A little Rough Weather...

 First a bit of 'housekeeping'.  Starting tomorrow, you can look forward to a daily blog for the next seven days.  During that time I will be taking part in Travel Agent Awareness Week.  My final blog on the Norwegian Getaway will be on November 14.  

The Room:

Boys really appreciated the selection on the tv.  One channel had nothing but movies.  Some old, some new, and some new releases.  There did not seem to be a schedule giving you the options, you just turned it on and got what was playing.  Made it hard to plan ahead!  The same for one channel called "your favorite shows".  It was regular broadcast shows...some comedy, some drama, and even some kids shows.  Again, no rhyme or reason!  But there was almost ALWAYS something on they liked!

  

Beds were not comfortable.  And this surprised me!  The ship was only a year old... hard to believe they already felt like they were a million years old.  Hard as a rock!

Category – we had a family mini suite.  ‘family’ because it was near to the kids clubs.  Mini Suite meant it had a larger bathroom.  The actual cabin was small.  In size comparison, about the same size as the Carnival and smaller than the Disney family cabins.  Balcony was very small (again same size as Carnival)  The three of us could stand on the balcony, but if more than one wanted to sit, you had to play a game of musical chairs.

The bathroom was GREAT!  Spacious and the shower was to die for! Nice and hot, lots of water pressure.  The body jets was a nice touch!  Large sink.  Two people could easily be in there at the same time.  

Extra Special Guest - We had the added pleasure of having hurricane Joaquin join us on our cruise.  At Tortola on Wednesday we found out we would not be visiting Nassau on Friday in order to avoid the storm.

Seas were very rough from late Wednesday night until early Saturday morning.  On Thursday and Friday it was windy enough that the deck 8 deck was closed.  On Thursday I saw water coming in the doors at deck 8, not from rain but from the spray from wind and waves.

Looked more like a glass lake than an ocean

From the Atrium. Thursday morning

From the Atrium Thursday Morning

Also from the Atrium Thursday Morning

On Thursday, our waitress at Tropicana Room had some problems pouring water in our glasses.  It was really interesting to watch the ballroom dancers from Burn the Floor dancing on the floor.  Only a couple of times was I able to see a misstep due to the movement of the ship.  First class.  I was having trouble simply walking and they were dancing!  (lifting and spinning….)

It was all handled so matter of factly, it was as if it was a normal almost every day occurrence. (I was later to find out that was not the case!) There was no sense of concern by any passengers or crew.  

I have always heard that a cruise ship was the best place to be in a hurricane.  And I seriously believe it.  Even though it was cloudy and the spray from the seas made it impossible to be on the balconies, the pools were never closed!  It never rained more than a few minutes of sprinkles!  The way the ship is designed, the wind and rough seas never actually make it to the pool area.  It is completely blocked from the winds.  However, they did close the rock climbing wall and the ropes course.

Our cruise ship captain was a veteran and knew what he was doing.  He was warned about the storm, and its possible path and was given a course that would keep us out of harm's way.  He did not feel that was good enough, so he picked up the speed a bit so we would be even farther from the storm that it was thought we needed to be.  His decision turned out to be the right one as the storm quickly turned to a Category 3.  

I've been told that some of my pictures of the rough seas could be a bit scarey...but I think they make the point of how safe we really were.  The storm was raging all around us, but we were perfectly safe.  Although I will admit the seas were rough enough that normal life was affected.  You could feel the bed moving in ways it wasn't supposed to.  

Rough Seas

On port days the ship was deserted.  On sea days there was no room to walk on deck.  Since we ended up with 5 sea days, the ship felt more crowded.  We choose to stay on board during our Tortola day, giving us a bit of the deserted ship to ourselves. 

The pool situation is one of the worst.  There is a play and splash pool for the little ones, and a ‘general pool’ that has two sections…one 3 foot and one 5 foot (approx.)  there is a wall between these two areas so a small child cannot accidentally go into the deeper end.

There is an adult only pool, where all the action is.  The only lifeguards I saw were at this pool.  There are also two hot tubs.  This area was always packed to overflowing.  No swimming could be done, but you could stand in the water!

Four water slides kept the adventure seekers busy…there seemed to be a minimal wait for each.  (although they all seemed to stay busy!)  The ropes course was intriguing, with never a wait, but always a lot of people there.

