Norwegian Cruise Lines, The 'Ryanair' of Cruising.

 
Reviewed By: Jackson, Uxbridge on 28th Jun 2009
Cruise Line: NCL Cruises Times cruised before: 10+
Cruise Ship: Norwegian Jade Sailed: June, 2009
Destination: Northern Europe Age: 46-55
Cabin: Inside Occasion: Family holiday
Just returned from Norwegian JADE. Went on this last year, the prices have risen, Also the Surcharges for meals in 7 of the 11 restaurants have also risen. The service was the worst I have ever known, (been on 47 cruises)
No more complementary drinks while on gaming tables in the Casino. Everything seems to be cut back, to give a low initial price. They must have had lessons from Ryanair.
Book Royal Caribbean, Holland America, or Celebrity who all give excellent service and do not rip you off.
We found a large BOLT (M8 X 25mm ) in our food. Made it well known, including the F & B Director, but they did not appear to care, and certainly did not give any explanation, It is clear the lack of care comes from the very top.
Quality of Food1
Fair overall, But had to pay extra for 7 of the 11 restaurants. Between $10 & $25 each....UP to $45 if you wanted a large steak...
Entertainment1
Very poor, Just one act per night,.
Shore Excursionsn/a
Staff1
Food and Beverage Director, Who ignored us when we found a large BOLT in our food....
Children's Facilitiesn/a
Onboard Activities2
Cabins3
Overall Rating1
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Opinion: Agree Comment by Rum Runner, Fareham (29 Jun 09 19:16) about this REVIEW
Its time many cruise lines, and NCL in particular, took note of all the bad press emanating from UK cruise reviews. They do not seem to have realised that British people do not want to be exploited by the hidden charges that have now become so common. I am sure the average Brit would rather pay an honest price for a good standard of product than have to pick and choose between hopelessly managed and overbooked retuarants, have a reasonable choice of entertainment, and be afforded the courtesy and respect you should expect when on a cruise. When the exorbitant cost of drinks is then subjected to a 15% or more hike under the guise of a "service charge" then it does make some see red. It can be no wonder that many people opt to cancel their daily gratuities, which is not a practice I condone, but some will see it as the only way to make their point. Its a pity that its the crew members who lose out in the end and its no wonder that service levels are in decline.
Comment by branham, bromley (30 Jun 09 17:56) about a COMMENT by Rum Runner (29 Jun 09 19:16)
It should be noted that the UK based lines like P&O, Fred. Olsen, Saga and others don't resort to these practices common on the American based cruise lines. Why people deliberately choose to cruise with these companies to begin with when their operational methodologies are clearly explained in all of their literature is beyond me. These people's complaints cannot be taken seriously at the outset until they can first answer this question.
Comment by Bancroft, Eastbourne (02 Jul 09 22:00) about a COMMENT by branham (30 Jun 09 17:56)
i don't understand the "beef" people have with NCL. like you say, it's all clearly explained in all their literature. but where we differ on opinion is that I have found many other cruise lines to operate the same money-making schemes: jewellery and art promotions, bingo, surcharge restaurants, additional gratuities, etc. Some reviewers comment as if NCL was the only line to do these things but i have experienced the same things on lines such as P&O.
Comment by Fraser, Lochgelly (29 Jun 09 13:46) about this REVIEW
You should not have been surprised at any of your complaints, as they are rapidly becoming the norm on most cruise lines. The "Ryanair fleet" is expanding at a great rate of knots but that is the future of cruising. PS We went on back to back cruises on the Jade earlier this year and the service was excellent.

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