff: 99
PrivateIsland: 98
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService: 95
TenderService: 80
GoodForSeniors: 95
BeautySalonStaff: 85
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 85
EntertShowLounge: 90
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon: 95
EntertainmentPoolside: 98
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram: 50
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 50
DiscoNightclubs: 95
DeckSpace: 80
Stabilization: 85
ShopsOnBoard: 70
SpaceRatio: 85
OverallCruiseValue: 88
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 30 Sep 1996
Time: 13:45:51
Remote Name: 136.167.51.42
Remote User:
Comments
This was my first cruise and I have mixed feelings about it. Let me begin with the very
positive memories I have. Evenings were indeed the most special times of the cruise. I
loved dressing up and going to the dining room, and I loved the pampering we got from all
the dining room staff. The food was great, although by the end of the week I had grown
tired of too many cream sauces and too much butter. At times I found the food to be too
heavy and rich, especially where I was eating so much that week, I wished it would have
been a little lighter. I loved the singing waiters and the flaming desserts. It was all so
magical. The midnight buffets were beautiful. It was just like I pictured with the Ice
Sculptures and the shrimp cocktail! One night the midnight buffet featured only Chocalate!
It was "to die for".
I would also like to comment highly on the Casino. It was really my first experience with
playing anything other than the Slot Machines. The dealers were incredibly patient with me
while my friends coached me on how to play BlackJack. I didn't feel intimidated with
taking my time or asking questions. Now I am ready for Las Vegas!!!
Unfortunately, our first cruise will also stick out in my memory for a negative reason.
Our luggage never made it to our cabins that first night. Although I realize this was
mostly the fault of the airline (because it was never unloaded in Miami and ended up going
to Jamaica), I feel that if a cruise ship is gong to offer an Air/Sea program then they
better be sure that the airline they choose can deliver! I was always a little uneasy
about leaving my luggage in Boston and not seeing it again until it came to my cabin door.
All I kept thinking while in Miami was "how would I know if my luggage never even
made it this far, never mind onto the ship???" Sure enough, this was true! The worst
thing was that we couldn't even file a complaint until after 8:00 p.m. that night, the
time when all the luggage was supposed to be delivered to your cabin. At this point we
were already suppose to be dressed for our first special dinner. To say the least, our
first couple of days were spent filling our forms and shopping for clothes while everyone
else was receiving their warm welcome and soaking up the rays!!! You can only imagine the
aggrevation I felt thinking about the month I had just spent carefully preparing for my
first cruise; shopping for that perfect gown and bathing suit! That may sound very
materialistic, however a cruise is the one week when you are suppose to be just that. It
is a time when you are just suppose to be good to yourself!!! You know how much you desire
that, especially after working all year!!! The purser's office was extremely helpful, and
did give us a credit to be spent for supplies until our luggage came. However, when
underwear are about $10.00 a pair in the cruise shops, this credit didn't go very far!!!
We did get our luggage on Tuesday (we had set sail on Saturday), and still had a great
time, but what really bothers me is the following. We wrote a letter to Norway telling
about our experience. Not that we expected a free cruise or anything, we were all just
looking to express the inconvenience we experienced and to get a heart-felt apology.
However, they replied with a rather unsympathetic letter which basically passed the blame
and turned a deaf ear on us. I guess we were all left feeling that, because we were young,
our opinion really didn't matter.
Name: Tom Dillon
Email: msmcl101.tdillo01@eds.com
Age: 52
Occupation: Trainer
NumberOfCruises: 2
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: October, 1994
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean
FoodDiningRoom: 99
CruiseDirector: 90
CabinComfort: 99
FoodRoomService: 90
CruiseStaff: 95
CabinAmenities: 95
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 99
CabinQuietness: 99
FoodMidnightBuffets:
CabinSteward: 85
ShoreExcVariety: 80
FoodVariety: 99
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 85
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff:
PrivateIsland: 95
GoodForFamilies: 90
LoungeService: 90
TenderService: 100
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff: 90
EntertainmentLounges: 85
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 90
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 85
CruiseActivities: 85
Casino:
AirSeaProgram: 95
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 85
EmbarkDisembark: 90
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 95
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 95
SpaceRatio: 98
OverallCruiseValue: 95
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 04 Dec 1996
Time: 14:09:11
Remote Name: 198.79.10.99
Remote User:
Comments
I really enjoyed this cruise. We had an S1 suite, which was enormous! Really nice!
