Reviews of the NCL Escape, Cruise Ship and Ports!

NCL's private island, Great Stirrup Cay

The NCL Escape promised an unforgettable cruising adventure, and I’m here to share every detail of the experience on this impressive ship. From glowing deck parties to breathtaking excursions, this voyage was packed with highlights. Whether you're a first-time cruiser, seasoned traveler, or daydreaming about your next escape, this review covers tons of info and tips—from cabins and dining to ports and entertainment.

If you’ve been considering a trip on the Norwegian Cruise Line Escape, get comfy. Here’s everything you need to know!  

Travis's Ship Selfie

Getting to Know the NCL Escape  

The NCL Escape is part of Norwegian’s Breakaway-Plus class, towering over the waves with a gross tonnage of 165,157 and a guest capacity of nearly 4,200 passengers. This massive, modern vessel flies under a Bahamian flag and boasts an onboard experience designed for fun, relaxation, and discovery. Its sister ships include the Joy, Bliss, and the Norwegian Encore. 

All NCL ships in this class are similar but they all have differences too. Just ask anyone who has been on the Bliss and enjoyed the observation lounge. Nothing beats it on any NCL cruise ship. Although the Escape is a sister ship to the Bliss, it does not have this feature, which proves every ship is slightly different.  

NCL Escape Reviews March 30th-April 6th, 2025, leaving from Miami

A group of my friends took this cruise, so I gathered their thoughts along with mine and created this blog for you. This covers the good and the bad. My friends and I have been on many cruises, on a variety of cruise lines. Therefore, we possess numerous points of comparison for this ship and this cruise.

Cagney's Specialty Restaurant, Steak and Seafood

The Good

The Food

• Food Republic (Specialty restaurant) stands out as a favorite specialty dining spot. A go-to order included sushi, Peruvian beef skewers, and a noodle dish. The menu offers a global fusion of flavors, perfect for adventurous palates. Pick 4 items off the menu for your dining experience. On past cruises, Food Republic was more about ordering a variety of dishes and sharing with the whole table (or at least it was on the NCL Star last year), but now each person orders 4 dishes and they can be different. This led to leftovers with my group. Still even without all of us getting a variety and sharing, it is still a great place to eat. There are many items to choose from on the menu. 

• Cagney’s Steakhouse (Specialty restaurant) was a top pick for anyone craving perfectly cooked steak paired with seafood.  Pay extra for a lobster tail, $25 surcharge.

• Go to Taste (Main Dining Room) for Breakfast and avoid the buffet because it is crowded unless you get there bright and early.

• Also, something I learned is to go to O'Sheehans for breakfast they serve till 11AM. Get the French Toast it is my favorite. This is the same French Toast that is on the buffet, dining rooms and room service orders.

Entertainment and Bars

• Have a great time in the Casino. This was a surprising hit for our group. While no one won jackpot-sized sums, we all managed to turn $20 into $50 multiple times. 

• If you’re into Bingo, try it. It will cost you, but my friend Travis won for $435 on this cruise. I always play at least 1 game of bingo when I take a cruise.  

• The Mojito Bar and the Skyline Bar. Pro tip? If the Skyline Bar looks packed, head to the back left corner for seats.  

• The Glow Party was an unforgettable highlight, featuring neon lights, dancing, and good vibes all around. Whether you’re a party animal or just enjoy people-watching, the deck comes alive after dark.  

• Hang out in the Atrium, get a couple drinks at the bar, play trivia and just mingle. This is the perfect place to meet people from all over the world.

• Beer fans need to visit the District Brew House, 24 beers on tap and 50 types of bottled beers are available. 

The Relaxing Thermal Spa

Relaxation Options

Thermal Suite, or Thermal Spa..... I have heard it called everything on NCL, but whatever you want to call it, it is amazing. Adults only and voted the world's best cruise spa.  You pay extra to just lounge there all day if you like. Visit the Saunas, vitality pools, ice/snow room and so much more. You would not think that laying on a hot stone lounger would be great on a Caribbean cruise, as it is so hot outside, but it is wonderful. There are also a couple of hot tubs to enjoy while you relax in the Thermal Spa. Passes can be bought before the cruise, and if not sold out, there might be a day pass available after you board the ship. My friends got a pass for one day because it was not sold out and loved it. They went back the next day, and it was sold out. So, if you know you want it, buy it in advance.

