Break from the Ordinary on Norwegian Breakaway
By Alara Shannon, Marketing | May 01, 2013 ( Comments)
This year’s most buzz-worthy ship, the Norwegian Breakaway, successfully made her groundbreaking debut with an overall positive reaction. This state-of-the-art 4,028 passenger ship is the largest ship to home port year-round in New York and embodies a uniquely Big Apple vibe. The Breakaway will sail seven-day Bermuda, Bahamas and Caribbean itineraries from the Port of New York year-round.
Norwegian Cruise Line, for better or worse, has always been an innovator of the cruise industry. They are willing to try something new, capitalize on concepts that work and accept or change those that don’t. The Norwegian Breakaway is a concept that works.
Team members of iCruise.com were fortunate enough to be introduced to the ship on a recent inaugural sailing. Our consensus was that this ship was surprisingly elegant, full of entertainment and well, pretty much a hit. Plus, sailing from the Port of New York is one of the more moving sail-aways you can experience – passing the newly finished Freedom Tower and Statue of Liberty.
First impressions of the Norwegian Breakaway, the décor was classic and inviting with rich woods and calming color palettes including earth tones, blues and greens. Each public space had a very visual, distinct impact and while not exactly large, there were numerous venues throughout the ship so it never felt overcrowded.
Even the public restrooms were well-designed, with plenty of stalls and space. One quick tip, it took most of us a while to realize after much discussion that the automatic toilets flushed only once you physically close the door after you’re done. Sounds silly, but something good to know!
Technology was prevalent onboard, with flat-screen TV’s and touch screens galore (even in the coffee tables in the atrium lounge!). A number of large touch screens were available on each deck to help you navigate the ship, check the time (there were not many clocks onboard) and even make restaurant or show reservations.
Although not a sister ship to the Norwegian Epic (debuted 2010) it seems as though the most popular features of the Norwegian Epic remained and even increased in size such as O’Sheehan’s Neighborhood Bar & Grill, Cirque Dreams and Dinner, AquaPark, Family Cabins, Studio Staterooms and more.
However, some of the more unpopular features of the Norwegian Epic did not remain. Returning to the Norwegian Breakaway are oceanview staterooms and traditional enclosed bathrooms.
The modern, Miami-esque style of separate toilet and shower was a huge issue of debate on the Norwegian Epic. But, luckily the Norwegian Breakaway offers modern bathrooms with a clean, contemporary design with all necessary facilities in one space. The actual size of the bathroom was noticeably larger, as well. A really intelligent design that allows for a nice-sized shower and plenty of room.
The staterooms are stylish, but also functional. Storage space seemed to be a point of focus for Norwegian Cruise Line with a large closet, space under the bed, pull out drawers under the sofa bed (if applicable), and within the attractive wood wall unit that also included the television and vanity.
The beds, though somewhat short, were very comfortable with crisp, white linens. The cabins are also very well lit, with the switches much easier to find and control. The private balconies seemed a bit cramped and while you might not be able to lounge or easily fit a larger party, there was still just enough space to read and enjoy coffee in the morning.
The Haven, an exclusive ship-within-a-ship experience, consists of 42 suites located forward on Decks 15 and 16. If you didn’t want to, you would never really have to leave this area that includes a private restaurant, cocktail bar and concierge desk. In the center, there is a two-story courtyard including a pool, two whirlpools, private sundeck, private massage rooms, changing area and sauna. The Haven also offers a private spa and fitness center. Guests receive special platinum-colored keycards, 24-hour butler service, priority reservations in the ship’s specialty restaurants, spa, entertainment and exclusive invitations to private events.
Another highly anticipated public area onboard the Norwegian Breakaway was 678 Ocean Place. And it did not disappoint, with a 3-story atrium spanning Decks 6, 7 and 8 it was refreshingly open. As soon as you approach, you can feel the energy. It is considered the heart of the ship, and at its center is a spectacular chandelier. Contemporary glass staircases connect the decks, each offering its own vibe from nightspots to restaurants. Another quick tip for ladies, while contemporary and beautiful, we did notice that if standing on Deck 6 or 7 and you casually look up – you can see through the glass so be careful walking down in a dress!
On Deck 6 you can find the beautiful Le Bistro specialty restaurant with really nice ‘outdoor’ seating, plus entertainment venues like Headliner’s Comedy Club. Travel up to Deck 7 and you can try your luck in the very large casino. On Deck 8 grab a parka and drink from the Ice Bar or a martini from the extremely popular Shaker’s Cocktail Bar that always had a fun crowd. Head to the stunning Ocean Blue Seafood Restaurant by Geoffrey Zakarian or continue on to the Waterfront.
One feature of the Norwegian Breakaway that was universally praised for its innovation was the Waterfront. Located on Deck 8, this oceanfront boardwalk is a unique experience that gets you back outside and connects you to the sea. Scoop up a delicious gelato and have fun with the viewing binoculars available for use – no quarter needed! The Waterfront offers Carlo’s Bakery, shops and bars as well as outdoor seating for specialty restaurants Ocean Blue, Cagney’s Steakhouse, Moderno Churrascaria, and La Cucina.
The Waterfront was a really pleasant area of the ship, with venues on both sides open at varied times it never felt overwhelming or crowded. You can dine outside, or be a part of the late night action but still be able to step out for an ocean breeze. It can get pretty windy and chilly at night, so layers are recommended in the evenings.
The Norwegian Breakaway sails year-round from the Port of New York to Bermuda, Bahamas and the Caribbean. For more information, or to book your Norwegian Breakaway vacation, please give one of our friendly cruise specialists here a call at iCruise.com a call 800-i-CRUISE [800-427-8473]
