A number of cruise lines have new vessels that have either debuted, or will make their debut in 2010. Each offers something new and innovative to the cruise industry and, Norwegian Epic, which is set for its transatlantic crossing to New York and then to Miami in June, has more than its share of industry firsts. The Epic will call Miami home and offer an Eastern and Western Caribbean itinerary. Here are just a few of the many features that make the Epic unique.
Studio Stateroom/Lounge
Calling all singles! In additional to the “new wave” designed staterooms with curved walls geared toward families and couples, NCL’s Epic has a special category of staterooms with the single traveler in mind – Studios. The Studios, with its contemporary décor and urban feel, were designed and priced specifically for the single traveler. The 100 square feet studios are equipped with a full size bed and private bathroom, have soft dome lit ceilings and interior, one-way windows. In addition, Studio staterooms have access to their own private two-level lounge that can only be accessed with the Studio room key. The lounge has a full bar, two large TV screens, a jukebox, WiFi and comfy seating for all the single travelers to meet up. Gone are the days when singles had to go looking for other singles on a big ship. Now they have their very own area to socialize. Kudos to NCL for addressing the needs of the single traveler!
Dining
The Epic offers 21 dining options to its guests so there is definitely something for everyone. And out of the 21 options, a whopping 11 of them are complimentary! To mention a few, The Manhattan Room is an elegant supper club with music, dancing and entertainment; Spice H20, serves Latin and Asian style cuisine in the adults-only area; and, O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill serves pub fare. A number of other options are available as well.
Of the restaurants with cover charges, I am looking forward to trying Cirque Dreams & Dinner which offers two Circus Soleil type shows each evening while guests dine on a three-course meal. Cover charge is $15 – $20 per person. Moderno Churrascaria is another one on my list. It’s an upscale steakhouse with an Argentinean flare. Cover charge is $18 per person. Wasabi’s Sushi and Sake Bar, Shanghai’s Noodle Bar and LeBistro are just a few of the many other choices available to suit your palate.
Entertainment and Nightlife
For entertainment, the Epic offers the Blue Man Group, which has entertained audiences in Las Vegas for years, the Second City Comedy Troupe at the Headliners Comedy Club, jazz and blues at Fat Cats, and headliners in the Manhattan Room.
Looking for unique nightlife? Try the Ice Bar. NCL will provide you with faux fur coats, gloves and hats to enjoy a drink in its 17 F bar made of ice – the only one at sea! Or head to SpiceH20 where the pool turns into a dance floor at night and dance away to live music.
As for daylight entertainment, in addition to their many pools and hot tubs, try the Epic Plunge – a huge tube and bowl slide, the climbing wall, bungee trampoline, or bowling.
The Epic is sure to please. With its many lodging, dining and entertainment options there is definitely something for everyone – young and old, families and singles. This cruise specialist is truly looking forward to sailing on the Epic.
Submitted by Heijin McIntire
feelthebreezecruises@yahoo.com
See the finishing touches! Click on the link below to see the last touches before the Epic sets sail!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bBStZLukYOU
Updated on May 27, 2010.