Thoroughly enjoyed the cruise. The only bad thing that happened was that my wife and
daughter took a shore excursion to the French side of the island, not knowing that it was
a holiday over there; they ended up sitting on a beach for almost 4 hours, with no water,
nothing to do, etc. They got their money back, but NCL should have told their customers
that nothing would be open on the French side of the island. I went SCUBA diving on the
Dutch side, but it wasn't much. Lots of surge, little to see except dead coral, etc. Not
NCL's fault, though.....I booked the dive myself. I took the NCL SCUBA dive on St. John,
and enjoyed it immensely. They use Low Key Watersports, who does a really good job. Dive
was on Mingo and Grass Cays. Nice. Private Island was probably the highlight of the entire
cruise. Well done. My daughter got lucky and won the Grand Bingo on the last day...about
$4600! Paid for her and her husband's cruise, and gave her lots to celebrate while on the
private island! Would sail on this lovely old ship again in a heartbeat. I think I'd like
to take her on a Western Caribbean cruise next time.
Name: Paul Rubin
Email: prubin@teledotcom.com
Age: 29
Occupation: journalist
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: Nov. 30, 1996
Itinerary: Eastern Caribbean
FoodDiningRoom: 85
CruiseDirector: 85
CabinComfort: 88
FoodRoomService: 80
CruiseStaff: 85
CabinAmenities: 80
FoodLidoDeck: 80
DiningRoomService: 89
CabinQuietness: 89
FoodMidnightBuffets: 85
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 90
ShoreExcValue: 85
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff: 90
PrivateIsland: 90
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService: 90
TenderService: 80
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 85
EntertShowLounge: 90
OverallPortsofCall: 90
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 90
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 80
EmbarkDisembark: 79
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace: 80
Stabilization: 80
ShopsOnBoard: 80
SpaceRatio: 80
OverallCruiseValue: 85
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 11 Dec 1996
Time: 16:49:49
Remote Name: 152.159.1.12
Remote User:
Comments
The Norway is a great ship for first time cruisers since there is so much to do and the
ship itself is almost as interesting as some of the destinations. The Norway has an
interesting mix of passengers ranging from honeymooners to families to seniors made for a
diverse crowd.
Our first night on the ship was a rough one. My wife and I were both getting over colds
and had a mediocre meal and decided to go back to our cabin and turn in early. While our
room was spacious and on the jogging level with a nice view it was located directly above
a lounge and it felt like the band was in our cabin. Needless to say we couldn't get to
sleep until the band stopped playing around 2 am. We called the purser's desk to see what
they could do but they were of no help. The next day we were able to get a cabin change
although the staff was reluctent and told us they would instead try to get the music
turned down and we should stay in the cabin. Apparently they have received many complaints
of this nature so don't request an outside stateroom in the middle of the Olympic deck on
the Norway. While our new cabin was smaller it had a double bed instead of two single beds
and wasn't situated anywhere near a nightclub. We still find it hard to believe the noise
from a nightclub would travel up one level and that NCL would actually book expensive
cabins that have these noise problems.
The rest of the trip, however, more than made up for the first night. The food was usually
quite good but never took your breath away. The fish dishes and some of the meat dishes
were among the best. Service in the dining room was good although sometimes rushed even
though we had the late seating.
Entertainment in clubs and the broadway theatre was always enjoyable, especially the
broadway musical acts.
The ports offered a great opportunity for shopping, sightseeing and recreation but because
the Norway holds 2,000 passengers, it is sometimes a slow process unloading all the
passengers on to tenders. The boat can't dock and must run tenders to the shore.
The cabin steward was first rate but some of the staff (just a few bad apples) was a bit
rude at times.
We plan to cruise again and may try another NCL ship or Royal Carribbean.
Name: Ken Schwartz
Email: kschwart@us.oracle.com
Age: 51
Occupation: Project Manager - Consultant
NumberOfCruises: 15
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: 9/1/97
Itinerary: NY to LaHarve France to South Hampton England
FoodDiningRoom: 1
CruiseDirector: 1
CabinComfort: 5
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 6
CabinAmenities: 5
FoodLidoDeck: 3
DiningRoomService: 6
CabinQuietness: 5
FoodMidnightBuffets: 3
CabinSteward: 9
ShoreExcVariety: 1
FoodVariety: 1
DeckService: 7
ShoreExcValue: 4
GoodForHoneymoon: 1
CasinoStaff: 7
PrivateIsland:
GoodForFamilies: 6
LoungeService: 7
TenderService:
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 5
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 5
EntertShowLounge: 5
OverallPortsofCall: 8
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 1
CruiseActivities: 1
Casino: 6
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 7
EmbarkDisembark: 4
DiscoNightclubs:
DeckSpace:
Stabilization: 9
ShopsOnBoard: 6
SpaceRatio: 7
OverallCruiseValue: 3
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 01 Jan 1997
Time: 21:52:47
Remote Name: 199.174.210.222
Remote User:
Comments
Been on over 15 cruises to many exotic locations. In late July we saw this cruise written
up in USA Today. It was initiated by the French Ministry as a tribute to the old SS.