My crew was spoiled by Disney.  They were used to having several movies playing throughout the day.  They found only a few family friendly movies during the whole cruise…including one we saw on the Disney a year ago, ‘Guardians of the Galaxy’ in 3D.  They found the 3D glasses to be lacking.  So scratched that it was hard to view the movie.  They tried to exchange them, but they all were the same way.

It takes more than old movies (like Annie) and scratched 3D glasses to impress my crew.

Speaking of less than stellar.  The mini golf was in terrible shape.  For the ship to be only a year old, I was saddened to see the shape it was in.  While it has a cute theme, Pirates, the paint on the foam was peeling so terribly it looked like it was years and years old.  Peeling paint, broken areas, squishy floors, and nothing to keep the balls in the area made it one of the worst mini golf areas my guys had ever played.  They were terribly unimpressed.

Buffet selection.  Not impressed.  You could count on the same selection from breakfast to breakfast and lunch to lunch.  While the quality of the food was good and there was plenty of it, just felt like old cafeteria food after a few days.

Complimentary restaurants had pretty good food.  There was a selection of classics that were available each night with a few new things thrown in.  There was one Chef’s choice each night and every night I tried it was superb!  There is a problem with the way the foods were named… a Striploin could be roast beef, a steak, or prime rib.  Sometimes the fancy name was not as easy to discern.

Gluten Free- one mess up.  Since there was 7 nights having one mess up is pretty good!  One night, the waitress taking my order the previous night was not sure if the one I chose could be made GF, so I chose a second entree in case it couldn’t…and at dinner the next night I had BOTH entrees!  LOL!  Since the amount of food was overwhelming with just one entree, there was no way I could eat them both!  I hated wasting food like that.

On last day I discovered there was a bowling alley on board!  Had we known that, I know where my crew would have stayed!

Over all I would not hesitate to sail on the Getaway again!

My guys at St Thomas!

Boarding at Port Miami

We weren't sure what to expect, since we had only previously sailed from Port Canaveral.  I'll be the first to admit that the maps for the Port of Miami were less than helpful.  The reviews I had read talked about how hot it was to wait in the sun for your turn to board.  Every where I looked it said either terminal B or C.  My boarding pass said one and my company (as it was a conference) said another.

We had made a dry run the night before (as usual for us) and had an idea but was still a bit hesitant.

As it turned out, there was no need to be hesitant!  It was pretty straight forward.  There are indeed two terminals...but they are just two sides of the same building.  (as in front and back or aft and forward)  The difference just made it easier for the staff to get you boarded as there were two gangways.  

We arrived out front and dropped our bags off with the proters.  This is amazing.  For a dollar or two per bag you don't have to worry about them until after lunch and some exploring the ship!    We then waited out front while Dad parked the van and joined us.

After we were all back together again, we went inside and started the short process of checking in.  Of course the first thing was going through the metal detector.  I don't know why but this always bothers me.  Maybe it is all the extra metal in  my neck, but I always worry that I am going to trigger it.  (although I ever do it still bothers me!)

A short wait once inside, for the few people in front of us to check in, then it was our turn.  The actual check in process was a breeze!  Took all of a minute and a half!  Verified our names and passports, took a quick picture and we were directed to go upstairs.

Here I would like to add a note.  I had checked ahead with the cruise line about Mr D's problem with waiting in long lines.  Not knowing how the actual process would work I was plenty worried.  (Carnival had a lengthy wait in a long line to check in).  They had arranged for an alternative boarding if necessary, but as it turned out we had no problems with the regular line.

Once upstairs we were given a boarding number group...1!

Boarding number Group 1!

The actual area inside of the terminal was huge!  All the reports had said there was no place to wait outside...and that is true, but I have no idea why you would want to wait outside.  The process was smooth and quick, so the only time we were outside was while waiting on Dad to get the van parked!

Inside waiting room for Port of Miami

Inside Waiting room for Port of Miami

Inside Waiting room Port of Miami

COFFE = Happy Dad!

Once we were inside, we found snack and drink machines for sodas and whatever, as well as free water (some with lemon) orange juice and coffee. We grabbed something to drink and found a nice spot to sit so we could watch the people get off the ship.

Here is one thing I loved about Norwegian!  There is no mad dash to get off the ship.  No waiting in hour long lines for your turn to get off (like Carnival).  The people leaving the ship were actually leisurely strolling...as if they HATED to leave.  

