Norwegian Epic Review
When it launched in 2010, Norwegian Epic was hailed as the ship that would set the agenda for 21st-century cruising. In some ways, it did: Many of the amenities — extravagant waterslides and a large sports complex, cutting-edge entertainment, 14 food venues, and cabin complexes designed for both solo travelers and luxury-seekers — have appeared on Norwegian Cruise Line's subsequent ships, from Norwegian Breakaway to Norwegian Bliss. And some of the concepts have been "borrowed" by other lines as well.
What We Love
Great Bars: Whether you choose to party at the South Beach-inspired, open-air Spice H20, sip vodka at the Skyy Vodka Ice Bar or sake at Wasabi’s Sake Bar, or bowl at O'Sheehan's Bar & Grill, there's a bar for just about every type of drinker.
Impressive Entertainment: The nighttime options onboard Epic offer something for everyone. The Epic Theater is the setting for production shows, including the sexy “Burn the Floor” ballroom dance extravaganza, and “Deal or No Deal” gameshow competitions. The Cavern Club is the place to enjoy live music by a look-alike Beatles cover band, while Headliners Comedy Club hosts stand-up comics and “Howl at the Moon” dueling piano performances.
Best Known For
Innovative Specialty Cabins: The stateroom design succeeds greatly in The Haven, a complex of luxury suites that underwent a major update in 2020, as well as in the Studios, funky little cabins for solo travelers (Norwegian has since added Solo Balcony cabins for singles as well).
Dining Choices: You can eat your way through cuisines from around the world, though at Epic’s six specialty dining venues, you'll have to pay a la carte prices to do so. Among the complimentary choices is the Manhattan Room, a main dining room built for romance (the look is reminiscent of a New York supper club), and Taste, a more contemporary venue. You can also enjoy buffet dining at Garden Café, 24/7 pub fare like burgers and fish ‘n chips at O’Sheehan’s Bar & Grill, and Asian-fusion cuisine at Shanghai Chinese Restaurant and Noodle Bar.
Who It's Good For
Millennials and Boomers: This is a fun, casual ship with a lively atmosphere and plenty of things to do.
Families: Kids will be well entertained in the Splash Academy, while teens get a separate Entourage lounge. The Aqua Park features two pools, five hot tubs, and three thrilling waterslides (including the 200-foot Epic Plunge). There’s also a Sports Complex with plenty of features to appeal to the whole family, including a college regulation-size basketball court, rock climbing and rappelling walls, and a climbing cage.
Don't Say We Didn't Warn You
Standard Cabins Have Quirky Designs: In an attempt to provide more space, the designers created Balcony staterooms with wavy walls, rounded beds, and deconstructed bathrooms ... all of which feel a bit odd. (Did anyone ever ask for a sink by the bed?)
Watch the Spending: You may get an amazing deal on the fare itself, but you'll want to keep track of your spending account once onboard. From drinks and specialty dining to spa treatments and interesting fitness classes, it's easy to run up a sizable tab.