Embark Like A Norwegian: Day One, Introduction to Norwegian Epic

Arrival at the Port of Miami and embarkation on Norwegian Epic couldn’t have been smoother. After dropping off luggage and parking, we proceeded to the terminal—there were two entrances for security—split by deck number. Once through the speedy security check point the lines to check in were short and we were on board Norwegian Epic in no time. Actually, about 45 minutes, which is pretty epic for the Port of Miami and a ship that carries 4,100 passengers in double occupancy.

Lunch was the first order of business and we had several complimentary choices, the Garden Café Buffet, Great Outdoors Buffet, Taste Dining Room, and Spice H2O Snacks. With a cover charge, options were the Noodle Bar, Wasabi, and Yakitori and Sushi. We chose to grab some really excellent pizza slices from the Great Outdoors Buffet and settle in poolside where the band Upryzin (pictured here) was getting down with the sounds we love. What would a Caribbean cruise be without Island Music? While some cruise lines have cut it out in favor of more contemporary tunes, we were happy to see that Norwegian Cruise Line hasn’t followed the trend to rap.

About the time the band took a break the announcement was made that cabins were ready and it was time to check out our accommodations—a balcony cabin on Deck 12 where we made ourselves at home and began unpacking carry-ons. Before we’d even finished that task our checked luggage arrived and we were settled in before the boat drill. Not having to take personal flotation devices to the drill makes it less of a hassle, but no less thorough as names were checked off in each station and passengers took the demonstration seriously.

After traveling, we were tired and decided to make it an early night with a simple dinner in the buffet and then a short walk around several decks to acquaint ourselves with the ship. The action stations in the buffet meant no lines and we easily found numerous dishes from which to select our favorites.

Our first impression is that Norwegian Epic is a huge ship, but the clever design makes it seem open and airy throughout the interior public spaces. There’s a lot more to come as we sail this week to St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Nasssau, Bahamas and spend three days relaxing at sea, so join us and sail along.