Norwegian Pearl Cruise Review
Inaugural Celebration, 1st December 2006 - Ali & Rhiannon
On boarding this ship the first impression is one of ‘tasteful décor’ rather than too ‘garish’ which was a concern (especially from some of the pictures on the web-site). The Crystal Atrium was spectacular with a seasonal theme of Christmas trees etc. On checking our rooms we found that I had a suite (Romance Suite, sharing with my sister!) and Rhiannon and her husband had a balcony. The suite was a wonderful experience with Butler service, if required. For research purposes he was required to bring milk for the coffee! Every detail in the suite was wonderful from the fresh flowers to the dressing room area to the fabulous coffee maker which ground the beans for every brew! We had the chance to check out some of the extra special accommodation on board.
 First of all was the Garden Villa; This is a truly amazing suite as you can see. It measures 5,750 sq ft and has a living room, dining room, three bedrooms, each with a bathroom, one of which even has a plasma TV! A butler is also of course on hand. The bright orange carpet was not a reality, thankfully but the overall ambience was elegant and tranquil.
Then there are the very unique Courtyard Villas; These 10 villas surround a central Courtyard which includes a pool, hot tub, sundeck with ‘cabanas’, steam-room, gym equipment and the butler service, of course! We also managed to get a look at the regular cabins which looked spacious, especially those for 3rd/4th occupancy. The whole feel of NCL as ‘Freestyle’ is very apparent throughout the ship but  does not lack in quality. Their advertising campaign features a cartoon shoal of fish with one swimming the other way and that really does represent what they are in the market. NCL are very ‘family friendly’ with the usual kids clubs but the suite of rooms for the ‘Teens Crew’ is really state-of-the-art with all the latest arcade games and computer equipment. At the other end of the scale is a very peaceful library and internet room.The range and choice of restaurants will cater for every taste but there was a cover charge for more of them than was expected. There are 5 speciality restaurants, 2 main dining rooms and 3 more casual eateries including a fabulous buffet in the Garden Café. There are also 13 bars and lounges onboard, one with a bowling alley and the nightclub had very comfortable beds! NCL really does have something for everyone. We usually think of selling to younger people and families but as we left Southampton we noticed that some of those embarking were quite ‘mature’. Traditional cruising will always have its place but there are more people out there wanting something a bit different and NCL can definitely provide that!
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