The internet can be cruel. And reviewers can be even crueller; hiding behind a keyboard it’s easy to criticise products and services. But when reviews are consistently bad, it’s morbidly fascinating to figure out why. We trawled Cruise Critic for some of the best and worst comments about the Norwegian Cruise Line New Orleans cruises to see the good, bad and the ugly.
Dining on Norwegian Cruise Lines – A Mixed Bag
Dining is a crucial part of any cruise, and unfortunately, the Getaway seems to struggle in this area, according to the reviews.
One passenger was especially disheartened by the food quality, describing it as cold and tasteless across multiple venues. At the Shanghai Noodle Bar, the spring rolls were disappointing, resembling heavy eggrolls rather than the delicate treats expected. Even the American diner, a staple for comfort food, served a lackluster chicken pot pie that was more glop than gourmet.
Another traveler found that the complimentary restaurants lacked variety, with menus that barely changed throughout the cruise. The premium dining experience at Le French Bistro, intended to be a highlight, was described as passable at best—especially given the extra $25 charge. The Dover sole served was particularly underwhelming, being unusually thin and lacking flavor.
The dining schedule and seating arrangements added to the frustration. The Manhattan Room, the ship’s largest dining space, was only open for a limited time each evening. For those who managed to get a table, the experience was often marred by poor visibility of the entertainment or being seated next to the kitchen doors. One reviewer even noted that large groups seemed to receive preferential treatment, leaving smaller parties waiting longer for a less desirable spot.
Service and Accommodation: Hits and Misses
Service on Norwegian Cruise Lines New Orleans cruises drew mixed reactions. While one reviewer praised the friendliness and helpfulness of the staff, another’s experience was tainted by a delayed luggage delivery. This hiccup meant a postponed anniversary dinner, casting a shadow over what should have been a special evening. But it does go to show – online reviews differ vastly according to the individual experience someone has. If my luggage went missing, it might colour my perception of the overall cruise.
Cabins themselves don’t feature heavily in many online reviews for the Norwegian Cruise Lines New Orleans cruises, but there are indirect mentions through complaints about the overall experience. For instance, the delayed luggage led to a frustrating start, and the proximity of smoking areas to family-friendly zones (like the children’s pool and buffet entrance) was a significant drawback for one guest.
Entertainment and Activities: Room for Improvement
Entertainment onboard also seemed to fall short of expectations. One reviewer found the options limited, with too few shows and inadequate seating for those who wanted to attend. This lack of availability left many guests disappointed and unable to fully enjoy what was offered.
On the flip side, excursions received more positive feedback. The Roatan Mayan jungle and medicine tour was a standout for one passenger, who appreciated the knowledgeable and passionate guides. This suggests that while the onboard entertainment might be lacking, the off-ship experiences could redeem the overall trip.
Unfortunately, the onboard activities didn’t fare as well. A painting class, which could have been a fun and creative outlet, was marred by poor instruction. The teacher frequently changed her mind, leading to confusion among participants.
The Waterfront and Relaxation: A Pleasant Surprise
One review highlighted some of the more positive aspects of the Breakaway, particularly the experience on Deck 8’s waterfront. This area provided a shady, peaceful place to relax with a book and a cocktail—exactly what this passenger had hoped for. Even with 4,800 guests on board, they always found a quiet spot to unwind.
The same reviewer also praised the ship’s crew, noting that they were consistently helpful and kind, doing their best to serve everyone with a smile despite the large number of passengers. This reviewer’s overall experience was more positive, with the spacious cabin and well-designed bathroom adding to their satisfaction.
Final Thoughts: Is a Norwegian Cruise Lines New Orleans Cruise Right for You?
The reviews of the Norwegian Cruise Lines New Orleans cruise reveal a cruise experience that might not live up to everyone’s expectations. Dining was a common sore spot, with many passengers finding the food underwhelming across the board. Service was generally praised, but logistical issues like luggage delays and frustrating seating arrangements detracted from the experience. Entertainment and activities were also a mixed bag, with excursions standing out as a highlight.
If you’re considering a trip that incorporates New Orleans, it’s worth weighing these reviews carefully. While there are certainly positive aspects—like friendly staff and well-organized excursions—the criticisms suggest that this cruise might not be the best fit for everyone, particularly those sensitive to dining quality or secondhand smoke.