To us, it seemed like it took forever for them to get off.  In actuality, it only seemed that way because they were literally in no hurry!  There may be 3 or 4 minutes between each family getting off! Seeing that made me feel a lot better about the disembarking part of our trip.  But first, we need to get ON the ship!

Think of the terminal as a long rectangle.  It had two ginormous waiting rooms with great views of the ship on either end.  In between the two rooms was a third waiting room.  It held the priority boarders.  Those who had sailed multiple times with Norwegian and had suites..you know the VIPs!  THEY had pastries and what appeared to be light snacks served to them.  

While we waited for our turn to board, we talked about where we wanted to eat lunch!  They do not always publicize which restaurants are going to be open for lunch in addition to the buffet.  We have always gone to the buffet for lunch after boarding, but it is always a mad house.  So far we had not had any problems with Mr D, and were wanting to keep the issues at a minimum.  

It wasn't long before it was our turn to board.  We boarded right after the VIPS!  The crew at the elevators informed us our choice for lunch was not going to be available that day and directed us towards Savor.  One of the smaller quiet complimentary restaurants.  Once we arrived, we found it was not quite ready and sat in some comfy chairs to wait the short 30 minutes for them to open!  It was worth the wait!

They did not have a large selection of Gluten Free (of course who does on the first day!) So I ordered a Salmon sandwich without bread.  It was fantastic, even though it did have sandwich bread.  I learned later that was gluten free.

Our view during lunch from Savor

After lunch we took a short stroll around the ship to get some bearings and within a few minutes it was announced that our cabins were ready.  

Oddly, I did not get many pictures of the cabin.  The cabin was on the small side (similarly sized to the Carnival Sunshine) but the bathroom was huge!  A large double sink and a huge (almost double) shower with wonderful body sprays!  I was in love with the bathroom!  Our cabin was a Mini Suite.  Basically the difference is the size of the bathroom.  The regular bathrooms were much tinier.  

Huge Bathroom

This is the way the third bed looked after opening.  Not much room.

Since it was Mr D's birthday I had sprang for the birthday decorations and ordered an Oreo Cake.  The Happy Birthday streamers were on the ceiling with Birthday sprinkled around and a small cake was sitting on the counter.

At this point I left the rest of the family.  Remember, I was on a conference, and our opening session was about to start.

After my opening session I headed back to the cabin to find that most of the luggage had been delivered and my guys had put it all away!  I also discovered, that the Happy Birthday Celebration also included a CAKE!  So the Oreo cake was delivered a bit later!  Two ginormous cakes and I could not eat ANY!

The guys went on to do some exploring and I sat in the cabin to get things ready for me to go and explore.  

Suddenly I noticed the time!  It was almost time for the Safety Drill.  I decided it was time to go find the boys...but I couldn't get out of the cabin!  The door would not open!  Something was blocking it!  (yes, a lot of exclamation points but this was important!!)

Seems the last two pieces of luggage were delivered and were placed right next to the door of our cabin!  So I did what any self respecting Mom would do...I yelled...and banged on the door.  Luckily another Mom was walking by and heard me.  She and her husband helped me move the luggage from the front of the door so I could get out..and then we placed them inside the room.  They were VERY helpful!

And now for the most unimportant important part of the trip...the Safety Drill.  I know it is important.  I understand why it is required. Each cruise line does it differently, and none seem to do it as well as Disney.  It is fun and they make a show of it.  Carnival is well, it is horrible!  Norwegian walls somewhere in the middle.  At least we were inside.

This was our Saftey Station

Well, that concludes the main part of our boarding.  Next installment will be...well, I'm not 100% sure.  You'll have to hang around to find out!

Sunset from our first night at Sea

Miami Airport Hilton

Because I had to arrive the day prior to boarding (for some work related stuff) we left our house at 6 am and headed to Miami.  Yes, driving of course.  I hate to fly!

My first observation was...Miami is a LONG way from my house!  LOL!  Next, while we have gone on the toll roads in Florida, this is the first time we traveled so far on the toll roads.  It is more expensive than we thought it would be, and once you get to Miami, there is practically no way to get anywhere in the Airport area without going on at least one.  I can't wait to get the bill from Florida...they had tag readers and will send you the bill...next time I know to get a SunPass.  SunPass tolls are half the rate for tag read tolls!

