Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship redefines the concept of cruising

Getaway on the Getaway  

Norwegian Cruise Line’s newest ship redefines the concept of cruising.

By Alison Bailin Batz

When a ship hires iconic Miami artist David Le Batard––commissioned in recent years by Adidas, Calvin Klein, Macy’s, the Miami Heat, and Gibson Guitars, just to name a few––as its “painter,” it is pretty clear that said ship is out to make a statement.

But Norwegian Cruise Line’s (NCL) new Getaway, currently the largest ship to call Miami home year round, does far more than that––it redefines the concept of cruising.

Launched just last year, the Getaway continues NCL’s now-famous “freestyle cruising” concept, allowing guests both the flexibility to play, dine, and pamper themselves on their own time. But going beyond simply giving guests options, the Getaway brings more innovation, entertainment and customized vacation options that any ship before it.

The Haven

Perhaps the most eye-popping amenity on board the Getaway is The Haven. Developed to wow even the most seasoned luxury traveler, the Haven not only offers 1,000-square-foot suites with wrap-around balconies, soaking tubs, wet bars, and floor-to-ceiling windows, but also an exclusive restaurant, secluded courtyard, private pool and sundeck, cocktail bar, lounge, and even 24-hour butler service. Set away from the hustle and bustle and hidden at the top of the ship, The Haven requires keycard access to enter and is considered the gold standard of traveling in style at sea.

The Studios

Single travelers are often turned off by cruising, given that most rooms either require double occupancy or for single travelers to pay a premium to stay in a room without a second guest. The Getaway not only welcomes the single traveler, it offers them something special––Studios. Specifically designed and priced for solo travelers, each studio features a full-size bed, separate bath area and access to the private Studio Lounge, which offers coffee, sweet treats, and even wine exclusively to single passengers. Like with the Haven, the Studio Lounge requires keycard access to enter, and each day, the Getaway posts activities, parties, and events specifically tailored to its Studio guests.

The Food

The Getaway boasts 28 dining options on board, including restaurants and bars lining an outdoor Waterfront, an industry first open-air promenade designed to connect guests with the fresh air and ocean while enjoying fine dining and exotic cocktails.

Among the most lauded restaurant on board is Ocean Blue by long-time Food Network Iron Chef and Michelin Star winner, Geoffrey Zakarian. Specializing in seafood, Ocean Blue is perhaps the most delicious dinner at sea.

Another innovation on the Getaway is the exclusive Chef’s Table dining experience. Held just once or twice on the entire cruise, this nine-course culinary adventure is a feast for the senses. Each course is enhanced by a perfectly paired wine––courtesy of an on-board master sommelier.

The Drinks

There is certainly no shortage of bars and lounges on the Getaway, but two hot spots definitely stand out.

Through an exclusive partnership with SVEDKA Vodka and Inniskillin Ice Wine, the Getaway built its own Ice Bar on board. Limited to just 25 guests––often in chic ship-provided parkas and gloves––at a time, the bar’s walls, tables, and even seating options are made of solid ice. In a nod to its home base in Florida, however, the ice bar specializes in icy version of some of the Sunshine State’s sexiest cocktails.

On the exact opposite of the spectrum is the Sugarcane Mojito Bar. This lively bar with access to the Waterfront not only offers dozens of freshly muddled, island-inspired creations, but both mojito tasting flights and muddling classes throughout each cruise.

The Private Island

And then there is the private island. NCL purchased Great Stirrup Cay, a small island that is part of the Berry Islands in the Bahamas, in the 1970s. Over the years, they’ve invested millions to ensure the island’s sandy white beaches, secluded lagoons and world-class snorkeling are among the best in all of the Bahamas. Bonus––the “Stingray Sandbar,” where guests can both touch and swim with the gentle creatures.

The Rest

The Getaway also offers guests the opportunity to see both the seven-time Tony Award-nominated musical Legally Blonde and Broadway’s iconic Burn the Floor nearly every night of each cruise, as well as Improv comedy at its finest thanks to a partnership with The Second City, who have a cast living on board at all times.

Also new: the Illusionarium, a special effects dinner show; and the Grammy Experience at Sea, a specialty venue that features artifacts curated by the Grammy Museum and live performances by past Grammy winners and nominees who have been invited on board.

For more information, visit ncl.com.