Unique Itinerary: Across the Atlantic with Norwegian

By Aaron Saunders On March 7, 2013 · Leave a Comment

While I was researching Norwegian Cruise Line’s offerings in Alaska this coming season, I stumbled across a great deal for anyone looking for a cruise where the ship truly is the destination.

The mammoth Norwegian Epic impresed me with its amenities and all-around "cool" factor. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders

Departing April 20 from Miami, Florida aboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s massive Norwegian Epic, this 11-night Transatlantic Crossing is the perfect way to experience this feature-laden ship that comes with over 20 different bars and dining venues, not to mention original entertainment venues chocked into every nook and cranny.

What’s also noteworthy is the price: the cruise starts at just $399 per person.

The ship is the destination on this 11-night crossing, which includes just a single port call in beautiful Funchal, Madeira, Portugal before arrival in Barcelona, Spain.

Ahhh...the drink of the day. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders

If the thought of all that open water and sea days puts you off, don’t let it: Norwegian Epic has far more features than could ever be experienced in a single week. In fact, even with 11 days of sailing bliss, chances are you won’t be able to see or do all that the ship has to offer.

The Bliss Ultra Lounge aboard Norwegian Cruise Line's Norwegian Epic has a vibrant, eclectic feel to it. Did we mention there's also a bowling alley? Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders

Bowling at sea is available in both the Bliss Ultra Lounge and O’Sheehan’s Pub, while the Blue Man Group is one of the most entertaining acts I’ve ever seen at sea.

If that doesn’t float your boat, Norwegian Epic has a dedicated comedy club; a Blues Lounge; a true Ice Bar developed in conjunction with Vodka distiller SVEDKA; and a sun deck filled with massive waterslides that aren’t just for kids!

The Svedka Ice Bar aboard Norwegian Epic. Photo © 2012 Aaron Saunders

There’s two ways to look at an itinerary like this: you could go with the cheapest stateroom available and treat yourself to nearly two weeks at sea for a rock-bottom price. But you could also use it to splurge and spend 11 days relaxing in the exclusive Haven by Norwegian suites situated high atop the ship.

Guests who book a suite in The Haven have access to their own private pool, sun deck, lounge and dining room, where the quality of service and food approaches that found on ultra-luxury lines. Indeed, the Haven can best be thought of as a “ship-within-a-ship.”