I will mention the Mandara Spa also offers massages, pedicures and so much more. The prices tend to be higher at sea in my opinion, but you can catch deals. For example, book a massage for a day the cruise ship is in port, if you are not getting off the ship that day or are coming back onboard early, spa services will be cheaper, so plan a visit then. 

The Vibe Beach Club is another great place. It is more relaxing than being on the main pool deck with everyone else on board because it is adults only. Relax on deck in lounge chairs in the sun, it is not overcrowded and has a real relaxed vibe. On some NCL ships you can rent cabanas in the Vibe, but you can't on the Escape, but don't worry there will be lounge chairs for you. You can get drinks, water spritzers, and food service. Honestly it feels like luxury in the sun as the crew members take care of you. Buy early, before you ever board the cruise ship as this sells out quickly.

Updated layout of the Freestyle Daily

The Bad

• One thing we didn’t love. The Starbucks onboard comes with a steep price. My cold brew cost $10.02, they add a 20% gratuity to your purchase.  

• The Wi-Fi was bad, not sure if this is normal for the Escape, as other NCL cruises I have been on the internet were much better. 

• Freestyle Daily that is left in your cabin for you, or if you look on the app, it is hard to find something to do because things are broken up into categories. In the past everything was listed by the time, so you could easily decide what to do. I am sure NCL switched to this for the whole cruise line. I am not a fan.

• I wish they had bottled Flow water like in the past instead of the water in an Aluminum can. NCL made this change this past year, and all though the water tasted fine, having a lid was missed most of all.

• My friend Michael said he wished the club wasn't a shared bar. The club was only open 1.5 hours a night. 

Cabin Reviews  

I am only reviewing 2 cabins Solo Cabin and Balcony Cabin. I did not have access to the Interior, Ocean View, Club Balcony, and of course the Haven suites. If you can afford the Haven area, they have their own restaurant, and I have heard plenty of good things about it.

Solo Studio Lounge area

Solo Studio Cabin/ Studio Staterooms 

For solo travelers, the Solo Studio Cabin is a game-changer. Compact yet incredibly functional, each cabin features a full-sized bed, stylish décor, and a well-designed bathroom. One of my favorite touches is the private virtual window. It’s not an ocean view, but being able to open and close the blinds at will creates a cozy, customizable vibe.  It is a good value for a single person who wants to take a cruise. 

Access to the Studio Lounge is another perk. This dedicated space is ideal for mingling with other solo cruisers over a coffee or a drink. Norwegian Cruise Line truly sets itself apart with its thoughtful approach to solo cruising.  

Balcony Cabin  

Craving spectacular views? The Balcony Cabin elevates the experience. More spacious than the solo studio, interior or ocean view cabins. It includes a comfortable sitting area and private balcony. This is the perfect way to start your morning with coffee while watching the sun crest the waves. I appreciated the modern décor, thoughtful storage space, and that extra touch of luxury.  I personally like balcony cabins when I can afford it. I love drinking coffee on the balcony. Sometimes I order room service in the morning just to have coffee on the balcony, but I usually pack my insulted refillable coffee mug and run up to the buffet and fill it up and take it back to my room. This is a tip to save some money for the coffee drinkers.

Yummy Food on a cruise

Dining Experiences  

One of the NCL Escape's greatest strengths is its incredible range of dining options. Whether you’re into casual eats or full-on gourmet spreads, this ship has you covered.  

Specialty Dining  

I have tried the other Specialty restaurants on the Escape, just on other NCL ships, and they are all great. I mentioned my favorites earlier (Cagney's and Food Republic), but here are the rest. You will not be disappointed with whichever you choose. Norwegian Cruise Line is known for being one of the best for specialty dining on major cruise lines.

Teppenyaki- Japanese Steakhouse. Fun environment, sitting with others as the chef performs tricks while cooking the food. You might even get a shrimp tossed into your mouth.