France (currently the S.S. Norway). She was going to drydock in South Hampton England to
be fitted to meet 1997 sailing standards. It was making a special stop at its place of
berth (birth) La Harve France. Over 650 French people flew from France to NY just to make
this historic transatlantic crossing and return to France. First night we knew we were in
trouble. The menu had NO food choices for any course. Salad was NEVER an option. No greens
for 8 days. First night menu was venison. If you didn't like venison you could choose from
the 'healthy choice menu'. I didn't book a transatlantic cruise to eat off the healthy
choice menu. OK we will eat at the Le Bistro Restaurant tomorrow. The Le Bistro Restaurant
NEVER OPENED the entire cruise. Second night dinner - Duck Shephard Pie, should I
continue?? So many people complained we were offered steak, chicken or seafood
alternatives (if we ordered the night in advance). Ordered some steak the next few nights
and had steak and potatoes each night (no variety). I could have eaten at my local
Longhorn Steakhouse. Entertainment as we crossed the Atlantic (6 days no ports of call)
lectures and historical movies. Too cold to sit on the deck in September on the Atlantic
Some French stuff (we were never told of). Otherwise Bingo at 11 AM and Trivia at 1PM.
(needed to rush thru trivia so that we didn't miss lunch, since there was nothing to look
forward to at dinner. Bottom line, what a disappointment ! This was our third cruise on
NCL (Skyward and Seaward now the Norway) and remember this cruise line to be first rate. I
don't know if because this cruise was never 'planned in advance', there was little thought
to the passengers, or if it was just a one-time cruise disaster. I felt it was important
to notify NCL of my huge disappointment (We are members of Lattitudes their frequent
traveler program) with the glorious SS Norway. The anticipation and excitement to travel
on the SS France. A dream of a lifetime. A celebration of a great ship, a historical
event. I wrote of my excitement and disappointment. Their response - standard 'sorry for
the inconvenience' blow away letter. Loyal repeat customers - blown away. I know I never
travel NCL again. Too many other great cruise ships out there. Any other travelers out
there been on this particular cruise? I would love to share experiences with you.
Name: Laura Drahzal
Email: pdrahzal@en.com
Age: 28
Occupation: ad agency account executive
NumberOfCruises: 6
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: August 1994
Itinerary: Eastern Car
FoodDiningRoom: 88
CruiseDirector:
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService: 75
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 85
FoodLidoDeck: 90
DiningRoomService: 98
CabinQuietness: 80
FoodMidnightBuffets: 95
CabinSteward: 90
ShoreExcVariety: 85
FoodVariety: 90
DeckService: 95
ShoreExcValue: 85
GoodForHoneymoon: 75
CasinoStaff: 98
PrivateIsland: 85
GoodForFamilies: 95
LoungeService: 95
TenderService: 60
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 80
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 90
EntertShowLounge: 90
OverallPortsofCall: 95
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 95
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 95
AirSeaProgram: 95
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 95
EmbarkDisembark: 60
DiscoNightclubs: 95
DeckSpace: 70
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard: 85
SpaceRatio: 70
OverallCruiseValue: 88
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 03 Jan 1997
Time: 10:57:57
Remote Name: 207.78.11.175
Remote User:
Comments
The Norway is a wonderful ship for families with children, ages of the children can range
from 5-15, and they will all have a good time. I went on the ship when I was 16, 20 and 26
- I had more fun when I was younger, as it tends to be a younger oriented ship.
If you are single looking to go on the Norway, this is the ship - great night clubs, lots
of activities. If you are a couple looking for seclusion, the Norway will not please you -
try a smaller vessell, and the food will be more gourmet on a smaller ship.
The best quality of the Norway is it's staff - they love working on the ship, and will do
anything for you, espcieally the dining room staff. The food is average, but better than
if you were cooking at home!
The worst part of about the Norway is the tender service. I felt as though I was cattle
being hurded to each island. The ship is too large to get to most ports directly, so a
samll boat must be ridden to shore - and the lines, and the waiting for the boat - what a
pain. This factor alone has made me decide to never return on the Norway, until I have
children that will enjoy all the activities.
