Norwegian Getaway Cruise
We arrived in Rome (Ciampino) on an early morning flight with Ryanair, all travel documents and entry requirements were adhered to seamlessly. We then transferred to the port of Civitavecchia, which is a little over an hour by bus. These transfers were included with Norwegian, and can be shared or private, based on your own preference. Before we embarked, we had an Antigen test done before we could check-in, which was orchestrated extremely efficiently. I do think in relation to Covid the cruise companies are really on it and have to say felt like a very safe environment. It is so exciting as you embark, from the sheer magnificence of the ship when you are up so close and personal. We went straight to the cabin to see what awaited us and where we would be spending the next few nights, which I have to say was pleasantly surprising how spacious and comfortable it was and the clever use of space. A balcony cabin in my opinion is a must, my favourite time was having a pre-dinner drink watching the world go by!
After a fantastic lunch in the Buffet restaurant, the most casual dining option that Norwegian has to offer included in your cruise fare where you can have breakfast, lunch and dinner. What I liked about Norwegian’s offering is that they have up to 9 other dining options that you can choose from included in the lead in cruise fare, so you are spoilt for choice. Thereafter, you have multiple specialty dining to choose from where you are charged a supplement from $20 per person to experience, still very good value. The food was a very high standard from fine dining to pub grub you couldn’t fault it and the service was impeccable.
I think it is very important when choosing a cruise holiday for the first time, you must consider although you will be experiencing multiple destinations during your cruise, ultimately, your cruise experience is all about what the cruise ship has to offer and what you will experience from a dining and entertainment point of view, Norwegian for me ticked all the boxes!
From an entertainment point of view, numerous bars to choose from and many with an outside sitting area where the Cocktail menu is never ending, to the Getaway Theatre offering 2 Broadway shows and The Grammy Experience (Bar) which had some talented bands with themed tribute band shows, the Fleetwood Mac experience being the highlight of our cruise. Most nights my colleagues and I would finish off the evening on the top deck, where there was a Disco every evening. We couldn’t get enough of the Disco…it had been a while since anyone had danced!
On the third day we woke up in the port of Palma. Every time you arrive in a port, the anticipation reminds me of Christmas morning as a child and never disappoints! You can disembark from 9am and must be back onboard by 5pm, again transfers are supplied by Norwegian to bring you from the port to the centre of where you are. There are also guided shore excursions which you can add to your itinerary with Norwegian at a cost.
We spent a lovely day in Palma starting with a visit the Castell de Bellver, a beautiful circular castle, one of the few in Europe with spectacular views of the port and beyond. Then into the Old Town to explore and some lunch finishing off a perfect day with a swim in the warm Mediterranean. The beach is only a 5-minute taxi ride from the old town, loved Palma and look forward to the next visit.
Another day at sea and we arrived in Civitavecchia, a very picturesque port town that is only an hour by train or bus from Rome, where you could add on a post or pre cruise stay.
This was my first time cruising and to be honest I wasn’t really sure it was for me, but my opinion has definitely changed and I feel everyone should experience a cruise in their lifetime! Thanks Norwegian.