My next observation...they have Earl of Sandwich in the Toll Plazas!  YES!  Now if they would just start carrying something gluten free....

We finally arrived in Miami around 4, getting into the airport area around 4:15 ish.  By 4:30 we were all checked into the hotel.  

Hotel was nice, clean, and staff was friendly.  All in all it was a great place to stay.  We had a room with an airport view.  Now, I know some would think that was an ugly view, but not I!  I am one of those strange people who love to watch airplanes land and take off.  Since we had a great view of the international take off runway (I'm sure there is a more formal name for it!) I could have sat HOURS watching them!

Miami Airport Hilton view 1

Miami Airport Hilton view of beds

Miami Airport Hilton -important view of coffee!!

I was momentarily concerned about the noise interfering with sleep, but there was no need.

Miami Airport Hilton - view from room.

I know, I know.  I am fascinated with watching airplanes arrive and take off, but hate to fly! What can I say, I'm strange!

The second day we were there (after my work requirements were met) we went sightseeing.  I took a ton of great pictures of South Beach.  I LOVE the architecture of the area. Unfortunately, I am a horrible photographer, and it had been raining all afternoon.  Since we didn't get out of the car all my pictures were taken through the windshield...seems my camera preferred to focus on the rain drops rather than the buildings...but I do have one that is semi ok...

Random picture of South Beach.

 That night we found a restaurant close by our hotel. Great Cuban restaurant on 7th street.  Casa Juan.  I thought that sandwich was enough to feed an army!  Now I have to admit, it is the first Cuban restaurant I have ever visited.  So I really have nothing to compare it to.  But I can honestly tell you, if we ever go back to Miami we WILL be visiting it again!  Yummy!

Next morning, we pack up to head to our cruise...yay!  We decided to take the tunnel.  I mean seriously...this girl who hates closed in spaces and hates the idea of being under water...loved the tunnel!  It was pretty cool going through it.

Tunnel...

Inside the tunnel.

So, come back next week and see about our boarding.  How does it compare with Carnival or Disney?  What surprises do we have in store for us?

Joaquin ? You're not invited!

Norwegian Getaway

Last month I had the privilege of sailing on the Norwegian Getaway for a seven day cruise.  Since the cruise started on the the day after my 14 year old's birthday it was a semi birthday trip for him.  I say semi, because he did not want to go on a cruise that was not Disney!  I convinced him it was a good idea, or at least one he couldn't get out of!

In the end he decided it was a good birthday present (I'm sure the two birthday cakes did not hurt!).

Today I want to start with some over all observations.  First of all, Norwegian puts a lot of stock into the Freestyle Cruising.  I do agree there is a certain segment of cruisers who will absolutely LOVE this way of cruising, but for our family it is not the best solution.  We need to have the feeling that everything is in placed and organized when it comes to when and where we eat.  

Basically, there are three main dining rooms that are complimentary.  Two smaller, more intimate and one larger, more loud!  They all three have the same menu, changes with the day.  So no matter which one you choose to eat in, you will get the same choices.  Prior to the cruise, I was able to go in and make reservations in these three restaurants for 5:30 each night.  This would be equivalent to first seating on most cruise lines. 

Second, I can not help but make note of our uninvited guest this trip.  Joaquin!  When we left home, he was nothing more than a low pressure system.  He made his presence known in a huge way.

The Norwegian staff was wonderful in handling the situation.  At NO time did we feel frightened, worried, or scared.  We were kept informed the whole way, with both ship wide announcements and letters in our staterooms.  

To keep from having a head on collision with him, we did not visit Nassau on our scheduled visit.  We sailed around the island of Cuba...basically keeping the island country between us and Joaquin.  While we did have rough seas and lots of wind, we were never in danger.

Waves Thursday morning from the Atrium on board Norwegian Getaway

More waves Thursday morning from the Atrium on Thursday morning.

I've always heard the safest place to be during a hurricane was on a cruise ship.  Other than a few hours where the outside walkway was closed on deck 8, life went on as normal on board.  We only got a tiny bit of sprinkles.  What you are seeing on the windows is spray.  Since the pool area is completely enclosed to the sides...people were in the pool almost the whole time!  

But I will admit...I would not have been a happy camper if I had not had a patch to wear...

Stay tuned for more!  Including the story about TWO Birthday cakes!