Name: Steve Grotbo
Email: steve.grotbo@unisys.com
Age: 31
Occupation: Airline Consultant
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: 9/27/97
Itinerary: West Caribbean
FoodDiningRoom: 97
CruiseDirector: 85
CabinComfort: 85
FoodRoomService:
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 80
FoodLidoDeck:
DiningRoomService: 95
CabinQuietness: 85
FoodMidnightBuffets: 90
CabinSteward: 85
ShoreExcVariety: 95
FoodVariety: 95
DeckService: 85
ShoreExcValue: 75
GoodForHoneymoon:
CasinoStaff: 93
PrivateIsland: 80
GoodForFamilies:
LoungeService: 85
TenderService: 75
GoodForSeniors:
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 70
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities:
EntertShowLounge: 70
OverallPortsofCall: 95
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 85
CruiseActivities: 75
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram:
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 85
EmbarkDisembark: 75
DiscoNightclubs: 90
DeckSpace: 90
Stabilization: 90
ShopsOnBoard:
SpaceRatio: 85
OverallCruiseValue: 89
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 02 Jan 1998
Time: 07:52:15
Remote Name: 129.227.182.95
Remote User:
Comments
This was our first cruise but definitely not our last. I currently live in Frankfurt,
Germany, but am American and went on the cruise with a
British work colleague (41 years old). The reason we chose the west Caribbean was that it
was only 7 days as compared to the 14 day
package normally offered for the European cruises and it had stops in four countries. The
stops and food were excellent, but the
entertainment was very much out of our expectation. This cruise was advertised as having a
Dixie music theme, but we were under the
impression that meant all the normal entertainment with extra Dixie music. To our
surprise, almost all entertainment was Dixie music, which
is fine for a couple days, but starts to get very old.
Our first stop was Ochos Rios, Jamaica where we signed up for the Dunn River Falls boat
tour. This was the only tour we did that was
arranged aboard ship. This port did not have the other normal tour operators greeting you
as you got off the ship, so it was probably wise to
take the ships tour if you also want a water tour of the island. The people operating the
tour were very friendly, kept the rum punch flowing,
and provided wet socks for $5. Red Stripe beer was also available for $1, but try and
bring some change as they never seem to have any
change. The town itself was still down to earth and not built up. The drinking was much
better here, as the cruise ship did not have any good
beers and the drinks were week.
The second stop was the Grand Cayman. The main highlight here is the visit to stingray
city where you swim in waist high water whilst about
30 stingrays are swimming around you. You get to feed them and the guide even holds up one
of them for getting a real good look.
Something not to be missed. The tour on the ship charges $40, where on shore you can get
the same package for $25 from a number of
different operators.
The third stop was Cozumel, Mexico. Here we just did some snorkeling at the beach in the
park. It was just a short taxi ride away and we were
able to get snorkeling equipment there. After the beach, we visited Carlos n' Charlies for
a couple yards of margaritas. This was the best bar
we hit during the cruise and is also where most of the cruise staff were partying at.
The last place was the NCL private island in the Bahamas. A nice BBQ was served. Swimming
and beach drink service was the main
entertainment. It would have been nice if more water activity was provided, such as jet
skis.
We chose the late seating for lunch and dinner, as we did not want to get out of our
shorts till the last possible moment. After 6 PM, no
shorts were allowed inside and two of the nights were formal (coat and tie). The food was
excellent and no concern was given to how much
you want to order (eat to your hearts content). The wine selection was good, with bottles
ranging from $15 to $40. Also, you could bring
your own wine in for a $6 corkage fee. The only side affect from taking the late seating,
is you are not very hungry when the midnight buffet is
served. So basically, you are only eating 3 meals a day instead of the possible 4 meals.
Buffet food was basically always available as well, but
nothing ever looked that tempting for us.
Another separate restaurant was available in the evening, but seemed more for the romantic
couples. It would also be good for when you met
that someone special on the cruise, as all the meals were assigned seating. Unfortunately,
the cruise did not have that many activities to
encourage meeting the opposite sex.
The ship and its staff were excellent. The staff was very friendly and international. The
casino staff was mostly British, the tables had a $5
minimum, and you could charge your gambling to the room. The marble structures and brass
work around the ship really highlighted the
ships age, as these would not be feasible in toady's designs.
Main thing we learned was to not ever take a theme cruise again, as a variety of
entertainment would be much better.