La Cucina-Italian Cuisine. Well known pasta dishes are great, but the desserts are the best. The Cannoli and Tiramisu are my favorites.

Ocean Blue-Seafood is the show here. Get the Ahi Tuna and Avocado Tower for an appetizer. Add a lobster tail to your meal for a $25 surcharge.

Moderno Churrascaria - Brazilian Steakhouse. Flip a card on the table and the servers come by and slice meat off large skewers. Flipping the card again let the servers know your plate is full. When you are ready for more, flip the card again to eat more. Many types of meat to choose from but also has the best grilled pineapple I have ever had.

Le Bistro- French cuisine restaurant, delivered classics like French onion soup, escargot, and lamb chops that made my inner foodie sing. This usually is a must for me on any cruise.

Complimentary Dining Options 

• Main Dining Rooms, there are 3 to visit Taste, Manhattan Room and Savor offer a variety of changing menus each night, and I never had a bad meal there. 

• For something more casual, O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill is your 24/7 hotspot for pub-style food. Insider tip? Head here for breakfast to avoid the buffet crowds or to grab a late-night snack at 2 AM.  The Fish and chips, and hot dogs are great.

• Garden Cafe buffet, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking for salads, international dishes, or sweet treats.  I tend to visit the buffet more often than the main dining room, because I would rather get some food in my belly and be gone. Instead of having a fancier meal where I sit for an hour or so. 

 

Travis winning Bingo on the cruise ship

Onboard Activities  

The NCL Escape's entertainment offerings take fun to the next level. Here are some standouts worth checking out.  

• Nightlife on this ship is electric. From deck parties in the outdoor area called Spice H 2O to bars being busy all over the ship. 

• The Escape has Broadway production performances in the theater, and they are not to be missed. From live performances to game shows on stage, the entertainment options cater to a wide range of tastes. Play Wheel of Fortune for a fee, it is neat since the audience can play along.

• Went to a Jewelry Seminar where they were giving away a $1,000 shopping spree. Didn't win, but it was neat to see a girl win and start looking for a special piece of jewelry in the jewelry shop.

• When it came to activities, the Escape didn’t disappoint. The Water Park brought out the kid in us—the water slides are pure exhilaration, especially the Free Fall! And then there’s the ropes course—it’s not for the faint of heart, but the views from the top are worth it.

• If you are a comedy fan, check out the Headliners Comedy Club.

• From Trivia to learning how to make origami creatures, there is something for everyone to do onboard. There is even a fitness center.

Port of Call Reviews  

One word for the NCL Escape’s Caribbean itinerary? Stunning. Each port offered a balance of fun excursions, scenic beauty, and unique attractions.  Storms one day made it late to port the next day, and we also had to miss a port. This doesn't bother me, I would rather slow down when storms and rough seas are happening, even if it means being late to port the next day or having a canceled port. Many people were complaining about this, but not me. There are plenty of things to do on the ship, and I love sea days!!!!

If you would like to learn more about what months are worst to take a Caribbean Cruise, click here.

Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas

NCL’s private island is a tropical haven. Lounge on the beautiful beach, sip drinks covered by your cruise drink package, or try the zip line for a touch of adventure. Big news for future cruisers: NCL is upgrading the island with a pier, pools, and more attractions!  Great Stirrup Cay is nice, plenty of beach chairs and a beautiful beach. I am looking forward to visiting with all the upgrades. This was my friend Cameron's favorite island to visit.

In the past this island was commonly canceled due to rough seas. Talking to the crew about this, they say it is common for the island to be missed. (A third of all visits tend to be canceled) In fact, I was at the NCL Epic last year where it was canceled. The building of the pier will help some with this but will not eliminate the issue. Royal Caribbean’s Coco Cay is on the neighboring island, so you often see Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise ships in the area. Last year when the NCL Epic canceled, Royal Caribbean canceled their visit to Coco Cay, and they have a pier. So, it goes to show, just because you have a pier, does not mean you will definitely stop at this port if the seas are rough.

