If you're dreaming of sun-soaked coastlines, historic cities, and culinary delights, the Norwegian Escape’s 11-day Mediterranean cruise might just be your perfect getaway. This itinerary was offered in August 2024 and takes you through nine stunning ports, including Trieste, Split, Dubrovnik, Corfu, Valletta, Naples, Civitavecchia (Rome), Livorno (Pisa and Florence), Cannes (Monte Carlo), Palma, and Barcelona. I recently had the chance to experience this cruise, and while it had its ups and downs, there are plenty of highlights to share.
Highlights of the Cruise
Exploring Multiple Destinations
Visiting nine different countries in just 11 days felt exhilarating. The convenience of unpacking once and then waking up in a new place each morning is a huge perk of cruising. Each port offered unique experiences, from breathtaking landscapes to rich cultural history.
Delicious Buffet Options
I was pleasantly surprised by the buffet food. There was a great variety, including a nightly crepe station and plenty of ice cream options. I found it much more appealing than what I experienced on other cruise lines.
Relaxing at The Waterfront
The Waterfront on Deck 8 became my go-to spot for relaxation. With comfortable seating and tables, it was perfect for enjoying a book or playing cards during the day. In the mornings, it was lovely for a peaceful stroll—at least until it got crowded!
Adult Pool Bliss
I really enjoyed the adult pool area, especially the shallow spots with cocktail stumps. They were perfect for cooling off after exploring the ports under the blazing sun.
Areas for Improvement
While there were many highlights, I also encountered a few challenges:
Main Dining Room Experience
The main dining room had decent food quality, but I often found the menu selections limited. Plus, service could be excruciatingly slow, which dampened the dining experience.
Disappointing Specialty Dining
We decided to try a couple of specialty dining options—Teppanyaki and Moderno Churrascaria—but both left us underwhelmed, especially given the extra cost. Though the first two guests had dining included, any extras had to pay a hefty fee.
Crowd Dynamics
This was a fully booked cruise, which meant the atmosphere was lively—perhaps too lively for our taste. If you're not into a boisterous vibe, you might find it a bit overwhelming, especially with many kids running around.
Limited Onboard Activities
I missed having a wider range of onboard activities. I enjoy trivia and sports competitions, but they were limited on this cruise, which was disappointing.
Weather Challenges
Cruising in southern Europe in the summer was no joke! We faced daily temperatures averaging 34°C with high humidity, which made exploring ports a real challenge.
Insider Tips
- Choose Your Cabin Wisely: We stayed on Deck 11 forward, and being near the front of the ship and in the middle helped minimize noise from the engines at the aft, and other noise from passenger areas.
- Explore the Buffet Fully: The buffet is massive, and you might miss some unique dishes if you don’t walk the entire length.
- Plan Your Itinerary: If you’re cruising in the summer, consider a less ambitious itinerary. Starting or ending in Civitavecchia or Livorno gives you a chance to enjoy Rome or Florence.
Must-See Ports
- Valletta, Malta: This UNESCO World Heritage site is a must-see, with its stunning architecture and vibrant culture.
- Soller, Mallorca: A short trip from Palma, this charming town is filled with picturesque streets, shops, and cafes—perfect for a leisurely afternoon.
Exciting Activities to Consider
- Dubrovnik: Don’t miss the cable car ride to Mt. Srd for breathtaking views and a scenic hike down.
- Malta: Try the Three Cities golf cart tour—an exciting way to explore while navigating on the opposite side of the road!
- Naples: For the thrill-seekers, an e-scooter tour around the bustling streets offers an unforgettable experience.
- Palma de Mallorca: The Soller Train ride offers breathtaking views and takes you to the charming town of Soller.
- Barcelona: A Segway tour is a fun way to cover a lot of ground while enjoying the city’s sights.
Final Thoughts
The Norwegian Escape presents a fantastic opportunity to explore the Mediterranean's vibrant culture and breathtaking beauty. While my experience had its challenges, the overall journey was memorable, making it a trip worth considering. Whether you're a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveler, this Mediterranean adventure could be just the escape you need. Happy sailing!
When you're ready to book your trip to the Mediterranean whether or not you choose to cruise, get in touch and let me take care of the details. Contact me at taryn.day.onvigo.com