Name: Don Tremain
Email: 2tremain@airmail.net
Age: 44
Occupation: photographer
NumberOfCruises: 1
TravelAgent: No
Ship: NCL-Norway
SailingDate: 8/95
Itinerary: eastern caribbean
FoodDiningRoom: 89
CruiseDirector: 88
CabinComfort: 90
FoodRoomService: 75
CruiseStaff: 90
CabinAmenities: 90
FoodLidoDeck: 85
DiningRoomService: 90
CabinQuietness: 90
FoodMidnightBuffets: 85
CabinSteward: 99
ShoreExcVariety: 80
FoodVariety: 88
DeckService: 88
ShoreExcValue: 80
GoodForHoneymoon: 90
CasinoStaff: 88
PrivateIsland: 100
GoodForFamilies: 90
LoungeService: 85
TenderService: 85
GoodForSeniors: 90
BeautySalonStaff:
EntertainmentLounges: 90
WheelchairAccess:
ExerciseFacilities: 88
EntertShowLounge: 85
OverallPortsofCall: 88
BeautySalon:
EntertainmentPoolside: 80
CruiseActivities: 90
Casino: 90
AirSeaProgram: 90
MedicalFacilities:
ShipCleanliness: 90
EmbarkDisembark: 88
DiscoNightclubs: 88
DeckSpace: 100
Stabilization: 95
ShopsOnBoard:
SpaceRatio:
OverallCruiseValue: 88
Submit: Submit Review
Date: 24 Apr 1997
Time: 04:05:36
Remote Name: 206.66.11.140
Remote User:
Comments
I'm one of those people who actually won a cruise and the Norway was my prize. I had
always sworn I would never
go on a cruise. It seemed like something retirees do and although I am not a kid anymore I
see myself more as a
backpacker in the Rockies than a person who would lay around on a boat for a week. The
Norway was an attitude
adjustment for me. I now believe the only true vacation is a cruise. And I would
definitely try the NORWAY again.
What did I like? Well, I've heard a lot of people characterize the ship as a 'grand old
ship'. I would agree. I like older
things and the NORWAY was a visual treat for me. I actually had a bulky view camera with
me and I took several
images onboard--two are now in my portfolio. The ship had a lot of character! I found the
ride to be very smooth. I
was worried about sea sickness beforehand but I had no problems. Actually, the gentle roll
of the ship at night gave
me some of the best sleep I've had in my life. I have to admit I'm not a critical person
when it comes to service and
dining. Keep that in mind when I say I found both areas excellent on the Norway. I heard
other passengers complain
at times but I found it hard to identify with their concerns. Our room steward was
wonderful. My roommate, another
bachelor, and I pitted out our room continually but it was always spotless when we
returned from various activities.
By the way-I would rate the Norway average to okay for single guys looking to socialize
with single women. It wasn't
great but we did find some ladies to party with. There was a real demographic mix of
passengers--all kinds.
The shows were okay. The clubs and nightspots were adequate to good. The dining room was
very nice and my
friend and I always enjoyed the comaradarie of the people we dined with every night. The
Bistro Restaurant was
superb. I should have ate there more than once. The midnight buffetts were not of interest
to me so I won't comment
on them. My friend likes to gamble and had a great time in the casino all week.
I was surprised by the social dynamics of a cruise. People tend to meet a few folks and
then you seem to bond quite
quickly. That was very enjoyable but I would guess that is part of any cruise experience
so it is a moot point in
critiquing the Norway. There was always something to do on the Norway. I was never bored.
I was often exhausted
though until I learned to pace myself. I enjoyed the 'cruise experience' so much I almost
hated to stop for land
excursions. St. Martens was just okay--yes we went to the nude beaches but that does get
boring quite quickly.
However it was fun watching some of the Norwegian passengers get pounced upon by irate
French bathers who
resented seeing cameras and camcorders on their nude beach. Trunk Bay was delightful on
St. John. I would
recommend it for snorkeling, sand and sun. St. Thomas was a yawn--I hate shopping. Buy all
your liquor at St.
Marten! Definitely the cheapest there and conveniently early in the cruise. I brought lots
of tonic and coke on board in
Miami. It served us well with our in cabin refridgerator and gin and rum from St. Martens.
Our cabin became as
popular a watering hole as many of the ship's bars. My bar tab at the end of cruise was
only $24 due to this
arrangement.
I enjoyed the NCL's private island excursion very much. Snorkeling was good and the party
all day long was great. I
was sad it didn't go into the night. I would recommend getting an early tender that day as
it flies by very fast.
I really have a hard time trying to think of anything negative to pass on about the
Norway. As I said, I did hear some
people complain about some things and some of these people had been on other cruises.
Maybe they have a better
perspective, maybe not. I stepped on board the NORWAY with basically no expectations and
was very glad to have
won a free week on the Caribbean. I wanted no more than a week of relaxation, some
pampering, some good food,
a new friend or two, new experiences and some fun. I got all of that in triplicate. A
wonderful week!
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