View from Paradise Point from the Sky Ride in Saint Thomas

Saint Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands

I love taking the Sky Ride in St Thomas, it's cheap and close to the port. I usually spend time shopping at the market located one block away from the Sky Ride. Click here to see some videos of the Sky Ride.

One time in St Thomas I went snorkeling, and it was the best snorkeling experience in my life. The boat took us to several spots to snorkel, a couple were located closer to St John, another nearby island in the US Virgin Islands. I was able to see many fish and even sea turtles.

Across the bay, is another cruise port where Royal Caribbean and Celebrity Cruise lines tend to dock at. If you would like to read a blog about it, click here.

Michael and Cameron dealing with a chicken that wants potato chips in Tortola.

Tortola, British Virgin Islands

This island is charming with its stunning beaches and lush landscapes. I recommend a tour to explore the island with a rum tasting. My crew enjoyed the rum and island tour. Plus some fun time with the potato chip hungry chickens. Lol. You will have a good time at the beach or snorkeling also, but it is always nice to explore the island and get some culture.

Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic  

Rich with history and vibrant culture, Puerto Plata was a treat. Whether you’re exploring colonial architecture or just soaking up the local ambiance, this port offers an authentic Caribbean experience.  Unfortunately, with this cruise, this port was canceled due to rough seas and storms. Which made for a great day to stay in the Thermal Spa on the cruise ship and relax. I do hate this port was missed, but I would rather the ship be safe than deal with rough seas.

Canned water, you can purchase for your cabin. Plus, a picture of Yummy Chocolate pineapples.

Tips from taking many NCL cruises

• Take a travel water bottle to refill in the room, since the water in bathrooms in the cabins are filtered it is safe to drink. Its free!!! Especially if you do not like aluminum can water that is available for purchase.

• If you plan on taking future NCL cruises, think about purchasing stock in the company. This will give you extra Onboard Credit to spend on your cruise. If you would like to learn more, click here.

• Use a travel agent to book the cruise, if you pick one like me, they do not charge anything extra to help you book a cruise and can get you some perks like gifts in the cabin, onboard credit or add you to a group cruise that could save you a few bucks on the cruise. 

• Get the more at sea package, it is usually worth it for internet package, and alcoholic drinks if you drink a few drinks a day. Plus, you get discounts on shore excursions, and at least one specialty dining restaurant is included if in solo or interior cabin. Balcony and above get 2 specialty restaurants included.

• If you need the Wi-Fi like I do.... do the upgrade. I work remotely and need it. So, if you don't need to work, don't bother. Like mentioned early the Wi-Fi was horrible on this ship, this is not usually the case with NCL ships I have been on in the past.

• I personally avoid taking pictures that the crew set up when you embark on the cruise or any time the crew is taking pictures. You can pay for them at the photo gallery, but for me it is not worth it.

• Make sure when in port that you leave in plenty of time to get back on the ship before departure. The cruise ship will not wait on you, unless you booked a NCL shore excursion that is running late.

• Washy Washy!!!!! Always use hand sanitizer before eating. Whether it is at the buffet or a specialty restaurant. Washy Washy!!!

• Try the drink of the day. It changes every day and will be some of the best drinks you will ever have.

Final Thoughts  

Cruising on the Norwegian Cruise Ship Escape is a well-rounded experience perfect for anyone seeking relaxation, adventure, and world-class entertainment. Sure, the internet could’ve been better, and the Freestyle Daily schedule wasn’t as user-friendly as I remember from other cruises. However, these small hiccups didn’t take away from an otherwise unforgettable trip.  I hope you have enjoyed the NCL Escape reviews I have shared. It was a combined effort from my friends Travis, Cameron, Michael and of course me.

For first-time cruisers curious about the Norwegian Escape, I’d say go for it. The variety of dining, activities, and vibrant destinations make this a cruise worth taking. And for seasoned travelers? It’s a solid choice, though its sister ship, the Bliss, might still hold the crown for some.  

Planning your own escape? Be sure to pack a travel water bottle, brush up on your trivia knowledge, and explore all the Escape has to offer. I can’t wait to hear about your adventures!  

This blog contains affiliate links. If you click on them and make a purchase, I might receive a commission at no extra cost to you.