The Norwegian Epic is a very unique ship, and is one of a kind in Norwegian’s fleet. There are no other ships like it! I have sailed this ship twice, once in the Mediterranean, and again a year later in the Caribbean. The unique layout of the common areas and staterooms really set this ship apart. Many reviews criticize the ship and call it the worst ship in the fleet, but if you are prepared, you can have an enjoyable time onboard! Here are 6 tips for sailing the Norwegian Epic!
1. Buffet Overflow
The buffet on the Norwegian Epic is one of the craziest (busy!) ones I have ever experienced. One of the best kept secrets to know when sailing on the Norwegian Epic is the buffet overflow seating! At the back of the buffet (which is the most forward on the ship), you’ll see a staircase leading down to La Cucina, the Italian speciality dining restaurant. There will be a small sign directing guests down there for overflow seating during breakfast and lunch. However, it’s very easy to miss (and most people do!). Take your plates down the staircase to have a much more enjoyable experience. The tables are more spread apart, the chairs are plush, and it’s quieter. Plus, you’ll even find beverage refill stations (so you don’t have to go up-and-down to refill your glass).
2. Best Public Restrooms
One of the biggest criticism made by cruisers when sailing on the Norwegian Epic is the bathroom setup in the staterooms. It’s not terrible, but unless you are very comfortable with the others in your cabin, it can be a little awkward. Sometimes, it’s better for all parties if you take your business elsewhere. While there are dozens of public restooms on the ship, I found the most private to be on Deck 7 mid-ship, right near the shops. Especially if you’re in port and the shops are closed, these restrooms were completely empty. In fact, I don’t think I ever ran into another person in these!
3. Orange (Port) vs Blue (Starboard)
Another unique feature on the Norwegian Epic is the elevator banks. The ship has separate elevators for starboard and port sides. It can be a little confusing at first if you don’t realize that these elevators do not go up to one central bank on the room floors, but rather to different sides of the ship. Once you get onboard, take a moment to learn what side of the ship your room is on. You can then see from the lights on the elevators and staircases closest to your room that are either orange (port side) or blue (starboard side). Then, throughout your sailing, you’ll be able to know which ones to take to be near your room. And also the ones to avoid getting turned around a dozen times (like we did for the first few days!).
4. Bridge Viewing Room
One of the greatest features on the Norwegian Epic is the Bridge Viewing Room! The room is found on deck 13 all the way forward. You’ll follow signs for the Bridge Viewing Room and need to walk past a corridor of guest rooms to access it. The hours can be limited (sunrise-sunset, except when coming in and out of port) and can be closed at the captain’s discretion at any time. However, you should make it a point to visit! The room has large windows that peer right into the bridge. You can see the equipment, views, and technology needed to operate this massive ship. I loved admiring the plaques that cover the wall showing all the places around the world that the Epic has docked. Be advised that no photos or videos are allowed of the bridge, at any time!
5. Fish Swim Forward
This isn’t necessarily a feature unique to just the Epic and can also be found on other Norwegian ships. On the guest floors, take a moment to look down at the carpet. You’ll notice fish all swimming in the same direction. Especially during the first few days on the ship when you’re all kinds of turned around, it’s important to remember that these fish always swim forward! This has saved me a lot of trouble when I would start to walk in the wrong direction, look at the fish, and turn around before I made it too far. Especially if you know your cabin is forward or aft, it can really help you find your way!
6. Outdoor Promenades
One of the biggest disappointments I had when sailing on the Norwegian Epic was the lack of full outdoor promenades. If you’re looking for a path that does a complete circle around the ship, you unfortunately won’t find it anywhere on this ship. Deck 7 is home to the jogging track, but it is unfortunately only an out-and-back on either side of the ship. This deck is also completely obstructed by the life boats that hang, so it isn’t even a good place to walk and enjoy the views. If you want views, you’ll have to go up to the outdoor sun decks. Deck 16 was probably the best, but again, isn’t a complete circle. You’ll be able to go up on either side, but will have to go down and back up a staircase to get to the other side of the ship.
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